Rising Tide - Spring 2018

SPRING

2018

Published in partnership with

The Tuscaloosa News

THE BUSINESS JOURNAL OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP ...Connecting the Dots

NETWORKING

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WORKFORCE

ADVOCACY

Contents 4

A Word from Our Leadership

6

COVER STORY

Membership: What's In It For Me? 10

CHAMBER@Work

Chamber Honors Top Volunteers at Annual Celebration 18

Here We Grow Again

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Working as One Investors/ Comparative Economic Indicators

23

New Members

PUBLISHED BY

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

EDITOR

Amy Materson

DESIGN

Kelli Dailey

PREPRESS MANAGER Chuck Jones

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Beau Laird (205) 722-0148

Connect with the Chamber Join us on Facebook Facebook/chambertusc Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/chambertusc Connect with us on LinkedIn LinkedIn.com/groups/1830062 Follow us on Instagram instagram.com/chambertusc

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A Word from Our Leadership WHAT IS THE CHAMBER? WHY SHOULD MY COMPANY BE A CHAMBER MEMBER? HOW WILL THE CHAMBER HELP ME?

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was asked these very questions just the other day.

If you know me, you know I like to get excited, so I loved the opportunity to share everything the Chamber does for my community, my business and my family. My plan: begin with economic development efforts Bobby Bragg leads, add in some of the education changes Gary Nichols is so passionate about, and finish with public policy and legislature efforts driven by David Pass. But, before I could get started, my friend says, “give me the 5-minute spiel.”

Wow! Five minutes to describe everything that Chris Gunter is the Chamber of Commerce. In a crunch for Area Sales Manager, Buffalo Rock / Pepsi time, I think I said something like “the Chamber is Vice Chair, Membership and Investor Relations awesome, and the Ambassadors are pretty cool!”

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama Thankfully, he allowed me to elaborate after the meeting. In retrospect, it is difficult to speak quickly and boosts your visibility in the community. Our about an organization that does so much. members use the Chamber as a vehicle to drive If you are looking for answers to these questions growth through advertising and sponsorship the best place to start, as boring as it may sound, is benefits. with the Mission Statement.

Entrepreneurship: The Chamber offers vital The mission of The Chamber of Commerce of West assistance to new business, including navigating Alabama is to provide the leadership, vision and business licenses and tax incentives and exploring catalyst for the advancement of the economic mentoring opportunities. prosperity, business climate, and quality of life for I concur with Blake Madison, Chairman of the the entire community.

Chamber’s Board of Directors, when he says that Simply put, our goal is to create more business for West Alabama has tremendous opportunities our businesses in West Alabama. To create more awaiting at our doorstep. Blake believes that business, you need a thriving community. This is it is critical for you to get involved and be a part easier said than done when considering the many of this dynamic organization – that it is time for moving parts needed to achieve this goal. The us to demand more from our elected officials, Chamber understands this and spends tireless our community organizations, and ourselves. I hours investing in areas to make this happen like wholeheartedly agree.

Education, Workforce Development, Public Policy, Leadership, Quality of life initiatives, Nonprofits How can I help you get involved in the Chamber? and Membership Development. These elements How can we help your business and your are just a few things the Chamber leads to drive community? Please feel free to reach out to me at West Alabama’s success. So, what’s in it for you and any time and I would be glad to walk you through the process. Our members are what the Chamber your business? is about, and your Chamber role will make a Workforce: Helping your community helps your difference to your company and your community. business. When you’re looking for skilled workers, the Chamber is there to assist you. Our workforce development efforts are second to none.

Business revenue: Your consumers and customers are more likely to trust a brand that shows its direct impact on society. Chamber membership brings credibility to your business, increases positive perception of your business,

Contact Us 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 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 Director of Education Programs (205) 391-0556 carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com AUDREY VAUGHN Rural Outreach Coordinator, Workforce Development (205) 758-7588 KATHERINE WALDON Project Manager, Workforce Development (205) 391-0331 katherine@tuscaloosachamber.com

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BUSINESS NETWORKING DEVELOPMENT ADVOCACY WORKFORCE Membership: What’s in it for me?

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f you stopped to think about what a Chamber of Commerce does, what would be the first thing to come to mind? Grand openings and ribbon cutting events, perhaps.

