Rising Tide - Winter 2017

WORLDS OF WORK: Putting the WOW in West Alabama’s Future Workforce

Mayors, Probate Judge Address State of the Community Diversity Summit Focuses on Connecting to Grow

758-7588

www.tuscaloosachamber.com

EDITOR

Amy Materson

DESIGN

Kelli Dailey

PREPRESS MANAGER

Chuck Jones

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Beau Laird (205) 722-0148

A Word from Our Leadership

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND!

As 2018 Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, I am honored to be a small part of a truly amazing group of people that is changing West Alabama for the better every single day!

Our focus should be to ensure that we have a community and an economy where everyone is needed and everyone is valued. Your Chamber is leading the way to ensure that job is accomplished and that a “Rising Tide” truly does lift all boats. We have made significant progress in recent years, but if there is one thing we can learn from legendary Alabama football coach, Nick Saban, it is that with success comes the danger for complacency and becoming comfortable with the level of success we currently enjoy.

West Alabama has tremendous opportunities awaiting at our doorstep, but we have to raise our game to the “Next Level” if we want to take advantage of those opportunities. That is why it is critical for you to get involved and be a part of this dynamic and responsive organization. It is time

for us to demand more of our elected officials, our community organizations, and of ourselves. Working together, as a team, focused on our goals, we can accomplish tremendous things. I am very excited about the remarkable difference you can make in our community through the Chamber when you share your time, your dreams, and your abilities.

JIM PAGE, CCE President & CEO (205) 391-0562 jim@tuscaloosachamber.com

DONNY JONES, IOM Chief Operating Officer (205) 391-0552 donny@tuscaloosachamber.com

AL SPENCER

Vice President, Economic Development and Public Policy (205) 391-0329 al@tuscaloosachamber.com

KIMBERLY ADAMS

Director of Membership and Investor Relations (205) 391-0327 kimberly@tuscaloosachamber.com

BRITTANI COLBURN

Project Manager, Workforce Development (205) 391-0334 brittani@tuscaloosachamber.com

TRACY CRUMPTON

Director of Finance and Operations (205) 391-0554 tracy@tuscaloosachamber.com

LOWANDA JAMES

Director of Information Services (205) 758-7588 lowanda@tuscaloosachamber.com

ROBIN JENKINS Director of Education Programs (205) 391-0561 robin@tuscaloosachamber.com

AMY MATERSON Director of Communications and Marketing (205) 391-0563 amy@tuscaloosachamber.com

JILL MCDONALD Program Manager, Leadership and Community Engagement (205) 391-0555 jill@tuscaloosachamber.com

MELISSA MILANO Executive Assistant (205) 391-0559 melissa@tuscaloosachamber.com

CAROLYN TUBBS Program Manager, Education and Workforce Development (205) 391-0556

carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com

AUDREY VAUGHN

Rural Outreach Coordinator, Workforce Development (205) 758-7588

COVER STORY

Putting More WOW in West Alabama’s Future Workforce

The overwhelming success of West Alabama Works’ student career expo leads to greater things for 2018

Although we often hear the mantra repeated that the greatest ideas are the simplest ones, that was never the case with Worlds of Work. A massive two-day event involving the commitment of dozens of industries, hundreds of employers and more than a thousand volunteers, the career expo has proven well worth the time and effort, bringing in thousands of students from nine counties to learn about exciting, highpaying, high-demand careers right here in West Alabama.

“Now after our third event, WOW not only created awareness, but also generated excitement about fulfilling career options among students and educators,” says Donny Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. “The expo also brings attention to industries that are facing a shortage of skilled workers. These employers face shortages over the next few years due to the retirement of up to 50 percent of their workforce.”

The expectation was always to create a win-win situation – expose students to great career options they may not know exist, and prepare a pipeline of engaged future employees ready to enter as skilled workers age out of the workforce.

However, WOW’s impact has been so successful, the results have created an unprecedented opportunity to positively impact workforce in Alabama. Building on the success of the legacy event, West Alabama Works has launched WOW 2.0, a satellite event, and the Educator Workforce Academy, a program for administrators and central office personnel that will equip them with the tools to assist their students with career choices like never before.

Expanding Worlds

Although high school students and their parents were always invited to participate in Worlds of Work, the primary focus of the event was aimed at eighth graders, who would begin their career path studies the following year. After feedback from high school students who said they felt the event was particularly useful, WOW 2.0 was conceived.

Scheduled to be held February 7 and 8 at Shelton State Community College, WOW 2.0 is a career event specifically for high school juniors and seniors and post-secondary students. The event will have a different feel from Worlds of Work, as the students will be able to meet with representatives from post-secondary schools, and interact with individual employers in a job fair style setting. With a virtually flat unemployment rate hovering at around 3 percent, Tuscaloosa County employers are particularly invested in finding effective ways to attract a solid workforce.

“This event will allow connections between industry and potential workers to be made, with the goal of filling the more than 4,000 highgrowth, high-demand jobs available in West Alabama,” Jones says. “We hope by maximizing this event, our industries can find the employees they need, reducing the number of job fairs they must attend.”

