Rising Tide - Q1 2022

CHAMPIONS

FOR EXCELLENT CANCER CARE

ELIZABETH BALDO-DOWNS Breast Cancer Patient

A routine mammogram started a series of events that led Elizabeth to Dr. Crew and nurse Jo at DCH’s Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center. Their kindness and compassion changed her life. Now cancer-free, Elizabeth makes Bags of Hope with beauty items to encourage and support others battling breast cancer.

“Nurse Jo held my hand and cried with me.” – Elizabeth Baldo-Downs

Read Elizabeth’s story at dchsystem.com/stories

weStalabamachamber.com

eDItor aleX houSe alex@westalabamachamber.com

lIz youNG lizyoung@alliancegrp.net

aDVertISING eXecutIVe KeIth lott keithlott@bellsouth.net CONNECT

facebooK com/weStalchamber/ twItter.com/weStalchamber

lINKeDIN.com/GrouPS/1830062/ @weStalchamber

Words can’t adequately express how proud we are to be recognized as the 2021 recipient of the Chamber of the Year Award. This prestigious honor is presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, an Alexandria, Virginia-based organization representing thousands of chamber professionals across North America. While our chamber’s mission has always been to provide leadership and be a catalyst for development across the entire community of West Alabama, this award recognizes the transformative and industry-leading work our entire team completed in the wake of a global pandemic.

Being recognized with this award at any time is an incredible honor and truly places a local chamber of commerce in rarified air; however, receiving it based on the tireless and innovative work done during one of the most economically challenging years in modern times makes it even more special. This speaks volumes about our membership, volunteer leadership, professional staff, and the community-at-large in West Alabama.

Through active engagement in numerous national and international organizations, I have had the great honor of working alongside some of the chamber profession’s most respected leaders who lead many of the top metro chambers across North America. And I watched the amazing work so many of their chambers did throughout the most critical phases of the pandemic, as well. From that perspective, it makes me even more thankful to serve such a dynamic organization like the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. Despite being a much smaller organization with a fraction of the population and resources many of those other chambers have, our body of work has been hailed as an industry best practice by some of the best of the best and was routinely emulated throughout the pandemic.

While this award is a recognition of success, and one that we should all celebrate, we know we still have plenty of work to do. Going from “good to great” is a never-ending process. So, as we begin to embark on a post-pandemic economic journey, please join us in building upon this much appreciated recognition by taking our community to the next level.

Onward,

coVer Photo: aleX houSe

2022 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair Tripp Powell Powell Enterprises

Chair-Elect

Michele Coley

Allstate Coley Agency

Immediate Past Chair

Elizabeth Winter

Regions Bank

Vice Chair, Communications and Marketing

Kelsey Rush

Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports

Vice Chair, Economic Development

Carl Jamison

JamisonMoneyFarmer PC

Vice Chair, Education and Workforce Development

Brad Newman

Shelton State Community College

Vice Chair, Leadership and Community Engagement

Jordan Morris

Ward Scott Architecture

Vice Chair, Membership and Investor Relations

Jheovanny Gomez

Jalapenos Mexican Grill

Vice Chair, Public Policy and Advocacy

Matt Feller

BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing

Treasurer

Matt Fajack

The University of Alabama

Legal Counsel

Blake Madison

Rosen Harwood

President and CEO/ Secretary

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

2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Anwar Aiken, Mary Virginia Best, Paul Betz, Sydney Burns, Rick Clementz, David Coleman, Michele Coley, Brock Corder, Steven Deal, Thomas Dedrick, Heather Dill, David Dubose, Russell Dubose, Amy Echols, Matt Fajack, Matt Feller, Carrie Fitts, Lee Garrison, Jheovanny Gomez, Heyward Gould, Chris Gunter, Tim Harrison, Jennifer Hart, Mildred Black Hooks, Joe Hughes, Carl Jamison, Tony Johnson, Tim Lewis, Gary McGee, Dr. Jacqueline Morgan, Jordan Morris, Brad Newman, Whitney Oswalt, Jim Page, Gary Phillips, Tripp Powell, Jasmine Rainey, David Rains, Nikki Ray, Luke Remmert, Llevelyn Rhone, Kelsey Rush, Sontonia Stephens, Elizabeth Winter, Sandra Wolfe

Jim Page, CCe , iom President and CeO (205) 391-0562

jim@westalabamachamber.com

Donny Jones, iom

Chief OPerating OffiCer (205) 391-0552 · donny@westalabamachamber.com

Barkley garrett, CeCD

ViCe President, eCOnOmiC deVelOPment (205) 391-0329 · barkley@westalabamachamber.com

nata’sha BlaCk

mOdern manufaCturing PrOjeCt manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0331 · natasha@westalabamachamber.com

CinDi BraDley

PrOjeCt manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 464-4492 cindi@westalabamachamber.com

