Steve Hill AEgis Technologies Group 2012 Executive Leadership Award winner
Initiatives August 2013
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New Chamber Members JOINED IN MAY AGAPE of North Alabama B.L. Harbert International, LLC Brix - Tree Restaurant, Inc. Capital Concepts Carroll Hearing Associates, LLC Danny L. Alm, CPA, LLC DLB & Company, Inc Huntsville Sew & Vac LLC ICP Panel-Tec, Inc. International Chemical Products, Inc.
Jimmy Johns Jordon SPD, LLC Label-Aid Systems, Inc. Leo Law Firm, LLC Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Alabama/ Gulf Coast Chapter Liberty Tax Service Mapco - Highway 72 W Orion Technology, Inc. Planet Beach (WB George Enterprises, LLC) Prairie Creek Enterprises, LLC Print Two Impress Radisson Hotel Huntsville Airport Sports World Staples #1280 - North Parkway Strayer University Stuart Accounting Solutions, LLC Synergy Salon Spa The Red Team - Red Team Industries, Inc.
United Rentals Weichert, Realtors The Space Place Weston Ranch Apartments / Flournoy Properties Windstream Communications Victory Sweepers
JOINED IN JUNE ADT Security Services Ann Caraway, Realtor Associate - Rise Realty Ayers Farm Behind the Scenes Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Bio-Identical Hormones of Huntsville Bokler Systems Corp Brooks Moore C-S Associates, LLC Caelum Research Corporation Castal Resources, LLC Chick-Fil-A at Hampton Cove Contynuous.com Coti Global Sensors, Inc. F12 Photography Huntsville Inner City Learning Center Integrated Communication Solution (ICS) Integrated Management Solutions, Inc. Iron Tribe Fitness Lynelle’s Cake Decorating and Supplies Montessori School of Huntsville Paul Finley Consulting Premiere Dental, Inc. South Huntsville Dentistry, P.C. Space & Rocket Auto Sales Staples #1147 - Memorial Parkway S Synergia Communications, Inc. The Cozy Cow Urban Lens Studios VAPE ON! LLC Vortex Performance Training YP
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August 2013 Initiatives
Initiatives August 2013
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Thanks to Our Investors Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initiative
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
Development Partner ($200,000+ annually)
City of Huntsville Development Council ($120,000+ annually)
Huntsville Utilities Chairman’s Council ($75,000+ annually)
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc. President’s Circle
($50,000+ annually)
Huntsville Hospital Port of Huntsville Regions Bank Tennessee Valley Authority Leadership Forum ($25,000+ annually) ADTRAN, Inc. al.com / The Huntsville Times BBVA Compass Bank The Boeing Company City of Madison Emerson Network Power - Avocent Lockheed Martin Corporation Madison County Commission Redstone Federal Credit Union
Executive Council ($15,000+ annually)
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August 2013 Initiatives
AT&T BB&T Crestwood Medical Center Intergraph Corporation Northrop Grumman Corporation Parsons PNC Bank Qualitest Pharmaceuticals SES Wells Fargo Bank WEUP Verizon Wireless
Chamber Trustees ($10,000+ annually) AEgis Technologies Group Aerojet Rocketdyne Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Alabama Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc. DynCorp International Dynetics, Inc. First Commercial Bank Jerry Damson, Inc. L-3 Communications Corporation – Huntsville Operations
Progress Partners
Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Inc. Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne, P.C. Navistar Diesel of Alabama, LLC Raytheon Company S3 SAIC SportsMed Orthopaedic Spine & Surgery Center Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc. Wyle CAS Group
($5,000+ annually)
Ability Plus Analytical Services, Inc. A-P-T Research, Inc. Available Plastics Baron Services, Inc. Beason & Nalley, Inc. The Bentley Automotive Group Bill Penney Toyota-Mitsubishi BlueCreek Investment Partners Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Cadence Bank Clearview Cancer Institute Coates Transportation Group Colliers International Connected Logistics Consolidated Construction Company Davidson Technologies, Inc. ERC, Inc. Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc. hibu, publisher of Yellow Book Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association iBERIABANK
Intuitive Research & Technology Corporation J. Smith Lanier & Co. Joe H. Ritch Kudzu Productions, Inc. Landers McLarty Corporation LEAN Frog Business Solutions, Inc. LogiCore MTS, Inc. Progress Bank QinetiQ North America Radiance Technologies, Inc. Rosie’s Restaurants, Inc., & Right Way Restaurants, Inc. (DBA Steak Out) SELEX Galileo Inc. Strata-G Torch Technologies Turner U.S. Space & Rocket Center WAFF-TV Wilmer & Lee, P.A. Woody Anderson Ford
Progress Investors ($2,500+ annually) Alpha Beta Technologies, Inc. Anglin Reichmann Snellgrove & Armstrong, PC Averbuch Realty Co., Inc. - Scott Averbuch Aviagen, Inc. Bama Jammer, Inc. BancorpSouth Bryant Bank CB&S Bank CFD Research Corporation Coast Personnel Services deciBel Research Decisive Analytics Corporation Decosimo Certified Public Accountants DESE Research, Inc. Digium, Inc. Ducommun Miltec First Financial Group Wealth Management Fite Building Company, Inc. Foreign Language Services, Inc. Fountain, Parker, Harbarger & Associates, LLC 4SITE, Inc. G. W. Jones & Sons Consulting Engineers GATR Technologies Gray Enterprise Solutions Halsey Foodservice HEMSI Hiley Cars Huntsville Huntsville Botanical Garden Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau Huntsville Tractor & Equipment, Inc.
Investor’s Resource/Raymond James Financial Services KPS Group Leadership Huntsville/Madison County, Inc. The Lioce Group, Inc. MJLM Engineering & Technical Services Moog, Inc. National Bank of Commerce North Alabama Multiple Listing Service PALCO Telecom Service, Inc. PeopleTec PFM Group PHOENIX Pinnacle Solutions, Inc. PROJECTXYZ, Inc. QTEC, Inc. Qualis Corporation Renasant Bank RJ Young scsworx ServisFirst Bank Sierra Lobo, Inc. Sigmatech, Inc. Spencer Companies Incorporated Synapse Wireless, Inc. Systems Products and Solutions, Inc. URS Corporation Wesfam Restaurants, Inc. (Burger King) West Huntsville Land Co., Inc. WHNT-TV WILL Technology, Inc. Worthington Federal Bank
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August 2013 Initiatives
initiatives
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
august 2013
Nature Center, photo courtesy of Huntsville Botanical Garden
on the cover
WANTED: SMALL BUSINESSES Gearing up for the 28th Annual Small Business Awards About the Event: 18 About Steve Hill: 20 Cover design by K. Sherrard
features Economic Development Highlights
The Village of Providence, photo by Craig Shamwell
Huntsville/Madison County, Alabama is located in the middle of the southeastern United States, with more than four million people within a 100-mile radius. The Huntsville community is the economic hub of the northern Alabama/ southern Tennessee region. Huntsville/Madison County’s economy is one of the strongest in the nation, with low unemployment, strong job growth and income levels leading the region. Business growth and investment from U.S. and international companies have made it one of the country’s top “hot spots” for growing a business and raising a family.