WOW 2.0

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 (Post-secondary and High School Seniors)

Event time: 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 - Junior Day (High School Juniors)

Event time: 8:30 a.m. – 1:05 p.m.

CATEGORIES:

• Agriculture

• Construction

• Transportation

• Energy

• Public Safety

• Manufacturing/Engineering

• Hospitality

• Healthcare

• Office Administration

• Cosmetology

• Culinary

• Child Development

• Education

Educating the Educators

Even when facilitating connections between potential employees and employers, properly preparing students for their future careers is the first step. Ensuring the skilled workforce of the future is actually skilled means implementing a dialogue between the region’s employers and those charged with preparing the students for those jobs.

To make sure the area’s educators know exactly what will be expected of the employee once they’re on the job, West Alabama Works has launched the Educator Workforce Academy, a year-long program that enables superintendents, central office staff and principals to undergo a process similar to that of job seekers. The program is a hands-on intensive experience designed to assist educators in implementing knowledge gained into the classroom.

The 2017-18 Educator Workforce Academy kicked off during WOW 2017, and about 90 area superintendents, principals and central office staff members are going through the program, for which they will receive Professional Learning Units.

The educational leaders will spend time with employers to learn what they need, as well as learning what their students will go through, and then will bring that industry back to the classroom.

For more information on Worlds of Work 2018, WOW 2.0 or the Educator Workforce Academy, contact Brittani Colburn at brittani@tuscaloosachamber.com.

C hamber@WORK

State of the Community Welcomes Mayors, Probate Judge

Northport Mayor Donna Aaron, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and Probate Judge Hardy McCollum addressed a sold out crowd of Chamber members at Chamber in Session: State of the State, held Aug. 31 at the Bryant Conference Center.

One of the Chamber’s largest public policy events, the guest speakers held a conversational style presentation moderated by Carl Jamison of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC, who also serves as the Chairman of the Chamber’s Public Affairs Council.

The public officials discussed a range of topics for the crowd of approximately 500 attendees, including population growth, industrial development efforts, higher education, infrastructure revenue sources and funding for the area’s Park and Recreation Authority.

“A sustainable funding source is the only answer,” Maddox said, and both Aaron and McCollum agreed. “We’ve allowed it to become political, and we’ve got to do better than that,” McCollum said. He predicted the legislature would address the issue.

The group also discussed the relationship between Tuscaloosa, Northport, Tuscaloosa County and the University of Alabama, and

talked about ways to entice students to remain in the area following graduation.

“The University of Alabama is a special asset,” Aaron said. “We need to make sure students and alumni come back and invest in the city that game them their start.”

Chamber in Session: State of the Community was presented by Walker Associates, Inc.

Gold Sponsors: City of Northport, Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ and TekLinks. Silver Sponsor: Trustmark National Bank. Bronze Sponsors: FASTSIGNS of Tuscaloosa, Hudson Poole Fine Jewelers, Perfect Shine, Inc.

Table Sponsors: Alabama Gas Corporation, Alabama One Credit Union, BankFirst, Buffalo Rock Company / Pepsi-Cola, BurkKleinpeter, Inc., Capstone Bank, Express Employment, FNB of Central Alabama JamisonMoneyFarmer PC, Neel-Schaffer, Raymond James, Robertson Banking, Shelton State Community College, Tuscaloosa City Board of Education, Tuscaloosa County Board of Education, Way, Ray, Shelton & Company.

Special thanks to David Pass, Sealy Furniture Company.

Carl Jamison of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC, Chairman of the Chamber’s Public Affairs Council, moderated the State of the Community event with Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Northport Mayor Donna Aaron and Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Hardy McCollum.

Shane Spiller of Spiller Furniture and Mattress gets ready to hit the course.

Adopt-A-School Golfers

Turn Out for a Great Cause

The Raymond James Team was the overall tourney winner for the second year in a row at the 27th Annual Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Adopt-A-School Golf Tournament. The team won $500 for their adopted school, Faucett-Vestavia Elementary.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary will receive $500 for having the most golfers (elementary), and Holt High will receive $500 for having the most golfers (secondary). A random drawing was also held including all schools represented and Oak Hill was selected to receive $500.

Additional winning teams / players were:

1st Place Gross Winners - Wes Harbin/Dickey’s BBQ Team

2nd Place Net Winners - Burnum-Hahn Team

2nd Place Gross Winners - Brookwood Oil Field Team

3rd Place Net Winners - Tuscaloosa Radio Team

3rd Place Gross Winners - Andrew Kniphfer Agency Team

The Putting Contest Winner was Jim Essary, who won $500.

The Longest Drive winner, Grant McCabe, won a recliner from Spiller Furniture and Mattress

The Adopt-A-School program would like to thank all of the businesses and organizations who provided support for the Golf Tournament. Without their support, this event would not be possible.

