Rising Tide - Q2 2022

2022.Q2

CHAMPIONS FOR EXCELLENT

NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE

JASMINE & RAWLINGS JONES

NICU Mom and Patient

Rawlings was born prematurely and spent 11 weeks in the NICU at DCH. Prior to discharge, NICU parents watch the “Just in Time” CPR video instructions and practice with a doll to learn infant CPR. When Rawlings stopped breathing at home, Jasmine knew what to do. She credits DCH for teaching her the skills to save her son’s life.

“They really have become like our family.” – Jasmine Jones

Read Jasmine’s story at dchsystem.com/stories

A WORD FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

PUBLISHED BY

2222 9th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 758-7588 westalabamachamber.com

EDITOR

ALEX HOUSE alex@westalabamachamber.com

DESIGN & PREPRESS

Liz young lizyoung@alliancegrp.net

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

TANYA WINSTEAD tanya@westalabamachamber.com

On the cover: 2022.Q2

Community leaders convene at Ross Bridge for The Next Level Summit

Cover Photo: Alex House

CONNECT WITH THE CHAMBER West Alabama Chamber @WestALChamber The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama @WestALChamber

In April, we concluded two months of The Next Level Series forums with The Next Level Summit, where more than 100 community leaders from the public, private, nonprofit, and educations sectors participated. Both The Next Level Series and The Next Level Summit exceeded every expectation we had in terms of overall community involvement, issue framing and education, and identification of desired outcomes. We are already seeing progress being made on several of the critically important issues that were addressed.

A sincere thank you to The University of Alabama and all of the Summit’s generous sponsors, as well as to the speakers who addressed the group: UA President Stuart Bell, State Finance Director Bill Poole, and Mayor Walt Maddox. Also, huge kudos to the team of moderators who led The Next Level Series and the breakout sessions at the Summit: Tripp Powell, Michele Coley, Judge Rob Robertson, Donny Jones, Dr. Russ Mumper, Dan Blakley, Elizabeth Winter, and Dr. Terri Boman.

We have released an executive summary of the action items that came out of The Summit, and I encourage you to visit WestAlabamaChamber.com to delve into those and discover ways you can be involved in bettering our community.

The Chamber’s monthly Public Affairs Council meetings will serve as a primary venue for ongoing updates from all new committees, task forces, and working groups identified as needed during the Summit. Coordination of stakeholder advocacy for the stated policy positions will also be coordinated through the Public Affairs Council. We strongly encourage anyone interested in any of the primary topics to attend.

The unprecedented gathering of top community leaders and high level of engagement was an ideal launching point for continued multijurisdictional, multisector collaboration on every significant issue our community faces going forward. Let’s use these strengthened relationships and positive momentum to make big things happen for our great community!

Jim Page

Rising Tide is published by Alliance Publishing, LLC for the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.

Alliance Publishing, LLC also produces membership directories, retirement and relocation guides, quality of life magazines, visitor and tourism brochures and business marketing materials. © Copyright 2022 Alliance Publishing, LLC All right reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

JIM M. PAGE, CCE, IOM PRESIDENT AND CEO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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Professional Staff 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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 4 ANNUAL MEETING 8 NEXT LEVEL SERIES 14 NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS 16 WORKFORCE 21 NEW MEMBERS 22 HERE WE GROW AGAIN 24 NEXT LEVEL INVESTORS A WORD FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

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, Workforce Development (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

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, Chip Fuqua, 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, 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

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 Readiness Chip Fuqua Mercedes-Benz International, Inc. 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

“No other bank could take care of us like they did.”

Wayne and Karen Brown, owners Brown’s Collision Center Tuscaloosa

wabt.com facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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ANNUAL MEETING

PHOTOS BY: SEED CREATIVE

CHAMBER HONORS TOP VOLUNTEERS AT ANNUAL CELEBRATION The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama recognized top volunteers during its 121st annual celebration, presented on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022 by The University of Alabama at the Bryant Conference Center.

Michele Coley of Allstate Coley Agency was named the Charles H. Land Member of the Year, the Chamber’s highest honor presented to an individual member. Coley, who serves on the Chamber’s Board of Directors, has been an active volunteer for the organization, and has been named the 2023 board chair.

A committed community volunteer, Coley is part of several local organizations including serving on the City of Tuscaloosa Elevate Advisory Council, The University of Alabama College of Continuing Studies Board of Visitors and is a member of the City of Tuscaloosa Zoning Board of Adjustment. She also

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serves on the Chamber’s Executive Committee as Vice Chair, Leadership and Community Development and was instrumental in the revitalization of the Diverse Business Council and the Women’s Leadership Alliance.

