Rising Tide - Winter 2013

winter 2013-14

The Business Journal of The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

Adapt to

Change The Challenges of Health Care at DCH

On the Business End of

Obamacare Plus Chamber@Work, New Members & More!

Contents 4 A Word from Our Leadership 6 Adapt to Change 10

Philanthropy at DCH Health System

12 Recent Recognitions 14 On The Business End of Obamacare 16

Chamber@Work

22 Here We Grow Again: Ribbon Cuttings & Ground Breakings 25

Comparative Economic Indicators

26 Membership 101 27

2013 Board of Directors

28 New Members

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16

22

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Calendar of Events

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PUBLISHED BY

A Word from Our Leadership

2201 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-7588 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

EDITOR

Robin Jenkins

assistant editor

Ryan Phillips

BOARD OF ADVISORS

Ashley Gill Jheovanny Gomez Molly Ingram Fitzgerald Washington

PHOTOGRAPHER Barry Fikes

DESIGN

LaShonda Robinson

PREPRESS MANAGER Chuck Jones

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Kimberly Adams (205) 722-0176

ON THE COVER

DCH photo by Barry Fikes

randy Skagen At Nucor, we put our culture first, and a huge part of that culture is ensuring that our folks help support the community in which we live. That means we support many things – our schools, businesses and certainly healthcare.

Like Nucor, DCH Health System is a major employer and an economic engine in our area. But more importantly, DCH hospitals are where some of the most important events in our lives occur. It is at DCH Regional Medical Center or Northport Medical Center where we welcome the newest members of our families, and it’s where we bring those we love when they are injured or ill.

The people of Nucor appreciate the DCH Health System, and we are proud to use their services. As a member of both the Chamber of Commerce and The DCH Foundation boards, I see up close the critical economic, personal, and even physical nature of our need for DCH Health System. I hope you will also, and I encourage you to support their leadership as they work hard to ensure that your hospitals stay in a state of continuous improvement, even as the conditions in the healthcare industry become more and more challenging.

Randy Skagen Vice President & General Manager, Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Board of Directors, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama Board of Directors, DCH Foundation

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www.tuscaloosachamber.com

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Mel Espey Membership Development Specialist (205) 391-0553 mel@tuscaloosachamber.com

Stacey Gann Director of Leadership Development and Events (205) 391-0559 stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com

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LoWanda James Director of Information Services

Caring Days Adult Day Care

Robin Jenkins Director of Communications and Marketing

THE MAL & CHARLOTTE MOORE CENTER

Jill McDonald Executive Assistant

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

(205) 758-7588 lowanda@tuscaloosachamber.com

(205) 391-0561 robin@tuscaloosachamber.com

(205) 391-0555 jill@tuscaloosachamber.com

Carolyn Tubbs Assistant Director of Education and Events (205) 391-0556 carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com

Open M-F 7:30-5:30 943 31st Street East, Tuscaloosa 35405 For information call Vicki Kerr at 752-6840 www.caringdays.org

Loo Whitfield Director of Education and Workforce Development (205) 391-0563 loo@tuscaloosachamber.com

Connect with the Chamber

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Adapt to Change DCH is facing some of the biggest challenges health care has faced since the 1960s, according to Bryan Kindred, president/CEO of the DCH Health System.

“Hospitals, particularly hospitals in Alabama where reimbursements are already low, are looking at several very difficult years of government cutbacks and take-backs, not to mention the transition to the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare,” Kindred said.

“The political and financial reality is that the federal and state governments will continue to balance their budgets at the expense of hospitals for the foreseeable future.”

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Why do hospitals find themselves in this situation? The federal government, which pays for about half of the nation’s health care bill, is intent on cutting the amount of money it spends for health care.

And Kindred said they’re taking most of that money from hospitals. On average Medicare already pays hospitals less than what it costs to care for the patient, but now they are cutting reimbursement because of sequestration, which is a Washington term for across-the-board cuts that came about because Congress can’t agree on a budget.

“We expect these cuts to cost us about $4 million a year, and there’s no telling how long the cuts will last,” Kindred said.

Meanwhile, the government is taking back money hospitals earned caring for Medicare patients. Kindred said auditors are going through charts looking for reasons to make hospitals repay the government for a patient’s treatment. The auditors get to keep a percentage of what they reject, which is perhaps why they end up taking back payment for more than 80 percent of the files they review. Hospitals have been told that the auditors can review even more charts every month, which Kindred said

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could reduce DCH’s bottom line by about $8 million annually.

Hospitals are also dealing with changes related to Obamacare.

“Most of the regulations aren’t even written yet, so we don’t know all that we’re facing, but we don’t expect Obamacare to benefit hospitals,” Kindred said.

One change is a reduction in reimbursement to Disproportionate Share Hospitals, hospitals like DCH that treat a higher percentage of indigent patients. Kindred said the government says that the Disproportionate Share money won’t be needed because more poor people will be covered by insurance under Obamacare.

“Many experts doubt that argument and warn that hospitals will continue to see many uncovered patients while dealing with another major funding cut,” Kindred said. “For DCH, the expected reduction in Disproportionate Share funds will be about $2.5 million in 2014, and it will get worse each year.”

Meanwhile, the Alabama Legislature has completely revamped the state Medicaid system. Hospitals still don’t know much about it, but officials at DCH and other hospitals expect there will be less reimbursement for hospitals under the new plan.

So, what does this mean for DCH and the communities it serves? Kindred said that the reductions will not affect the quality of the day-to-day care DCH hospitals provide to their patients. The reductions in revenue are coming off their reserve and their capital expenses.