Title Sponsor: Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa

Eagle Sponsors:  Alabama Credit Union, Alabama One Credit Union, Alumni Development & Construction, Bama Concrete, Bearing Service Company, BF Goodrich Tire Manufacturing, Bryant Bank, Burnum-Hahm Exterminators, Inc., Complete Pipeline Services & Supply, McAbee Construction, Inc., McGiffert and Associates, LLC, Perfect Shine, Inc., Rumsey Environmental, and The Westervelt Company

Luncheon Sponsor: Core Focus Personnel, LLC

Awards Sponsor: Rumsey Environmental

Putting Contest Sponsor: Alabama Central Credit Union

Scorecard Sponsor: Rumsey Environmental and Tuscaloosa Radio

Golf Cart Sponsors: Cintas and Joshua J. Swords Attorney at Law

Beverage Cart Sponsor: WVUA23

Closest to Pin Sponsors: Adams Heating & Cooling, Walmart Supercenter

Skyland and Ward Scott Architecture

Donors: Adams Beverages, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Buffalo Rock Company / Pepsi-Cola, Chick-fil-A at Northport and Krispy Kreme

Hole Sponsors: ABC Fire & Equipment, Alabama Credit Union, Alabama

Robin Jenkins, Director of Education Programs for the Chamber congratulates the winning Raymond James team at the Adopt-A-School Golf Tournament.

One Credit Union, Alabama Public Radio, Alumni Development, Amason & Associates, Inc., Bama Concrete, The Bank of Tuscaloosa division of Synovus Bank, Bearing Service Company, BF Goodrich Tire Manufacturing, Bryant Bank, Burnum-Hahn Exterminators, Inc., Campus Collection, Complete Pipeline Services & Supply, Coppertop, Crimson 2 Go, Ellis Architects, Inc., FASTSIGNS of Tuscaloosa, FNB of Central Alabama, Harrison Construction Company, Inc., Heat Pizza Bar, LLC, Hunt Refining Company, Innisfree Irish Pub, McAbee Construction, McGiffert and Associates, LLC, Mercedes Benz U.S. International, Neel Shaffer, Inc., Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa, Inc., Perfect Shine, Inc., Phifer, Inc., Rex Veron Designs, LLC, Riverview Dental Designs, Robertson Banking Company, Rumsey Environmental, Sealy Management Company, Inc., Shelton State Community College, Southland International Trucks, Inc., TekLinks, The Westervelt Company, Tiger-Rock Martial Arts Northport, TTL, Inc., Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Tuscaloosa Synovus Mortgage Company, The University of Alabama College of Education, Vero Software, Walker Associates, Inc., Walmart Supercenter, Skyland, Warrior Roofing Manufacturing. Inc., WVUA 23

Attendees also won some fantastic raffle prizes at the event donated by Big Spring Entertainment, BF Goodrich Tires, Buffalo Rock/ Pepsi, BURGERFI, Chick-fil-A at Northport, Chick-fil-A Tuscaloosa, Chuck’s Fish, Cypress Inn, Glory Bound Gyro Company, Hunt Refining, Jalapeño’s Mexican Grill, Jim ‘N Nick’s, Nucor Steel, Pat’s Florist and Gourmet Baskets, Philly Boyz Cheesesteaks, River, Texas Roadhouse, Theatre Tuscaloosa, The Blue Plate, The Levee, The Locker Room, The Pants Store, TTL, Inc., Shrimp Basket, Urban Cookhouse and Wing Zone.

C hamber@WORK MBC Diversity Summit Focuses on “Connecting to Grow”

The Minority Business Council of West Alabama’s third annual Small Business Diversity Summit, presented by ARD Logistics and Bama at Work, was held September 19 at the Bryant Conference Center and featured the theme, “Connecting to Grow.”

The event included an entrepreneur panel discussion with Erica Grant of Charming Kreations; Rodney Pelt, Sr., of Mind Changers, Inc.; Antonio Minifield of YNOT Images; and Robin Bailey of the Legacy Connection. The panelists spoke on a wide range of topics including the importance of having a strong support network when developing your own business, having a business plan, and having a passion for your business.

Rodney Pelt, Sr., of Mind Changers, Inc. talks during a panel discussion on entrepreneurship.

The agenda also included workshop sessions on DBE, led by Tanja Bell of the Birmingham Airport Authority; Sources of Business Financing, led by Jarvis Morehead of Renasant Bank; Positively Marketing your Personal Brand with Social Media, led by Maria Sanders Ford of the University of Alabama Student Health Center and Pharmacy; Communicating Across Generations in the Workplace, led by Heather MacLeod of the DCH Employee Assistance Program; and Funding for Contractors, led by Norman Davis of Trufund Financial.

The lunch program included remarks by Dr. G. Christine Taylor, the Director of the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the University of Alabama, and featured a keynote address by Dr. Yvette Rice of LLVE, LLC.