“Michele Coley is fully dedicated to serving the West Alabama community, and the Chamber is fortunate to have her on our team,” said Jim Page, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.

“The work she has done to bring new energy to the Diverse Business Council and Women’s Leadership Alliance is truly making a difference. Her passion for the community is unmatched and she will continue to be an asset to West Alabama.”

ANNUAL MEETING

The Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Whitni Molden of Hotel Capstone.

The Robert C. Tanner Corporate Service Award, which recognizes the corporate leadership, philanthropic efforts and community service by a member entity in the West Alabama region, was presented to DCH Health System.

The Chairman’s Leadership Award was presented to Terry Saban. Saban is devoted to serving the West Alabama community through her commitment to initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity, the Nick’s Kids Foundation and, most recently, her partnership with the City of Tuscaloosa to develop the Saban Center, a state-of-the-art, interactive education center for children. Katie King, Director of The Nick's Kids Foundation accepted the award on her behalf.

The H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneurial Rising Star Award was presented to Rebecca Patterson and Taylor Pearce of Gourmade Kitchen.

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ANNUAL MEETING

The Non-Profit of the Year Award was presented to the Whatley Health Services.

The Chamber also recognized outstanding community leadership with the presentation of two Distinguished Service Awards, which are presented to individuals or organizations for their service and leadership. The awards were presented to Kim Ingram of Hayes Ingram, LLC and Dr. Billy Kirkpatrick of Five Horizons Health Services.

The H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneur of the Year was presented to Inge Beeker of Beeker Property Group.

The Diverse Business Council Trailblazer Award was presented to Cassius Lanier, owner of Lanier Automotive and a member of the City of Tuscaloosa City Council.

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MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN

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COMMUNITY LEADERS VISIT MONTGOMERY FOR ANNUAL DRIVE-IN More than 85 Chamber members from a range of industries and occupations traveled to the state capitol Feb. 9 and 10 to meet with elected officials for the annual Montgomery Drive-In. Tackling a variety of topics, the delegation, which included members of the 2021 Leadership Tuscaloosa class, also attended the Business Council of Alabama’s Legislative Reception, where they networked with officials from across the state.

The event kicked off with a luncheon at the Alabama Activity Center, where Director of Finance and Senior Advisor to the Governor Bill Poole gave a state budget update and an overview of Governor Ivey’s administrative priorities. The group then met at the Alabama Capitol building, where they engaged with their current legislative delegation and met with several lobbyists to discuss the important role they have in the legislative process.

Day two began with an Alabama education update with State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey and a discussion on Alabama’s labor shortage with the Alabama Department of Labor Secretary, Fitzgerald Washington.

After observing the legislature in action in the House and Senate galleries, the two-day event wrapped up with a luncheon featuring Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth at the RSA Plaza Terrace.

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NEXT LEVEL SERIES

THE PROCESS

More than 100 community leaders from the public, private, nonprofit and education sectors convened at the Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort April 13-15 for The Next Level Summit. This three-day event allowed for candid, in-depth discussions on a variety of pressing community issues. Multiple breakout sessions were held on each of the highlighted topics and the discussions were moderated by the same local leaders who led panel discussions during The Next Level Series, several issuefocused educational forums that preceded the Summit.

These discussions resulted in the creation of proactive action items to address many of the challenges and opportunities identified through both the Series and

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Summit. Various local stakeholder groups will take on the responsibility of these action items, including the Chamber through its upcoming five-year strategic plan.

Numerous public policy-related items were also thoroughly considered during the Summit, and the subsequent positions will become priorities of the Chamber’s Public Policy Agenda immediately. The Chamber’s Public Affairs Council will serve as a primary venue for ongoing updates from all newly formed committees, task forces, and working groups, and will also coordinate stakeholder advocacy on the identified public policy priorities.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION Continue to populate and promote the Diverse Business Council’s online Marketplace, housed on the Chamber’s website Establish mentoring programs for diverse and disadvantaged businesses Expand participation in Chamber programming for diverse and disadvantaged businesses Promote diversity in speakers and outreach efforts within schools and community groups Continue Chamber-led DEI luncheon discussions with leaders from the minority business community, to include Hispanic representation

“

I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and view it as extremely valuable feedback for our community’s leadership and stakeholders. [The Chamber] did an excellent job organizing and coordinating this event.

