Rising Tide - Fall 2019

CHATTANOOGA

2019

Record-breaking benchmarking trip delivers inspiration and ideas

ADOPT-A-SCHOOL KICKOFF

Partnerships honored at celebration

CHAMBER IN SESSION

Local legislators promote collaboration at State of the State

TALENT CONFERENCE

Inaugural event focuses on millennial engagement

At the Chamber, we’re big fans of positive change. Not change for change’s sake, mind you – but making differences that matter.

That’s why we’re excited to relaunch our business journal, Rising Tide, with a fresh, updated look and a brand new way to get important information in your hands. Starting with this issue, copies of Rising Tide will be mailed directly to member businesses, ensuring you never miss out on what’s happening with your Chamber.

We’ll still have all the information you’re looking for –new members, upcoming events, stories that matter to you –but with an exciting new look. We’ll also have a digital version with live links easily accessible online, so you can share it with employees, colleagues, and friends.

We hope you enjoy the new Rising Tide and, as always, we welcome your feedback.

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CHATTANOOGA 2019

2019 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair

Kimberly McMurray Behavioral Health Facility Consulting, LLC

Chair-Elect

Bobby Bragg

JamisonMoneyFarmer, PC

Immediate Past Chair

Blake Madison

Rosen Harwood, PA

Vice Chair, Airport and Transportation

David Pass

The Sealy Companies

Vice Chair, Bicentennial

Angela Hamiter

JamisonMoneyFarmer, PC

Vice Chair, Economic Development

Matthew Fajack

The University of Alabama

Vice Chair, Education and Workforce Development

Brad Newman

ZF Chassis Systems, LLC

Vice Chair, Leadership and Community Engagement

Dr. Jacqueline Morgan

The University of Alabama

Vice Chair, Membership and Investor Relations

Chris Gunter

Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi

Vice Chair, Public Policy and Advocacy

Carl Jamison

JamisonMoneyFarmer, PC

Treasurer

Elizabeth Winter Regions Bank

Legal Counsel

David Rains

Randall-Reilly, LLC

President and CEO

Jim M. Page, CCE, IOM Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

JIM PAGE, CCE, IOM

PRESidENT ANd CEO (205) 391-0562

jim@tuscaloosachamber.com

DONNY JONES, IOM

ChiEf OPERATiNg OffiCER (205) 391-0552

donny@tuscaloosachamber.com

BARKLEY GARRETT, CEcD

viCE PRESidENT, ECONOmiC dEvELOPmENT (205) 391-0329

barkley@tuscaloosachamber.com

KIMBERLY ADAMS

diRECTOR Of mEmbERShiP ANd iNvESTOR RELATiONS (205) 391-0327

kimberly@tuscaloosachamber.com

NATA’ShA BLACK

PROJECT mANAgER, WORKfORCE dEvELOPmENT (205) 391-0331

natasha@tuscaloosachamber.com

TARA BULLOCK

COmmUNiCATiONS & mARKETiNg COORdiNATOR, WORKfORCE dEvELOPmENT (205) 391-0559

tara@tuscaloosachamber.com

BRITTANI COLBURN

SENiOR PROJECT mANAgER, WORKfORCE dEvELOPmENT (205) 391-0334

brittani@tuscaloosachamber.com

LAUREN COLLIER

PROJECT mANAgER, WORKfORCE dEvELOPmENT (205) 391-0566

lauren@tuscaloosachamber.com

TRACY CRUMPTON

diRECTOR Of fiNANCE ANd OPERATiONS (205) 391-0554

tracy@tuscaloosachamber.com

ALICIA GREGORY

EXECUTivE ASSiSTANT TO ThE PRESidENT ANd CEO (205) 391-0561

alicia@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

diRECTOR Of LEAdERShiP ANd COmmUNiTY ENgAgEmENT (205) 391-0555

jill@tuscaloosachamber.com

CAROLYN TUBBS

diRECTOR Of EdUCATiON PROgRAmS (205) 391-0556

carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com

CHAMBER @ WORK

THE 2019 ADOPT-A-SCHOOL KICKOFF LUNCHEON, held July 31 at the Bryant Conference Center, welcomed nearly 400 attendees. Presented by Children & Teen Dental of Alabama, the event included a keynote address by Tommy Glasscock, Assistant State Superintendent of Education, Career and Technical Education/Workforce Development Division.

The event honored all of the current partnerships, and special awards were presented for the following:

THIRTY YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS: Tuscaloosa County Medical Alliance and The Alberta School of Performing Arts Tuscaloosa Music Club and Buhl Elementary

TWENTY YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS: ZF Chassis Systems, LLC

DECADE OF EXCELLENCE AWARD:

Capital Real Estate and Northside Middle; The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences and Tuscaloosa Magnet SchoolsElementary; The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences and Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools-Middle

Nearly 400 educators and Adopt-A-School partners turned out for the Adopt-A-School Kickoff in July.

THE 2018-19 V.I.P., OR VERY INVOLVED PARTNERSHIPS, were also recognized: Alabama Credit Union & Northridge Middle, Alabama ONE & Northport Elementary, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. & Oakdale Elementary, Arts Council of Tuscaloosa & Westwood Elementary, Bailey’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts & Big Sandy Elementary, Bailey’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts & Brookwood Elementary, Bailey’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts & Taylorville Primary, Bailey’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts & Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools— Elementary, BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing & Martin L. King, Jr. Elementary, Bolta US & Flatwoods Elementary, Bryant Bank & The Alberta School of Performing Arts, Chick-fil-A, Tuscaloosa South & Big Sandy Elementary, Chick-fil-A, Tuscaloosa South & Taylorville Primary, Children and Teen Dental & Walker Elementary, DCH Regional Medical Center & Hillcrest High, Embassy Suites & Myrtlewood Elementary, First Federal Bank & Matthews Elementary, Hudson-Poole Fine Jewelers & Westwood Elementary, Hunt Refining Company & Oakdale Elementary, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity & Matthews Elementary, Leadership Tuscaloosa Alumni Association & Flatwoods Elementary, The Legacy Connection & Duncanville Middle, Mathnasium of Tuscaloosa & Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools—Elementary Mathnasium of Tuscaloosa & Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools—Middle, McAbee Construction, Inc. & Oakdale Elementary, McAbee Construction, Inc. & Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy, Northport Medical Center & Flatwoods Elementary, Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa, Inc. & Holt High, Phifer Incorporated & Westlawn Middle, The Radiology Clinic & Buhl Elementary, Regions Bank & CollinsRiverside Middle, RiverFall Credit Union & Maxwell Elementary, Shelton State Community College & Englewood Elementary, Southland Benefit Solutions & Huntington Place Elementary, Spiller Furniture & Mattress & Crestmont Elementary Stillman College & Central Elementary, Synovus & Verner Elementary, Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. & Woodland Forrest Elementary, Tiger Rock Martial Arts, Northport & Northport Elementary, Wilson’s Pest Control & Westwood Elementary, Young Tuscaloosa & T uscaloosa Magnet Schools—Middle, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Tuscaloosa & Oakdale Elementary, ZF Chassis Systems, LLC & Echols Middle, ZF Chassis Systems, LLC & Northside High.

of Education, served as keynote

and spoke on the importance of working together and sharing resources.