Small Business Center Stage 2 2 Common Core 2 4 Small Business Awards Spotlight 2 8 Non-Profit Center Stage 3 0 Marshall Space Flight Center update 3 4
developments
Aerial view showing part of Cummings Research Park, photo by Marty Sellers
New Chamber Members
mission The mission of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
is to prepare, develop and promote our community for economic growth.
contact
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County 225 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801 main line: 256.535.2000 fax: 256.535.2015
fyi
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HREGI Investors Listing 4 Chamber Board Listing 8 Community Profile 13 Register Now: SMD Dinner 2 0 27 Chamber Staff Listing Armed Forces Celebration in pictures 3 2 33 I Shop Local honorees
editorial staff
Publisher Chip Cherry, cce Executive Editor Patricia C. McCarter
Editorial Designer Kristi Sherrard ontributing Writers Marian Accardi, Kimberly Ballard, C Kristie Barnes, Elizabeth Fleming, Jannette Jones and Patricia McCarter
www.asmartplace.com
Photography Chamber of Commerce staff, publications and archive unless otherwise noted
Submissions for editorial content are not accepted. Information in this and other Chamber publications is at the discretion of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County. Advertising inquiries go through The Huntsville Times.
Advertising Sales Chad Ludwig al.com / The Huntsville Times cludwig@al.com
online www.HSVchamber.org
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including Curse, Huntsville-Madison County Airport Authority, Parker Instrumentation, DynCorp International, Sierra Nevada Corporation, Huntsville City Schools and the University of Alabama in Huntsville; also special recognition for the City of Madison, Mike Durant and U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks
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Chamber of Commerce
Executive Committee and Board of Directors 2013 Executive Committee
A Message from Chip Cherry Dear Chamber of Commerce Investors, Community Leaders and Friends: Small business is hard to explain to someone who hasn’t lived it. Growing up I heard my parents having very heated discussions regarding where they would find the money to operate the family business. Many times they would remortgage the house to generate capital. My dad worked long hours to make the business a success and endured periods where he was not able to pay himself. Small business owners are a rare breed, willing to take significant risks and sacrifice much to pursue their dreams. I encourage you to read the Small Business Awards stories in this issue, as well as the story about how the founders of Green Mountain Soap spent years perfecting their product so that they could open their soap factory. These stories provide insight into our local entrepreneurs and how their work has given Huntsville/Madison County a broad landscape of offerings and opportunities. Also in this month’s issue, we celebrate Armed Forces Week and the opportunity it afforded us to thank those men and women who place or have placed themselves in harm’s way on our behalf. In addition to those serving in uniform, we salute those in the civil service who support our war fighters. And we should never forget those who make possible our war fighters’ efforts and their civilian counterparts – their spouses and families. We owe you all a debt of gratitude that can never be fully paid. Welcome to one of our newest corporate citizens – Curse Inc., who moved its headquarters here from San Francisco. They are a great addition to the creative class we want to attract to downtown Huntsville. Read more about them on page 10. I’ll close by encouraging you to learn more about what is referred to as “Common Core.” A group of very passionate people are trying to repeal the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards (referred to as Common Core). We are passionate that a common standard be established for core subjects and that these standards are developed by the States. In this edition, we have a thorough story about what Common Core is, and perhaps more importantly, what it is not. Please become educated about this important subject. And as always, I encourage you to shop local and patronize Members of the Chamber of Commerce!
Chip Cherry, CCE President & CEO Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
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August 2013 Initiatives
Ron Poteat, Chair, Regions Bank Robert Mayes, Chair-Elect, BlueCreek Investment Partners Jim Bolte, Immediate Past Chair, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama Tommy Beason, Chamber Foundation Chair, Consultant Joe Newberry, Secretary/Treasurer, Redstone Federal Credit Union Rey Almodóvar, Vice Chair - Economic Development, INTUITIVE Rose Allen, Vice Chair - Government Affairs, Booz Allen Hamilton Everett Brooks, Vice Chair - Membership, AEgis Technologies Group Danny Windham, Vice Chair - Workforce & Industry Relations, Digium Kim Lewis, Vice Chair - Small Business & Events, PROJECTXYZ Gary Bolton, Vice Chair - Research & Information Services, ADTRAN Dr. O’Neal Smitherman, Vice Chair - Image Development & Communications, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Mayor Tommy Battle, Chair-Appointed, City of Huntsville Penny Billings, Chair-Appointed, BancorpSouth Frederick Lanier, Chair-Appointed, J. Smith Lanier & Co. David Spillers, Chair-Appointed, Huntsville Hospital Chairman Dale Strong, Chair-Appointed, Madison County Commission Mayor Troy Trulock, Chair-Appointed, City of Madison Chip Cherry, President & CEO, Chamber of Commerce Elected Board Joe Alexander, Camber Corporation Dr. Robert Altenkirch, UAHuntsville Bob Baron, Baron Services Dr. Marc Bendickson, Dynetics Miranda Bouldin, LogiCore Greg Bragg, Consolidated Construction Company Micah Bullard, Turner Universal Construction Kevin Byrnes, Raytheon Company Kevin Campbell, Northrop Grumman Corporation Frank Caprio, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings Glenn Clayton, Appleton Learning Joe Collazo, COLSA Corporation Mark Curran, L-3 Communications Corporation - Huntsville Operations Gene Goldman, Aerojet John Gully, SAIC Natalie Hasley, Bama Jammer Steve Hassell, Emerson Network Power John Holly, Lockheed Martin Corporation Tharon Honeycutt, MSB Analytics Dr. Pam Hudson, Crestwood Medical Center Dr. Andrew Hugine, Alabama A&M University Tony Jones, The Boeing Company Jeremiah Knight, Verizon Wireless Call Center Rich Marsden, Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne Angie McCarter, Davidson Technologies Elizabeth Morard, Qualis Corporation Jim Owens, BBVA Compass George Prueitt, Wyle CAS Group Tom Ray, Look Outdoor Advertising Alicia Ryan, LSINC Dr. Gurmej Sandhu, Sigmatech Charlie Sealy, Sealy Management Company Crystal Shell, WILL Technology E.J. Sinclair, Science and Engineering Services, LLC Dr. Ashok Singhal, CFD Research Corporation Todd Slyman, Village of Providence Jan Smith, S 3 Cynthia Streams, Domino’s Pizza (Valley Pizza) Nilmini Thompson, Systems Products and Solutions
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY
~ continued on page 12