If that’s the case, you might have been hesitant in the past to join. However, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama is so much more.

Take a closer look – you might be surprised at some of the resources available to you.

NETWORKING The Chamber offers the best networking opportunities in West Alabama, with numerous breakfast, lunch and evening events attended by hundreds of well-connected business and community leaders. Events such as Business After Hours and Breakfast & Biz allow members to connect in a fun, casual setting.

Terrance Dedrick, Financial Advisor, Raymond James, says he’s found the networking events to be one of the most valuable aspects of Chamber membership. Dedrick also volunteers as a Chamber Ambassador – a group of professionals who welcome new members to the Chambers, assist with events, and often transition into future Chamber leaders.

“Membership in the Chamber is a great way to develop meaningful relationships with fellow members,” Dedrick says. “In my business, as a Financial Advisor, nothing is more important than meeting new people, building relationships, and seeing what value you can add to other people’s lives. The Chamber allows you the opportunity to do just that. Also, through participating in the Chamber’s Ambassador program, I’ve been able to meet new business owners and connect with established business leaders. The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama works strongly to support member engagement, which further enhances the local economy and cultivates a sense of community.”

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MENTORING AND BUSINESS RESOURCES No matter the size of your firm or how long you’ve been in business, the Chamber can help with a range of issues. Whether it’s assistance from the professional staff, or counseling from experienced business professionals and subject matter experts, the Chamber can guide members through a variety of business processes. Through a partnership with The University of Alabama and the City of Tuscaloosa, the EDGE Incubator and Accelerator was developed, offering business owners virtual and co-working space, counseling and mentoring services, and guidance on basic, day-to-day operations.

John G. Newman, II, Chief Executive Officer, UGO – Convenience Delivery, has used

John G. Newman, II Chamber resources since conceiving his business idea – a service that allows customers to purchase items commonly found in a convenience store via mobile app or website, and then have them delivered for a small fee.

"As young entrepreneurs with an innovative business model, we've found the Chamber to be a valuable resource in helping us build credibility within the community,” Newman says. “The Chamber has connected us with mentors who've helped us tackle the common roadblocks that most young startups face. As a result, Ugo has grown from just an ‘innovative idea’ to a full blown enterprise.”

Terrance Dedrick

that West Alabama Works’ partnership with educational institutions to offer training, certification and employment opportunities to residents across West Alabama has enhanced the flow of candidates into the logistics field.

“The West Alabama Works team is an extension of our ARD team, and has created a solid pipeline of viable candidates to work within our operations,” Hester says. “West Alabama Works has taken the vision of helping the less fortunate in the outlying regions to another level, by providing extensive training and retraining while transitioning individuals back into the workforce.”

the importance of local retailers with an aggressive Shop Local campaign, focusing on the importance of keeping sales tax revenue in the community. The Chamber spotlights members such as Lou & Company’s Sydney Powers, to encourage residents to get out and enjoy the experience of shopping local.

“As a boutique owner, I appreciate the Chamber’s commitment to supporting small businesses,” Powers says. “Their ‘Shop Local’ initiative educates shoppers that supporting local businesses supports your friends, your family and your neighbors – people who return the money they make to your community, where those dollars can work to help your city. The majority of the members who belong the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama are small business owners, and the Chamber understands the issues that we face every day.”

DOING MORE FOR YOUR BUSINESS No matter what type of boost your business needs, the Chamber can give you an advantage. Whether it’s finding or training employees, making or enhancing local connections, or having an organization advocate on your behalf with public officials, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama is ready to serve you. What can the Chamber do for you? Just ask us.

Sylvester Hester UGO has been so successful that the company was honored with the Rising Star Award for 2017.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT In addition to a wide range of business resources, the Chamber’s workforce development arm, West Alabama Works, can help you with your workforce needs. West Alabama Works has a comprehensive Career Connect system that links skilled job seekers with employers, as well as facilitating access to training programs and educational opportunities for workers in need of further training or certification.

Manufacturers and industry across the ninecounty West Alabama region look to West Alabama Works to connect the dots and deliver workforce resources throughout the area.