— WHITNEY OSWALT, ALABAMA ONE

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

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Create an inclusive and collaborative economic development plan that aligns with The University of Alabama’s expertise in four key areas: Mobility, Power, and Transportation; Water Research; Point-of-Need Manufacturing; and Life Science and Health Establish the Tuscaloosa Innovation District, with the Alabama Mobility and Power (“AMP”) Center as the cornerstone of this effort Build a cohesive economic development targeting strategy that considers community values and desires; the existing industry base; regional resources and assets; area economic trends; and forecasted industry trends Explore the development of additional small business incubators and business accelerators Develop a local Angel Investors Network and/or Venture Capital Network Promote the development of office space with the amenities business owners will find attractive (Class A office space, wet lab space, nearby coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, etc.)

Develop a comprehensive strategic plan for the retention of college graduates Advocate for state and local incentives that support the needs of knowledge-based companies Advocate for state legislation that would make Tax Increment Financing (TIF) more viable for local government

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CHAMBER NEXT LEVEL ATSERIES WORK HEALTHCARE Encourage the DCH Board and community leaders to explore all options for a new healthcare delivery model, including, but not limited to, a potential merger or affiliation of DCH with a larger healthcare system Encourage transparency and regular communication by DCH leadership with community stakeholders

INFRASTRUCTURE Create multijurisdictional working groups to lead infrastructure planning discussions and leverage investment opportunities whenever possible Advocate for flexibility in planning and zoning for surface transportation projects Advocate for legislation to allow concrete or asphalt mix to reduce the cost of road projects Extend infrastructure into undeveloped areas prior to the development Research solutions to eliminate traffic on the roadways, including bus-only lanes, bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, high-density mixed-use developments Explore expansion of intercity public transportation Continue to aggressively pursue commercial service at the Tuscaloosa National Airport

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Advocate for changes in state legislation as needed regarding the use of public money to partner with private company for the expansion of broadband

Awesome job - from conception, to planning, to execution. [The Chamber] didn't miss a detail. And the best part is all of the amazing content and ideas contained in the executive summary. These action items are a roadmap for genuine positive change in West Alabama.

PUBLIC EDUCATION

— DAN MCCORMACK, CHESAPEAKE CONSULTING, INC.

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Re-establish the Chamber’s Education Policy Council to convene leaders from the education, public, private, and non-profit sectors on education issues Tap into under-represented volunteer groups to support education initiatives

Develop alliance between public schools and Business Network International (BNI) groups and other business networking groups to assist with and broker resources Review and enhance the expectations of the Adopt-A-School program Advocate for increasing millage tax in Tuscaloosa County Advocated for adding parent liaisons to schools to facilitate needs to the community Support public investment in first class athletic facilities at local schools Support and promote participation in the Neighborhood Bridges program Support increased engagement in and expansion of the Reading Allies program

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PUBLIC SAFETY Create a public safety committee, comprised of public, private, and non-profit sector leaders, to convene on all related public safety issues Advocate for more mental health beds in our community and support the development of the new Mental Health Crisis Center in Tuscaloosa County Support early intervention programs in schools and advocate for changes in juvenile sentencing policies Promote the expansion of Safeguard Tuscaloosa, a business security cameras campaign, throughout Tuscaloosa County Support the City of Tuscaloosa’s Police and Fire Pension Fund conversion to the Retirement Systems of Alabama Support a comprehensive review of the funding model for the Tuscaloosa County District Attorney’s office

QUALITY OF LIFE: CULTURAL ARTS Advocate for the expansion of Live at the Plaza and combining it with First Friday Advocate for the installation of string lights on the Art Walk Trail throughout downtown Tuscaloosa Reactivate the downtown business merchant association, under the leadership of Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports, the Chamber, and other key stakeholders Advocate for the renovation of the Bama Theatre and expanded bus parking Create a task force to explore development of an arts incubator and arts district (like Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment Districts in Huntsville) Promote private ventures for performance venues Pursue local government policies of at least 1% of capital budgets dedicated to public art Create a QR code to promote the Arts Council event and program calendar

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Create a dedicated fund for the promotion of the cultural arts

I’m looking forward to staying actively engaged in these topics and be part of contributing to implementing actionable items to move these topics forward.