Curse Inc. Relocates Corporate Headquarters One of the largest gaming-information companies in the world announced June 26 that it is moving its corporate headquarters and content team from San Francisco to downtown Huntsville. Curse executives made the announcement in its new headquarters in the BB&T Building on Church Street, where its development office has been located for three years. “We were looking for a place that was friendly and beneficial to our employees and our company,” said Curse CEO and founder Hubert Thieblot. “Huntsville provided that. In addition to being a friendly environment for our company, we have been really pleased with the amount of high-quality talent in the area.” After the full relocation, 40 people will be working in the new corporate headquarters. The accounting and administration functions of Curse will remain in San Francisco. Curse has grown at a rate of more than 50 percent a year for the past four years. Curse has 100 employees worldwide, including offices in Germany, France, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland and Canada. “For the synergy of our team, we decided development and content needed to be in the same place,” said Curse vice president of finance, Brandon Byrne. “We considered Las Vegas, Seattle, Boulder and Los Angeles. As an afterthought, we reached out to the Chamber in Huntsville.” Byrne said Michael Comperda, who is the vice president of technology, is a University of Alabama in Huntsville graduate and advocated for expansion in Huntsville. “I did an analysis for all of those places under consideration for corporate tax rates, the availability of talent, the cost of living and employee taxes,” Byrne said. “As it turned out, Huntsville was very competitive.” In explaining what Curse does, Byrne said, “The analogy I like to give is that what ESPN does for sports, we do for gaming. We provide fan sites, community sites, wikis, forums and strategy guides. We help people enjoy video games more.”
The State of Alabama played a crucial role in attracting Curse to relocate its headquarters. “Jobs such as these not only reflect a new technology and important sector for our state, but they are a critical step in the implementation of our economic development plan, Accelerate Alabama,” said Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield. “These are the types of jobs we are working to attract to the state, and this announcement is a sign that our plan is working.” Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County CEO Chip Cherry said the project is a great example of how local expertise in modeling and simulation can be leveraged to attract new industry. “The location of Curse’s headquarters to our area represents a win for our community on many levels,” Cherry said. “This diversification into a growing industry sector adds a new dimension to our growing creative class in the downtown business community.”
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle concurred: “The Curse community is a natural fit for Huntsville with our thriving technology scene and strong pool of talent. We are excited to welcome the new gaming development team to our downtown core.” Curse websites attract more than 30 million unique visitors a month. Its purpose is to help gamers enjoy video games in all aspects of their gaming lifestyle – from tips for a game they are playing to engaging with their friends in the gaming community to watching their favorite gaming professionals compete. Curse is comprised of community sites, tools, databases, videos, guides, live streaming and eSports teams. Online gaming enthusiasts depend on Curse for tools and expertise to take their gaming to the next level. The Curse Client, an add-on management desktop application used to find, install and update user interface plug-ins, has almost three million active users. •
Airport Authority Offers $6 Million in Air Service Incentives The Huntsville-Madison County Airport Authority (HMCAA) passed a resolution on June 11 that includes a new incentive program totaling $6 million for air service and customer service standards. This new program is part of the FY14 strategic plan that addresses community concerns about airline service at Huntsville International Airport. “The board and executive staff are very focused on retaining passengers at our community airport,” said Dr. Carl Gessler Jr., HMCAA board chairman. “This program addresses those concerns and is designed to help keep our passengers from driving to other airports, while also enhancing customer service. We are committed to doing everything within our control to try and resolve these issues.” Airlines participating in the new incentive program can lower their operating costs at HSV by as much as 45 percent. This average cost would be the lowest in more than 20 years, and is significantly lower than the budgeted FY13 cost of $11.64. 10
August 2013 Initiatives
Should the airlines choose not to participate in the new program, their average cost per enplaned passenger (CPEP) could increase from the FY13 budget. In order to qualify for the new incentives, airlines must offer a program to increase traffic (also known as enplanements) at HSV by substantially reducing the number of passengers driving to other airports. The incentive amount will be based on the increased number of passengers taking advantage of the proposed program, as well as meeting customer service standards. “Huntsville International Airport is our community’s airport, and the community is faced with some unique challenges that HMCAA is trying to address,” said Rick Tucker, HMCAA executive director. “Our goal is to retain our community passengers that have historically driven to other airports and provide the upmost service to our customers.” •
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 10
~ continued on page 14
Ribbon Cut for Parker’s Big Renovation Parker Instrumentation cut the ribbon May 29 on its new Engineering Center of Excellence, which represents a $4 million investment in the company’s Huntsville presence. Parker is located off Triana Boulevard in Chelsea Industrial Park. Parker – which is part of the Parker Hannifin group – manufactures motion and control technologies and systems, providing solutions for a wide variety of mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. The new Instrumentation Engineering Center was built to increase Parker’s customer involvement. This collaboration will range from product development and testing to commercial discussions. The revamped facility features advanced technology and amenities throughout, including laboratorylike manufacturing and test areas, an innovation room, an auditorium-style training room, and its own workout facility for its employees. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Chamber Board Chair Elect Robert Mayes said, “Parker is proud of its Huntsville roots, and this facility is a continuation of that commitment.” City Administrator Rex Reynolds attended the celebration on behalf of Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “It’s good to be in north Alabama where awesome things happen,” Reynolds said. “We suggest we have our own center of excellence here in the Huntsville/ Madison county area.” Parker has been in the Huntsville area since the 1950s and its current location in the Chelsea Park since 2003. During the last 10 years, the division introduced a wide variety of products to complement the existing tube fittings and valves already being produced in Alabama. It now employs about 100 Huntsville-area locals.