Brittani ColBurn

seniOr PrOgram manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0334 · brittani@westalabamachamber.com

lauren Collier

OutreaCh and PrOgram manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0566 · lauren@westalabamachamber.com

traCy CrumPton

direCtOr Of finanCe and OPeratiOns (205) 391-0554 · tracy@westalabamachamber.com

aliCia gregory

direCtOr Of membershiP engagement (205) 391-0561 · alicia@westalabamachamber.com

tammi holley

WOrkfOrCe COOrdinatOr, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (334) 310-9511 · tammi@westalabamachamber.com

alex house

direCtOr Of COmmuniCatiOns and marketing (205) 391-0563 · alex@westalabamachamber.com

loWanDa James

direCtOr Of infOrmatiOn serViCes (205) 758-7588 · lowanda@westalabamachamber.com

Dianne PiCkren

exeCutiVe assistant tO the President and CeO (205)-391-0563 · dianne@westalabamachamber.com

saBrina thomas

regiOnal WOrkfOrCe COunCil liaisOn, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment alabama dePartment Of COmmerCe (205)-526-6523 · sthomas@aidt.edu

khaDiJah torBert

marketing and COmmuniCatiOns COOrdinatOr (205)-391-0559 · khadijah@westalabamachamber.com

Carolyn tuBBs

direCtOr Of eduCatiOn PrOgrams (205) 391-0556 · carolyn@westalabamachamber.com

tanya WinsteaD direCtOr Of membershiP and resOurCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0327 · tanya@westalabamachamber.com

Keeping West Alabama Working

BATTLING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s rapid and innovative approach to the pandemic was a key factor in receiving the ACCE Chamber of the Year award for 2021. As the pandemic emerged, the Chamber rapidly worked to mitigate the effects and support the businesses in the West Alabama community.

Working with local businesses and individuals, the Chamber hosted near a hundred virtual meetings and conference calls to determine community needs and remained in constant contact with government officials to craft effective responses like the Small Business Relief Fund.

WWhen the West Alabama community began shutting down in response to COVID-19, aiding small businesses in not only navigating but successfully weathering the pandemic was critical to the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s mission to promote a healthy business climate and overcome barriers to economic development. At the onset of the pandemic’s presence in the community in mid-March of 2020, Chamber leadership took immediate action to mitigate the impact on the business community and local economy. The Chamber ensured their COVID-19 response was comprehensive and deployed rapidly in order to meet the urgent needs of those most vulnerable – those that would not survive a lengthy shutdown.

Remaining in constant communication with government officials and having direct discussions with the most impacted businesses

provided the Chamber with invaluable, industryspecific insight they used to determine what programmatic offerings were needed to navigate the pandemic’s effects on the local economy. Specific primary response efforts concentrated on serving as a trusted, objective resource; deploying accurate, critical information in a timely manner; supplying immediate gap funding to businesses most likely to be hit hard by the pandemic; help essential businesses continue to operate safely while simultaneously preparing businesses deemed non-essential ready themselves to reopen safely when allowed; honor those working and serving on the front lines; and provide a sense of hope to the entire West Alabama community.

Chamber staff quickly developed a COVID-19 hub on its website as a central location for anyone seeking resources or information. Understanding the urgent need for capital infusion among the

most vulnerable small businesses, Chamber leadership launched the Small Business Relief Fund in March 2020, well in advance of the Paycheck Protection Program.

The Chamber’s communications strategy for COVID response efforts featured video, television, radio, outdoor/billboard advertising, signage, website, email, print, and social media platforms. In-kind donations for graphic design, volunteer work, and the Chamber’s media trade ensured no cash was expended in the COVID response budget.

At the end of the Small Business Relief Fund distribution, more than 300 businesses were aided with more than $1.25 million in funding. COVID-19 programming on the Chamber website generated close to 30,000 unique visitors between March 31 and December 31, 2020, accounting for approximately one-quarter of the Chamber’s website page views during that time. The Call on Your Chamber Series attracted 5,250 attendees over the course of the series.

“The entire Chamber staff did a tremendous job during the pandemic supporting the business community and its employees, so it is very fulfilling to see that work and success has been recognized as world class.

—Bobby Bragg “

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR

W Building Career Pathways

THAT WORK THROUGH INNOVATION

A major factor in the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s 2021 ACCE Chamber of the Year award was their commitment to keep West Alabama working during the pandemic. To combat the lack of skilled workers in the community, West AlabamaWorks! deployed the Career Pathways initiative to train and reengage the West Alabama workforce and transitioned Worlds of Work to a virtual platform to continue to educate high schoolers preparing to enter the workforce for the first time.

These efforts bolstered local industries with skilled workers and kept West Alabama working.

West Alabama faces a scarcity of skilled employees, lack of interest in growing industries, and an excessive number of individuals that have dropped out of the labor force. In consideration of Governor Ivey’s call to add 500,000 credentialed Alabamians to the labor force by 2025, the West Alabama Works strategy to engage K-12 students and reengage adults was bold but necessary.