“Our projected reserve for the current fiscal year is 2.4 percent,” Kindred said. “We would normally hope for a reserve of at least 5 percent to ensure we have the funds we need for future operations.”

Kindred said DCH is putting off as many major purchases and renovation projects as they can until the health care marketplace and Washington settle down. “But just as with your business, your church or your home, we can’t be the organization we need to be if we must continue to survive on reduced reserves and postponed projects,” Kindred said.

And Kindred said that during this difficult and uncertain era, philanthropy has never been more important for the DCH Health System.

“Your financial support would be greatly appreciated, and we promise any gift will be put to good use,” he said.

“The DCH Health System has continually provided high-quality, compassionate community-based health services to the communities we serve,” Kindred said. “We ask for your support as we work to ensure that continues until the next century.”

65% of Americans say keeping fiscally fit is as tough or tougher than staying physically fit.

Hospital officials said while times will be tough for larger hospitals, many of this nation’s rural hospitals will be in real trouble. Rural hospitals tend to treat more Medicare and Medicaid patients, so these reductions in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement will have a greater effect on them. And because most rural hospitals don’t have the reserve of larger hospitals, many of them will have a hard time coping with these cutbacks.

So how can you help? Kindred said you can help your medical community and your community as a whole by using your local hospital and your local physicians for your health care needs.

“DCH Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center have proven themselves worthy of your confidence, and your support will help ensure that the range of services and physicians will continue to be available in this community,” Kindred said.

“Our Congressional delegation has been very supportive,” Kindred said.

“Thank them for their efforts, and encourage them to continue to remind the government bureaucracies that the decisions they make have a real effect on institutions and on the people who work in those institutions and on the people who depend on those institutions for their health care.”

Let us help you keep fit for the race.

Certified Public Accountants and Business Consultants www.jmf.com

There are so many ways to enjoy T - Town, all the time. Keeping your money local keeps jobs and your tax revenues working right here in Tuscaloosa.

Our town has something for everybody, so spend some time spending local.

Visit T-TownAlltheTime.com for more reasons to shop local.

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Philanthropy at DCH Health System

Philanthropy has always been vital to the DCH Health System, according to Molly B. Ingram, vice president of development for The DCH Foundation.

“Every significant advance at DCH has happened thanks to the philanthropic power of this community,” she said. “The very first DCH was built with $100,000 in community donations, and another $25,000 was added within a week for additional equipment. In 1923, that was an enormous amount of money.”

Through the years, DCH gained an open heart surgery program, a new emergency room and the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center.

And all of these advances were supported, if not initiated, by the generosity and engagement of our entire community, she said.

10 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

“And those were just the capital projects,” she said. “Every day, dedicated community volunteers and donors work with The DCH Foundation to help cancer patients through the Breast Cancer Fund and the Help and Hope Patient Assistance Fund, to support our newest families through the Finn and Quinley Children and Infants’ Fund and to tend to spiritual needs with the help of the Pettus Randall Pastoral Care Endowment.”

Foundation Ball or making a $5 million estate gift to name the Cancer Center,” Ingram said.

“When everyone comes together to support DCH, the community’s health system will find a stronger and steadier path through the myriad challenges from Washington and Montgomery.”

Thousands of people each year support these funds through DCH Foundation events, annual appeals and their own energy and work.

“Philanthropy will be essential to DCH’s continuous pursuit of excellent health care for West Alabama,” Ingram said. “Everyone will need DCH someday, so everyone should share in its wellbeing and support it. All financial support is greatly appreciated, and you can rest assured all gifts will be put to the highest and best use within the system.”

“Every gift matters, whether it’s sending $10 to submit votes for the “Bras for a Cause” campaign, buying a chance to win a jewelry surprise from Hudson-Poole at BBQ and Blue Jeans, confirming a reservation to the

As DCH faces these challenges, philanthropy will once again be needed for far more than “extras,” she said.

For 90 years your friends and neighbors at DCH have been providing the best in health care right here at home. Now DCH is literally as close as your desktop, laptop or mobile device. Join us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for health news, health tips, local health events and more. visit us at dchsystem.com

For up-to-date information about our services and health care topics, sign up for our eNewsletter at our web site dchsystem.com.

DCH REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER | NORTHPORT MEDICAL CENTER | FAYETTE MEDICAL CENTER | PICKENS COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER

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DCH Health System. Caring. For life.

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.

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Bank of Tuscaloosa is a division of Synovus Bank. Synovus Bank, Member FDIC, is chartered in the state of Georgia and operates under multiple trade names across the Southeast. Divisions of Synovus Bank are not separately FDIC-insured banks.

The FDIC coverage extended to deposit customers is that of one insured bank.

* Loans subject to credit approval Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

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Recent

Recognitions

DCH Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center have received recognition from some of the nation’s top health care organizations.

Top Performers on Key Quality Measures

Blue Distinction Center for Cardiac Care

DCH Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center have been named Top Performers on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission, the leading accrediting organization for health care organizations in America.

DCH Regional Medical Center has again been designated as a Blue Distinction Center for Cardiac Care by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. It was first designated a Blue Distinction Center in 2010.

The Joint Commission recognized the Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center for what it called “exemplary performance” in using evidence-based clinical processes that are shown to improve care for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care.

To be designated as a Blue Distinction Center for Cardiac Care, the Regional Medical Center met selection criteria related to experience, quality and patient outcomes. A Blue Distinction Center must perform a certain number of heart cases and its cardiac team must have an appropriate level of experience.

Top Performer status is awarded to hospitals that attain excellence in accountability measure performance.