Rice is the owner and president of LLVE, LLC, and uses her visionary leadership ability, training expertise, and motivational/inspirational speaking skills to help others realize their true capabilities and maximize their potential. Serving as a leader in the Marketplace, Rice has over thirty (30) years combined experience as an Engineer, Project Leader/Manager and Trainer for the Department of Defense (civilian), the United States Army Corps of Engineers as a government contractor, and multiple Non-Profit Organizations. She has trained both nationally and internationally. Rice presently serves on the Board of Directors for the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce in Decatur, Alabama. She is also a certified Trainer, Coach, and Speaker through the John Maxwell Online University Certification Program. Rice is the published author of inspirational life development book, Mountain Moving Made Easy.

Gold Sponsors for the event were Bryant Bank, TekLinks and Stillman College.

Judy Holland Named Northport Citizen of the Year

Ceremony also honored Historian, Business Leader, Public Safety Leader and Educator of the Year

Judy Holland, Managing Director of High Socks for Hope, was named Northport Citizen of the Year in a ceremony held Oct. 3 at Five Points Baptist Church.  Holland, who has worked with the non-profit foundation founded by New York Yankees pitcher David Robertson and his wife Erin for more than six years, has spent more than two decades in service to worthy causes in Northport, Tuscaloosa County and beyond.

As a result of her efforts with High Socks for Hope, she and volunteers have aided more than 500 families in crisis due to fires, floods, tornadoes, domestic violence and other devastating events. More than 200 of those she has assisted have been homeless or disabled veterans and their families.

The following Northport leaders were also honored:

BUSINESS LEADER

Michael Holt, the owner of Tiger Rock Martial Arts, was named Business Leader of the Year. Heavily involved with the local school system, Holt volunteers his time for “character talks” designed to encourage the students

in each classroom to realize their highest potential in all aspects of their lives. Through his business, Holt is involved in the Adopt-ASchool program as an adopter for Northport Elementary School.

EDUCATION LEADER

Rafael Alvarez, a four-time Olympian, two-time Bronze Medalist, SEC Champion and member of the University of Alabama’s Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame during his time at the University, chose to remain in the United States rather than returning to his native Spain, and today serves as a translator and interpreter for Flatwoods Elementary School. A full-time instructor at UA, he also devotes himself to serving families whose native language is not English, assisting parents in how to help their children succeed. In a school in which 40 percent of the children arrive speaking another language, Alvarez allows them to obtain the tools they need to have the opportunities to become contributing members of the community.

HISTORIAN / PIONEER

Ruby Battle, the Historian/ Pioneer of the Year, has served the Northport community her entire life with dignity. Now age 98, she has served as an educator and mentor to many. She is a charter member of Friends of

Historic Northport, and her contributions helped to establish the Northport Heritage Museum. Battle’s efforts have added much to the documentation of the history and heritage of Northport. A teacher for more than 50 years in the Tuscaloosa County School System, she taught more than five generations of students, touching countless lives.

PUBLIC SAFETY LEADER

A firefighter for the past 18 years, Billy Curington has served the city well in the capacity of sergeant for the past 12 years. Before becoming a firefighter, he was a paramedic, which is an added benefit to the citizens of Northport. One of the many duties he has taken on is maintaining the department’s equipment, and keeping supplies stocked and organized. He is proactive, and diligent, and personally purchased both a drone and a GoPro camera for use when the department is in need of digital footage. He is skilled in equipment installation, making consoles for the fire engines and installing equipment on the department’s all-terrain vehicle. He is responsible for ensuring the medical supplies are stocked and

organized. Curington is highly skilled, trained and well equipped to handle an array of issues facing the Fire Department.

The guest speaker for the event, Trudy Cathy White is a native Georgian and the daughter of the late Jeannette and S. Truett Cathy, the founder and chairman emeritus of Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Trudy and her husband, John, are co-founders of Lifeshape. Lifeshape’s mission is to glorify God by breaking the cycle of spiritual poverty, and provides opportunities for the Chick-fil-A family and other marketplace professionals to build relationships and be catalysts for the transformation of leaders around the world. Lifeshape implements more than 50 projects in nearly 30 countries each year.

The Northport Citizen of the Year Dinner is presented by Tuscaloosa Hyundai / Genesis of Tuscaloosa. The Gold Sponsor is the City of Northport. Silver Sponsors for the event are BBVA Compass and Cintas.

From left, Rafael Alvarez, Education Leader; Michael Holt, Business Leader; Billy Curington, Public Safety Leader; Judy Holland, Citizen of the Year; Ruby Battle, Historian/Pioneer.

C hamber@WORK

Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame

Honors 2017 Inductees

The Seventeenth Annual Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held Thursday, October 29 at the Alberta School of Performing Arts.  Each year, The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama honors “civic giants” that have made an impact on the quality, livability and economic progress of our community. The Civic Hall of Fame was born during The Chamber’s 100th anniversary year in 2000 and is designed to honor exceptional citizens who have made significant, long-term contributions to the overall development of Tuscaloosa County. With this class, 108 citizens will have been inducted as members of the Hall of Fame.

Organizations, businesses and individual citizens submitted nominations for the 2017 class. These were reviewed by a committee and honorees were selected.