Tommy Glasscock, Assistant State Superintendent

speaker,

The 2019 Adopt-A-School Sustainers, who provide financial support for the program, are:

BOARD LEVEL SUSTAINERS Amason & Associates, Inc.; Ellis Architects, Inc.; Harrison Construction Company, Inc.; McAbee Construction, Inc.; McGiffert and Associates, LLC; Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.; Reese Phifer, Jr. Memorial Foundation; The University of Alabama College of Education

SUPERINTENDENT LEVEL SUSTAINERS

Alabama Credit Union

PRINCIPAL LEVEL SUSTAINERS Patterson & Comer; Sam’s Club #6435; The Tuscaloosa News; Tuscaloosa Title Company, Inc.; Walmart Supercenter #0715, Skyland

TEACHER LEVEL SUSTAINERS Allison Appraisal Service, Inc.; Russell S. Lee Floor & Tile; Walmart Neighborhood Market #5248; Walmart Supercenter #2306, Northport; West Alabama Pediatrics Mentor Level Sustainers Martin Family Eye Care; Neel-Schaffer, Inc.; Northport Auto Supply Company, Inc.; Parker Towing Company, Inc.; Robertson Banking Company; StressCrete, Inc.

“ADOPT-A-SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT” SPONSORS

Great Day Tuscaloosa; WJRD 1150AM &102.1FM/Rock 106.9/The Blessing 96.1; WVUA23 TV.

Gold Sponsors were Alabama ONE, Bryant Conference Center, McGiffert & Associates, LLC, and RiverFall Credit Union. Silver Sponsors were Mathnasium of Tuscaloosa and Ward Scott Architecture. Favor Bag Sponsor was Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi-Cola. Table Sponsors were Bryant Bank, Regions Bank, Tuscaloosa City Board of Education, Tuscaloosa County Board of Education, and Walmart #0715, Skyland.

PRESENTED BY:

In the home and in the community

Alabama Credit Union is proud to be part of the West Alabama community

Whether you’re depositing a check from your kitchen with our mobile app or stopping by one of our fourteen West Alabamaarea branches, we believe in making money management easy for our members, no matter where you are. AlabamaCU.com

Feel good about your money.

LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION LOOKS DOWN THE ROAD AT STATE OF THE STATE LUNCHEON

Members of the Tuscaloosa County legislative delegation joined members July 10 for Chamber in Session: State of the State for a panel discussion on issues facing our community. The event was presented by the University of Alabama System.

Discussing their planned roadmap forward, Senator Gerald Allen, Representative Christopher England, Representative A. J. McCampbell, Representative Bill Poole, Senator Greg Reed, Representative Kyle South, Representative Rodney Sullivan, and Senator Bobby Singleton spoke on topics that ranged from health care to prisons, as well as the Rebuild Alabama legislation.

Rep. England said the delegation anticipates a special session on prison reform. “The problems we face with our prison system are massive, but there are positives,” he said, noting improvements that have been made. “Although we are still at 160 percent over capacity, Alabama has experienced the largest drop in incarcerations in the country.”

England said the perception that Alabama incarcerates offenders for non-violent or minor drug offenses is incorrect. “Less than 10 percent of our prison population is incarcerated for a non-violent offense or a probation violation,” he said.

Rep. Poole, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Education Committee, spoke about gains the legislature had made in the budgeting process. “We’ve passed the largest budget in the history of the state,” he said. “We’re funding 100 new pre-k classrooms and providing a raise to educators that will help us recruit and retain teachers.”

Another topic of interest, gaming, was addressed by several members of the delegation. Sen. Singleton maintained the reason the recent lottery bill had not passed was due to the fact it was simply a bad lottery bill. “We need to put together a full, comprehensive lottery bill, but we need to do it right to get the maximum benefit for our state,” Singleton said.

One gaming bill that has passed is HB

361, a bill sponsored by Rep. South that allows fantasy sports. The bill is expected to generate an additional $4 million in revenue for the state’s general fund.

During the discussion, the legislators talked about the success of the delegation, and noted that collaboration across the aisle is critical. “We’ve achieved significant accomplishments on serious issues and challenges,” Sen. Reed said. “Republicans and Democrats have collaborated on important topics, and with brand new members of our delegation.”

2019 Chamber in Session: State of the State was presented by the University of Alabama System. Gold Sponsors were C-Spire and Embassy Suites. Silver Sponsor was Tuscaloosa County

Presented by:

Sen. Greg Reed discusses collaboration across the aisle within the West Alabama legislative delegation.

Legislators take time after the event to talk about issues with attendees.

CIVIC HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2019 NAMED

The Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame Committee has named the Class of 2019.

The Civic Hall of Fame seeks to honor exceptional citizens who have made significant, long-term contributions to the overall growth, development and betterment of Tuscaloosa County and its communities. Nominees must have made contributions to civic, social, religious or political growth of Tuscaloosa outside of his or her career responsibilities.

The Civic Hall of Fame inductees for 2019 are Benjamin H. Barnes, Ellen Peter Bryce, Dr. Peter Bryce, Cynthia Burton, Robert Wayne Monfore, Jr., Robert H. “Bob” Shaw, Jr., Dennis Steverson, Sr., and Karen Thompson.

The 2019 class joins more than 100 distinguished honorees, including Coach Paul Bryant, Snow Hinton, McDonald Hughes, Frank Moody, Munny Sokol and Maude Whatley – individuals devoted to the community, willing to share their time and energy to assist the area in growing and prospering.

TOP ROW, L-R: Dennis Stevenson, Sr.; Cynthia W. Burton; Robert H. Shaw, Jr

BOTTOM ROW, L-R: Dr Peter Bryce and Ellen Peter Bryce; Robert Wayne Monfore, Jr.; Benjamin H. Barnes; Dr. Karen Thompson-Jackson

CHAMBER @ WORK

CHAMBER DELEGATION MEETS WITH STATE LEADERS DURING 2019 MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN

Ninety Chamber members, business owners, and community leaders headed to the State Capitol April 2-3, for the organization’s annual Montgomery Drive-In.

The trip, which promotes the Chamber’s legislative agenda, provides an opportunity for participants to meet with key leaders in state government, while networking with other community leaders.

The trip began with a welcome luncheon at the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, sponsored by Rep. Bill Poole, who also served as the event speaker. Poole who spoke on transportation issues as well as the session ahead, said he was extremely pleased that such a large delegation had made the annual trip. “It’s important for state leaders to understand that you’re watching and engaged,” Poole said.

With respect to the recently passed infrastructure funding bill, Poole discussed how seven legislatures in the Southeast have increased their gasoline tax, and stated it was necessary for Alabama to remain on pace. “We had to pass Rebuild Alabamathere were no other viable options,” Poole said. “It was critical to make this investment, and the infrastructure will last for generations. We were falling behind not only every state in the Southeast, but the country.”