L-R: John Greco, Robert Mayes, Craig Beckwith, Rex Reynolds The $13-billion global company employs 60,000 people in 48 countries. Parker’s general manager in Huntsville, Craig Beckwith, said he was “humbled and honored” to be a part of the team who facilitated the massive renovation. “The amenities of the new facility will captivate and inspire you,” Beckwith said. “They will impress you, but what will most impress you is the heart of the team members. This is a culmi-
nation of the vision, hard work and dedication of scores of people within this organization.” John Greco, who is president of Parker Instrumentation and works in the company’s Ohio headquarters, said the Huntsville location will serve as a meeting place for other Parker groups across the world. He also said the center will be viewed as a model for future collaborations in other global locations. •
DynCorp, Sierra Nevada Establish Fixed-Wing Aircraft Center of Excellence Here DynCorp International and Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Integrated Mission Systems announced on June 25 a strategic alliance to provide mission critical services to customers worldwide. This alliance combines the resources and talents of these two aerospace industry leaders to serve emerging markets, with an emphasis on commercial, domestic and international fixed-wing, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, and unmanned aerial systems. As part of the alliance, the two companies will jointly establish a Fixed-Wing Center of Excellence in Huntsville to benefit customers such as the U.S. Army’s program manager for fixed wing aircraft. Services will include maintenance, repair, overhaul, modification, integration and installation. “This is a powerful combination,” said James Myles, senior vice president of DynCorp’s DynAviation Group. “By uniting our extensive competencies, global presence and deep relationships, together we can enhance the services we offer existing customers and pursue new opportunities in emerging markets.” 12
August 2013 Initiatives
Tim Owings, corporate vice president for SNC’s Integrated Mission Systems business area, said the company is excited to announce the alliance and the future opportunities it represents. “Both SNC and DynCorp International bring significant and highly complementary skill sets in the UAS and ISR markets,” Myles said. “Collectively, the alliance will allow us to continue to provide superior mission critical services to our existing customers, and attract future customers. We are honored to work with DynCorp International’s DynAviation Group to expand our global footprint.” The two companies combined bring more than 100 years of experience in aviation solutions. DynCorp International’s DynAviation Group offers full-spectrum aerospace, aviation and air operations solutions worldwide, including operations, maintenance and sustainment of more than 200 aircraft types in dozens of countries. Sierra Nevada Corporation specializes in aircraft and ISR systems design, engineering, modification, integration and sustainment. •
community profile
TOP 10 EMPLOYERS
Population
Madison County
City of Huntsville
2010 Census
334,811
180,105
42,938
417,593
2012 Census
343,080
182,956
43,685
430,734
% Growth
City of Huntsville Madison Metro Area
2.5% 1.6% 1.7% 3.1%
130,791
Avg. Household Income $76,967 Per Capita Income
$30,845
Huntsville Hospital System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,129 NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,000 Huntsville City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,079 The Boeing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,600 Madison County Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,389
Households & Income* # of Households
Redstone Arsenal* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31,500*
75,230
15,536
162,405
$69,581 $110,828
$74,407
$29,949
$29,550
$40,994
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (www.census.gov), *2011 American Community Survey
SAIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,229 City of Huntsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,206 The University of Alabama in Huntsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,675 ADTRAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,522 Source: Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County *includes on-site contractors
Aerospace & Defense Huntsville/Madison County is home to the U.S. Army Redstone Arsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center which combine to drive a thriving aerospace and defense technology industry. More than 37,500 people work at Redstone Arsenal and NASA managing some of the country’s most important and sophisticated technology programs including missiles, aviation and space exploration.
Research & Technology Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park has earned a reputation as a global
For more information, visit:
leader in technology development. The second-largest science and technolo-
www.HSVchamber.org
panies and 29,000 people involved in technology research and development.
gy park in the U.S., Cummings Research Park is home to more than 300 com-
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 12
After 33 years of service to the City of Huntsville in administration, public safety and law enforcement, Rex Reynolds has announced his retirement as city administrator, effective Jan. 1. Reynolds assumed the role as city administrator in 2008 at the request of Mayor Tommy Battle. He serves as the top non-elected official in city government, with a role similar to that of a CEO. At the July 15 announcement, Reynolds thanked Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle for “the opportunity of a lifetime.” “Rex has served this city admirably and selflessly for decades, and he has been my most trusted advisor, manager, confidant and friend,” said Battle. “He deserves the joys and pleasures of a happy retirement, though I expect that will include a continually active role in public service.” Reynolds served four mayors and has seen numerous transitions. “I have been incredibly fortunate to serve this community and work alongside some outstanding co-workers,” said Reynolds. “After 33 years with the City, retirement will allow me to seek new opportunities and still spend quality time with my family and young grandson.” On the same day, Battle announced that taking Reynolds’ place will be Col. John Hamilton – who retired from the Army, most recently as the Garrison Commander at Redstone Arsenal, the previous week. “The garrison commander’s job is similar to that of a mayor’s, and John Hamilton’s record as a high-performing team leader is well known and respected,” Battle said. “I am
Sarah Cole ©The Huntsville Times/al.com. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
City Administrator Reynolds Will Retire; COL Hamilton to Succeed
L-R: Col. John Hamilton, Mayor Tommy Battle, Rex Reynolds delighted and honored to have him join our administration and look forward to a great partnership.” Hamilton led the Arsenal through a challenging growth period stemming from the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission. He worked closely with human resources, recreation, plans, public works, emergency services, mobilization and security, and family and morale welfare – all departments with roles similar to those within the City of Huntsville.