— ROLF WRONA, MERCEDES-BENZ U.S INTERNATIONAL

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NEXT LEVEL SERIES QUALITY OF LIFE: RECREATION Encourage the Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority (PARA) Governing Board to redefine its mission and develop a master plan, which includes the consolidation of PARA the into three primary areas of focus: Summer Camp/Child Care, Youth Sports, and Programming for Seniors and Fitness Advocate for the prevention of duplicated services and events in local jurisdictions Promote the community calendar housed on the Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports website Advocate for expanded recreational use of the Black Warrior River and for expanded promotion of the area as a fishing community

WORKFORCE BARRIERS: CHILDCARE Create a task force of public, private, education and non-profit leaders to guide childcare expansion efforts Work with the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to develop a program to assist the creation of new “in-home” childcare centers throughout West Alabama Work with early childhood development programs at Shelton State Community College, Stillman College, and The University of Alabama to develop a toolkit, resource guide, and mentoring programs to support existing childcare centers Develop a strong connection between local non-profits and in-home centers to support working families

WORKFORCE BARRIERS: HOUSING Create a task force consisting of developers, government officials, and industry leaders to explore non-jurisdictional projects, incentives, industry partnerships, utility costs, and development costs Encourage City of Tuscaloosa officials to ensure its Framework plan has the appropriate zoning for “missing middle” housing Encourage the use of tiered housing developments, a mix of affordable, workforce, and higher-end housing Promote housing partnerships between industry, the public sector, and private developers Explore a feeder school project to develop a workforce community, similar to recent workforce housing efforts in Baldwin County

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WORKFORCE BARRIERS: TRANSPORTATION Create a multijurisdictional task force to explore all public transportation expansion options Create a true Tuscaloosa County Transit Authority with funding added from Tuscaloosa County and Northport, to allow for more routes to business and industry throughout the county Review the creation of a West Alabama Transit Authority with the West Alabama Regional Commission utilizing Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) Program funding for workforce transportation Revisit the City of Tuscaloosa’s Elevate Transportation Plan to focus on routes and times that better align with workforce shifts in the manufacturing community

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Develop a metro and regional business plan for workforce transportation, in partnership with local government and The University of Alabama

What I was most impressed by was the way that the Chamber structured this summit to create action items from each conversation and assign responsible groups to ensure that the outcome of these conversation was not just talk, but real change.”

— MAYOR WALT MADDOX, CITY OF TUSCALOOSA

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NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS 22ND DISTRICT DEPARTMENT OF ALABAMA, AMERICAN LEGION

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, LLC

Non-Profit Organizations

Clothing - Retail

11672 Elam Dr Northport, AL 35475 Phone: (205) 394-0359 Linda Lee

919 High Field Road Tuscaloosa , Alabama 35405 Phone: (442) 259-1971 LaShonda Foster

2ND & CHARLES

BOBAMANIA

Book Sellers

Restaurants

2360 McFarland Boulevard East Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35404 Phone: (205) 561-0779 Billie Morse 4-ES- ELOGENE'S EXQUISITE ELEGANCE WITH EXCELLENCE

11 Lakeshore Drive Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 792-9997

1914 University Blvd Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (828) 989-6799 Shannon Grady

Non-Profit Organizations ALABAMA ASSOCIATION OF NONPROFITS

C&C LOGISTICS LLC

Non-Profit Organizations

Non-Profit Organizations 3611 Rice Mine Rd NE, Lot 55 Tuscaloosa, Al 35406 Phone: (205) 887-9191 Chereigna Hughes

Trucking Companies

ALABAMA GOODWILL INDUSTRIES CDS FITNESS LLC

1140 Veterans Memorial Pkwy Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 323-6331 Katie Hannah

5479 Skyland Blvd E, Suite 9 Cottondale, AL 35453 Phone: (205) 887-1217 Corace Stewart

ALABAMA NATIONAL GUARD

CELEBRITY TRESSES LLC

Non-Profit Organizations

1720 W.L. Dickinson Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 Phone: (334) 273-3544 Stephen Morris

Government

ANGEL FOOD AND CAKES

729 Shadyhill Road Tuscaloosa , Alabama 35406 Phone: (205) 534-9226 Angel Hill

Caterers

ASI STAFF, INC

4000 Eagle Point Corporate Dr Birmingham, AL 34242 Jason Manning Phone: 877-90-STAFF

Employment Contractors / Staffing AWW SHUCKS LLC

3439 Lorna Lane Hoover, AL 35216 Phone: (205) 200-2591 Phillip Powell

Food Trucks

BAMA WASTE LLC

9100 Energy Lane Northport, AL 35476 Phone: (205) 878-4848 John Lancaster

Waste Reduction / Disposal / Recycle Trucking - Hauling/Off Loading BEHAVIORAL HEALTH GROUP

1001 Mimosa Park Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 752-5857 Shannon Strickland

Health Care Services - Substance Abuse

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DOS AMIGOS MEXICAN GRILL

HP CLEANING SERVICE

Restaurants

Janitorial Services

13580 Hwy 69 North Northport, AL 35475 Phone: (205) 737-7344 Lauren Lashley

Fitness Centers

12314 Huntington Village Drive Northport, AL 35475 Phone: (205) 399-9611 Beverly Hood

INLINE ELECTRIC SUPPLY

Rental Properties

Electric Equipment / Supplies

1901 8th Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 409-3260 Amber Walker EH GROUP INC.