Accountability measures are quality measures that meet criteria that produce the greatest positive impact on patient outcomes when hospitals demonstrate improvement on them. For example, an accountability measure for heart attack is getting the patient to the cardiac catheterization lab within 90 minutes of arrival, and the surgical care category includes several measures involving the best use of antibiotics to prevent infections.

A Blue Distinction Center must have intensive care, emergency and a full range of cardiac services. The Regional Medical Center offers comprehensive cardiac care services, including an emergency department, inpatient cardiac care, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiac catheterization and cardiac surgery, including coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Manderson Cancer Center renews its affiliation with MD Anderson Cancer Network™ The Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center at DCH Regional Medical Center has renewed its regional affiliation with MD Anderson Cancer Network™, a program of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. MD Anderson Cancer Center is one of the world’s most respected leaders in cancer care and ranked No. 1 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Cancer Hospitals” survey for nine of the past 11 years, including 2012.

The renewal of this collaboration will provide certified physicians at DCH Regional Medical Center with access to evidence-based guidelines, treatment plans and concordance studies developed by MD Anderson experts.

12 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

HomeCare Elite DCH Home Health Care Agency has been named in the top 5 percent of the home health agencies in the United States by a national health care information company.

The HomeCare Elite identifies the top 25 percent of agencies and further highlights the top 100 and top 500 agencies overall. Winners are ranked by an analysis of publicly available performance measures in quality outcomes, process measure implementation, patient experience (Home Health CAHPS), quality improvement and financial performance.

The report ranked DCH Home Health Care Agency in the Top 500 of the nation’s more than 10,000 Medicare-certified home health agencies, placing it in the top 5 percent, according to the study.

MD Anderson again ranks No. 1 in cancer care in the U.S. Through the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center’s affiliation with MD Anderson Cancer Network™, West Alabama residents now have access to cancer care based on guidelines developed by MD Anderson. Our certified physicians closely collaborate with MD Anderson and bring evidence-based clinical care for almost every type and phase of cancer. This exclusive local affiliation brings a higher level of cancer care to Central Alabama. That’s why we say, hope looks like the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center.

809 University Boulevard East | Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 | 205.759.7800 | 800.338.2948 Accredited with Commendation by the American College of Surgeons

LEADING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY / SKILLED, CARING STAFF / FAMILY-CENTERED ENVIRONMENT

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“America’s Best Hospitals” survey was recently published by U.S. News & World Report, and once again The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center ranked No. 1 in cancer care. MD Anderson has been in the top two rankings since the survey’s inception in 1990.

dchsystem.com/cancer

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On The Business End of Obamacare

by Tom Scroggins Many businesses finally woke up to the reality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in late September this year. That was when employers started delivering required notices to employees signaling the availability of health insurance exchanges. Since then, Americans have learned a lot about the law commonly referred to as Obamacare.

First we learned that healthcare.gov, the online health insurance exchange portal for 36 states including Alabama, was broken despite having spent approximately $175 million for a Canadian company to develop it. Then many people learned their health insurance rates went up, benefits went down, and out of pocket expenses such as deductibles and co-pays increased as they were told they could not keep the old plans they liked because they were cancelled in favor of new federally mandated plans – something that apparently surprised even the President. Just recently we learned that six people in the entire country successfully signed up for insurance via healthcare.gov on its October 1 launch date.

There were even more surprises leading up to the recent revelations. For example, the employer mandate that would require employers with 50 or more full time employees to provide minimum essential group health insurance at affordable standards or pay a penalty was delayed a year from 2014 to 2015, while the individual mandate requiring each person to acquire coverage was not. This decision was a boon for large employers who offered no group health insurance or insurance that did not meet the minimum care and affordability standards.

For at least one year, the easiest or perhaps only choice for their employees is to purchase individual policies as opposed to their employer’s policy which in turn likely reduces an employer’s participation rate when their offering becomes available in 2015.

Meanwhile, for employers with fewer than 50 employees the decision tree is much simpler. There is no requirement to offer group health insurance leaving the decision to offer insurance to be driven by market forces impacting the ability to attract and retain qualified people. Some in this group have decided to simply “get out of the health care insurance business.”

We arrived at this point on the proposition that health care insurance is a fundamental right. Yet the use of employersponsored health insurance programs rose during World War II as employers fought to staff factories in a tight labor market but could not compete by increasing wages because of federally mandated wage controls. When the National War Labor Board decreed that health insurance benefits would not be counted as part of wages for that purpose, the race was on. Companies began competing

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Illustration by Anthony Bratina

for workers by offering health insurance and it has become a staple of benefit packages ever since.

The whole process is frustrating and confusing as the nation watches the different pieces and parts of Obamacare start to assemble and function. The effects have been startling and unexpected. Some businesses have tabled hiring or business plans until the full effect of the law is known, and labor unions have severely criticized the law because of its impact on health benefits provided under collective bargaining agreements. Restaurants, hospitality, and other industries typically staffed by youthful, short-tenured workers that eschew group health insurance even when offered are some of the hardest hit. All of it has employers rethinking how they offer or pay for health insurance including the consideration of switching to defined contribution plans built around a set dollar amount instead of a percentage of premium costs.

As businesses come to grips with this new reality, there are other pieces about to fall into place.

• The individual mandate becomes effective Jan. 1, 2014. This is likely to create an enrollment spike for employers offering health insurance plans. For businesses where participation rates have been low, expect plan costs to rise as employees satisfy their coverage requirement.

• Employers must report the aggregate value of any employer sponsored health care plan on employees’ W2 forms. This is only for informational purposes for now, but the tax-preferred treatment of employer sponsored health care insurance has been under fire in recent years as a way to help fill the gap in federal spending deficits.