Hamilton says the city administrator position offers exactly what he was looking for in a post-military career. “While I still have much to learn about the city, my work in the Army has afforded me a broad-range of experiences leading teams around the world, and I look forward to bringing those experiences to the team,” Hamilton said. To facilitate a smooth transition, Hamilton will begin working with the City under contract later this year. •
Huntsville Team “Best Newcomer” at England’s Greenpower Car Competition
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Huntsville’s Greenpower Car team August 2013 Initiatives
Huntsville City Schools’ students proved they have the “right stuff” in engineering, as the team earned very impressive results in its first effort at a Greenpower Competition June 9 at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex England. Huntsville’s Team USA placed 7th out of 14 teams in the 90-minute race and finished 13th out of 50 in the four-hour long race. The group was awarded “Best Newcomer” and the “Siemens Innovator Award” following the competition. The Huntsville team earned a spot to the National finals that will be held in October. Team USA becomes the only team ever to qualify for the finals after its first time to compete in a Greenpower Race. Jeremy Way, CEO with the Greenpower Education Trust, said this was the best showing ever of a first time competitor in the history of the race. Mike Brown, the director of academic relations with Siemens, was very impressed with the Huntsville students, stating that “the depth of engineering knowledge that these kids are getting from building and racing in the Greenpower Car Competition is phenomenal.” One of the goals of the Greenpower Education Trust is to inspire the next generation of engineers. Siemens is a major supporter of the education initiative. •
~ continued on page 16
Put TEDx on Your Calendar TEDxHuntsville will host its fifth annual event, entitled “Breaking Boundaries, Building Connections” at the Thurber Arts Center at Randolph School on Sunday, Sept. 15, at 1 p.m. Leaders in technology, entertainment, design, science, art, education, government and other areas will share their thoughts, triumphant stories and engaging ideas based on building connections to our communities with creativity, passion and knack for survival. TEDxHuntsville features a combination of live presenters, TEDTalks videos, musical performances, an open interactive innovation lab and a catered reception by local restaurateurs to encourage deep conversations and connection for attendees. In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self‐organized events that brings people together to share a TED‐like experience. These events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self‐organized. This event is for the curiously‐minded, educated influencers in their fields. Student discounts will be offered. More information can be found at online at www.tedxhuntsville. com. •
Madison in Magazine’s Top 10 Cities for Families Announced on June 25 by Family Circle magazine, Madison is on the list of Top 10 Best Cities for Families. Here’s what the magazine has to say about Madison: Population: 43,932; Median Income: $83,297; Median Home Price: $199,591; Households with Kids: 39%; Great Schools Rating: 9. Neil Lamb, a genetics educator at a biotech company, likes to boast that Madison is full of brainiacs. “When I tell people that our neighbors and friends are all rocket scientists, I’m not joking,” he says. For Neil and wife Cynthia, both 43, the presence of so many high-tech firms translates into extra benefits for kids Preston, 15, Olivia, 13, and Emma Grace, 9. Robotics classes, math bowls and engineering design competitions start as early as elementary school. The district offers an abundance of AP classes, and for the last three years about half of Madison’s high school graduates received college scholarships. There are also plenty of opportunities for fun, from street festivals to free summer concerts. The Lambs’ favorite activity is biking (followed by a splurge at the ice cream parlor), and they’re looking forward to visiting the new interactive kids’ museum. “This is a town that thinks creatively, that is always asking questions and looking for solutions,” says Neil. “How can you top that?” Good Deeds: Every Friday the school district teams up with local churches and businesses to provide food to low-income children for the We Care program, packing some 500 meals into students’ backpacks to take home for the weekend. • Initiatives August 2013
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 14
$7 Million Severe Weather Research Lab Coming to UAH The University of Alabama in Huntsville broke ground July 15 on a new $7 million Severe Weather Institute Research and Lightning Laboratory (SWIRLL) to grow its education and research capabilities into severe weather and atmospheric science. The structure is being built through a state grant made possible by the efforts of Gov. Robert Bentley. “This is the fulfillment of another recommendation of the Tornado Recovery Action Council,” Bentley said. “It is important that we take proactive steps to protect and prepare for natural disasters. The establishment of this severe weather research institute at the University of Alabama in Huntsville will allow us to better prepare for severe weather through improved forecasting and detection. “While it is not within our power to prevent severe weather, we still must search for methods to mitigate the impact.” UAH President Robert Altenkirch noted that UAH’s Earth System Science Center (ESSC) is ranked among the top 10 in the nation in research activity, according to the National Science Foundation. The Atmospheric Science Department is also cited as being among the top 10 in the nation by the Chronicle of Higher Education based on scholarly productivity. “Atmospheric science is one of those areas where UAH demonstrates national leadership in education and research,” Altenkirch said. “This investment by Alabama will allow our campus to continue to expand this important program and provide quality research to help protect our citizens as well as
produce graduates for the local workforce.” SWIRLL builds on UAH’s expanding reputation for severe weather and radar expertise through the UAH Department of Atmospheric Science, ESSC, the National Weather Service forecasting office, the NASA Earth Science research team and the Office of the Alabama State Climatologist. The building is designed to reflect its mission. “From the outside, the conical glass entrance, with its visible spiral staircase inside, mimics a tornado,” said Dr. John Christy, Alabama state climatologist and director of the UAH ESSC. “When someone sees this building there will be no doubt that it houses researchers who study severe weather.” A five-foot diameter globe mounted in the center of the lobby’s staircase will depict real-time weather patterns, rainfall, snow and ice, earthquakes, vegetation, lightning, drifting continents and more.