Sylvester Hester, President and CEO, ARD Logistics, has found his company’s partnership with the Chamber to be useful in addressing his company’s turnover challenges. Through West Alabama Works, ARD Logistics has been able to find qualified workers. Hester notes

For more information on the benefits the Chamber can provide, contact Kimberly Adams, Director of Membership and Investor Relations at (205) 391-0327 or Kimberly@ tuscaloosachamber.com.

Snapshot of Member Benefits:

Sydney Powers

• Member-to-member discounts • Advertising and price matching discounts

LOCAL BUSINESS FOCUS

• Chamber staff referrals

Large companies such as ARD Logistics aren’t the only ones who find the Chamber useful – they’re actually the exception. Approximately 85 percent of the Chamber’s members are small businesses, and the organization works diligently to understand their needs, and be an advocate for them.

As online sales become a larger portion of the retail market, the Chamber continues to stress

• Chamber directory listings • Professional development opportunities • Low cost training • Access to Chamber Perks programs • Updates on public policy issues that impact your business • Professional business advocacy • Access to business experts

FACEBOOK.COM/CHAMBERTUSC | TWITTER.COM/CHAMBERTUSC

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Chamber@WORK Chamber Honors Top Volunteers at Annual Celebration

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he Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama recognized top volunteers for 2017 during its 117th annual celebration, presented on Friday, January 19 by The University of Alabama at the Bryant Conference Center.

A departure from previous events, attendees were treated to signature dishes from area restaurants including 301 Bistro, Bar & Beer Garden; The Avenue Pub; Black Warrior Brewing; Central Mesa; Cypress Inn, Dotson’s Burger Spot; Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill; Jim N’ Nick’s; Legends; The Levee; Monarch Coffee Bar; OHenry’s Coffee; River; The Side By Side; Southern Ale House; Taziki’s; and Urban Cookhouse.

During the event, members voted on the Best of the Taste of the Town, and Central Mesa was crowned the 2018 Taste of the Town Champion.

Bobby Bragg of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC was named the 2017 Charles H. Land Member of the Year, the Chamber’s highest honor presented to an individual member. Bragg, who serves as the Director of Practice Growth for the firm, is a driving force behind efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in West Alabama.

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Bobby Bragg (center) of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC was named the Charles H. Land Member of the Year.

Representative Bill Poole (center) was honored with the Chairman’s Leadership Award.

The Chairman’s Leadership Award was presented to Representative Bill Poole, member of the Alabama House of Representatives, representing District 63 and the chairman of the House Ways and Means Education Means Committee and head of the Tuscaloosa County Legislative Delegation.

The Robert C. Tanner Corporate Service Award,

Mercedes-Benz U.S. International was honored with the Robert C. Tanner Corporate Service Award. President and CEO Jason Hoff (center) accepted the award.

which recognizes the corporate leadership, philanthropic efforts and community service by a member entity in the West Alabama region, was presented to Mercedes-Benz U.S. International.

The Minority Business Council Trailblazer Award was presented to Sylvester Hester of ARD Logistics, Inc.

2017 Chairman of the Board of Directors Dean McClure (left) of TTL, Inc. passes the gavel to 2018 Chairman Blake Madison (right) of Rosen Harwood.

The Non-Profit of the Year Award was presented to Temporary Emergency Services.

Landon Lovell of Mariner Finance was named the Chamber’s Ambassador of the Year for his exceptional service to and on behalf of the Chamber’s membership. The Ambassadors are the Chamber’s official hosts for all functions.

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The Chamber also recognized outstanding community leadership with the presentation of two Distinguished Service Awards, which are presented to individuals or organizations for their service and leadership. The 2017 awards were presented to Angela Hamiter of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC and Bryan Winter of Winter McFarland LLC, Attorneys and Counselors at Law.

Sylvester Hester (center) of ARD Logistics was presented with an MBC Trailblazer Award.

The H. Pettus Randall III Entrepreneur of the Year Award was presented to Wolfgang Kneer of SWJ Breilmann. The Rising Star Award was presented to John G. Newman, III of Ugo Convenience Delivery.These awards are given to local business owners whose innovation is making a significant impact on the community and their respective industries.

Temporary Emergency Services was honored as the Non-Profit of the Year. Karen Thompson (center) accepted on behalf of the organization.

Landon Lovell (center) of Mariner Finance was presented the Ambassador of the Year Award.