Poole stressed that now the focus must shift to implementation, and to inform ourselves of what federal monies are available. “We have a rare opportunity to create synergy and draw down a healthy amount of federal dollars,” he said.

After lunch, the group headed to the Alabama State Capitol Auditorium, where Dr. Eric Mackey, State Superintendent, Alabama Department of Education, gave attendees an overview of his department, and gave updates on its direction. Mackey said the department is focusing on chipping away at classroom size, as studies have indicated that more than 30 students per class impacts student performance.

Mackey also said the department is implementing a new student information system that is more secure, and working rolling out new professional development programs and ongoing assessment protocol. The department is also working to raise mathematics proficiency, as 80 percent of our students are behind the national average in math as they turn age four.

Following the education update, Josh Blades, Senior Advisor for Government Affairs and Economic Development with Bradley Arant, gave an overview of the role of the lobbyist at the capitol. During the afternoon, the group observed the Alabama

Legislature in session in the House and Senate Galleries at the Alabama State House, and in the evening attended the Business Council of Alabama’s Legislative Reception.

On day two, Business Council of Alabama President and CEO Katie Boyd Britt addressed the delegation, and discussed the ways the organization plans to move forward. “Our mission is to unite small and large businesses and to move the state forward,” she said. “We will get back to core business principles. We support a fair and equitable tax structure and cutting government waste. BCA is inclusive - we will work with the majority and the minority party.”

At the close of the breakfast, Britt and Drew Harrell, Executive Director for the Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure, surprised Chamber President and CEO Jim Page with a presentation honoring his efforts to advance Alabama’s infrastructure, and his role in the Rebuild Alabama legislation.

The morning continued with policy discussions with Sen. Gerald Allen, Sen. Greg Reed, Rep. Chris England, Rep. A.J. McCampbell, Rep. Kyle South, Rep. Rodney Sullivan, and Rep. Rich Wingo

In addition to speaking on a number of topics including the budget, the possibility of a lottery, our prisons, healthcare, Medicaid expansion and more, the legislative delegation answered a variety of questions on rural hospitals, workforce development, and how they decide priority in funding. “We have a long term focus,” Reed told attendees. “What does Alabama need to be today, and what does Alabama have to be in 15 to 20 years?”

Rep. Kyle South speaks to attendees on the floor of the Alabama State House as Rep. Rodney Sullivan looks on.

The Drive-In concluded with a luncheon featuring Gov. Kay Ivey at the RSA Plaza Terrace. The governor was introduced by her Chief of Staff, the Honorable Jo Bonner, who spoke on what a difficult time it was to come into office and steady the ship, and yet have the first gas tax bill in 27 years passed. “Gov. Ivey reached out to all 140 legislators and got 80 percent of the vote,” Bonner said.

When Gov. Ivey took the podium, she had high praise for the Tuscaloosa elected officials. “There is strength in teamwork,” she said. “The entire Tuscaloosa delegation played a vital role in the success of the passage of this bill. Rep BIll Poole did a masterful job quarterbacking this bill, and I have special appreciation for Jim Page. We’ve shown the state and the nation what success looks like when you practice bipartisanship.”

With great appreciation to our sponsors, without whom the 2019 MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN could not have been possible:

PRESENTED BY:

GOLD SPONSORS

AT&T

The Frazer Lanier Company

Tuscaloosa Charter Service

The University of Alabama

SILVER SPONSORS

City of Northport

Shelton State Community College

TTL, Inc.

Tuscaloosa County

WELCOME LUNCH SPONSOR

Representative Bill Poole

Southland Benefit Solutions

MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN LUNCHEON SPONSORS

Alabama ONE

Plaster, Scarvey and Shumaker of Ameriprise Financial

Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports

BREAKFAST SPONSOR

DT Freight, LLC

BUS SPONSOR

Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports

The 2019 Montgomery Drive participants.

CHAMBER @ WORK

PRESENTED BY:

GOLD SPONSORS were Alabama Credit Union, McAbee Construction, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Nucor Steel, and Onin Staffing

THE 2019 EDUCATION SUMMIT, presented by Ellis Architects, welcomed Tuscaloosa City Schools Superintendent Mike Daria and Tuscaloosa County Schools Superintendent Walter Davie to discuss successes and challenges.

Critical challenges both superintendents agree the systems face are teacher shortages and funding that impacts not only facility upgrades, but implementation of key programs such as Pre-K.

The school leaders plan to tackle the problems through partnerships with each other and with the Tuscaloosa Education Foundation, which was newly revitalized during the event. Both superintendents signed a memorandum of understanding with the foundation to work in conjunction in areas of common agreement that benefit students and teachers.

GOLD SPONSOR was Onin Staffing

SILVER SPONSORS were C Spire Business, Hotel Capstone, The University of Alabama College of Education and The University of Alabama College of Engineering. Bronze Sponsors were RiverFall Credit Union and Ward Scott Architecture.

TALENT CONFERENCE ATTRACTS MORE THAN 200

More than 200 people learned how to engage with millennials in the workforce at Tuscaloosa’s first Talent Conference June 26 at Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy. America’s Millennial Expert Gabrielle Bosché addressed the group on recruiting and maintaining millennials.

Bosché is a two-time bestselling author and TEDx presenter. Following the keynote, approximately 100 industry participated in Bosché’s breakout session, where they received one-on-one guidance.

SILVER SPONSORS were BF Goodrich, Phifer Incorporated, Premier Service Company, Inc., and The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences

BRONZE SPONSORS were BelFlex Staffing Network, Chesapeake Consulting, Express Employment Professionals, and The University of Alabama College of Engineering

Dr. Mike Daria, Superintendent, Tuscaloosa City Schools; Bobby Ingram, Tuscaloosa Education Foundation; and Dr. Walter Davie, Superintendent, Tuscaloosa County Schools; sign a Memorandum of Understanding agreeing to tackle problems through partnerships at the 2019 Education Summit.

PRESENTED BY:

Keynote speaker Gabrielle Bosché speaks to a packed house at the first Talent Conference.

No matter what business you’re in, keeping your employees healthy means a healthy bottom line. DCH Occupational Medicine has always had the area’s most comprehensive range of occupational health services and the most experienced physicians. Our new location with easier access and expanded hours will allow us to serve you even better. DCH Occupational Medicine takes care of your employees so you can take care of your bottom line.

2019 CHATTANOOGA

MORE THAN 120 BUSINESS OWNERS AND EXECUTIVES, ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS, NON-PROFIT REPRESENTATIVES, AND COMMUNITY LEADERS JOINED THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA

JULY 21-23 IN CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE, FOR THE THIRD ANNUAL BENCHMARKING TRIP, PRESENTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA.

Selected for a range of reasons that include the city’s riverfront and downtown redevelopment, affordable housing program, and evolution to a magnet for educated talent, the delegation heard from business leaders, entrepreneurs and government officials who told the story of Chattanooga’s transformation.