Dr. Kevin Knupp, a professor of atmospheric science who is the originator of the SWIRLL acronym, leads much of the UAH severe weather research into those types of weather that damage infrastructure such as tornadoes, hurricanes and strong thunderstorm winds. Dr. Hugh Christian, a principal research scientist with the ESSC, leads the UAH lightning group, which has been the world leader in detecting lightning from space. The SWIRLL facility will house: • A severe weather research campaign center to enable command-and-control direction of deployed mobile research assets in the midst of severe weather events; • Office space and sustaining engineering labs for fabrication, maintenance and storage of mobile weather research instrumentation, including the MAX, M3V, and MIPS mobile research units; • Development lab space for work on weather instruments, electronics and computers. •
Courtesy of Marty Sellers, SellersPhoto.com
Toyota Announces Another $150 Million in Huntsville Engine Plant
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Toyota announced on June 20 that it will invest an additional $150 million at its Huntsville engine plant to boost machining capacity and parts production for V-6 engines. Once the project is complete in July 2015, total investment at the Huntsville plant will be $850 million. Total employment there will be 1,150 jobs, following the completion of a previously announced, $80 million V-6 engine assembly expansion that will add 125 jobs by early next year. “Toyota Alabama continues to play a key role in our efforts to build engines in the region for our loyal customers,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Alabama. “This vote of confidence gives our team members and community partners added motivation as we move towards our vision of becoming the most admired company in the state.” This marks Toyota’s fifth significant investment announcement at the Huntsville plant since it opened a decade ago. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said, “Toyota has been a great corporate partner, and we are proud of what they have accomplished with the last five expansions in Huntsville. This is a major investment that will give back to our community for decades to come. Toyota’s decision, coupled with other recent positive business announcements, is a good indicator of the strength of Huntsville’s economy and its optimistic future.” Alabama’s workforce training program, AIDT, a program of the Department of Commerce, is providing pre-employment training for the project. At the May 2012 announcement, Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield said Toyota is “a perfect example of what a trained, highly motivated workforce and strong international partnerships can achieve in Alabama.” Annual engine capacity at the Alabama plant will be nearly 750,000 units. Toyota Alabama currently assembles 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines for eight of 12 Toyota vehicles assembled in North America. It is the only Toyota plant globally to produce these three types of engines under one roof. •
~ compiled by Patricia McCarter
Mike Durant named 2013 Vetrepreneur of the Year Mike Durant, best known for being the wounded soldier who wasn’t left behind in the Somali desert in the “Black Hawk Down” book and movie, is now being touted as a superior businessman. The National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) has named the retired Army pilot its 2013 Vetrepreneur of the Year for the success he’s had with his Huntsville-based Pinnacle Solutions defense contracting company. Durant was one of two Black Hawk pilots shot down over Mogadishu in October 1993. He survived but was severely injured in the crash. He was beaten by a mob on the streets of the city and endured 11 days of captivity by a Somali warlord before being rescued. This is from the story posted on the VaVOBA website: “But Mike Durant is also something more than the “Black Hawk Down” guy. He’s the quintessential American success story. Now 51 years old, he’s used his military experience and leadership skills to become a business leader as co-founder and president of Pinnacle Solutions Inc., an aviation simulation and training company based in Huntsville, Ala. His fiveyear-old company has already grown to annual revenues of more than $10 million and has come in at number 88 overall, and number six for government services, on the Inc. 500 list.” Read the entire story here: bit.ly/mikedurant. •
U.S. Rep. Brooks honored by National Association of Manufacturers U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) has been awarded the prestigious NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the nation’s premier manufacturing trade association. NAM representatives presented the award to Brooks at Brown Precision Inc. in Chase Industrial Park in May. The award recognizes members of Congress who have an exemplary voting record and understand the importance of a strong manufacturing economy. “This award is a testament to Congressman Brooks’ unwavering support of manufacturers across Alabama,” said William J. Canary, president and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama. “His commitment to job creation through this vitally important segment of our economy has earned him this award.” Ronnie Boles, NAM board member and chairman of BCA’s Manufacturing Advocacy Council, said: “In addition to mastering the intricacies of defense and NASA issues, Congressman Brooks has shown that he understands what it takes to create a pro-growth environment wherein Alabama’s manufacturers can expand and hire more Alabamians.” Greg Brown, vice president of Brown Precision, said, “Mo Brooks understands the needs of manufacturers, and I am pleased to help present this award for his pro-manufacturing voting record in the House of Representatives.” Initiatives August 2013
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28th Annual Small Business Awards
Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013 Location: Von Braun Center North Hall Times: Cocktails (cash bar) – 5 p.m. Dinner – 6 p.m. Awards Ceremony – 7 p.m. VIP Reception to follow ceremony The Chamber encourages attendees to show off their country western wear. PLEASE leave all weapons at home.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED! 18
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F
or all the effort that goes into running a small business, it sure can be nice when somebody taps you on the shoulder and says, “Hey! Nice job!” Five companies and two individuals will hear just that on Sept. 12 at the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County’s 28th Annual Small Business Awards at the Von Braun Center. The theme for the 2013 awards ceremony is “Wanted: Small Businesses,” and the more than 1,000 Chamber members who will attend are encouraged to wear their boots, jeans and bandanas. This year’s categories are as follows: Russell G. Brown Executive Leadership Award; Young Professional of the Year; Nonprofit of the Year; for businesses with 50 or less employees, the categories are Technology Company; Government Contracting Services Company; Business/Professional Services Company; one award will be given to a company with 51 to 350 employees. The top three finalists in each category will be announced, and then the ultimate winners will be recognized. “The annual Small Business Awards gives our local companies a chance to shine,” said Kim Lewis, president of PROJECTXYZ and vice chair of the Chamber’s Small Business & Events division. “That is why every year the awards program gets bigger and better. Companies want to be recognized by the chamber because of the status of this award.” Nominees for the Executive Leadership Award and the Young Professional of the Year must complete detailed profiles. Company submissions must meet very strict standards: The nominee must have started the company or is currently the CEO/president of that company, which must consist of 350 or less employees and have been operational for a minimum of two years. The company must be headquartered in Huntsville/Madison County and be in good standing with both the Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Other considerations include the financial state of the company, and community involvement is essential. Final selections are made by a panel of judges who blindly judge based on the documentation, without knowledge of the names of the nominees. “The selection process is highly sanitized and based purely on merit and not on popularity or politics,” said Pammie Jimmar, director of Small Business & Events for the Chamber.
– continued on page 20
Kim L
ewis Initiatives August 2013
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WANTED, continued from page 19 – “We love our business community, and we want to encourage them to continue to have a positive impact on our economy, schools and community. The Small Business Awards are our way of recognizing achievements and allowing these businesses to have their moment in the sun.” Lewis added that small businesses are the biggest boosters of the local and national economy, and she appreciates being part of an event that celebrates them. “These companies employ some of the brightest minds in our community,” Lewis said. “They have the capabilities to work on amazing projects, from the makeup of your DNA to the water on the International Space Station.” • Patricia McCarter
To register or for more information, please visit us online: http://bit.ly/SBAC2013
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On the Cover
Some thoughts from AEgis CEO Steve Hill, who was honored with the 2012 Executive Leadership Award Who he is… When I was 16 years old, I figured out pretty quick that creating a business to push a lawn mower for $15 or $20/hour beat flipping burgers for $3.35/hour – not rocket science but I could do THAT math. It also reinforced the merits of getting a college degree. I received a BSEE from UAHuntsville in 1987 and later did MBA studies at Vanderbilt. I was 24 years old when cofounder, Bill Waite, and I started AEgis Technologies, so I had a lot to learn. Much of my knowledge and experience today has come from on-the-job training and the school of hard knocks. Over the years, I progressed from vice president to president to president/CEO, and the organization has grown from “two guys” in a one-room basement office to 315 people spanning 12 locations in 10 states. I have continued to read and study as life long learning is essential to leadership. We have developed AEgis Leadership Institute to invest in and train the current and next generation of leadership for our company. I am also a member of Huntsville’s Vistage group - a collection of 20 local presidents and CEOs who study leadership, solve common problems, and support the growth of each other’s businesses.