The Affordable Care Act has myriad and complex requirements for employers. Complying with them requires consultation with plan administrators and seeking professional legal and accounting advice. While the delay of the employer mandate has caused many employers to continue a “wait and see” approach to Obamacare, planning now can help mitigate more unexpected impacts later.

“Companies began competing for workers by offering health insurance and it has become a staple of benefit packages ever since.”

• Employees are no longer permitted to pay individual health insurance plan premiums out of an employer-sponsored flexible spending account, which gave those premiums pre-tax treatment.

The government is effectively limiting its subsidies for health care insurance to two places only: employer sponsored plans or exchange plans for people who qualify financially. This eliminates employees’ ability to find a plan they like tailored for their needs and pay for it with pre-tax dollars.

• The “Cadillac” plan 40 percent excise tax begins in 2018 for all plans that exceed $10,200 for individual coverage premium costs or $27,500 for family coverage. While it was initially believed that this would only impact high-value plans, increases in premiums may impact more plans than originally intended.

Tom Scroggins is an attorney with Tanner & Guin, LLC and is on the Board of Directors of The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Tanner & Guin is committed to providing excellent legal representation to clients. We serve our clients in the areas of finance, bankruptcy, bond law, business acquisitions, taxation, labor and employment, construction law, estate planning, and litigation. We look forward to serving our clients with the integrity on which our reputation has been built.

Birmingham

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No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Tuscaloosa

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Chamber@Work

2013 Washington Fly-In A large Chamber delegation visited Washington, DC Oct. 9–11. Highlights were a breakfast with Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and a luncheon with Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader. Also, local issues were discussed with legislators and our group enjoyed a beautiful evening cruise on the Potomac as well as sight-seeing. Glad to offer our members this opportunity for interaction! A big thanks to our sponsors: Capital Growth Buchalter, Inc., Merrill Lynch, D.T. & Freight Co., Inc., TTL Inc. and Southland Benefit Solutions.

16 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

Gina Simpson of The Edge, Kathie Carnes of Capital Growth Buchalter, Inc. and Jerry Pike of Eagles’ Wings at the Opening Reception.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) addresses our group at breakfast.

Northport officials with Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL) (center) at the Opening Reception.

Tom Scroggins of Tanner & Guin, LLC, Kathie Carnes of Capital Growth Buchalter, Inc. and Chamber President Jim Page on the dinner cruise.

Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) addresses the delegation on Capitol Hill.

Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) addresses our group at breakfast.

Dr. Elizabeth Swinford of the Tuscaloosa County Schools, Joan Davis of Shelton State Community College, Bobby Howard of the City of Tuscaloosa, Ronald Range of Shelton State Community College and Ralph Ruggs of the Housing Authority enjoy the dinner cruise.

2013 Chamber Chairman Fitzgerald Washington of Buffalo Rock/Pepsi, Dr. Elizabeth Swinford of the Tuscaloosa County Schools, Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Bob Lundell of the City of Tuscaloosa and Mrs. Sessions at the Opening Reception.

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We Go The Extra Mile

E-Cycling Event Makes Impact

Our 2013 E-Cycling event, presented Sept. 6-7 at the University Mall back parking lot, was once again popular with the community. Over 1,000 vehicles came through with electronic waste for recycling, avoiding our local landfills. Big thanks to our Chamber ambassadors and the cities of Tuscaloosa and Northport for helping to make this possible.

The Laser Skin Center “Look As Young As You Feel” The Laser Skin Center is a Full Service Cosmetic Laser spa offering the latest in Laser Aesthetics, Facials, Physician Grade Skin Care Products, Glycolic & Salicylic Peels, Botox, Juvederm and G lo M ineral M ake U Glo Mineral Make Upp

Thanks to Title Sponsor Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa and Eagle Sponsors American General Life Companies, Ellis Architects, Harrison Construction Company, Learning Experiences, McGiffert & Associates, Phifer Inc. and Planit Solutions, the 23rd Annual Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Adopt-A-School Benefit Golf Tournament was held on Sept. 19 at Ol’ Colony Golf Course.

Thirty-two teams participated representing 21 area public schools. The Brookwood Oil team (pictured) had the lowest net score, claiming rights for Brookwood High to display the winning trophy until next year. The victory also secured $500 for the school. Oakdale Elementary, Cottondale Elementary and Holt High tied for having the most golfers and each received a cash award. Westwood Elementary School will receive a cash award for the random drawing from all schools represented. This annual event provides critical funding for the coordination of AAS.

18 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

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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…

Earl Mitchell Named Northport Citizen of the Year, Five Others Recognized

We presented the 2013 Northport Citizen of the Year program on Oct. 1 at Five Points Baptist Church. Earl Mitchell, Manager of Sunset Funeral Home, was named the 2013 Northport Citizen of the Year (center). He was honored for the compassion he has shown in his profession over many years as well as his work in community organizations. Other winners are pictured. Sergeant Heath Smitherman of the Northport Police Department was named Public Safety Leader of the Year, Benny Ormond Chappell was named Northport Historian/Pioneer of the Year, Leon Kemp, President of Northwest Supply Company, was named Business Leader of the Year, Lucy Sellers, Principal at Northport Elementary School, was named Educator of the Year and Chris Greene, Youth Pastor at Christ Harbor United Methodist Church, was named Religious Leader of the Year.

− 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.

Afternoon & evening workshops held twice a month.