Special music for the event was provided by the TASPA Choir, and the presentation of the inductees was by Dr. Barry Mason, Dean Emeritus of the College of Commerce of the University of Alabama, and Dr. E. Roger Sayers, Chair of the Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame Committee.

The 2017 Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame honorees are:

Susan Phifer Cork (1953-)

Susan Phifer Cork has long been a leader in Tuscaloosa County, and her list of accomplishments is long and distinguished. Most importantly, Cork’s achievements will have a lasting impact upon the quality of life in West Alabama.

A life-long resident of Tuscaloosa, Cork attended the Tuscaloosa City School system and the University of Alabama. With her family, she is part of the leadership of Phifer, Inc., where she serves a in a key role.

Although she has a busy career working alongside her husband and sisters at Phifer, Cork is committed to an active role in community service, serving as Chairman of the United Way

of West Alabama Alexis de Tocqueville Society, Past Chairman of the Board of Directors of Christ Episcopal Pre-School, Sustaining Member of Junior League of Tuscaloosa, and on numerous other boards and committees.

She was instrumental in raising funds for and developing the Tuscaloosa Children’s Center, and was part of the Alabama Department of Mental Health’s first Historical Committee, established for the purpose of formulating a restoration and preservation plan for the historic portion of Bryce Hospital.

In 2016, Cork was honored at the annual Community Foundation of West Alabama’s Pillars of the Community event, where she was named a Pillar of the West Alabama Community. Along with her husband, Brad, she was selected as the recipient of the 2015 Family of the Year by the United Way of West Alabama Alexis de Tocqueville Society.

Susan Cork’s devotion to her community has resulted not only in a tremendous financial impact on the community, but has served as an inspiration for her family, friends, and all who know her.

Arlington L. Freeman (1934-2003)

Born in 1935 in Fayette County, Arlington L. Freeman received his education at the Fayette County Training School, Stillman College and Alabama State University.

A longtime employee of what began as the Tuscaloosa City Recreation Department, Freeman showed a devotion to providing recreational opportunities to all areas of the community, but particularly in the West End of the City. Freeman initiated and guided the development of Palmore Park, a 175-acre development in West Tuscaloosa. He also directed youth programs including play centers, gyms, arts and crafts and games, and sports programs for all ages such as softball, basketball, swimming, track and field, and special tournaments. In 1996, Community Center Park in West End was renamed A.L. Freeman Park.

Freeman freely gave of his time and efforts when called upon to do so, and his committee and board of directors volunteerism includes the American Red Cross, Murphy African American Museum, Drug Prevention Task Force Committee, Senior Commissioner of Tuscaloosa Youth Development Council, Advisory Member of the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Department-Juvenile Division and more.

Freeman was presented with numerous awards during his lifetime including the SCLC Man of Distinction, State of Alabama Merit on Recreation, Outstanding Service Award for Youth, and the State of Alabama Professional of the Year – Jim Spain Award, among others. February 20th, 1996 was proclaimed by the City of Tuscaloosa as “A.L. Freeman Day.”

Arlington Freeman not only developed and created relationships that enhanced the community’s ownership and involvement in the parks system, but he created a legacy for others to follow.

Freeman’s nephew, William Freeman, accepted the honor on his behalf.

Frank Michael Reilly (1954-)

By the time Mike Reilly was born in 1954 in Montgomery, his father had been killed in a military airplane crash. The youngest of four children with a working mother, Reilly had ample unsupervised time after school, at night, on weekends and during summer breaks. He spent much of that time at the South YMCA in Montgomery, where he encountered role models and learned the lessons of public service and the value of volunteerism.

Reilly has since served on the Tuscaloosa YMCA Board of Directors for decades, working tirelessly to raise funds for the new YMCA building and also serving as the Chairman of the Board. He followed in the footsteps of his mentor, Pettus Randall, III, in investing time and treasure in the Tuscaloosa community. As CEO of Randall-Reilly, he was able to undertake

capital campaigns such as a new church for St. Francis, raising more than $6.5 million dollars. Reilly’s interest in aiding children led him to help the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tuscaloosa, joining with other community leaders in resolving problems and ensuring the organization offers young people a safe place to learn and grow after school and during summer school recess.

In 2011, the Reilly family was named the Alexis de Toqueville Society Family of the Year, due in large part to Reilly’s efforts to recruit new members to the society. Because of the society, more than 7,000 local children are served annually by the United Way’s Success by Six, Jump Start and Dolly Parton Imagination Library programs.

Because of Mike Reilly’s advocacy, many individuals and organizations have been made better. He exemplifies the spirit of citizenship, the essence of leadership and the joy of service.

Betty Shirley (1927-)

Betty Bailey Shirley has drawn on her personal experiences to make lasting contributions not only to Tuscaloosa County, but to the entire state of Alabama. In giving of her time, energy and resources, she has greatly improved the lives of others.

As a young adult, Shirley suffered from mental illness and was successfully treated at Bryce Hospital. Following her recovery, she spoke openly about mental illness to civic organizations and churches and became an advocate for mental health treatment and education. Families in crisis call upon her for information, to be a listening ear, and to provide hope.