That pivotal moment… Bill and I had started discussing our own business venture principally because of our passion for modeling and simulation and wanting to control our own destiny. A few months after initial conversations, we were abruptly laid off. Fortunately, 1989 was a strong economy for aerospace
and defense, so we decided to go ahead and take the plunge. It has been a challenging and rewarding 23-plus years.
a good business plan, define the metrics you will track to meet your goals, review regularly, and hold yourself accountable.
Advice for entrepreneurs…
His coolest product…
First, pursue a service or product that you are really passionate about. You will spend a lot of sweat and tears working at it, so make sure you love it. You have to “be all in” – do not make the mistake of thinking starting a business will be easy or you will have more leisure time. Second, be a person and business of integrity in everything that you do. Doing the right thing by your customers and employees is non-negotiable and paramount to your reputation and success. Third, spend a majority of your time building valuable relationships with key customers. Nothing will affect your bottom line more than the quality of your customers. If you do not enjoy developing business or selling, hire someone who does because great ideas or efficient business organizations go nowhere without customers. Also, just like MBA programs tell you, an excellent banker, attorney and accountant are extremely important to supporting your business growth. Fourth, expect change and adversity. Prepare for it, embrace it with a good attitude, and remain committed. And finally, build
I can’t pick just one! Our team’s UAS simulators, called VAMPIRE, for training warfighters; a recoverable/reusable test missile called MAST; several terrain database applications for security for events such as the Vancouver and Beijing Olympics; two large helicopter simulators for training pilots; and Laser Eye Protection technology for protecting warfighters and pilots from laser threats are a few of our “coolest” products.
On winning the Russell Brown Leadership Award… There were so many outstanding leaders and friends of mine that were nominated. I was sincerely very surprised and honored to be selected. The award is clearly a team recognition, and we received and celebrated it with our whole team. It is such a privilege for me to lead such a hard working, talented group of professionals, and I am so proud of the outstanding services and products they provide to our customers. •
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Green Mountain Soap Co., Inc. Provides a Pure Alternative to Commercial Soaps
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hat started as a hobby for a Huntsville couple has become a growing business producing a pure, mild soap to give consumers an alternative that’s free of additives. Richard and Elaine Hamner first learned to make soap nearly 40 years ago from Elaine’s mother, Myrtis Waller, using a recipe she’d learned as a young girl. Over the next decade, the Hamners studied soap chemistry and tried different recipes and techniques to perfect their product. “It was the late ‘80s before we got serious about selling it to the public,” said Richard. The Hamners incorporated Green Mountain Soap Co. in 1992, while both were working in the space program, Elaine with NASA and Richard with Teledyne Brown Engineering (TBE). Two years later, they launched sales on the open market, offering bar soap with their original formulation that used tallow, coconut oil and olive oil. They soon added a second formulation with palm, coconut and olive oils. The couple also introduced liquid coconut/olive oil soap and true castile liquid soap made from 100 percent olive oil, in response to requests from people with multiple chemical sensitivities. The company, which has office and production facilities at Soap Circle and A Cleaner Way in Chelsea Industrial Park, has continued to grow, even during the economic downturn. “Our (customer) base has stayed steady,” despite losing a major client when that business shut down in 2009, said Elaine. Green Mountain Soap is sold through the company’s website at gmsoap.com and at 16 locations locally and in some stores in Alabama 22
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and several other states. The Hamners have shipped to companies as far away as Germany and to individuals in Canada, Great Britain and Sweden. Richard says two characteristics set their product apart from other soaps. All of the glycerin – naturally occurring in the production process – is left in their soap. Additionally, there are no additives or preservatives,
though fragrances and essential oils are added to some soaps. An early challenge for the Hamners was improving the shelf life of their product. “We almost gave up,” said Richard. “The rancidity problem just about shut us down.” The Hamners brought in a soap industry consultant in 1994 to work with them, and they were able to triple the shelf life by using
distilled water in the soap-making process. A huge break for the business came in 1997 – the year after Richard retired from TBE – when Green Mountain Soap was featured on QVC’s “50 in 50” tour that showcased the wares of businesses in each state. Elaine appeared on a six-minute segment, and the 10,000 bars of soap that the Hamners made for the show were sold. “It kind of validated what we were doing,” said Elaine. She added the exposure proved that the business could fulfill largequantity orders and sustain the demand. “We still have customers who have ordered since then who came to us through QVC.” Richard said that the money from the QVC sales helped make it possible for the Hamners to buy property at Chelsea Industrial Park and build the first facility. The couple later expanded production facilities to separate scented from unscented products. The Hamners spent three years in research and development before introducing their triple-milled shaving soaps – unscented versions and those scented with essential oils called spiced rum, lime-vetiver, lavender-grapefruit, balsam spice and cheaha. “We’re pleased with what we brought to the straight razor community,” said Elaine, who retired from NASA about four years ago. “It’s getting off to a good start.” A recent review in Straight Razor Magazine called the new products “one of the best shaving soaps we have ever tried.” “We went through 36 different formulations before we were satisfied with (the shave soap),” said Richard. Thirty testers from around the world took part in evaluating each new batch. The Hamners researched essential oils for two years to develop their own signature scents, and recently added bar soaps scented to complement the shaving soap line. Green Mountain Soap is not just a profitable business enterprise.The couple provides soap to organizations including the Salvation Army for its shelters and to Matthew 25 Ministries for its humanitarian work worldwide. The Hamners feel a responsibility to fill a need for a loyal following of customers who have allergies or sensitive skin. “We have an obligation to take care of them,” said Elaine. • Marian Accardi Initiatives August 2013
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Alabama Superintendent Tommy Bice held a College and Career Ready Standards Forum, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/ Madison County, on July 10 at the Jackson Center.