No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

205-764-1262

WWW.REDOAKLEGALPC.COM

Crimson Realty, llc Crimson is TRADITION in Tuscaloosa Make Your Real Estate needs a TRADITION

Annette Shelby Headlines Women’s Division Fall Luncheon

Our Women’s Division presented its Annual Fall Luncheon featuring guest speaker Dr. Annette Shelby (pictured) on Oct. 3 at Indian Hills Country Club. This pure service group continues to grow and supports many community service programs through its dues.

Chamber Hosts Open House

We celebrated your new facility on Oct. 15 with an open house and ribbon cutting. Thanks to those that stopped by to wish us well and to check out the great meeting rooms we have available for members to use. Our address is 2201 Jack Warner Parkway (across from The Bank of Tuscaloosa Plaza).

CRIMSON REAL ESTATE Residential and Commercial Real Estate

Let us secure YOURS!!

752-1450 2615 6th St., Suite 9 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

19

YP(t) Presents Inaugural Bama Brew & Que

Organized by our Young Professionals of Tuscaloosa group or YP(t), this event was held Nov 1-2 by the Amphitheater and was a big hit! It is our hope that it will grow into an annual signature event for our community.

Winners are: Smokin’ Butt Crew (Overall Grand Champion and Brisket), Schoolin’ Q (Ribs and Sauce), The Specialists (Chicken) and Butts, Bellies and Buddies, Too (Pork). Photo by Jamie Cicatiello of Grace Aberdean Habitat Alchemy.

School Counselors Tour 2013 Held

The Tuscaloosa City Schools is continuing its effort to move students ahead with these innovative programs:

Approximately 60 city and county school counselors attended our event at MBUSI on Nov. 6. Phil Johnston, VP of Operations, gave an overview of the plant and a peek into future plans. Chamber COO Donny Jones talked briefly about Tuscaloosa’s economy. We also had a panel of four HR Directors to talk to the counselors about their company and their hiring expectations, need for workers and the entry level salaries. Afterwards, the counselors were bused to BLG Logistics for a tour of their facility.

COMING FALL 2014: ALBERTA SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS!

School Superintendent Headlines Northport Advisory Council Meeting

*Alabama Reading and Math Test Plus (ARMT+); Alabama Reading and Math Test (ARMT); Alabama High School Graduation Exam (AHSGE).

Our Northport Advisory Council met on Nov. 6 at Wintzell’s for a luncheon with the Tuscaloosa County School Superintendent, Dr. Elizabeth Swinford, who provided an update on the system with a focus on Northport schools.

It was a great opportunity to meet Swinford, who is still new to her role.

The school system is a vital part of our business community so the event was well attended.

Over the past four years, the system has demonstrated growth in all grade levels in reading and math, according to results of state-mandated tests.* We invite you to review the results for yourself at

WWW.TUSCALOOSACITYSCHOOLS.COM

The Rock

of WEST ALABAMA

“When it comes to building a solid foundation of civic leaders, the Buffalo Rock Company stands tall with a winning team committed to the community.”

Business Expo Held at November Mixer

Our western-themed November mixer at Bryant Conference Center provided a good crowd for a Business Expo, which was held in conjunction with it. Many minority-owned businesses were present. Pictured are Deborah Anders and Robin Bailey of The Legacy Connection.

New $9 Million Business Incubator Facility on 10th Avenue Planned

Federal dollars will construct an estimated $9.31 million facility for our business incubator, The EDGE — Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, which was formed last year and has seen many businesses grow from its current location downtown to business spaces of their own. We learned recently from Sen. Richard Shelby’s office that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration is awarding the City of Tuscaloosa $5.06 million to construct the facility. The remaining $4.25 million, allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for storm recovery efforts, will go toward engineering, site preparation and other aspects of completing the building on the former site of the U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Center on 10th Avenue.

20 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

Chamber Ambassador Chairman Chris Gunter of Buffalo Rock/Pepsi

Chamber Ambassador Kyle Murphy of Buffalo Rock/Pepsi Chamber Chairman Fitzgerald Washington of Buffalo Rock/Pepsi

BANK ON THE GO! MOBILE BANKING

Capstone Bank – Bank on the go with our new mobile and check deposit app. Make deposits and pay bills at your convenience no matter where you are.

Call 205-469-4000 for more information.

NA5655189 CC00043166

www.capstonebankal.com Full Service Banking, Free ATM Use, Free Online Banking & Bill Pay

Tuscaloosa Amphitheater: in your backyard | Restaurants, Nightlife & Shopping: steps away Capitol Park: out your front door | RiverWalk: 5 minute walk | Bryant Denny Stadium: 1.5 miles

| 205.752.2700 GET ON THE LIST: 2700capitolpark.com 2700 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

MANAGEMENT CO., INC.

Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

21

Here We Grow Again ribbon cut tings & ground breakings SEPTEMBER 2013 - OCTOBER 2013

Belcan Corporation

6561 Hwy. 69 South • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 561-6672 • www.belcancorporation.com • J.D. Feagin

Caring Hands Hospice, Inc.