Annual Celebration Presented By

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Angela Hamiter (center) of JamisonMoneyFarmer PC was presented with a Distinguished Service Award.

Bryan Winter (center) of Winter McFarland, LLC was presented with a Distinguished Service Award.

Ugo Convenience Delivery was presented with the Rising Star Award.

John G. Newman II (center left) and William Randle (center right) accepted on behalf of the company.

Presenting Sponsor: The University of Alabama. Gold Sponsors: Bryant Conference Center; Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.; Shelton State Community College; TekLinks. Silver Sponsors: BFGoodrich; iHeartMedia; The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences. Entertainment Sponsor: FASTSIGNS of Tuscaloosa. Video Sponsors: Alabama One Credit Union, SEED Creative. Awards Sponsor: Award Company of America.

Wolfgang Kneer of SWJ Brielmann was named the H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneur of the Year.

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AT FACEBOOK.COM/CHAMBERTUSC TO VIEW THE FOLLOWING VIDEOS: 2018 Chamber Celebration video Charles H. Land Member of the Year Bobby Bragg Chairman's Leadership Award honoree Rep. Bill Poole Robert C. Tanner Corporate Service Award honoree Mercedes-Benz U.S. International

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Chamber@WORK 2018 Montgomery Drive-In Sets Record

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ore than 90 Chamber members – a record for the event – from a range of industries and occupations traveled to the state capitol February 7 and 8 to meet with elected officials for the annual Montgomery Drive-In. Tackling a variety of topics, the delegation, which included members of the 2018 Leadership Tuscaloosa class, also attended the Business Council of Alabama's Legislative Reception, where they networked with officials from across the state.

The event kicked off with a luncheon at the Capital City Club, where Rep. Bill Poole was the featured speaker. The group then met at the Alabama State Capitol, where they engaged in a discussion on healthcare with Department of Mental Health Commissioner Lynn Beshear and Sen. Greg Reed.

A budget reform discussion with Department of Revenue Commissioner Vernon Barnett, Rep. Kyle South and Rep. Rich Wingo followed.

Day two began with an election overview with Secretary of State John Merrill, who also spoke of his office's push for statewide voter registration.

Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington, center, talks with Tom Scroggins and Don Staley At the State House, attendees joined Department of Commerce Deputy Director Ed Castile, Governor's Office of Minority Affairs Director Nichelle Nix and Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington for a discussion on workforce development. After observing the legislature in action in the House and Senate Galleries, the delegation joined Department of Corrections Commissioner Jeff Dunn and Attorney General Steve Marshall for a policy discussion on prison reform.

The two-day event wrapped up with a luncheon featuring Governor Kay Ivey at the RSA Plaza Terrace.

Joseph Rose, Whitney DuBose, and Scott Stephens of the City of Northport

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The 2018 Montgomery Drive-In Sponsors were The University of Alabama; Shelton State Community College; TTL, Inc.; Alabama One Credit Union; Plaster, Scarvey and Associates – Ameriprise Financial; DT Freight LLC; Southland Benefit Solutions; Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports; and Tuscaloosa Charter Service, LLC.

More than 90 members attended the event.

FIVE HORIZONS: NEW NAME, NEW OUTLOOK FOR LOCAL NON-PROFIT

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long-standing local non-profit has taken on a new name – one that helps better reflect the scope of services the organization now offers.

Five Horizons Health Services, was formerly West Alabama AIDS Outreach, has completed a rebranding process which entails much more than a name change and new logo. According to Executive Director Billy Kirkpatrick, Five Horizons has added both staff and services that have enabled the organization to continue providing HIVrelated outreach and prevention services to the region, but expand beyond that mission, as well.

“We are excited for the name change to Five Horizons,” Kirkpatrick said, of the organization, which recently marked its 30th anniversary. “Not only could our former name be seen as stigmatized by individuals, simply making an appointment with us could be a semi-disclosure of their medical status.”

Kirkpatrick explained the name represents the five pillars of their services – medical care; prevention and testing; supportive services; research; and advocacy. Five Horizons treats approximately 200 HIVpositive clients and provides prevention services for 8,000 more. The

organization also provides testing for HIV and Hepatitis C; administering approximately 800 tests per year.