Phone: (817) 999-1441 Virginia Andrews

Engineers - Professional / Consulting

1649 McFarland Blvd N Ste 403 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 650-6945 Elizabeth Powell

Insurance

Restaurants

914 Doctor Edward Hilliard Dr. Tuscaloosa, AL 35410 Phone: 1-205-440-7728 David Gandy

Health Care Services - Outpatient

Telecommunications & Phone Systems

Photographers

Real Estate Management

Phone: (205) 765-9892 JacQuail Robinson

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors MACARONI KID TUSCALOOSA

5207 Candlewood Drive Stephanie Horton

Advertising & Marketing MAGNOLIA SOAP AND BATH COMPANY

1800 McFarland Blvd. E, SUITE 216 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (251) 366-0900 Emily Burriss

Retail - Specialty Retailer Retail MASWER USA, INC.

4029 Greensboro Ave Ste A Tuscaloosa , Al 35405 Phone: (205) 306-5505 Dorcas Britford

2627 10th Avenue #121 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (205) 886-0256 OR (205) 886-0058 Bethany Raygoza

GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL

METRO DINER

1500 Commerce Drive Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (321) 297-5537 LaTonya Burnley

Manufacturing & Production HARLESS AND COMPANY, LLC

CRAWFORD SQUARE REAL ESTATE 1070 22nd Avenue ADVISORS Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

2700 2nd Ave S Suite 200 Birmingham , AL 35233 Phone: (205) 381-1121 Hollyann Luker

Individual

FLAVAZ SEAFOOD AND SOULFOOD Northport, AL 35473 RESTAURANT Phone: (903) 215-0431

GAZELLE PRODUCTIONS

Hotels / Motels / Bed & Breakfast / Lodging

5228 1st Ct. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 James Williams Phone: (205) 454-4575

FARMERS INSURANCE- ELIZABETH 3610 Watermelon Road Suite 102 POWELL & ASSOC. LLC Northport, AL 35473

COMCAST BUSINESS

2285 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 614-9600 Brenda Wallace

Fitness Centers

JR REAL ESTATE AND CO.

FRESENIUS KIDNEY CARE

COMFORT INN & SUITES

400 McFarland Blvd. Suites C1&C2 Northport, AL 35476 Phone: (205) 242-1400 Izzy Luna

Retail Retail - Boutique

CHRIS MILLER - MILLER REALTY EXP REALTY

6200 The Corners Parkway Norcross, Georgia 30092 Phone: (256) 924-4424 Darren Sanders

IZZY BOXING GYM

JAMES WILLIAMS

2692 23rd Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 535-6891 Emma Richardson-Williams

Hair Salons/ Barber Shops Retail Services

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

2104 Greensboro Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 752-5252 Billy Watson

EXTRAVAGANT GLITZ

1701 McFarland Blvd East, Suite 182 Tuscaloosa , Al 35404 Phone: (205) 826-6054 ASHLEY Williams

2924 Robinwood Lane Northport, AL 35476 Phone: (205) 657-5903 Chris Miller

3410 1st Court Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 657-3767 Howard Pickens

DRUID CITY PROPERTIES, LLC

BUILDING BRIDGES INSTITUTE FOR 618 19th Ave. RACIAL RECONCILIATION Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401

2822 Fosters Ferry Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 553-3076 Carol Caffee

P.O. Box 293932 Birmingham, AL 35209 Phone: (205) 726-4712 Danielle Dunbar

DECEMBER THROUGH APRIL

Phone: (205) 710-5009 Jeffery Harless

Contractors - General HOMERN

4326 Kennesaw Drive Birmingham, AL 35213 Phone: (205) 789-7780 Julianne Walker

Health Care Services - Nursing

Engineers - Professional / Consulting

1800 McFarland Blvd East #404 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 464-9428 Alexandria Pitts

Restaurants

METRO MECHANICAL SERVICES INC.