The goal was to create and implement the Career Pathways Initiative for job seekers of all ages to identify and connect with their next steps to employment.

However, The dual challenge of educating jobseekers on available careers and connecting business and industry to the skilled workforce population became more difficult – seemingly impossible – as the traditional paths West Alabama Works has successfully employed became unavailable due to COVID-19.

To combat this, West Alabama Works continually sought ways to innovate and better serve its community. The team transformed the Career Pathways Initiative through innovation by revamping Worlds of Work into WOW 2.0, bringing

to life the career pathways students could pursue in a virtual format. Additionally, West Alabama Works partnered with TransfrVR to provide hands-on, guided training through virtual reality headsets.

Building Career Pathways for K-12 students relied on West Alabama Works’ Educator Workforce Academy to strengthen the partnership with teachers and administrators. The Academy offers education professionals an immersive experience in the workforce development process.

Socially distanced pop-up and drive-by events were incorporated to keep people connected with training and employment opportunities. A conversational text platform was introduced that allowed navigator staff to engage with job seekers in an easier manner.

The Career Pathways Initiative has impacted the community by building partnerships with business, industry, and education partners to fill the employment gaps within the region. The outcomes represented show lives changed by placing people on their pathway to success.

CHAMBER AT WORK

Asheville

TAKEAWAYS FROM ASHEVILLE, NC

The Chamber’s benchmarking trips serve as a catalyst for leaders to develop ideas of how to improve West Alabama. The community’s business leaders and elected officials use these trips to visit other communities to learn about their economic and community development successes.

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama traveled with over 70 community leaders to Asheville, NC this year for their fourth benchmarking trip to learn what Asheville is doing to grow their community and how those strategies could be used to better West Alabama.

The 2021 benchmarking trip kicked off with a welcome reception at Asheville’s historic Pack’s Tavern. Members heard from Mayor Esther Manheimer, who spoke about Asheville’s current landscape and the efforts the City of Asheville is doing to better their community.

Networking is an important part of the benchmarking trip. Members were given multiple opportunities to meet and connect with one another informally to strategize ways to work together to better the West Alabama community.

PHOTO CRED: LANCE HOLLOWAY

PHOTO CRED: LANCE HOLLOWAY

PHOTO CRED: ALEX HOUSE

PHOTO CRED: LANCE HOLLOWAY

PHOTO CRED: ALEX HOUSE

Leaders of the Asheville Community Theatre discussed the importance of arts in a community, and how, if strategically utilized, can be the catalyst for an area’s revitalization.

The benchmarking trip concluded with a visit to the Center for Craft, a revolutionary space in Asheville dedicated to fostering new ideas and advancing the field of craft. Members of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Asheville-Buncombe County Economic Development Coalition discussed how they created a robust, diversified economy and the intentional efforts made to retain the area’s best and brightest.

PHOTO CRED: LANCE HOLLOWAY

PHOTO CRED: ALEX HOUSE

PHOTO CRED: LANCE HOLLOWAY

Neighborhood Bridges

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA AND TUSCALOOSA EDUCATION FOUNDATION PARTNER WITH NEIGHBORHOOD BRIDGES TO HELP STUDENTS AND FAMILIES IN NEED

TThrough the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and the Tuscaloosa Education Foundation’s (TEF) leadership, a wide stretch of Western Alabama has doubled down on kindness and the impact driven through Neighborhood Bridges.

Neighborhood Bridges, a 501(c)(3) charity that facilitates direct local giving, engages communities of both the Tuscaloosa City Schools and Tuscaloosa County Schools to fulfill essential needs for students, and their families, experiencing hardships. This kindness is initiated by school district counselors and social workers who post needs for community subscribers to fill. Together and through Neighborhood Bridges, both Tuscaloosa area school districts have impacted over 15,500 students.

partnerships within the West Alabama region to promote literacy and character development, elevate educators and provide career pathway opportunities. Its focus on doing what’s right for children in the community lays the foundation for a stronger workforce through better education.

“We are excited to partner with the Tuscaloosa Education Foundation and Neighborhood Bridges to support our schools locally. Our members have invested in local schools through the Adopt-A-School program for years, and this will give our entire community the opportunity to meet needs of classrooms and individual students,” said Donny Jones, IOM, AACE, chief operating officer, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama; executive

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama has partnered with TEF and Neighborhood Bridges to aggregate efforts in both school communities in support of its Pillars of Education initiative. Businesses, local organizations and residents can now visit westalabamaworksforkids.com to survey opportunities that bridge kindness throughout Tuscaloosa.

The Pillars of Education initiative aims to create formal

director, West Alabama Works. “I can think of no better way to invest in our community than by meeting the needs of our children who are the future of Tuscaloosa and the West Alabama region.”