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox said he was excited to see how Chattanooga had elevated their city, as many of the steps they had taken could work for Tuscaloosa, and he felt affirmed by the community’s decision to support Elevate Tuscaloosa. “I feel affirmed that we have so many community leaders in here – it’s not just the city – we’re all in this together,” he said. “It’s going to take our private sector, our public sector, people across different parts of our city. We’ve all got to pitch in to take our community to the next level, and we’ve got all the ingredients to do it.”

STICKING TO A PLAN

Kim White, President and CEO, River City Company, discussed Chattanooga’s strategic approach to economic development in the downtown and riverfront areas. “River City Company was established to wake up every

2019 BENCHMARKING TRIP PARTICIPANTS

Media; Mason Dyess, Harry’s Bar; Amy Echols, Kentuck; Mike Echols, Echols, Taylor & Associates; Claude Edwards, Bryant Bank; Mike Ellis, Ellis Architects, Inc.; Matt Fajack, The University of Alabama; Jake French, Harry’s Bar; Barkley Garrett, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Tracy Gatewood, The Locker Room; Jheovanny Gomez, Jalapenos Mexican Grill; Heyward Gould, FNB of Central Alabama; Chris Grace, Barge Design Solutions; Gina Grace; Erica Grant, Tuscaloosa City Board of Education; Heather Gray, City of Tuscaloosa; Chris Gunter, Buffalo Rock Company / Pepsi-Cola; Jim Harrison, III, Harrison Galleries, LLC; Bruce Higginbotham, City of Northport; Scott Holmes, City of Tuscaloosa; Cal Holt, Knight Sign Industries; Justin Holt, Southern Ale House / Dotson’s; Jonathan Hood, FNB of Central Alabama; Katy Beth

, City of Tuscaloosa; Carl

, JamisonMoneyFarmer PC;

, City of Tuscaloosa; Donny Jones, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Steve Kellough, Raymond James; Drew Kyle, Kyle Office Solutions; Robert Lanoux, Ward Scott Architecture; James Leitner, Simplified Medical Management, LLC; Councilman Jay Logan, City of Northport; Mayor Walt Maddox, City

THIS TRIP IS GOOD FOR EVERYONE – COME, LEARN, GET NEW IDEAS AND MOVE OUR COMMUNITY TOWARD A BIGGER AND BRIGHTER FUTURE THAT WE ALL WANT.

—Tim Parker, III President, Parker Towing Company

Kimberly Adams, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Councilor Cynthia Almond, City of Tuscaloosa; Chief Steve Anderson, Tuscaloosa Police Department; Ben Bickerstaff, The University of Alabama; Thomas Bobitt, City of Tuscaloosa; Bobby Bragg, JamisonMoneyFarmer PC; Charlye Brandon, Allstate Coley Agency; Alvin Brewer, City of Tuscaloosa; Audrey Buck, City of Tuscaloosa; Bobby Buffaloe, Home Instead Senior Care of Tuscaloosa; Stephaine Buffaloe, Home Instead Senior Care of Tuscaloosa; Bryan Chandler, Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority; Mark Hughes Cobb, The Tuscaloosa News; Michele Coley, Allstate Coley Agency; Paul Connolly, TCC Acquisition Partners, LLC; Ashley Crites, City of Tuscaloosa; Wade Dailey, Wells Fargo Bank; Steven Deal, Pritchett-Moore, Inc., David DuBose, Townsquare

Jackson

Jamison

Julie Jamison; London Jenkins

of Tuscaloosa; Blake Madison, Rosen Harwood, P.A.; Susan Madison, A Bean Counter, LLC; Amy Materson, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Gina McClanahan; Scott McClanahan, Paragon HM at Morgan Stanley; Anita McClure; Dean McClure, TTL, Inc.; Jill McDonald, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Bruce McMurray; Kimberly McMurray, Behavioral Health Facility Consulting, LLC; Jarrod Milligan, City of Tuscaloosa; Gary Minor, Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority; Brendan Moore, City of Tuscaloosa; Jason Moore, Shelton State Community College; Wilson Moore, Pritchett-Moore, Inc.; Dr. Jacqueline Morgan, The University of Alabama; Robert Morgan, Rosen Harwood, P.A.; Jordan Morris, Ward Scott Architecture; Councilor Phyllis Odom, City of Tuscaloosa; John Owens, Owens & Millsaps, LLP; Jim Page, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; Tim Parker, III, Parker Towing Company; Sam Parks, SmartBank; David Pass, Miers Pass Philanthropy; Rodney Pelt, Mind Changers, Inc.; Jordan Plaster, Plaster, Scarvey and Shumaker of Ameriprise Financial; Representative Bill Poole, Watson & Poole, LLC, Alabama House of Representatives; Ellen Potts, Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa; Jabaree Prewitt, WVUA23; Deborah Price; Ron Price; Bill Lunsford Construction, Inc.; Councilor Eddie Pugh, City of Tuscaloosa; Cherry Pugh; Jasmine Rainey, Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports; David Rains, Randall-Reilly, LLC; Matt Ray, Eatmybeats, Inc.,; Nikki Ray, Eatmybeats, Inc.; Bobby Rice, The Tuscaloosa News; Judge Rob Robertson, Tuscaloosa County Commission; Richard Rush, City of Tuscaloosa; Cooper Shattuck, Cooper Shattuck, LLC; Robert Shaw, Hamner Real Estate, Inc.; Justice Smyth, Alabama Transportation Institute; Susan Snowden, City of Tuscaloosa; Al Spencer; Leanne Spencer; Don Staley, Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports; Ryan Stallings, Alabama ONE; Steve Steele, BBVA; Sontonia Stephens, Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc.; Rob Steward, Alabama Power Company; Mark Sullivan, Synovus; Mary Mike Sullivan; Dr. Rick Swatloski, The University of Alabama; Charlie Taylor, The University of Alabama System; Eric Thompson, City of Tuscaloosa; Terry Thomas, City of Tuscaloosa; Mitt Tubbs, Tuscaloosa Police Department; Tera Tubbs, City of Tuscaloosa; Tina Turley, Theatre Tuscaloosa; Bill Walker, Regions Bank; Jason Walker, TTL, Inc.; Brandy Walker; Freddie Washington, Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc.; Glenda Webb, City of Tuscaloosa; Hays Webb, Tuscaloosa County District Attorney’s Office; Ben Welch, SmartBank; Dakota Whitten, City of Tuscaloosa; Kendra Williams, Tuscaloosa City Board of Education; Bryan Winter, Winter McFarland, LLC; Elizabeth Winter, Regions Bank; Sandra Wolfe, The Arts & Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa County, Inc.; Bill Wright, FRSTeam; Tammy Wyatt, City of Tuscaloosa

“ “

“THE LESSONS FROM A COMMUNITY LIKE CHATTANOOGA ARE CLEAR AND IMPRESSIVE: THINK BOLD, DREAM BIG, AND PURSUE THOSE VISIONS AGGRESSIVELY.”