851 N. Pine Hill Road Birmingham, AL 35217 Phone: (205) 841-9742 Jennifer Talton

Services

NORTHPORT LIONS CLUB

P.O. Box 178 Northport, AL 35476 Phone: (205) 242-1879 Phillip Lee

Non-Profit Organizations NORTHRIVER LAWN SERVICE LLC

5318 Rice Mine Road NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 535-5290 Jason Barksdale

Landscape / Lawn Care

OCTAVIA NEAL, REALTORCARRIE FITTS REAL ESTATE

SELF IT UP, LLC

2402 Stardust Drive Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 246-0229 Tamika Malveo

Video - Multimedia - Production Entertainment / Recreation SENATOR TOMMY TUBERVILLE'S OFFICE

3000 Riverchase Galleria Suite 915 Hoover, AL 35244 Phone: (202) 941-0983 Mike Raita

2111 14th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35402 Phone: (205) 356-0312 Octavia Neal

SOUTHERN ROOFING AND RENOVATIONS

PERCEPTION COUNSELING SERVICES

Contractors - Roofing

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

980 31st Avenue Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (205) 722-2294 Chris Useo

2824 7th Street Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (205) 723-2389 Jennifer Vanhorn

STYLE CONNECTION UNLIMITED LLC

PIZZA HUT #039001

Hair Salons/ Barber Shops

Counselors

1875 McFarland Blvd. N Ste 150 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 579-1706 Michael Quinn

Restaurants

POPPIN' SISTERS POPCORN & TREATS, LLC

P.O. Box 2371 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 Phone: (205) 792-7105 Marleshia Hall

3888 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 758-6004 Johnny Weatherspoon

TAYLOR HARDIN SECURE MEDICAL FACILITY

1301 Jack Warner Pkwy NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 462-4506 Kimberly McAlpine

THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC TUSCALOOSA

1320 McFarland Blvd E., Suite 225 Tuscaloosa , AL 35401 Phone: (205) 660-2700 Bryan McDonald

Physicians - Chiropractic THE LINK COWORK COMMUNITY

6110 Watermelon Rd, Ste 150 Northport, AL 35473 Phone: (205) 561-2225 Briana Varner

Non-Profit Organizations

TNT'S CONSTRUCTION LLC

210 15th Street East Apt 28 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401 Phone: (205) 239-4539 Thomas Todd

Contractors - General

TRACY DENT FOUNDATION

15769 Thomas Chapel Road Cottondale, ALABAMA 35453 Phone: (205) 246-5655 Tracy Dent-Rivers

Non-Profit Organizations TRUELOVES WAY, LLC

TURBO COFFEE ROASTERS

2010 8th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 860-5117 Carley Gelb

Restaurants

TUSCALOOSA EAR NOSE & THROAT CENTER/FYZICAL

1300 McFarland Blvd NE Ste 150 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 758-9041 Amy Rogers

Health Care Services - General TUSCALOOSA EDUCATION FOUNDATION- NEIGHBORHOOD BRIDGES

2720 6th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 792-0077 Terri Boman

Non-Profit Organizations VISIONS REALTY CO, LLC

3816 Palisades Dr Ste A Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 393-8620 Makeia Wynn

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

2105 Inverness Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 886-7331 Daniel Truelove

Publishing

Mental Health Services

Bakeries - Retail

RED RHINO OFFICE SUPPLIES

850 Union Chapel Road East Northport, AL 35473 Phone: (205) 764-0653 Frankie Mann

Office Supplies / Machines / Service

RODEWAY INN TUSCALOOSA NEAR UNIVERSITY

4300 SKYLAND BLVD E TUSCALOOSA, Alabama 35405 Phone: (205) 556-5696 Rita Patel

Hotels / Motels / Bed & Breakfast / Lodging ROYAL DYNASTY FITNESS GYM

1000 Union Chapel Rd E 24 Northport, Alabama 35473 Phone: (205) 657-6678 Leonard Williams, Jr

Fitness Centers

RTR PRO ENTERTAINMENT

6115 Cottonwood Place Cottondale, AL 35453 Phone: (205) 826-9477 Daniel Barnett

Entertainment / Recreation Music Instruction / Instruments" Daniel Barnett SAYCHEESE SELFIE MUSEUM

1701 McFarland Blvd E Tuscaloosa, AL 35444 Phone: (205) 902-2521 Damario Ford

Services - Scales / Sales / Retail Photographers facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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CHAMBER AT WORK WORKFORCE

KHADIJAH TORBERT

WEST ALABAMA CHAMBER AND WEST ALABAMAWORKS! PARTNER WITH ACCE TO WELCOME COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE NATION TO LEARN BEST PRACTICES What can Ohio, Texas or even Montana learn from the state of Alabama?

When it comes to workforce innovation, the resounding answer is quite a lot.

"We wanted to find out who in the country is doing it better than everyone,” Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Shane Etzwiler said.

Thanks to the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), multiple groups have and will “touch down” in Title town for the West Alabama Workforce Innovations Tour to look at the West AlabamaWorks! and Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s workforce system.