In her capacity as a mental health advocate, she has served on the board of Friends of Bryce; as co-chairman of the Hospital Ball of Druid City Hospital to raise money for a mental health wing; was a fundraiser and member of the board of Counseling Ministry

Professionals; and has a lifetime membership in the Mental Health Association of Tuscaloosa County, among many others.

Shirley was named the Outstanding Member of the Mental Health Association in 1990, was named a President Bush “Point of Light,” and in 2002, the psychiatric clinic at the University of Alabama School of Medicine was named in her honor.

She is also involved in the RISE program and Crossing Points, and both programs have grown in funding and support thanks to her efforts.

In her nearly seven decades in Tuscaloosa, Betty Bailey Shirley has dedicated her life to making those around her healthier and happier. She enthusiastically gives of herself and she has made broad and lasting contributions for the good of the community.

Jimmy Warren (1954-)

Born in Jasper in 1954, Jimmy Warren moved with his family from the family farm in Walker County to Holt when he was six months old so his father could start a job as a forklift driver at the Central Foundry. His mother quilted and canned vegetables to help support the family. In school, Warren was a diligent student who was selected at Eastwood Junior High’s most outstanding student when he was in the 9th grade. At Tuscaloosa High School, he was one of the school’s outstanding seniors, and was editor of the Black Warrior. He worked three jobs to pay for college, and graduated magna cum laude.

Warren worked at Creative Displays and TotalCom, and in 1983, bought TotalCom and became its president. In the more than three decades since, TotalCom has grown to be a regional firm and represents clients throughout the Southeast. Through his agency, Warren has donated hundreds of hours of pro bono work to various charitable organizations.

Additionally, Warren has taken a range of

leadership roles, both in a civic capacity and in his industry. He served as president of the Tuscaloosa Advertising Federation and governor of the district, serving on the national board and elected to the Council of Governors. He was inducted into the American Advertising Federation Seventh District’s Hall of Fame and received the Barton Cummings Gold Medal, AAF’s Highest Award.

He is a founding director and serves on the advisory board of the Bank of Tuscaloosa, and served in various roles with the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, including being instrumental in the creation of the Civic Hall of Fame. Warren was Member of the Year in 2000 and received the Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

Warren served on the City of Tuscaloosa’ Planning and Zoning Commission for 16 years and was chair for eight years; serves on the board of the Tuscaloosa Public Library and has served as a board member for PARA and a division chair for United Way, among many other boards. A loyal supporter of the University of Alabama, he is a member of the President’s Cabinet and the Board of Visitors of the College of Communication and Information Sciences. Warren also served as President of the University of Alabama National Alumni Association.

A member of University Church of Christ, Warren has devoted his life to his faith, his family, his profession and his community.

Gold Sponsors for the event were the Award Company of America, McAbee Construction, Inc., and The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences. Silver Sponsor was HudsonPoole Fine Jewelers.

Special thanks to the Alberta School of Performing Arts and Buffalo Rock Company/ Pepsi-Cola.

Susan Phifer Cork Arlington L. Freeman Frank Michael Reilly Betty Shirley Jimmy Warren

C hamber@WORK

State of the Economy

Kicks

Off with Economic Development Agreement Ambassadors Enjoy Fall Appreciation Dinner

Community leaders sign document to move area forward

The 2017 Chamber in Session: State of the Economy, a sold out event held November 1 at Hotel Capstone, kicked off with elected officials and community leaders signing an economic development partnership that will help direct economic and workforce development efforts in the future.

Signed by Mayor Donna Aaron of Northport, Mayor Walt Maddox of Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Hardy McCollum, University of Alabama President Stuart Bell and others, the agreement recognizes a formal partnership to promote business growth, job creation and cultivation of a strong economy.

Following the signing of the agreement, presentations were made by Kathy Deck, Director of Community and Economic Research Partnerships, The University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Commerce; Tom Spencer, Senior Research Associate, Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama; and the Honorable Jo Bonner, Vice Chancellor for Economic Development, The University of Alabama System.

At the close of the event, Jim Page, President and CEO of the Chamber, recognized Dara Longgrear, Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority for his years of service to the community. Longgrear is retiring after 31 years with the TCIDA.

Following the event, attendees were invited to view the partnership agreement and also sign the document.

Chamber in Session: State of the Economy was presented by Raymond James. Gold Sponsors: City of Northport and Alumni Development & Construction. Silver Sponsors: TekLinks and Trustmark National Bank. Table Sponsors: BankFirst Financial Services, Bank of Tuscaloosa a Division of Synovus, Bryant Bank, Capstone Bank, Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Doug Hollyhand Realty, Express Employment Professionals, First South Farm Credit, FNB of Central Alabama, JamisonMoneyFarmer PC, Shelton State Community College.

Jordan Morris, Principal with Ward Scott Architecture and current chair of the Chamber Ambassadors, congratulates Ambassador of the Quarter Emily Bryant of the Tuscaloosa News.