4930 Rice Mine Road N.E. Ste. 103 • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 349-3065 • www.caringhandshopicecare.com • Greg Martin

Country Ridge Homes CSL Financial, LLC

5017 Skyland Blvd., East • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 752-2004 • www.country-ridge.com • Cindy Wonch

22 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

Bellagio Nail Spa, LLC

1650 Jack Warner Parkway • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-3070 • www.tuscanypodiatryandspa.net • Patricia Antero

Chamber of Commerce of West AL

2201 Jack Warner Pkwy. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-7588 • www.tuscaloosachamber.com • Jim Page

Mapco Express

6737 Hwy. 69 South • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 752-5741 • www.mapcoexpress.com • Kim Edwards

Rhodes & Rhodes Family Dentistry

7402 Hwy 69 South, Ste. H • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 344-9220 • www.rhodesfamilydental.com • Melinda Rhodes, DDS

Snap Fitness

7402 Hwy 69 South, Ste. E-F • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 331-4772 • www.snapfitness.com/taylorvilleal • Mitch McDonald

Tuscaloosa Burger

1014 7th Ave. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 • (205) 764-1976 • Daniel Robinson

R&R Cigar

2703 6th Street • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 722-2741 • www.randrcigars.com • Reagan Starner

The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar

2330 4th St. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 462-3399 • www.tintoprestaurant.com • Gene Falls

Which Wich Superior Sandwiches

1800 McFarland Blvd Suite 122 • Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 469-9082 • www.whichwich.com • Lee Henderson

Zambooki, LLC

1902 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 (205) 792-1155 www.zambooki.com Heath Hendrix

Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

23

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!

FREE Home Safety Checks (it doesn’t get any better than this)

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.; Rumsey Environmental; Harrison Galleries/HFS Holdings; UA College of Arts & Sciences; Yellow Book USA

PRESIDENT’S FORUM - $7,500+ ANNUALLY UA Culverhouse College of Commerce

INVESTOR LEADERS - $5,000+ ANNUALLY

A&B Electric Co.; Advantage Realty Group, Inc.; Afflink; Alabama Gas Corporation; Alabama Power Company; BB&T; Cintas; College Station Properties; Ellis Architects, Inc.; Harrison Construction, 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

Our business is solving your problems and keeping your home safe and comfortable. That’s what we’ve been doing since 1992. Many homes we visit have heating and cooling safety issues, significant energy losses, or electrical problems.

GROWTH PARTNERS - $2,500+ ANNUALLY

Take advantage of this free opportunity to check the safety of your home. When a member of our service team knocks on your door, you can count on the technician’s skill, confidence and experience.

Advance Disposal; Alabama Credit Union; Alabama One Credit Union; Almon Associates, Inc.; BBVA Compass Bank; Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama; 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; Tuscaloosa Teachers 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 Office Solutions; Lewis, Smyth, Winter & Ford, LLC; The Locker Room; Morrison & Smith, LLP; Renasant Bank; Rex Veron Design, LLC; Robertson Banking Company; Sentell Engineering, Inc.; Tuscaloosa Chevrolet, Inc.; Walker Associates, Inc.

OTHER ANNUAL COMMITMENTS

Gilmore, Poole & Rowley; StressCrete, Inc.; Yeager & Christian, PC

24 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

Call Today For Your Free Home Safety Check (205) 752-6332

1201 15th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 752-6332

Comparative Economic Indicators October 2012 vs October 2013 Business licenses City of Tuscaloosa 2013 149 2012 151 City of Northport 2013 66 2012 39

Value of Building permits

City of Tuscaloosa 2013 $17,874,920 2012 $38,649,976

Answering every caller with TLC...Since 1955 We are not just an answering service, but an extension of your business-a responsibility we take very seriously.

Some of our most common services includes: Receptionist Service-answering calls and relaying calls (when your lines are all busy or your staff ☎ Outsourced ☎ Overflow messages 24/7-you choose the hours and days is too busy) ☎ Emergency calls ☎ Order taking answering service (when your phones ☎ Disaster-preparedness ☎ Vacation/temporary coverage, including extended absences are unexpectedly down due to service or disaster issues, such as hurricanes or tornadoes) ☎ Holiday coverage ☎ Dispatch ☎ Appointment scheduling 2810 7th Street • Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 (205) 349-2702 Tuscaloosa • (205) 241-5082 Birmingham • (800) 250-5160 Toll Free • (205) 349-4766 Fax info@callerconnection.com wwww.CallerConnection.com

Parent-Teacher Store

WHERE SUCCESS IN THE CLASSROOM BEGINS www.learningexperiences123.com

SCHOOL SUPPLIES • INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS • WORKCENTER Locally Owned For Over 18 Years Next to CiCi’s Pizza in Northport Mon-Fri: 9:00A.M. - 6:00P.M. • Sat. 9:00 A.M. - 4:00P.M.

Employed Tuscaloosa County 2013 89,655 2012 88,651

205.333.6922 • 1.800.971.1155

Unemployment rates Tuscaloosa County 2013 5.5% 2012 6.3%

Homes sold Tuscaloosa County 2013 2012

137 126

Average selling Price 2013 2012

$174,462 $158,892

isn’t ’ medication. d

Sometimes the best pain medication...

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL

205.523.0101

Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

NA5855209

Tuscaloosa County

25

Membership 101 5 WAYS TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE CHAMBER The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama allows you to connect, grow, and succeed through a variety of channels. But what does this really mean? And what’s the best way to reap the full benefits? There are many ways to get started, but here are five you should consider today.

Attend an Event The Chamber offers many events, from a large speaker series to smaller, more informal networking events. These are tailored towards all businesses, with something for everyone. Visit the calendar on our website and pick one or two in the coming month or so.

Sign Up for our Emails This is the best way to keep informed on all things Chamber – from our programs, events and advocacy efforts to legislative updates. Email robin@tuscaloosachamber.com to sign up.

Professional Training & Leadership Programs The Chamber offers professional training opportunities at prices well below market rates and also has a signature leadership development program, Leadership Tuscaloosa. Information for both can be found on our website.

Check Out our Opportunities for Involvement List This sheet summarizes our current committees and areas of work. You can find it under “The Chamber” header on our website.