Organized by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and West AlabamaWorks!, the tour groups experience our economic, education and workforce development strategies, as well as the partnerships that have transformed us into a nationally recognized workforce champion and a vital aspect of being named the 2021 Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Chamber of the Year.

The first tour group came March 10-11, 2022 from Great Falls, Montana with over 25 guests made up of Montana legislators, educators, city and government officials, as well as the President and CEO of Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and his team.

“It is something to hear it, but it is something entirely different to see it in action,” Wendy McKamey, House of Representatives District 19, Montana said.

16 westalabamachamber.com

During the two-day tour of West Alabama, guests were able to get a first-hand look at West AlabamaWorks!’s partnerships with education by visiting the Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy to see how career pathway opportunities and curriculum are right at the hands of students daily, the success of Modern Manufacturing by visiting the Brookwood Career Tech Annex and touring the logistics and manufacturing programs there, as well as hear from Alabama Department of Labor Secretary, Fitzgerald Washington about ways to align workforce regions to facilitate better distribution of the states workforce resources.

"Seeing [West Alabama’s] model will help us go back to Montana and actually do those innovative expansion things,” Tammie Hickey, Director of College Readiness Center, Montana, said.

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and West AlabamaWorks! continue to welcome groups across the nation to visit our community and have now hosted four additional groups. facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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CHAMBER AT WORK WORKFORCE

KHADIJAH TORBERT

WEST ALABAMA CHAMBER AND WEST ALABAMA COMPANIES CONDUCTED ONSITE INTERVIEWS AT URGENT HIRING FAIR

D

Due to an unexpected industry closure in Fayette County on Wednesday, March 16, West AlabamaWorks! along with several Fayette-based businesses representing many industry sectors put together an urgent hiring event for Fayette County residents on Friday, March 18 to assist the 90 employees displaced.

“Situations like these are when we as an organization can help to fill a need even at a moment’s notice,” said Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama COO and West Alabama Works Executive Director Donny Jones. "Through this event local job seekers were able to attend and explore available career pathways and be connected to education and training opportunities in their community.”

The following companies participated and conducted onsite interviews at the hiring event: Tiffin Homes, King Kutter, Clayton Supply, NW AL Mental Health, Showa Gloves, Root Mart, Dal Tile, Interfor, Phifer Inc, and Max Homes.

“Being a new Mayor, it is not something I prepared for,” said Northam. “If we tried to do that alone it would not have been as successful. I can’t express enough gratitude for the help and guidance of West AlabamaWorks! We got folks employed quickly with little down time after the closure,” Rod Northam, City of Fayette mayor said.

18 westalabamachamber.com

facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

19

TIMELINE TWO DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT: The workforce team went into planning and action mode calling the Fayette Plant Manager, Mayor of Fayette, the Alabama Career Center, and the Northwest Alabama Economic Development Alliance, which covers Fayette, Lamar, and Marion counties. After those conversations, an outreach event was immediately planned for Friday, March 18 at the Fayette Civic Center.

Local companies were contacted to see if they would be able to perform on-site interviews in the Fayette community on short notice and sent those who could attend the West AlabamaWorks! outreach process to prep for Friday’s urgent hiring event.

An automated call was sent to Fayette School Systems letting parents know that the event would be taking place. Flyers were sent to the Fayette Community for distribution the day of the closure. A press release went out to regional media partners and the event was publicized on West AlabamaWorks! social media platforms.

ONE DAY BEFORE THE EVENT: The West AlabamaWorks! team created and gathered signage for the event, charged and prepped laptops for the attendees to register for Career Connect on site. QR codes were set-up for the hiring event that allowed attendees to scan and pre-register their information using Career Connect right on their phones.

DAY OF THE EVENT: The West AlabamaWorks! team continued to push social media posts with live updates of the event. 65 individuals attended the event. All participants were captured in Career Connect and anyone who did not get a job offer that day is receiving additional job opportunities through that system.

20 westalabamachamber.com

“

Once we received the call that

“

CHAMBER AT WORK WORKFORCE

West AlabamaWorks! would help put together a hiring event, the ball rolled quickly. The day of

the event I was in awe of the process of residents being pointed to a job that fit them and leaving with a career.