Chamber Ambassadors gathered at R. Davidson Chophouse for their Fall Appreciation Dinner November 15, to enjoy great food and celebrate their achievements over the previous quarter. Members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors joined the Ambassadors to thank them for their great work.

Emily Bryant of the Tuscaloosa News was honored as the Ambassador of the Quarter.

Ambassadors are volunteers from member businesses who perform a range of activities within the Chamber, including welcoming new members to the organization and sharing with them ways to get the most out of their membership through an informal mentor relationship.

Ambassadors serve as greeters at most Chamber events and assist Chamber staff with groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings. The Ambassador experience aids in the development of future Chamber leaders and is an excellent networking experience for participants.

Bobby Bragg, the Chamber’s Vice Chair for Economic Development, introduces panel members Jo Bonner, Tom Spencer and Kathy Deck.

Bringing you the best coverage of college sports in West Alabama

CRIMSON ALL OVER BLACK & WHITE FACTS

CENTRAL MESA

519 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 523-7738

Craig Williams

PHILLY BOYZ CHEESESTEAKS

1306 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 759-1004

Matt Tanner

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES

608 James I. Harrison Jr. Parkway East Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 759-1268

Carol Ann Gray

ESCAPE TUSCALOOSA

1663 McFarland Blvd. N. Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 248-2115

Darlene Ellis

BEACON PLACE

4400 Beacon Place Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 343-1700

Greg Wood

THE NOOK

2820 7th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 764-9407

David Summerville

NORTHPORT COMMUNITY FINANCE

#80 McFarland Blvd., Ste. 5 Northport, AL 35476 (205) 764-5944

Regina Watts

SLEEP OUTFITTERS NORTHPORT

2601 McFarland Blvd. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 614-3902

Frederick Molden

LA COCINA

3520 McFarland Blvd. East Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 561-6851

Alex Sanchez

INTERESTED IN MEMBERSHIP?

Contact Kimberly Adams at (205) 391-0327

2018 Calendar of Events | WINTER

JANUARY 19

ANNUAL MEETING & AWARDS CELEBRATION

The Bryant Conference Center | 5 p.m.

JANUARY 23

LEADERSHIP FUNDAMENTALS & SKILLS TRAINING

The Chamber | 8:30 a.m.

JANUARY 30

BREAKFAST & BIZ

UPerk | 7 a.m.

FEBRUARY 7-8

WOW 2.0

Shelton State Community College

FEBRUARY 7-8

MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN

FEBRUARY 13

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Trustmark Bank | 5 p.m.

FEBRUARY 21

STRATEGIC PLANNING TRAINING

The Chamber | 8:30 p.m.

MARCH 20

COMMUNICATION TRAINING

The Chamber | 1p.m.

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Presented by

Next Level Investors

- $25,000+ ANNUALLY

CEO COUNCIL

Alabama One Credit Union; The Bank of Tuscaloosa division of Synovus; BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing/Michelin; Cardiology Consultants; Harrison Construction, Inc.; Hunt Refining; JamisonMoneyFarmer PC; Knight Sign Industries, Inc.; Miers Pass Philanthropy; Rosen Harwood, Attorneys at Law; Shelton State Community College; The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences

INVESTOR LEADERS

Adams Beverages; Alabama Credit Union; AT&T; Cintas; Coca-Cola Bottling Company; Coral Industries; Industrial Warehouse Services; McGiffert & Associates; Parker Towing; Pritchett-Moore, Inc.; Spire Energy; Thompson Tractor; The University of Alabama System; Walker & Associates; The WHMZ Group at Morgan Stanley; ZF Chassis Systems

GROWTH PARTNERS

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama; Boone Newspapers; Buffalo Rock / Pepsi Cola; The Builders Group of West Alabama; Burk-Kleinpeter, Inc.; Community Service Programs of West Alabama; D.T. & Freight Co., Inc.; Ellis Architects, Inc.; Fitts Agency; Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill; Lance Hocutt Financial Group; Lear; The Legacy Connection; Mercedes of Tuscaloosa; Neel-Schaffer, Inc.; Northport Auto Supply; The Radiology Clinic; Robertson Bank; TTL, Inc.; Ward Scott Architecture; Way, Ray, Shelton & Co., PC

COMMUNITY COLLEAGUES

Logistics; Bama Concrete; BBVA Compass; Cadence Bank; Capstone Bank; Chick-fil-A of Northport; FNB of Central Alabama; Hampton Inn; Kyle Office Solutions; The Locker Room; Metalsa; Raymond James & Associates; Remmert & Co.; Renasant Bank; Spiller Furniture & Mattress; TotalCom, Inc.; Winter McFarland, LLC

NEW MEMBERS| SEPT 9-DEC 18

1ST Franklin Financial Corp

1911 Skyland Blvd E Ste B-3

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 556-8141

Sheryl Dykes

Alabama One Agency Insurance Services

1215 Veterans Memorial Parkway

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 342-0112

Martin Houston

All In Adventures

1800 McFarland Blvd., Suite 302

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (662) 316-4247

Jonathan Peek

B-Squared Consultants

3421 Willow Ridge Lane Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 256-310-3263

Ben Bickerstaff

Belt & Bruner, P.C.