This partnership between organizations is unprecedented, and will serve as a model for other communities to help further Neighborhood Bridge’s mission of driving impact and removing barriers for students in need.

“Tuscaloosa Education Foundation takes pride in being part of a community that comes together to support and affirm public education by making a difference in the lives of children, and effectively, changing the world,” said Terri C. Boman, Ph.D., executive director, Tuscaloosa Education Foundation. “We recognize the only way to meet the academic needs of our students is to ensure that their basic needs of food, water, warmth, rest, safety, and security are met. The Neighborhood Bridges program helps us to accomplish that goal. We are so excited to partner with Neighborhood Bridges and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama in this endeavor.”

Neighborhood Bridges will continue to work within each school district to fill needs, but through this new partnership, the Chamber and TEF will offer their extensive reach to increase engagement and impact. Neighborhood Bridges in Tuscaloosa City Schools is led by Area Directors Lesley Powell and Kendra Williams, who are both elected members of the Tuscaloosa City

Board of Education. For Tuscaloosa County Schools, the Neighborhood Bridges program is led by Area Director Connie Coleman, a retired teacher from the district.

Residents and businesses are invited to subscribe at: www.westalabamaworkforkids.com . An email submission provides subscribers with notifications when new needs are posted. Instructions are sent to subscribers offering to fill needs.

CHAMBER AT WORK

New Chamber Staff

2021 brought several changes to the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, including several new team members. Our newest members add to a diverse group of people dedicated to enhancing the West Alabama community. With a wealth of previous experience and education, we are excited to continue working for the West Alabama community.

KHADIJAH TORBERT

KKhadijah Torbert joined the Chamber staff in October 2021. She is responsible for communications and marketing activities of the Chamber, primarily related to workforce and education development efforts. Provides administrative support for workforce development staff, workforce development activities of the Chamber, Region 3 Workforce Development Council and West Alabama Works meetings and projects. Coordinates specific projects as needed based on West Alabama Works project flow.

Prior to joining the work force development team, Khadijah served as a multi-skilled communicator in broadcast news and sports business. She served as Interim Director of Communications and Sports Information for the Alabama Community College Conference as well as being a news producer and reporter for WVUA 23 News. Khadijah has over six years of broadcast and journalism experience. She graduated Cum Laude from Troy University in 2016, where she double majored in Broadcast Journalism and Business Administration. She obtained her master’s degree from the University of Alabama in May of 2019.

Khadijah is active in the community volunteering with Temporary Emergency Services, a mentor with Mind Changers Inc., and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

PHOTOS BY: PORFIRIO J. SOLÓRZANO

Khadijah Torbert Communications and Marketing Coordinator, Workforce Development

Dianne Pickren Executive Assistant to the President and CEO

ALICIA GREGORY

AAlicia joined the Chamber in April 2018 as the Executive Assistant to the President and CEO before moving into her current role as the Director of Membership Engagement. She is responsible for all membership events related to business development, public policy and community engagement. She also coordinates all aspects of the Leadership Tuscaloosa and Forerunners programs. Additionally, Alicia serves as the primary staff liaison to many of the Chamber's councils and committees, including Young Tuscaloosa, and assists with resource development activities.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Alicia worked in a range of areas including finance, office management, and human resources. A native of Kentucky, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Murray State University. Alicia and her husband, Steven, have two daughters.

DIANNE PICKREN

DDianne joined the Chamber staff in August 2021. She provides administrative support to the President and CEO as well as coordinates functions of the Chamber's Board of Directors, Executive Committee, foundation and political action committee. Dianne also assists will all aspects of facility operations and supports resource development activities.

Prior to joining the Chamber team, Dianne worked for The University of Alabama and served as the Executive Administrative Assistant at RandallReilly for more than eight years. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Education and Office Administration Orientation from Mississippi State University.

Alicia Gregory Director of Membership Engagement

ALEX HOUSE

AAlex joined the Chamber staff in September 2021. She is responsible for all communications activities of the Chamber, including media relations, the Member News Weekly email newsletter, social media engagement, and website maintenance. Alex also serves as Editor of both Rising Tide, the Chamber's quarterly business journal, and the Chamber's annual Community Guide and Membership Directory. Additionally, she coordinates all print, digital, and media marketing efforts of the Chamber, including the strategic promotion of events, programs, campaigns, and initiatives.

Prior to joining the Chamber team, Alex served as a Communications Specialist and Special Projects Coordinator for the City of Tuscaloosa. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Information Sciences from The University of Alabama and holds multiple professional communications certifications. She is the recipient of numerous digital and print design awards, including the Alabama League of Municipalities' 2020 Hometown Hero award. Alex is an active member of the American Advertising Federation, the Public Relations Society of America and Graphic Arts Guild.