Follow Us on Social Media The Chamber’s social network is the most expansive among the region’s business community. Through Twitter and Facebook, we share Chamber updates and top business stories. Search for us by typing in “chambertusc.”

Left: Melinda Rhodes, DDS • Right: Belinda Rhodes, DDS

“We joined the Chamber in September of this year. It was a very exciting moment for us as friends and family gathered at our dental office to witness our ribbon cutting ceremony.

We have participated in several meet and greet functions that allowed us to mingle with both new and veteran business owners.

Communicating with these people and discovering that we share similar experiences and helping each other avoid costly pitfalls has been amazing. We have met many people we can now call friends.

26 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

We have also received advice on advertising, communication systems, insurance and information technology, which has been very helpful to us. We encourage all business owners to actively participate in the Chamber. Our relationship has proven to be mutually beneficial and a great way to alert the community of our presence.”

- Melinda Rhodes, DDS

2014 Board of Directors Dan Blakley

Kim McMurray

Dr. Judy Bonner

Wilson Moore

The University of Alabama

Bobby Bragg

JamisonMoneyFarmer, PC

Cynthia Burton

Community Service Programs of West Alabama

Brock Corder

The Builders Group of West Alabama, LLC

Mark Crews

Alabama Power Company

Norman Crow

Ward Scott Architecture

Pritchett –Moore, Inc.

Gary Nichols

McAbee Construction, Inc.

Jim Page

(President and CEO) Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

Gary Phillips

Premier Service Co., Inc.

Jordan Plaster

(Chair) Merrill Lynch

(Chair Elect) D. T. & Freight Company, Inc.

Gene Poole

Jay Evans

Dr. Samory Pruitt

ROAR, LLC/College Station Properties

Ashley Gill

Chick-fil-A of Northport

Jheovanny Gomez

Jalapenos Mexican Grill

Lee Henderson

Smoothie King/Which Wich

Cal Holt

Knight Sign Industries, Inc.

Jonathan Hood

First National Bank of Central Alabama

Molly Ingram

DCH Health System

Felyicia Jerald

Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.

Renwick Jones Consultant

Blake Madison

Serving West Alabama For Over 20 years

Hudson-Poole Fine Jewelers

The University of Alabama

Ralph Ruggs

Tuscaloosa Housing Authority

Tom Scroggins

Tanner & Guin, LLC

Randy Skagen

Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa, Inc.

Luke Standeffer

Northport Medical Center

Chuck Turner

Tennis Jackson Co., Inc./Jackson Security Services

Rex Veron

Rex Veron Design, LLC

Jason Walker

Walker Associates, Inc.

Fitzgerald Washington

(Past Cahir) Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi Cola

Terry Waters

Rosen Harwood, PA

Department of Postsecondary Education

Dean McClure

Bryan Winter

TTL, Inc.

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS

Lewis, Smyth, Winter & Ford, LLC

3200 Greensboro Ave. 345-9811 www.townsendbmw.com

Ingram Farms

Fruit & Vegetable Market & “Your” Blue Bell Ice Cream Store The Ingram Farms Fruit and Vegetable Market at 1196 Union Chapel Road (Near Sokol Park) offers a mixture of locally grown vegetables and “Quality” fruit.

We Now Have Christmas Trees Free Ice Cream Cone with Christmas Tree Purchase from now until Christmas!

Fraser Fir Trees 5 to 12ft.

Guaranteed Lowest Prices in Town!

We Will Deliver Like us on

Facebook

Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

NA5455197

Regions Bank

27

New Members August 23 - november 14 BAG 101

312 Merchants Walk Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 722-2298 Geri Nell Hamm Gift Shop / Boutique

Belcan Corporation

6561 Highway 69 South Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 www.belcancorporation.com (205) 561-6672 J. D. Feagin Employment Contractors / Staffing

Caring Hands Hospice, Inc.

4930 Rice Mine Road N.E. Ste. 103 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 www.caringhandshopicecare.com (205) 349-3065 Greg Martin Hospice (Main)

Creative Visions Landscaping

8405 Hwy 43 North Northport, AL 35473 (205) 339-8889 Charles Reese Landscape / Lawn Care / Maintenance

Crimson Carpet & Flooring

1703 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 www.crimsoncarpet.com (205) 345-4895 ToddDockery Floor Coverings / Carpet / Rug / Tile / Hardwood (Main)

Dorroh & Associates, P.C.

1800 McFarland Boulevard, North, Ste. 180 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 www.dorrohlaw.com (205) 345-2800 Joel Dorroh Attorneys - Lawyers / Law, Legal Services

Dunkin’s Pharmacy

7700 Hwy 69 S., Ste. A Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 www.dutchpharmacy.net/dunkins-pharmacy (205) 345-4410 Chris Barwick Drug Stores / Pharmacies

28 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

Elite Signature Properties, LL

6521 Hwy 69 S., Ste. F Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 www.elitesignatureproperties.com (205) 343-3534 LeMona Stacy Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

Empowering Pumps, LLC

StanleyCo., LLC

13839 Roanoke Dr. Cottondale, AL 35453 www.southernsteampro.com (205) 792-7166 Jared Olvey Steam Clean - carpet / Upholstery / Tile / Grout

Sydney Cook & Associates

P.O. Box 2313 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 www.empoweringpumps.com (205) 391-8422 Charli Matthews Publishing / Online Media

535 Jack Warner Parkway, NE, Ste. F Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 (205) 242-0817 Sydney Cook Attorneys - Lawyers / Law