—Representative Bill Poole

day focused on implementing the Tennessee River Park Master Plan,” White explained. A private non-profit, River City Company acquired riverfront property to ensure quality development as well as adherence to the masterplan. The economic development engine for downtown Chattanooga, River City Company cultivates and advocates for a vibrant and healthy downtown, stimulating the community’s economic, cultural, and social growth. River City boasts an annual budget of $3.6 million, with no funds from the city or county. Their $1.2 million operating budget is funded from RCC development revenue, and fundraising brings in approximately $300,000 annually. Successful projects include the Tennessee River Walk, Tennessee Aquarium, Walnut Street Bridge, the downtown Riverset Apartment Complex, and more.

Tim Parker, III, who lived in Chattanooga for 12 years, said he always finds it interesting to come back to the city and see what has changed, and there are definitely lessons that can be applied to West Alabama. “We can learn from the mistakes they’ve made – things

that haven’t worked for them as well as things that have worked,” he said. “This trip is good for everyone – come, learn, get new ideas and move Tuscaloosa toward a bigger and brighter future that we all want.” Attendees also received an in-depth look at how Chattangooga became the first city in the United States to offer gigabit speed internet service citywide, courtesy of Hodgen Mainda, Vice President for Community Development, EPB. The municipal utility launched EPB Fiber Optics in 2009, and today has a 9,000-mile fiber network and advanced smart grid. Reducing outages by 50 percent, the smart grid saves customers more than $50 million per year.

Mainda discussed the options for bringing fast broadband to other communities. As an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution, Mainda said fiber is the future. “The business case can look challenging because capital costs are substantial, and you will have competition from the incumbent provider,” he said. “but it fits communities better than private companies.”

ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Although participants were in Chattanooga to study positive outcomes, the attendees also looked at tough challenges the city has faced, including crime and blight. During a session with Chief David Roddy of the Chattanooga Police Department, and Donna Williams, the Director of Economic and Community Development for the City of Chattanooga, Roddy touched on the struggles the city has had to overcome, and the impact of community policing in reducing crime and improving community relations.

During breakout sessions, topics included talent development, entrepreneurship and small business development, workforce housing, and arts and culture. Following the work sessions, the group visited the Hunter Museum of American Art, where they were joined by The Honorable Bob Corker, former United States Senator and former Mayor of Chattanooga, who played a critical role in the city’s downtown development and economic growth.

Attendees also delved into the economic impact of tourism, and the future of Chattanooga. Convening at the Chattanooga Convention Center, Brian Murphy with the Chattanooga Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Mike Shuford with the Convention Center discussed the billion dollar tourism industry and experience economy.

Don Staley, President and CEO of Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports, found the tourism portion of the benchmarking trip of critical importance. “As we move forward, the key takeaway for me is to make sure we build it right in the beginning,” he said. “We’re Tuscaloosa; we’re title town. We can do what they do here with what we have, as long as we have the pieces to the puzzle.”

The group also heard from Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke, who took questions from the group on a range of topics, and Christy Gillenwater, the President and CEO of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, who gave the group an overview of Chattanooga Climbs, a visioning process and part of a five-year economic development strategy.

In a wrap-up session prior to leaving Chattanooga, the group discussed key lessons learned, facilitated by Dr. Jacqueline Morgan of The University of Alabama.

Rep. Bill Poole said he was encouraged by the number of people who wanted to make a difference in our community. “The fact that we have over a hundred people from Tuscaloosa taking the time to come to an event like this, sit and learn, and think about how we can make Tuscaloosa a better community for everybody is the benefit of a trip like this,” Poole said. “The lessons from a community like Chattanooga are clear and impressive: think bold, dream big, and pursue those visions aggressively.”

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama 2020 Benchmarking Trip destination is Asheville, North Carolina.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM AND NETWORKING

RECEPTION SPONSOR

SmartBank

GOLD SPONSORS

Bryant Bank

Buffalo Rock

Plaster, Scarvey & Shumaker of Ameriprise Financial

Raymond James

TTL, Inc.

Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports

Ward Scott Architecture

Wells Fargo

SILVER SPONSORS

FRSTeam

Tuscaloosa County

WELCOME RECEPTION SPONSOR

Miers Pass Philanthropy

TRANSPORTATION SPONSOR

Southland Benefit Solutions

Mildred

Terry

EL

Harris

Claude

LEADING THE WAY

NEXT LEVEL INVESTORS

GAME CHANGERS

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

CEO COUNCIL BelFlex Staffing Network |BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing | Cardiology Consultants, P.C. | Harrison Construction Company, Inc. | Hunt Refining Company | JamisonMoneyFarmer PC | Knight Sign Industries, Inc. | Miers Pass Philanthropy | Shelton State Community College | Synovus | The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences

INVESTOR LEADERS Adams Beverages | Alabama Credit Union | AT&T | Barge Design Solutions, Inc. | Cintas | Coral Industries, Inc. | Industrial Warehouse Service Inc. | John Plott Company Inc. | McGiffert and Associates, LLC | Parker Towing Company | Pritchett-Moore, Inc. | Spire, Inc. | The Westervelt Company | The WHMZ Group at Morgan Stanley | Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. | TTL, Inc. | Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Company | ZF Chassis Systems, LLC

GROWTH PARTNERS Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama | Boone Newspapers, Inc. | Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi-Cola | Burk-Kleinpeter, Inc. | Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc. | DT Freight, LLC | Ellis Architects, Inc. | Fitts Agency | Harrison Galleries, LLC | Hotel Indigo | Jalapenos Mexican Grill | Lear Corporation | Mercedes of Tuscaloosa | Neel-Schaffer, Inc. | Northport Auto Supply Co., Inc. | Plaster, Scarvey & Shumaker | The Radiology Clinic | Robertson Banking Company | The Builders Group of West Alabama, LLC | The Lance Hocutt Financial Group | The Legacy Connection (TLC) | Ward Scott Architecture | Way, Ray, Shelton & Company, P.C. - CPA

COMMUNITY COLLEAGUES ARD Logistics - Alabama, LLC | Bama Concrete Products Co., Inc. | BBVA | Cadence Bank, N.A. | Chick-fil-A of Northport | Echols, Taylor & Associates, P.C. | FNB of Central Alabama | Hampton Inn University | Kyle Office Solutions | The Locker Room | Metalsa Tuscaloosa, Inc. | Raymond James | Remmert Company | Renasant Bank | SmartBank | Spiller Furniture & Mattress | TotalCom, Inc. | Winter McFarland

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

ACE HARDWARE

400 McFarland Blvd. Suite A2 Northport, AL 35476 (205) 409-8669

David Majure Hardware

ADVANCE AMERICA

3120 McFarland Blvd., Ste. 15 Northport, AL 35476 (205) 339-7877

Ebony Chism Payday Loans / Financial Services

ALLEGRO FAMILY

CLINIC NORTHPORT

1116 Mitt Lary Rd. Northport, AL 35475 (205) 556-5634

Abby Shaw Health Care Services – General

ALLIANCE PUBLISHING, LLC

400 Office Park Drive, Suite 306 Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 410-5000

Tim Young Publishing / Online Media / Publishers

AMERITEK DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS

102 Oxmoor Road Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 856-9925

Michael Rogers Office Machines / Supplies

APPTOO INC.