— MAYOR ROD NORTHAM, CITY OF FAYETTE

1213 McFarland Boulevard, Tuscaloosa | 205.391.4585 info@ nancytaylordayspa.com | nancytaylordayspa.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS AND GROUNDBREAKINGS

HERE WE GROW AGAIN

2ND & CHARLES

ALABAMA GOODWILL INDUSTRIES

ALEXANDRA'S

AMERICA'S CAR-MART OF TUSCALOOSA

6210 University Blvd E Cottondale, AL 35453 Phone: (205) 507-7875 Brittani Brooks

1001 Mimosa Park Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 752-5857 Shannon Strickland

BOBAMANIA

BUILDING BRIDGES INSTITUTE FOR RACIAL RECONCILIATION

CDS FITNESS

2360 McFarland Boulevard East Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 561-0779 Billie Morse

700 Towncenter Blvd Suite 1 Tuscaloosa, Al 35406 Phone: (251) 564-4173 Dana Plott

1914 University Blvd Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (828) 989-6799 Shannon Grady

1140 Veterans Memorial Pkwy Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Phone: (205) 323-6331 Katie Hannah

2822 Fosters Ferry Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 553-3076 Carol Caffee

ALABAMA ONE - LAKE VIEW BRANCH

22170 AL-216 McCalla, AL 35111 Phone: (205) 759-1595 Whitney Oswalt

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH GROUP

5479 Skyland Blvd E, Suite 9 Cottondale, AL 35453 Phone: (205) 887-1217 Corace Stewart

facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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HERE WE GROW AGAIN

RIBBON CUTTINGS AND GROUNDBREAKINGS

COMCAST BUSINESS

DOS AMIGOS MEXICAN GRILL

FLAVAZ RESTAURANT

HARWOOD REAL ESTATE

JDOG JUNK REMOVAL AND HAULING

JR REAL ESTATE AND CO.

K&A FOOD MART

PERCEPTION COUNSELING SERVICES

PIZZA HUT

6200 The Corners Parkway Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: (256) 924-4424 Darren Sanders

2920 7th Street, Suite A Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 242-7104 Kim Harwood

4551 Rice Mine Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 759-2163 Amr Salman

22 westalabamachamber.com

13580 Hwy 69 North Northport, AL 35475 Phone: (205) 737-7344 Lauren Lashley

4869 Brook Highland Circle Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 579-2223 David Gillespie

2824 7th Street Tuscaloosa, Al 35401 Phone: (205) 723-2389 Jennifer Vanhorn

1701 McFarland Blvd East, Suite 182 Tuscaloosa, Al 35404 Phone: (205) 826-6054 Ashley Williams

3610 Watermelon Road Suite 102 Northport, AL 35473 Phone: (205) 765-9892 JacQuail Robinson

1875 McFarland Blvd. N Ste 150 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 579-1706 Michael Quinn

PREWETT PEST CONTROL

PRIDE OF TUSCALOOSA RX DROP BOX

PROGRESS BANK

SAYCHEESE SELFIE MUSEUM

SEED CREATIVE

STYLE CONNECTION SALON

THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC - TUSCALOOSA

THE LINK CO-WORK COMMUNITY

5126 McFarland Blvd. East Ste C Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 310-0775 Lee Thompson

1701 McFarland Blvd E Tuscaloosa, AL 35444 Phone: (205) 902-2521 Damario Ford

1320 McFarland Blvd E, Suite 225 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 660-2700 Bryan McDonald

22765 Central Park Drive Lake View, AL 35111 Phone: (205) 764-0351 Nicole Shine

402 20th Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Phone: (205) 886-1591 George Edmondson

1661 McFarland Boulevard N Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 705-1500 Brad Hayes

3888 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Phone: (205) 758-6004 Johnny Weatherspoon

6110 Watermelon Rd, Ste 150 Northport, AL 35473 Phone: (205) 561-2225 Briana Varner

facebook.com/westalchamber | twitter.com/westalchamber

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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

24 westalabamachamber.com

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HELPING STARTUPS AND ESTABLISHED FIRMS GROW The Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute is housed at The EDGE, Tuscaloosa’s home for start-ups, where it hosts programming and events designed for entrepreneurs and innovators. The EDGE provides amenities such as collaborative workspaces, conference rooms, and shared and private offices for startups and new businesses alike.

Visit aei.culverhouse.ua.edu to see how the Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute and The EDGE are providing opportunities for entrepreneurs across West Alabama.

The EDGE EDGE is is aa partnership partnership with with The The University University of of Alabama, Alabama, the the West West The Alabama Chamber Chamber of of Commerce, Commerce, and and the the City City of of Tuscaloosa.

Tuscaloosa. Resources Resources from from Alabama all all three three groups groups come come together together to to grow grow aa vibrant vibrant ecosystem ecosystem that that supports supports entrepreneurship, business business growth, growth, and and personal personal enterprise. enterprise. entrepreneurship,

2627 2627 10th 10th Avenue Avenue Tuscaloosa, Alabama Alabama 35401 35401 Tuscaloosa, 205-348-3343 205-348-3343 the-edge.ua.edu the-edge.ua.edu