121 Coosa St Ste 230 Montgomery, AL 361042506 (334) 513-1841

Katie Backovski

Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama 2720 6th Street #100

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-5734

Danielle McInerney

Blo Go Blow Dry Bar & Salon

2370 Jack Warner Parkway, Suite A106

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Lee Garrison

Broadway Pizza Hwy. 43 4550 Station Way Northport, AL 35473 (205) 330-6969

Eric Wyatt

Bryce Hospital 1651 Ruby Tyler Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 507-8300

Shelia Penn

Building & Earth Sciences, Inc. 1490 Northbank Parkway Suite 254 Tuscaloosa, AL 35402 205-836-6300

Robert Adams

Cartography Consulting 2330 University Blvd. Suite 301 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-650-9622

Cooper Shattuck

Christy's Ladies' Apparel and Gift Boutique 315 Main Avenue Northport, AL 35476 (205) 330-1722

Christy White

Crimson Capitol Group 535 Jack Warner Parkway, Suite L-1 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 394-7105

Brett LaFerrera

Dataperk 2515 6th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-879-4600

Cliff Marian

Direct Auto & Life Insurance

3615 McFarland Blvd. E Suite 105 Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 650-3255

Cindy Hartwig

Disabled American Veterans 448 65th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 247-4862

William George

Dotson's Burger Spot

2322 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 248-2493

Justin Holt

Druid Capital Partners

500 Main Avenue Suite 201

Northport, AL 35476 (205) 349-4464

Martin Holt

Escape Tuscaloosa 1663 McFarland Blvd. N.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 248-2115

Darlene Ellis

Etiquette Manor Alabama, LLC

2123 9th Street Suite 203

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (305) 469-7822

Robin Wells

Gulf Supreme of Central Alabama

2712 Southside Drive Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 251-8010

Jim North

H&R Block

McFarland Plaza, 2600

McFarland Blvd E SP L2

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 260-0793

Lisa Chambers

Hoffmann Group USA 202 N. Seven Oaks Drive Knoxville, TN 37922 (844) 448-7725

Colleen Kukla

KC3 Kreations LLC (205) 765-8919

Andi Phillips

Lake Tuscaloosa Texaco 15007 Hwy 43

Northport, AL 35475 (205) 333-1534

Anwar Ali

Lampadas

2320 6th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 343-1511

Kellyn Lee

Lyft

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 322-5646

Ashley Foster

Magical Moments Formal Attire

2415 13th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 752-7161

Glenda Daffron

Moe's 69S

6571 Hwy 69 S, Suite A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 233-1396

Laura Moss

Netcinity

48 Meadowlawn

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 246-2323

Willie Kimbrough

Northport Community Finance

#80 McFarland Blvd., Ste. 5 Northport, AL 35476 (205) 764-5944

Regina Watts

Pinnacle Physician Group 2700 Hospital Drive

Northport, AL 35476 (205) 344-9019

Charles Abney

Powell Insurance Group 1641 W. McFarland Blvd., Suite A-3

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 342-3221

Ryan Powell

Richlyn Farms

11310 House Bend Road

Northport, AL 35475 (205) 792-8037

Lynn Kincaid

Roly Poly Tuscaloosa 2310 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 248-7776

Raji Singh

Rotary Club of Tuscaloosa P.O. Box 2403

Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 (205) 348-1151

Patricia Powe

SheSpeaks, Inc. 2300 15th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 233-2076

Veronica Giles

Showcase Homes (256) 749-2559

Kelly Waldrop

Sledge Landscaping 5102 Greenview Dr.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Marcus Sledge

Sleep Outfitters

Northport 2601 McFarland Blvd. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 614-3902

Frederick Molden

Sleep Outfitters

Tuscaloosa 1413 McFarland Blvd. East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 344-6125

Ashlee Wagner

Smokey Ridge Floral and Events

15680 Smokey Ridge Road

Knoxsville, AL 35469 (205) 391-8773

Carrie Dailey

Southern Shirt Company 3711 Palisades Drive

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 764-6842

Valerie Starks

SouthMark Design 2012 8th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 349-4495

Scott Smith

Susan Duckworth

Randall, Keller Williams 13529 Sharpes Lakes Road

Northport, AL 35473 (205) 799-6296

Susan Randall

The Clothes Bin 21 Windsor Drive

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 556-0177

Elizabeth Hall

The Next Best Thing 1533 Heritage Drive

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 764-0777

Alex Wright

The Nook 2820 7th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 764-9407

David Summerville

Varicosity Vein Center 1649 McFarland Boulevard North #201

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 592-1800

Robbie Higgins

Wilhagan's Grille & Taproom 2209 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 366-0913

Robert Wildman

WinTek

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 657-2867

Brian Winters

XpressMart 3735 McFarland Blvd East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 454-6497

Todd Turner