811 5th Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 826-6518

Paul Still Consultants / Web Design / Ad Specialties

ATTRACTIONAL MARKETING 4000 Eagle Point Corporate Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 405-0618

Daniel Gallegly Advertising Agencies & Consultants

AVAIL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, LLC

1105 Southview Lane Ste. 103-275 Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 462-7997

Liza Nicholson Consultants / Health Care Services – General

BARGE DESIGN SOLUTIONS, INC. 3535 Grandview Parkway, Ste. 500 Birmingham, AL 35243 (205) 298-6074

Chris Grace Engineers / Professional / Consulting

BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

1411 Indiana Ave. Jasper, AL 35501 (800) 648-3271

Kim Ennis Education / Education – Faculty

BLAZE PIZZA 1800 McFarland Blvd E., Suite 600 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (504) 722-2230

Sable LeFrere Restaurants

BLOOM FLOWER TRUCK Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 454-8595

Kristin Logan Florist & Gifts

BRADLEY’S MARKET 700 Towncenter Blvd., Ste. 2 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 764-1939

Bradley Bailey Gift Shop / Boutique

BRICK & SPOON 2318 4th St. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-0001

Eric Beech Restaurant / Catering

BRIGHT STAR CATERING 304 19th St. N. Bessemer, AL 35020 (205) 417-0805

Leigh Hays Caterers

CAMGIAN MICROSYSTEMS CORPORATION 100 Research Blvd, Suite 313 Starkville, MS 39759 (662) 320-1028

Michelle Parisi Engineers - ProfessionalIndustrial

CAPITOL

PARK TITLE LLC 2824 7th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 409-8779

Cynthia Almond Real Estate Closing / Title Work

CAROLINA HANDLING 33 Barber Ct. Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 402-0640

Brady Brown Warehouses

CARRIE FITTS REAL ESTATE, LLC 2021 8th St. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 248-7353

Carrie Fitts Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

CARVER DEWITT AND PALM CPAS LLC 1820 Rice Mine Rd. N, Ste. 100 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 758-1800

John DeWitt CPA, JD Accountants - Certified Public / CPA

CHECKER’S NORTHPORT 5620 McFarland Blvd. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 654-5050

Larry Rockwell Restaurants

September 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019

CLARKS ELEGANCE

4838 Pelham Heights Rd.

Cottondale, AL 35453 (205) 239-0779

Vern Clark Events - Design / Rental Services

COLVIN AUTO SALES & SERVICES, LLC

260 Skyland Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 391-9411

Willie Colvin Sr. Automobile Dealers - New/Used

CONSTANGY, BROOKS, SMITH & PROPHETE, LLP

2 Chase Corporate Dr., Ste. 120 Birmingham, AL 35244 (205) 252-9321

Thomas Scroggins Legal Services

COOL CRATE STORAGE

5000 Union Station Northport, AL 35473 (205) 764-9418

Lee Henderson Storage - Commercial / Mini / Self

CRIMSON COVER, INC.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 657-1831

Lane Parker

Television Production / Commercials / Website

CURTIS CREATIONS

4605 Hargrove Rd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 737-2377

Veronica Curtis

Retail - Events / Weddings/ Interiors

CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD/ EGS COMMERCIAL REAL

ESTATE

2100 3rd Avenue North, Suite 700 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 939-4440

Audra Willingham

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

DELTA UTILITY SERVICES, INC. AND LAND MANAGEMENT

DIVISION

12075 Rose Ind. Drive Brookwood, AL 35444 (205) 454-4673

Kellie Blackmon

Construction / Site Preparation / Development

DEREK DANIEL

STATE FARM

1214 McFarland Blvd. NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 758-3391

Derek Daniel

Insurance / Financial Service

DIXIE MECHANICAL, INC.

2645 18th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 248-8888

Doug Killough

Construction / FabricationHeavy Industrial

EL GRAN PATRON

MEXICAN GRILL

62 McFarland Blvd. Northport, AL 35473 (205) 239-6911

Carlos Leal

Restaurant / Catering

ELOGENE’S HOUSE OF EXQUISITE ELEGANCE

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 792-9997

Elogene Hughes

Education / Wellness / Professional Speaking & Training

EMPLOYMENT

SCREENING SERVICES

2700 Corporate Drive, Suite 100

Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 879-0143

Kevin Wade Services

EVANNA’S BRIDAL BOUTIQUE & ALTERATIONS

80 McFarland Blvd., Suite 7

Northport, AL 35476 (205) 737-7154

Eva Golebiowski

Bridal Shops

EVOLVE TUSCALOOSA

680 6th Avenue NE

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 632-1213

Kimberly Harper

Real Estate / Apartments / Condo

FAMILY PHARMACY

1110 Mitt Lary Road

Northport, AL 35475 (205) 409-9777

Stephanie Crawford Drug Stores / Pharmacies

FARM BOWL & JUICE CO.

1470 Northbank Parkway, Suite 170

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 344-1938

Vince Hunter Restaurant / Catering

FARMERS INSURANCE

22 Inverness Center Pkwy, Suite 560 Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 209-1545

LeAnna Brennan Insurance

FRESH COAT PAINTERS OF TUSCALOOSA

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 413-8166

Jim Rainey Contractors - Painting

FUN FACTORY

BOUNCING PARTIES

2741 Southside Drive #1

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-5454

Xiomy Bracken Entertainment / Services / Facility

Indoor Children’s Play / Rental

GRIFOLS PLASMA

3201 10th Ave

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 752-1547

Scott Lowry Health Care Facilities

HALF SHELL OYSTER HOUSE

2325 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 860-7001

Will Turner Restaurants / Events Space

HAMNER’S CRUISES & VACATIONS

10396 House Bend Road

Northport, AL 35475 (205) 331-5386

Kristy Hamner Travel Agencies

HARRY’S BAR

1330 Hargrove Rd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 792-2741

Jake French Lounges / Nightclubs

HEALTHY 4 LIFE

MASSAGE

526 14th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-4441

Kevin Yessick Massage

HEAVY HAULERS, LLC

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 523-1153

Sheldon Jackson Logistics / Transportation Services / Transportation

HORTON OUTDOOR

162 West Main Street, Suite 101 Cartersville, GA 30120 (256) 740-9019

Robbie Burdine Advertising - Outdoor

I CELL MOBILE

6570 Hwy. 69 S., Suite D2 Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 349-2070

Finley Brown Cell Phone / Computer Repair

IVY HOUSE BOUTIQUE

4851 Rice Mine Rd., Ste. 550 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 243-8793

Morgan Lancaster Retail - Boutique

JULIO JONES KIA

4301 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 345-8040

Deborah Wilson Automobile Dealers - New/ Used

KELLY WILKIN

FLORAL CREATIVE

Tuscaloosa, AL (205) 764-2292

Kelly Wilkin Florist & Gifts

KRISTEN AMERSON YOUTH FOUNDATION, INC.