CINDI BRADLEY

West AlabamaWorks! is pleased to announce the addition of our new Project Manager Cindi Bradley. Her responsibilities will focus on the communication among Manufacturing and Construction Clusters. She is also involved with all aspects of The Region 3 Workforce Development Council, West AlabamaWorks!, and WOW 2.0.

Cindi grew up in both Chattanooga, TN and Montgomery, AL. She graduated from David Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN with a degree in speech communication and her career has taken her to Birmingham, Chattanooga and Huntsville.

In 2018, she moved to Tuscaloosa and worked as the HR Specialist with ZF Chassis System.

CShe loves all sports at the University of Alabama, the beach, golf but, mostly she loves her family and activities with her church.

Alex House Director of Communications and Marketing

Cindi Bradley Project Manager, Workforce Development

TANYA WINSTEAD

TTanya joined the Chamber staff in July 2021. She is responsible for the recruitment and retention of new Chamber members.

Tanya also leads the resource development efforts of the Chamber, serving as the primary point of contact for investors of The Next Level Initiative capital campaign and coordinating all aspects of the 4th Quarter Drive sponsorship program. Prior to her tenure with the Chamber, Tanya served as Community Outreach and Events Officer for Alabama ONE. She is a graduate of Leadership Tuscaloosa and has held numerous community leadership roles.

Director

Tanya Winstead

of Membership and Resource Development

Each year, The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama honors civic leaders and trailblazers 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.

Organizations, businesses and individual citizens submitted nominations for the 2021 class. These were reviewed by a committee and honorees were selected.

Robert N. Almon Sr.

Robert N. Almon Sr. was an instrumental figure in the changing face of Tuscaloosa. His vision for this area can be seen throughout our community.

During a career that spanned decades, Almon’s impact on the community includes countless significant accomplishments that have helped shape Tuscaloosa including the design of Tuscaloosa's water supply (Lake Tuscaloosa), the City's Downtown revitalization, planning and implementation of the city's first sewage collection system, widening of 15th Street from a two-lane street to a six-lane thoroughfare, the design of River Road (now known as Jack Warner Parkway) and the design of the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk.

The founder of the engineering firm, Almon Associates, Inc., Almon, along with Dr. Jim Walters, also founded Tuscaloosa Testing Laboratory (now TTL).

Almon’s military career included serving in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel and an assignment at the Pentagon. He received his Bachelor of

Science and Master of Science in Civil Engineering from The University of Alabama.

Among Almon’s professional honors was his induction as one of 150 University alumni as a 150th Anniversary Distinguished Fellow at the University of Alabama's College of Engineering, his induction into the Alabama General Contractor's Construction Hall of Fame and recognition from the University of Alabama chapter of Chi Epsilon, a civil engineering honor society.

Almon was among the first civic delegates to travel to Tuscaloosa's Sister City, Narashino, Japan in the mid1980's. Civic leaders from across Tuscaloosa traveled to Narashino where they enjoyed the exchange of ideas and the development of a long-term partnership between the two cities.

In 2007 the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama named Almon its Advocate for the Year, citing his contributions to Tuscaloosa's economic growth. Almon was a long-standing member of Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow. He was also a former member of the City of Tuscaloosa Port Authority. He was a member, Elder and Deacon at First Presbyterian Church. Almon tireless commitment to the Tuscaloosa community and his unwavering integrity in both his professional and personal life have had a lasting impact on the entire west Alabama area and the State of Alabama.

David E. Gay is a lifetime resident of Tuscaloosa. He graduated from Druid HighSchool in 1974 and received his master’s degree in social work from The University of Alabama in 1982.

Gay’s career led him to become the first African American director of Bryce Hospital as well as the director for the Taylor Hardin Secure Medical Facility.

His contribution in the field of Mental Health has earned him numerous awards, including a Governor's proclamation recognizing his contribution in mental health. In addition to mental health, Gay has worked extensively with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Veterans Affairs Hospital's homeless program.

Gay is a retired military officer after serving 27 years in the Alabama National Guard, retiring at the rank of Major. He has taught at The University of Alabama, Shelton State Community College and Stillman College.

Mark Sullivan was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina and grew up in Houston, Texas. He moved to Tuscaloosa to attend The University of Alabama and graduated with a degree in corporate finance in June 1986.

In 1991, Sullivan accepted the position of Vice President with the Bank of Tuscaloosa. Sullivan was named President and COO of the bank and in 2010 became the CEO of the Bank of Tuscaloosa, a division of Synovus Bank. After nearly 29 years with the Bank of Tuscaloosa and Synovus, Sullivan retired from the company in

Gay is dedicated in supporting the Tuscaloosa community. He has served on the United Way Board of Directors, Red Cross, Temporary Emergency Service and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama Board. He currently serves on the Boards of Department of Human Resources (DHR), PARA Foundation Board, Elevate Tuscaloosa Advisory Council, Mayor’s Alliance for Opportunity and Advancement for Project Unity, Tuscaloosa VA Credit Union and the Board of Directors at DCH Hospital. In addition to his community involvement, Gay is the senior pastor at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church. His church is constantly and consistently making a difference in the local community through it continuous outreach housing, clothing and feeding ministries. The church has been recognized by the Mayor of Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa City School Superintendent.