Five Horizons has three case managers, a rural housing specialist, two certified medical assistants and has added a nurse practitioner. The growth in staff is critical, as Five Horizons now offers pre-exposure prophylaxis, a regimen available to high-risk clients who have not tested positive for HIV. Testing services are free and confidential, and the organization offers comprehensive case management services. Available supportive services include housing and medication payment assistance, medical transportation and counseling services.

For more information on Five Horizons Health Services, visit their website at www.fivehorizons.org or call (205) 759-8470.

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UWA: A DRIVING FORCE IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT University’s Unique Program Delivers Exceptional Career Opportunities to Students

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

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n a region where automotive suppliers and other manufacturers cluster en masse, it’s a term frequently deployed by businesses, educators and legislators alike. The need to fill West Alabama’s skilled workforce pipeline with welders, technicians, computer programmers, all types of engineers and so many other skilled positions is great, and always increasing. That’s why programs that offer students the certificate programs they must have and also deliver the career opportunities they need are a critical component of the region’s workforce development efforts.

Cobb explains many options are now available for students, including online course work, and an MBA program. “We’ve created a comprehensive system,” he says. “The new center has filled in the gaps, and now all of the pieces are in one place.”

The University of West Alabama is a significant – and unusual – component in the workforce development arena. UWA has long offered a range of training programs, but cut the ribbon on the UWA Center for Workforce Development in the fall, affirming the University’s commitment to help drive economic development in the Black Belt region.

Traditionally, technical programs are offered by two-year and community colleges. UWA is in the unique position of being the only four-year university in the state of Alabama that offers a comprehensive technical program.

Dr. Donnie Cobb, Director of the Center for Workforce Development, explains that the program’s students are able to take advantage of the fact that they are UWA students to pursue a four-year degree, if they choose.

“All of the course work transfers,” Cobb says. “If they choose, they can complete the certificate program, or they can continue and obtain a BS in Technology, for example.”

DRIVEN BY PARTNERSHIPS The center, which is located at the Hunt Annex on the UWA campus in Livingston, was born out of a partnership with Mercedes-Benz to provide potential employees to the company. With the renovation and expansion of the center, the goal now is to develop relationships with a range of automotive suppliers and firms, and provide skilled workers across the region.

PROGRAMS OFFERED • Automotive Engineering Certification

• BS Engineering Technology

• BS Technology • Non-Degree Welding • BBA Computer Certificate Information programs Systems • AAS Automotive Engineering Technology • AAS Industrial Maintenance

• AC/DC and Solid State Electronics

• Programmable Logic • Computer Controls (PLCs) Networking

• Soft Skills Development

• Computer-Aided Drafting and Design

• Computer Programming

• College to Career programs

• Geo-Spatial Information Systems

• Automotive • Welding

• Work Keys Assessment and Testing

• Mechanical • Electric Motor Engineering Controls and Technology Electromechanical Controls

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• Safety • AS Nursing • Certified Nursing Assistant

• Alabama Career Center office

For the automotive industry, Instructor of Automotive Technology Curtis Jones says the facility has been renovated to handle up to 20 students in each class.

“We want this program to grow,” Jones says. “A student who completes this certificate program can go to work for any company that repairs vehicles – a manufacturer or a dealership, for example. We have 100-percent job placement.”

The welding lab is brand new, and serves as an ESAB training facility.

The UWA staff is currently growing

this program, and plans to create an associate degree program for welding.

UWA’s certificate programs include programs on Automotive Engineering, Welding, Engineering and Technology. In addition to the automotive and welding shops, the Hunt Annex includes CADD (Computer-Aided Draf ting and Design), computer labs, a pneumatics lab and a robotics lab.

Here We GROW Again RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS | DECEMBER 19-MARCH 2

SLEEP OUTFITTERS – NORTHPORT

2601 McFarland Blvd.

Northport, Alabama 35476 (205) 614-3902 Frederick Molden

BURGER KING

2515 Stillman Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 (205) 390-7709

CRIMSON URGENT CARE

1718 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Ste. A Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 507-1100 Dr. Ramesh Peramsetty

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DOMINO’S PIZZA – ALBERTA

2525 University Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 (205) 632-0000 Christopher Darwin

TRUE40 STUDIO

1490 Northbank Parkway #190 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406 (205) 538-7005 Lizzi Benton

LEFT HAND SOAP CO.