PO Box 70443 Tuscaloosa,AL 35401 (205) 826-9740

JacQuan Winters Non-Profit Organizations

L.A. BIKINI

1451 Edward Hillard Dr. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 292-8113

Nikki Richardson Spa / Medical Services

LAKELAND CITGO

12389 Lary Lake Road Northport, AL 35475 (205) 339-0219

Riaz Kassim Convenience Stores / Gas Stations

LANIER AUTOMOTIVE

246 Skyland Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 561-6335

Cassius Lanier Automobile Dealers - New/ Used

LIBERTY LEARNING

FOUNDATION

3414 Governors Drive, Suite 215 Huntsville, AL 35805 (334) 447-6998

Will Collins Non-Profit Organizations / Educational Consultants

M&L WINDOW CLEANING AND FLOORS, LLC

5631 4th Court East Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 310-4642

Marlin Harris

Janitorial Services

MARK’S MART

NORTHPORT

2300 5th Street Northport, AL 35476 (205) 710-5636

Jacob King Retail - Specialty Retailer

MARY HARMON YOUNG, REALTOR

1120 Queen City Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 886-2792

Mary Harmon Young Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

MCDILL PHOTOGRAPHY (205) 399-2995

William McDill Photographers

MCDOWELL SECURITY SERVICES

312 Canyon Park Dr. Pelham, AL 35124 (205) 783-1692

Jeff McDowell Security Contractors

MELLOW MUSHROOM

557 20th Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 710-2187

Andy Croy Restaurant / Catering

MOSQUITO AUTHORITY

2215 9th Avenue, Suite A Northport, AL 35475 (205) 292-2122

Chris Mason Pest Control Services / Supplies

NECE FLORAL DESIGNS 15220 Starboard Place Northport, Alabama 35475 (205) 826-1041

Shannon Nece Retail - Events / Weddings / Interiors

NORTH RIVER TECHNOLOGY

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 393-3346

Steven Gregory Computer / IT Management / Computer Sales / Serv / Repair / Design / Consult

NORTHCREEK

VETERINARY CLINIC 12420 Wildcat Drive Northport, AL 35475 (205) 861-0738

Amanda Story Veterinarians / Pet Boarding / Grooming

NORTHPORT EVENT AND AESTHETIC SERVICES, LLC Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 336-1110

John Staley Events Management

NORTHPORT MUSIC INSTITUTE 4324 Highway 69 N Northport, AL 35473 (205) 792-1918

Joseph Fonbah Music Instruction

OFFICE DEPOT

NORTHPORT 2300 McFarland Blvd., Ste. 50 Northport, AL 35476 (205) 333-6930

Angela Mitchell Office Supplies / Furniture / Equipment / Service

OFFICE DEPOT

TUSCALOOSA 1515 Skyland Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 752-2241

Martez Shaw Office Supplies / Furniture / Equipment / Service

ONE SOURCE OFFICE PRODUCTS 2709 10th Street Northport, AL 35476 (205) 344-6266

Trent Montgomery Office Supplies / Furniture / Equipment / Service

ORANGETHEORY

FITNESS TUSCALOOSA 1451 Dr. Edward Hillard Dr., Suite 170 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 464-9637

Marisha Smith Fitness / Personal Trainer

P&C HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING, INC 2721 10th St. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 345-9112

Teri Crawford Contractors - HVAC / Air Conditioning / Heating

PARTY ON 1320 McFarland Blvd. E., Suite 220 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 409-8765

Cliff Thomas Party Supplies / Rentals / Balloons / Retail - Events / Weddings / Interiors / Retail - Specialty Retailer

PAYSCAPE (205) 454-3212

Ronnie Barr Financial Services

PEOPLE OPTIMUM CONSULTING, LLC

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (404) 957-6861

Mildred Hooks Consultants / Training / Education

PHRO PRO ART AND DESIGN

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (803) 719-1217

Dexter Thornton

Advertising Specialties / Art Design / Artist / Print Art

PILOT CLUB OF TUSCALOOSA

102 Preston Court Macon, GA 31210 (205) 454-1786

Starr Hudson Non-Profit Organizations

PIONEER AUTO SALES

1001 McFarland Blvd. NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 348-7649

Nick Khan

Automobile Dealers - New/ Used Automobile / Collision Repair

PLANET FITNESS MIDTOWN

1800 McFarland Blvd. E., Suite 321

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 752-7878

Chris Fuerch Fitness Centers

PLANET FITNESS SKYLAND

635 Skyland Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 506-2717

Justin Satcher Fitness Centers

PRE EVENT RESOURCE / TAILGATE GUYS

1209 James I Harrison Jr. Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 469-0105

Ed Taylor-White Events Management

PREFERRED PRECISION

GROUP LLC

10269 Covered Bridge Road Cottondale, AL 35453 (205) 338-4148

Brittani Cleveland Consultants

PURIFY U

500 Towncenter Blvd., Suite B

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 799-6218

Bill Branch

Spa - Medical

QUALITY COUNTS INC.

2616 8th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL, 35401 (205) 561-2340

Jennifer Deerman

Employment Screening - Drug/ DNA/Background

QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICE

1925 8th Avenue, Suite 1A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (718) 864-1070

Edgar Telesford Financial Services

R.L. DELIVERY SOLUTIONS

CORPORATION

6124 Owen Street

Birmingham, AL 35228 (205) 200-8163

Rickey Levins Delivery / Shipping Services / Transportation

REAL & ROSEMARY

2128 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 861-2328

Jennifer Mims

Restaurant / Catering

REI FUNDING

PARTNERS, LLC

14480 Westland Drive

Coker, AL 35452 (205) 765-7694

Ray Burkhalter Services

RESIDENCE INN

TUSCALOOSA

211 Rice Mine Road Loop

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 540-1010

Emily Pearce Hotels / Motels / Lodging / Accommodations

RESTORATION 1 OF TUSCALOOSA

705 27th Avenue, Suite C

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-632-7900

Keith Hyche Fire & Water Restoration

RETRIEVER MERCHANT SOLUTIONS

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (770) 318-3527

Mitch Torbett Financial Services

RHUBARB’S REAL LIVING 415 Main Avenue Northport, AL 35476 (205) 343-1933

Susan Rue Retail – Boutique / Retail - Clothing, Accessories

RIVER OAKS HEALTH, LLC 201 Towncenter Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 650-0576

Cindy Bohon Counselors - Licensed

SERVISFIRST BANK 2500 Woodcrest Place Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 914-0338

Christina Fanning Banks / Financial Services

SHINDIG, INC. 5800 McFarland Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 799-5823

Steve Williams Entertainment / Recreation

SHIPMENT SPECIALIST, LLC 11050 Big Hurricane Road Brookwood, AL 35444 (205) 650-2056

Walter Dean Transportation

SIMPLIFIED MEDICAL MANAGEMENT, LLC 208 McFarland Circle N, Suite 200 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 366-3565

James Leitner Consultants

SMITH PAYNE INC. 6130 Old Greensboro Rd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 345-7216