His contribution has been noted in newspapers and magazines including Jet magazine and National syndicated radio shows. Gay is currently the CEO of Whatley Health Services, whose 12 sites in seven counties throughout West Alabama serve the most vulnerable in our community.

Gay is married to Flora Bonner Gay, has two children, David and Whitney Gay, and one grandson, David Gay IV.

March 2020. He came out of retirement shortly after to join Bryant Bank as the Executive Vice President in Sept. 2020.

Sullivan has avidly supported the Tuscaloosa community. He has served in numerous capacities for the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, including Chairman in 2012. He was instrumental in the search for the Chamber’s current president, Jim Page, helped develop multiple long-term initiatives and Chaired the Chamber’s Foundation when the new facility was acquired.

During his retirement, Sullivan volunteered his time and skills assisting the Chamber with the Small Business Relief Fund, a program that allocated funds to assist local businesses during COVID-19.

As the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama Foundation, Sullivan worked in partnership with the Tuscaloosa County EDA, the Chamber of Commerce, ACRE and the private sector in elevating the issue of workforce housing.

Sullivan assumed the role of Chairman for the Tuscaloosa

David E. Gay

Mark Sullivan

Education Foundation (TEF) in 2020, providing support and financial resources to enhance public education through our two school systems.

Sullivan is a strong advocate for children. In addition to his involvement with TEF, he has served on the board of the State of Alabama Prepaid Affordable College Tuition Plan. He has served on the board for Agape of Central Alabama, is Past President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama, Past President and current Executive Board member of the Black Warrior Council of Boy Scouts and a volunteer for Junior Achievement.

Sullivan was a key player in the creation of the Edge, a business incubator initiative that promotes entrepreneurship and innovation. This was a collaboration

Jheovanny Gomez is a native of Colombia, South America and moved to Tuscaloosa in 1997 to study at the English Language Institute at The University of Alabama. In 2001, Gomez helped open the first Jalapenos Mexican Grill. He currently co-owns and manages three locations in Tuscaloosa and Northport.

Gomez is dedicated to serving Tuscaloosa, serving on numerous boards in the community. He is current Vice Chair of Membership and Investor Relations for the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and former member of the Executive Committee and Steering Committee of the Diverse Business Council. He is an appointed Board Member from the city of Northport to the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority, as well as the Northport Redevelopment Authority, awarding grants to Northport businesses to beautify the city. He served as former president of the Druid City Business League; present Board Member and 2019 Chairman of the Boys and Girls Club of West Alabama; Board Member of the United Way of West Alabama; member of the Commerce and Information Technology (CIT) Advisory Committee for Holt High School; and serves on the Board of Directors for Tuscaloosa Education Foundation, Eagles Wings, Shelton State Foundation, Hospice of West Alabama, BB&T Bank Advisory Board

between The University of Alabama, the Chamber, and the City of Tuscaloosa.

Mark has also served on the board of the Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa to expand the benefits of rich cultural programs to all the people of this county. Other charitable organizations have also benefited from his leadership and generosity. He has served on the boards and been president of Hospice of West Alabama and the DCH Foundation. He has served as Chairman and Campaign Chairman for United Way of West Alabama and helped raise funds for the Salvation Army and Caring Days.

Sullivan and his wife, Mary Mike, have three daughters; Lindsey, Holly and Maggie. He is a valued asset of Tuscaloosa County, and his contributions continue today to make Tuscaloosa a better place for all to live, learn, work and prosper.

and The University of Alabama College of Continuing Studies Board of Visitors.

Gomez was appointed by the Governor and served two years (2015-2017) on the Small Business Commission for the State of Alabama.

In 2013, he was featured in the magazine, 'Business Alabama' as one of the "Movers and Shapers" along with other recognized figures in the state of Alabama.

In 2014, Gomez received the Member of the Year award, the highest individual honor that is given to an individual by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.

In 2016, he received the Alabama Retailer of the Year Gold Award chosen by a panel of 12 judges from around the state. Gomez was the only Retailer of the Year finalist to receive a unanimous vote on the first ballot.

In 2017, he received The Minority Business Council Trailblazer Award.

In 2018, Gomez was chosen by SCORE, a national network of volunteer business mentors, as one of the group's Small Business Champions. That same year, Gomez attained his United States citizenship. In 2019, he was the recipient of the West Alabama Young Leadership Award (WAYLA).

Gomez is married to Johana Gomez and father of three: Josephine, Jacob, and Gomez Jr.