2214 University Blvd. Ste. A Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 (205) 792-9565 Soapy Jones

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CHAMBER ANNOUNCES PERSONNEL CHANGES

he Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama has named Carolyn Tubbs the Director of Education Programs. Tubbs, who has served as the Chamber’s Education and Workforce Development Program Manager, will lead the Chamber’s Adopt-ASchool program.

CEO Jim Page. “All of our education efforts have thrived under Robin’s dedicated leadership.”

Carolyn Tubbs

The Adopt-A-School program is currently in its 33rd year. More than 100 local companies and organizations are involved in partnerships with all 57 public schools in the Tuscaloosa City and County systems. Partners often provide much-needed financial resources to their respective schools as well as offer a significant investment of personnel to participate in various classroom programs.

Tubbs has worked closely with the Adopt-A-School program throughout her 16-year tenure at the Chamber. “Carolyn knows the Adopt-ASchool program inside and out,” said Chamber President and CEO Jim Page. “She will continue the expansion of this great program and further position it as a core function of our regional workforce development efforts.”

Tubbs replaces Robin Jenkins, who has led the highly successful program since 2015, and who previously served as the Chamber’s Director of Communications and Marketing.

“Robin has been an invaluable member of the Chamber team and has truly left her mark on this organization,” said Chamber President and

Katherine Waldon has joined the Chamber staff as a Workforce Development Project Manager.

She will provide support to the Region 3 Workforce Development Katherine Waldon Council / West Alabama Works and assist with numerous workforce development projects throughout the nine-county region.

Waldon succeeds Julie Hindall, who relocated to Jacksonville, Florida with her husband and has recently accepted a position as Workforce Development Manager with the JAX Chamber.

Waldon earned both a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from The University of Alabama. She previously served as the Program and Education Coordinator for the Boys and Girls Club of West Alabama. “Although we were saddened by Julie’s relocation to Florida, we are very fortunate to have added Katherine to the Chamber team. Her education, experience and genuine passion for helping people succeed will make her a tremendous asset to our region’s dynamic workforce development efforts,” said Donny Jones, the Chamber’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of West Alabama Works.

Staff photos courtesy of Porfirio J. Solórzano.

Members From Business, Arts, Non-Profit Communities Join Chamber Board for 2018

Matt Feller

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Sontonia Stephens

Sandra Wolfe

Scott McClanahan

embers from a diverse range of backgrounds have been elected to serve terms on the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. These directors have careers in a variety of occupations that include the arts community and the non-profit sector, as well as member business firms.

Joining the board as first-time directors are Matt Feller, General Manager, Cintas; Scott McClanahan, Senior Vice President, WHMZ Group at Morgan Stanley; Sontonia Stephens, Compliance and Special Projects Director, Community Service Programs of West Alabama; and Sandra Wolfe, Executive Director, the Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa County, Inc. Elected to return to the board for a second term are Mike Ellis, Principal Architect; Ellis Architects, and Jason Hoff, President and CEO, MercedesBenz U.S. International.

Each director will serve a three-year term that began January 1.

To view a full list of the Board of Directors, visit this page: http://www. tuscaloosachamber.com/the-chamber/governance.

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2018 Calendar of Events | SPRING & SUMMER APRIL 3 APRIL 3 — SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TRAINING — The Chamber | 1 p.m.

APRIL 10 APRIL 10 — BUSINESS AFTER HOURS — Smith Hall | 5 p.m.

APRIL 24 APRIL 24 — BREAKFAST & BIZ — SmartBank | 7 a.m.

APRIL 24 APRIL 24 — WORKER'S COMPENSATION TRAINING — The Chamber | 8:30 a.m.

MAY 1 MAY 1 — CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE TRAINING — The Chamber | 8:30 a.m.

MAY 1 MAY 1 — BUSINESS AFTER HOURS — The District Room | 5 p.m.

MAY 9-10 MAY 9-10 — CELEBRATE LOCAL — Bryant Conference Center MAY 15 MAY 15 — CHAMBER IN SESSION: STATE OF THE STATE — Embassy Suites | 11:30 a.m.