Jeff Smith Movers - Household / Commercial

STEPH THE TRAVEL PLANNER Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 393-1236

Stephanie Charboneau Travel Agencies

STEPHANIE’S FLOWERS 117 15th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-3074

Mike Lovejoy Florist & Gifts

STORAGE SENSE

949 31st St. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-5033

Meagan Franklin Storage - Commercial / Mini / Self

STRETCH ZONE

TUSCALOOSA

2370 Jack Warner Parkway, Suite 105 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 242-3642

Caroline Barnes Health Care ServicesGeneral

TEA PHOTOGRAPHY

6614 Helen Julia Lane Cottondale, AL 35453 (205) 526-6996

Tommie Armistead Photographers

THE BAKED BEAR

1800 McFarland Blvd. E., Suite 207

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 740-5550

Athyn Galardi Frozen Treats / Restaurant / Catering

THE CBD STORE 900 Main Ave. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 737-7984

Areli Bryan Retail THE FRAZER LANIER

THE GLAM ROOM LLC

1425 22nd Ave.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 409-8591

Amber Lark Beauty Salons / Barbers / Nails / Massage / Tan / Spas

THE LITERACY COUNCIL OF WEST ALABAMA

3401 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 210 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 391-2643

Charlotte Voss Non-Profit Organizations

THE RECOVERY ROOM

300 Towncenter Blvd., Suite C Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 331-4328

Donny Dockery Health Care Services - General

THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

G66 Rose Administration

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0144 (205) 348-8829

Tabitha Bostick Education / EducationAdministration

THERAPYSOUTH

542 15th Street East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 462-7520

David Cameron Health Care Services - Physical Therapy

THURMAN WELLNESS

507 Energy Center Blvd., Suite 303 Northport, AL 35473 (205) 759-2780

Ben Thurman Wellness - Academy

TOOLS OF THE TRADE CONSULTANT

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 394-1471

Toni Franklin Consultants / Non-Profit / Professional Development

TRANSCENDENT CLEANING SOLUTIONS 13619 Pine Hill Rd. Northport, AL 35475 (205) 526-5651

Thomas Sanchez Janitorial Services

TRIBBLE AND ASSOCIATES, LLC

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 396-6636

Larry Tribble

Training / Education Consultants

TUSCALOOSA BARNYARD

11453 Turner Bridge Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 454-8841

Kami Combs

Entertainment / Recreation / Facility Indoor Children’s Play / Rental

TUSCALOOSA SAFE CENTER, INC.

1601 University Blvd East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 860-7233

Pam Jones Non-Profit Organizations

TUSCALOOSA

TENNIS ASSOCIATION

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 344-1647

Kathryn Hornsby Tennis / Fitness Center / Non-Profit Organizations

VITOLA FINE CIGARS

2314 6th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 331-4313

Harris Saunders Retail – Tobacco Lounges / Nightclubs

WHEELHOUSE

SPORTS PUB 2326 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 535-5933

Patrick Fowler Restaurants / Lounge

WILLIAMSON

REALTY GROUP 2626 7th St.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 454-9617

Josh Williamson Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

WORLDWIDE TRAVEL AND TOURS

1320 Lurleen Wallace Blvd. Northport, AL 35476 (205) 752-3272

Ryan Prather Travel Agencies

WTI TRANSPORT

7300 Commerce Drive

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (800) 828-6450

Transportation

10/8 — 5 P.M.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON

Don’t miss the best networking West Alabama has to offer! Join us at 5 p.m. for food and fun, and spend time with fellow members.

10/17—8:30 A.M.

FAMILY LABOR STANDARDS ACT WORKSHOP AT THE CHAMBER

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division is responsible for administering and enforcing laws that establish minimally acceptable standards for wages and working conditions in this country, regardless of immigration status. $59 per Chamber member; $69 per non-member.

10/29 7 A.M.

BREAKFAST AND BIZ AT STILLMAN COLLEGE

Join us for great networking before the workday even starts! The perfect event for early birds, this quarterly networking opportunity is popular with members who are unable to take advantage of evening events.

10/31—8 A.M.

IMMIGRATION LAW TRAINING AT THE CHAMBER

Three experts on immigration and employment law will bring you up to speed on ICE activity, mismatched Social Security letters, and I-9 forms. $59 per Chamber member; $69 per non-member

11/5—3 P.M.

CONSTRUCTION CLUSTER MEETING AT THE CHAMBER

Industrial, commercial and residential constructioncompanies, as well as relevant service providers, come together to developworkforce solutions at West Alabama Works’ Construction Cluster Meeting. Past items of note include improving plumbing curriculum for area high schools and developing strategies to recruit apprentices.

11/7—7:30 A.M.

CHAMBER IN SESSION: STATE OF THE ECONOMY AT EMBASSY SUITES

State of the Economy provides a future forecast for key areas of growth, such as industrial, retail, commercial and tourism. Speakers include local economic development officials, economists and other subject matter experts. $35 for members; $40 for non-members.

11/12—8:30 A.M.

RESOLVING WORKPLACE CONFLICT WORKSHOP AT THE CHAMBER

This workshop allows participants to discuss best practices for handling conflict, practice having difficult conversations, and create solutions for common workplace conflicts. $122 per Chamber member; $129 per non-member

11/12—3 P.M.

MANUFACTURING CLUSTER MEETING AT THE CHAMBER

Whether you’re a plant manager, human resources professional or a manufacturing instructor, West Alabama’s Manufacturing Cluster Meeting will help you connect the dots to solutions for your business, employers and/or students. Past items of note include developing manufacturing curriculum for area high schools and using federal funding to train new employees.

11/12—5 P.M.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT ALABAMA ONE

Don’t miss the best networking West Alabama has to offer! Join us at 5 p.m. for food and fun, and spend time with fellow members.

11/21—8 A.M.

WEST ALABAMAWORKS LEADERSHIP SKILLS TRAINING III AT BROOKWOOD WORKFORCE CENTER

West AlabamaWorks! partners with AIDT to provide Leadership Skills training for supervisors and managers of all industries across West Alabama. $35.

12/4—10 A.M.

HEALTHCARE CLUSTER MEETING AT THE CHAMBER

Ideal for healthcarepractitioners, human resources professionals, health science educators and relevant service providers, West Alabama Works’ Healthcare Cluster Meeting offers innovative strategies for West Alabama’s healthcare industry. From developing workforce pipelines to assist with patient care assistant shortages to using grant funding to train new employees, this meeting provides answers for the industry.

12/10— 5 P.M

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT SYNOVUS PLAZA

Don’t miss the best networking West Alabama has to offer! Join us at 5 p.m. for food and fun, and spend time with fellow members.

12/11— 7:30 A.M.

AUTOMOTIVE CLUSTER MEETING AT MERCEDES-BENZ BTI TRAINING CENTER

West Alabama Works’ largest cluster meeting is ideal for automotive manufacturers, automotive suppliers, career technical educators and staffing agencies. Hear updates on Mercedes-Benz U.S. International’s production schedule to better prepare your business and participate in industry-specific training opportunities.