In addition to fulfilling the varied and rigorous demands of operating three restaurants, Gomez's willingness to contribute to civic leadership is undeniable. Truly, Gomez's extensive appointments and service record demonstrate his genuine commitment to the West Alabama community.

Jheovanny Gomez

Karen Steiger

Bill Wells

Carrie Fitts

David Grant

Jack Mauldin

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES

EAST TUSCALOOSA 6350 Interstate Dr. Tuscaloosa, AL 35453

Phone: (205) 632-1888

Toby Wilson

ONE MORE GYM 6551 Alabama Hwy 69 South Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 409-8976

Jamie Sullivan

SPARROW BOUTIQUE

1800 McFarland Blvd. E Suite 114B

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 248-7772

Anjali Soares

LOVE, SHARON 3101 42nd Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 737-7769

Emily Feltman

Phone: (205) 291-8718

Tameka Carey

PAPORI BOUTIQUE 1825 McFarland Blvd., Suite 180 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 737-7869

Lindsey Lee

SWEET DREAMZ DELIVERED 1701 McFarland Blvd E, STE 192 Tuscaloosa , AL 35404

Phone: (205) 735-9705

Nikeah Leech

SOUTHERN ROOTS HAIR STUDIO 1800 McFarland Blvd. East Suite 214 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 556-4924

Brittney Wetzel

Phone: (205) 202-4072

Kerri Pruitt

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

ALABAMA HOSPICE CARE OF TUSCALOOSA

971 Fairfax Park, Suite A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 633-3705

Penny Kozak

ALEXANDRA'S

700 Towncenter Blvd., Suite 1

Tuscaloosa, Al 35406

Phone: (251) 564-4173

Dana Plott

AMAZON- BHM1

975 Powder Plant Road

Bessemer, AL 35022

Mamadou Diop

AMERICA'S CAR-MART OF TUSCALOOSA

6210 University Blvd E

Cottondale, AL 35453

Phone: (205) 507-7875

Brittani Brooks

BETHEL WORSHIP CENTER

6401 65th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone:

Ronnie Jackson

BEULAH BAPTIST CHURCH

3100 25th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 758-9560

David Gay

BIG DOG ENTERPRISES, LLC

DBA DECADES PUB AND GRUB

2314 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 394-0163

Clifton Clark

BLACK WARRIOR CHAPTER OF BNI ALABAMA

2222 9th Street

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401

Phone: (205) 496-0332

BUFFALO'S CAFE

1800 McFarland Blvd East #430

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 771-4444

Sonya Chappell

CARITE OF TUSCALOOSA

2323 Skyland Blvd E

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405

Phone: (205) 722-2032

Amber Smith

CATCH A TASTE RESTAURANT

2816 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 737-7599

David Grant

CB&S BANK

1806 6th Street Suite 200

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 632-6861

Edgar Sherwood

CITIZENS IMPACTING COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC

2822 Fosters Ferry Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 310-5681

Tyshawn Gardner

COLLINS STRATEGIES AND SOLUTIONS, LLC.

5532 Shasta Circle

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406

Phone: (205) 219-1507

Justin Collins

CUTTERS CIGARS, LLC

1848 McFarland Blvd.

Northport, AL 35476

Phone: (205) 409-8495

Willie Knighton

“West Alabama Bank has come to our rescue more than once.”

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DIGITAL MEDIA NATIONAL

13 Springbrook

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 454-9441

Mike Burnett

DILLARD'S DINING RESOURCES

2330 4th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 210-8199

Ross Lamon

EDWARD JONESSHABAKA MCKEY

312 Merchants Walk 2A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 759-3023

Shabaka McKey

ERA KING REAL ESTATE

1490 North Bank, Suite 234

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 469-7902

Cher Dulaney

FARMERS INSURANCE

THE HARRIS/RICHEY TEAM

4710 Jug Factory Lane

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 469-9664

Myesha Richey

FIRST KIDS URGENT CARE

1251 McFarland Blvd. NE

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 374-8899

Scarlett Crews

GAMEDAY DONE RIGHT

3100 9th Ct

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 535-4647

Lyndsi Hughes

GRICE ENTERPRISES

8676 Inverness Way

Tuscaloosa, AL 354052

Phone: (205) 233-3768

Rod Grice

H&R BLOCK- STORE #1410

2600 McFarland Blvd E Sp L2

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 784-6255

Jennifer Norris

HARWOOD REAL ESTATE

2920 7th Street, Suite A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 242-7104

Kim Harwood

HIGH TIDE TRADITIONS

P.O. Box 1683

Alexander City, AL 35011

Phone: (205) 777-2418

Cole Price

IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS, INC. DBA IMMEDIATE

1500 1st Avenue North

Unit 28

Birmingham, AL 35203

Phone: 1-888-907-9764

Sameer Ratani

K&A FOOD MART

4551 Rice Mine Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 759-2163

AMR Salman

L&H CONTRACTORS, INC.