Joe Hudson’s Collison Center

720 Energy Center Blvd., Ste. 503 Northport, AL 35473 (205) 764-0850 Takesha Shannon Counselors - Licensed

301 McFarland Blvd.

Northport, AL 35476 www.jhcc.biz (205) 469-1876 Cynthia Crewe Automobile / Collision Repair

L & J Heating and Cooling

57 El Dorado East Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 www.clarkworkshvac.com (205) 556-1219 Jack Clark Contractors - HVAC / Air Conditioning / Heating

Mapco

5101 Oscar Baxter Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Teresa Kravec Convenience Stores / Gas Stations

O’Charley’s Restaurant

3799 McFarland Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 556-5143 Jodi Pereau Restaurants (Main)

Pinnacle Construction

1655 McFarland Blvd., N. Ste. 112 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 www.pinnacle-construction.net (205) 523-5743 Alex Thames Contractor - Roofing / Renovations

TMS Counseling LLC

Tuscaloosa Country Club

3700 6th St. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 www.tccgolf.net (205) 759-5535 Key McKinley Golf Courses - Public / Restaurants (Main)

Tuscaloosa Focus MD LLC

720 Energy Center Blvd., Ste. 504 Northport, AL 35473 www.focus-med.com/adhd-clinic-locations/ tuscaloosa-al/ (205) 394-5876 Mark Thomas Physicians - Diagnosis Treatment for ADHD

Tuscaloosa SouthernLINC store

1110 15th St., Ste. L Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 www.southernlinc.com (205) 330-5462 Mark McGahey Wireless Communication

Wright Painting Service, LLC

911 12th Street, SW Fayette, AL 35555 (205) 242-5733 Bernard Wright Contractors - Painting / Roofing / Carpentry

NA5655186

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL - SALES LEASING ADVISORY SERVICES TWENTY-ONE ACRES +/- for development at Exit 77- over 600 ft. frontage on Buttermilk Road and over 1200 sq. ft. on frontage along I-20/59.

May qualify for annexation into the City of Tuscaloosa, sanitary sewer incentive package.

Asking $300,000 per acre.

Skyland East Commercial Center BUILDING #1- Office/Showroom-end-cap-with storage and loading facility (over 5,000 sq. ft.).

Asking $3,750.00 per month net lease.

BUILDING #2 Suite B office/warehouse with rollup door and drive in (2,160 sq. ft.). Asking $1,200.00 per month net lease.

Englewood Village - Hwy 69 South RETAIL-Unit B (Leased) -900 sq. ft. and Unit C 1200 sq. ft. Asking $13.00 per sq. ft. + C.A.M. OUT PARCELS, COMMERCIAL LOTS & LARGE TRACKS. Prices ranger from $160,000 to $600,000 or more.

(Sale/Lease/Building-to-Suit) Call Jim Voltz, CCIM.

Office/Warehouse/Distribution HEADQUARTERS-912 29th Ave. conveniently located in the Greater Downtown District of the City of Tuscaloosa. Over 41,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose space including Call Center is available.

Blended lease rate is $5.00 per sq. ft. net lease.

Will divide for qualified tenant. Call for details.

From retail space, office suites, and commercial lots to industrial warehouses and distribution centers visit

www.JimVoltz.com to view all my listings.

Realty Solutions

205.799.1126 Metro Park-Lease Opportunity MULTI-PURPOSE WAREHOUSE- 12,800 S.F. +/- including offices, shipping, overhead doors with loading dock and drive thru, large corner lot with truck and car parking lots near Exit 73-US I-20,59. Net lease at $5,500 per month. AVAILABLE NOW.

Skyland Boulevard, E - Buy Opportunity REDUCED TO $795,000 FOR IMMEDIATE SALE. Valuable 1.5 acre + lot ( 150 feet X 450 feet +/-) with THREE COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS-office, shop, and warehouse-near automotive, restaurants, churches and shopping centers. Call Jim Voltz, CCIM to make offer.

Build-to-Suit Sale/Lease-Back Feasibility Studies Tax Deferred Exchanges Facebook/chambertusc | twitter.com/chambertusc

NA5155208

Mercedes Growth Corridor

29

Calendar of Events MANPOWER MEET DEADLINES DESIGN/BUILD CRAFTSMANSHIP

Chamber’s Annual Meeting

16

Our Annual Meeting, celebrating the progress and volunteers for the year 2013, will be held on the evening of Jan. 16.

Details to come.

COORDINATION

Our Craftsmen 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.

SERVING WEST ALABAMA FOR OVER 18 YEARS

NA1255265

january

1120 35th Street • Tuscaloosa, AL • 205.759.5040

february Downtown T-Town Event

7

On the first Friday of each month, our Downtown T-Town committee presents an event. Plan to come Downtown on Feb. 7 from 5-8p.m. Located off 6th St., near Government Plaza, this event will offer pop up vendors, street musicians and store specials. Whether you choose to dine at one of our fine restaurants, shop at our stores or galleries, or just stroll around Government Plaza, and we look forward to seeing you!

22

Chamber members will provide product/service information and discounts to veterans on Feb. 22 from 10a.m.-3p.m. in the Shelton State Community College Atrium. Also, veterans are encouraged to bring resumes. Refreshments will be provided.

Call 758.7588 for details.

30 www.tuscaloosachamber.com

CC00043290

Veterans Appreciation & Information Day

sheltonstate.edu

PROTECT THIS LAND I T ’ S O UR CO M MUN I TY. O UR E N V I RO N M E N T.

RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL

1 4 0 7 1 0 T H AV E N U E , T U S C A L O O S A , A L 3 5 4 0 1 205.248.0002

RETUSCALOOSA.COM