JUNE 5 JUNE 5 — MBC DIVERSITY SUMMIT — Bryant Conference Center | 8:30 a.m.

JUNE 12 JUNE 12 — BUSINESS AFTER HOURS — Hotel Indigo | 5 p.m.

JUNE 13 JUNE 13 — SUPERVISION TRAINING — The Chamber | 8:30 a.m.

JUNE 19 JUNE 19 — NORTHPORT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DINNER — The Levee | 5 p.m.

JUNE 21 JUNE 21 — EDUCATION SUMMIT — Hotel Capstone | 7:30 a.m.

Presented by

Comparative

ECONOMIC INDICATORS DECEMBER 2016 VS DECEMBER 2017 GAMECHANGERS - $25,000+ ANNUALLY

VALUE OF BUILDING PERMITS

City of Tuscaloosa 2016 $24,242,288 2017 $26,525,148

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE - $15,000+ ANNUALLY

EMPLOYED Tuscaloosa County 2016 95,204 2017 96,463

CEO COUNCIL

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

UNEMPLOYMENT RATES

INVESTOR LEADERS

Tuscaloosa County 2016 5.6% 2017 3.1%

GROWTH PARTNERS

Tuscaloosa County

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

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; DT 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

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

HOMES SOLD 2016 2017

182 188

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE Tuscaloosa County 2016 2017

$203,031 $204,031

BUSINESS LICENSES City of Tuscaloosa DEC 2017 45 City of Northport DEC 2017 10

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NEW MEMBERS| Dec 19-Mar 2 A You-nique Touch 1246 Maxwell Circle Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 205-886-4604 Mary Thomas Babe's Doughnut & Coffee 500 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 722-2154 Danny Taing

Domino's Pizza Alberta City 2525 University Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 632-0000 Christopher Darwin Down Syndrome Alabama 1929 Canyon Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (205) 988-0810 Susan Tolle

Carlock CDJR of Tuscaloosa, LLC 550 Skyland Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 759-4421 Denise Osborn

Excelsior Staffing 3618 Palisades Drive, Suite D Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 614-5388 Vanessa Killian

Crimson Care, LLC 1771 Skyland Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 507-1119 Mayur Patel

Frost Bite 1914 University Blvd., Suite C Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 310-4224 Mike Kernan

JDA Promo 2041 Oak Mountain Drive Pelham, AL 35124 (205) 620-9961 Norris Hamer Left Hand Soap Co. 2214 University Blvd., Suite A Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 792-9565 Soapy Jones LifeSouth Community Blood Centers 396 West Oxmoor Road Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 943-6000 Leah Ratliff LP Services,LLC 3076 Palisades Ct, Ste D Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 737-7057 Larry Thomas

Microtel Inn Cottondale 6331 Interstate Drive Cottondale, AL 35453 (205) 556-1555 Mayur Patel Premium Source Consultants Inc 1213 Lurleen Wallace Blvd.

Northport, AL 35476 (205) 310-1247 Larry Samson Recess 4 Rover 2835 44th Avenue East Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 886-5702 Tina Miller

The Rustic Rehab 4500 Hwy. 69 North Northport, AL 35473 (205) 330-2569 Dylan Elmore Total Solutions Insurance 3835 Watermelon Road, Suite D Northport, AL 35473 (205) 936-0287 Fran Griffin True40 Studio 1490 Northbank Parkway #190 Tuscaloosa, Al 35406 (205) 538-7005 Lizzi Benton

SouthFresh TTown Cafe Aquaculture, LLC 1792 McFarland Blvd North 500 14th Street Tuscaloosa, AL Suite B Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 35406 (205) 759-5559 David Ryan (205) 247-4490 Justin Funk

Tuscaloosa Family Dental 7402 Highway 69 South Suite H Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Kimberly Parker

Vapors Smoke Shop 501 Hargrove Road E., Suite F Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 632-5605 Mike Kernan

Tuscaloosa Ministerial Alliance P.O. Box 1146 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 (205) 792-6455 Matthew Wilson

Whataburger 820 Skyland Blvd Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (210) 317-5584 Shannan Anderson

U.S. Lawns of Tuscaloosa 3116 25th Ave Suite A Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 238-4971 Patsy Gay VandalsSmile 1914 7th St Tuscaloosa, Al 35401 (850) 499-1961 Jason Polancich

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