7235 Sanders Ferry Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 792-8086

Joe R. Hughes III

LIFT ALABAMA, INC.

4631 23rd St

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 614-3645

Corey Waldon

LITTLE 5 PIZZERIA

1130 University Blvd. B6

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 737-7769

Emily Feltman

LOVE, SHARON LLC

3101 42nd Ave

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 291-8718

Tameka Carey

LUCCA BOUTIQUE

2111 University Blvd

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 247-4910

Katie McKelvey

MORTGAGERIGHT

1475 Northbank Parkway

Ste 275

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 813-7444

Hayley Sansing

MOVEMENT MORTGAGE

2021 8th Street Suite A

Tuscaloosa, AL 35402

Phone: (205) 908-8202

Morgan Sawyer

NECE FLORAL DESIGNS

15220 Starboard Place

Northport , Alabama 35475

Phone: (205) 826-1041

ONE MORE GYM

6551 Alabama Hwy 69 South

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 409-8976

Jamie Sullivan

ORKIN PEST CONTROL

4029 Greensboro Ave Ste D

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 759-5775

Dwayne Hazel

PREWETT PEST CONTROL

WEST AL

2709 Lily Circle

Northport, AL 35473

Phone: (205) 310-0775

Toby Turner

PROGRESS BANK

1661 McFarland Boulevard N

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 705-1500

Brad Hayes

SCHNELLECKE LOGISTICS

ALABAMA

11019 M Class Boulevard

Vance, AL 35490

Phone: (205) 393-8054

Brandy Snipes

SHRIMP BASKET

3429 McFarland Blvd East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 469-9786

Kevin Joyce

SOUTHERN HOMES

2201 Jack Warner Parkway

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 758-1040

Kathy Czukor

SOUTHERN ROOTS HAIR STUDIO

1800 McFarland Blvd. East Suite 214

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 556-4924

Brittney Wetzel

SPENCER MANAGEMENT

LLC

6551 Covington Villas

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 575-2192

Oscar Fortson

STANTON CHASE

3117 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 101

Birmingham , Alabama 35243

Phone: (205) 394-9763

Tony Johnson

T-MOBILE

1413 McFarland Blvd E

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 344-9166

Danielle Dearman

THE GRAND SALON & SPA

1420 B Greensboro Ave

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 872-7885

Rachel Gaddy

THE PRESERVE AT TUSCALOOSA

301 Helen Keller Blvd

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 554-1556

Sarah Sarratt

TIGHT FIT DUMPSTERS

1130 University Blvd, Suite B9 #425

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 534-3601

Erik Smith

VELOCITY CYCLES LLC

401A 22nd Avenue

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401

Phone: (205) 344-5971

Morgan Hunt

WARRIOR WASTE SERVICES, LLC

3630 Northbrook Drive, Suite A

Northport, Alabama 35473

Phone: (205) 330-2434

Brock Phifer

WORKAHOLIC MOVIE PRODUCTIONS

3620 19th Street

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401

Phone: (404) 988-6177

David Williams

YELLOWHAMMER CANDLE CO.

2801-2 Lurleen Wallace Blvd.

Northport, AL 35476

Phone: (205) 393-7204

Kyle Dunkling

LEADING THE WAY

NEXT LEVEL INITIATIVE INVESTORS

GAME CHANGERS

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

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

INVESTOR LEADERS Alabama Credit Union | AT&T | Barge Design Solutions, Inc. | Cintas | Industrial Warehouse Services Inc. | John Plott Company Inc. | McGiffert and Associates, LLC | Paragon HM Wealth Management | Parker Towing Company | Pritchett-Moore, Inc. | Spire, Inc. | The Onin Group | The Westervelt Company | Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. | TTL, Inc. | Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Company | ZF Chassis Systems, LLC

GROWTH PARTNERS Adams Beverages | Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama | 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 | Lance Hocutt Financial Group | Lear Corporation | Northport Auto Supply | Plaster, Scarvey & Shumaker of Ameriprise Financial | Robertson Banking Company | The Builders Group of West Alabama | The Legacy Connection (TLC) | The Radiology Clinic | University of Alabama System | Ward Scott Architecture | Way, Ray, Shelton & Company, PC-CPA

COMMUNITY COLLEAGUES ARD Logistics-Alabama, LLC | Bama Concrete Products Co., Inc. | BankFirst | BBVA | Cadence Bank, N.A. | Chick-fil-A of Northport | Echols, Taylor & Associates, P.C. | 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

SINCE 1962, MCABEE HAS CALLED TUSCALOOSA HOME AND IS PROUD TO EMPLOY A LOCAL WORKFORCE, PRIORITIZE SAFETY, QUALITY, AND PRODUCTIVITY, AND ENGAGE WITH THE COMMUNITY WE LOVE.