Common Core A Detailed Explanation of Standards, Curriculum and Rigor By Elizabeth Fleming, The Schools Foundation, and Jannette Jones, Teach For America
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he Alabama State Board of Education adopted the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards (ACCRS) for K-12 education in 2010, which are aligned with the Common Core State Standards for math and English. The Common Core State Standards were developed by the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Governors Association as a way to ensure that students across the country were acquiring the same skills at each grade level. Alabama implemented the math standards in the 2012-13 school year and will implement the English standards in 2013-14. The Common Core has been adopted by 45 states, the District of Columbia, four territories and the Department of Defense Education Activity. This means that for most U.S. students, moving from one state to another will not result in falling behind or repeating material. The Chambers of Commerce in Huntsville/Madison County, Birmingham, Mobile and Montgomery signed a letter of support for the ACCRS, and the standards have the backing of the Business Council of Alabama and the Tennessee Valley BRAC Committee. The Common Core is not without detractors, though. Questions have been raised about the difference between standards and curriculum or content and data collection on our students. For answers to these questions as they apply to Huntsville, Madison and Madison County schools, we turned to the experts – teachers and administrators in our three local public school systems. 24
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What is the difference between standards and curriculum? Standards define what students should understand and be able to do at each gradelevel or in each course. Curriculum refers to instructional materials and resources used to teach the standards. (Paula Pippen, Huntsville City Schools Elementary Programs Curriculum Specialist)
How is curriculum selected in Madison City and how has this changed with Common Core? Madison City’s curriculum begins with the ACCRS. Resources are adopted to teach the curriculum and are aligned K-12 as well as within each grade level to teach the content that meets the needs of Madison learners. The process of securing resources includes the adoption of textbooks. Textbook adoption is a community effort. A committee of parents and educators vet textbooks from a variety of vendors and make recommendations of their preferred textbooks. The Board of Education then considers the recommendations and either confirms the recommendations or asks that the process begin again. Curriculum goals are developed in the district and then accomplished through the development of the curriculum frame work. The frame work is the district’s expectation of how we implement the curriculum and is developed collaboratively with the help of teachers, principals and central office staff. The overall process of curriculum adoption is the same since adoption of the ACCRS, but with the implementation of the ACCRS, there is a heightened awareness of the need for greater depth and breadth in delivery of the content. No longer do we just purchase textbooks, but we determine the most appropriate resources to address our needs at the local level. (Connie Spears, Madison City School Board; Dr. Camille Wright and Mrs. Judy Warmath, Madison City Schools)
What is the level of rigor of the ACCRS compared to previous standards? To ensure students are college and career ready, it is necessary to not only know the content but to also be able to use the information in real world application in collaboration with others to produce a product. The standards for the ACCRS ensure teachers instruct and assess at this application level. continued on page 26 Initiatives August 2013
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Common Core, continued from page 25 – (Connie Spears, Madison City School Board; Dr. Camille Wright and Mrs. Judy Warmath, Madison City Schools) The previous standards emphasized the acquisition of minimum required content per grade level, whereas the ACCRS place an emphasis on ways students will be expected to show their understanding and application of the grade-level content. (Paula Pippen, Huntsville City Schools Elementary Programs Curriculum Specialist)
Can you give an example of a preACCRS math assignment and a postACCRS math assignment? Prior to the ACCRS, mathematical practices were based on rote memorization of facts and formulas. Post ACCRS real life application transcends the rote memorization of facts and formulas. For example, prior to ACCRS, you would teach the Pythagorean theorem by having students memorize the formula: a squared plus b squared equals c squared. Then you would give them a bunch of problems with one of the letters missing and they’d solve the equation and figure it out (e.g.: if a = 2 and b = 3, solve for c). To learn why it works, there’s a great visual model exemplifying the ACCRS approach at math.about.com/od/pythagorean/ ss/pythag.htm that shows how if you add the areas of a square with side length a and a square with side length b it will equal the area of a square of side length c. Scroll to the next page of the link and you will see an example using a baseball diamond. (Connie Spears, Madison City School Board; Dr. Camille Wright and Mrs. Judy Warmath, Madison City Schools)
How have math scores been impacted by implementation of ACCRS? Overall, math scores have been positively impacted by the implementation of the ACCRS. STAR assessment data from Spring 2013 revealed that many schools demonstrated double-digit percentile growth since the Spring 2012 STAR Math assessment. (Paula Pippen, Huntsville City Schools Elementary Programs Curriculum Specialist) There were 132 6th grade math students at Columbia Elementary. Of them, 52 scored below the 6th grade level at the beginning of the school year. At this end, only 10 of the 132 were scoring below 6th grade 26
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Attendees at the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards Forum on July 10. level. This is attributed to teaching to the standards. Each of the five 6th grade classes experienced overall growth that averaged two years per child in a six-month time period. Insight from a veteran teacher in Madison City Schools: “This year, I have been following the Common Core State Standards to teach third grade math. The gains my students have made are astounding! My data shows that 42 out of 43 of my students have made at least a year and a half gain, with many gaining more than three years! My students love math and can not only calculate but can reason verbally and in writing to show how and why they solve math problems. They are relating math to real life practices and can teach the skills they have learned to their peers. I am ‘pumped’ about teaching math using the Common Core! I believe we are finally reaching all students, not just those who are ‘good math students.’” (Connie Spears, Madison City School Board; Dr. Camille Wright and Mrs. Judy Warmath, Madison City Schools)
What is the difference for teachers in the classroom since adopting ACCRS? I have seen a shift in the literacy and math standards that relate to the science content I teach. I have seen more integration and organization of data and drawing conclusions from data. Essentially, there is a push for students to disaggregate data, interpret it, and use it in real world contexts as it applies to mathematical concepts. (Kelly Freeman, AP Lead Chemistry Teacher, Madison County Schools) Students are doing more reading on their own; getting a great deal of information from the text; using note-taking organizers, question charts, and prompt sheets; engaging in
discussion around text read; and backing up responses to questions with evidence. Teachers are providing students with consistent, explicit writing instruction; providing opportunities for students to write from multiple sources on a single topic; engaging students in more complex texts with scaffolding; and engaging students in rigorous conversations. (Kay Zirbel, School Improvement Specialist, Huntsville City Schools) [These comments related to the English standards as they are incorporated into current curriculum.]
What kinds of personal data are collected on students under ACCRS and how is it used? Data collection remains unchanged and consistent. Utilization of data from these assessments remains consistent with prior practices. As always, all data collected will be in compliance with FERPA (Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act). (Connie Spears, Madison City School Board; Dr. Camille Wright and Mrs. Judy Warmath, Madison City Schools) The ACCRS are only academic standards for each grade in math and English. There is no part of the standards that requires or requests data collection from students or parents. The State of Alabama is not required to report any information due to its involvement with the Common Core State Standards. Student data is still protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). (Timothy Solley, Director of Secondary Education for Madison County Schools, quoting from commoncorealabama.blogspot.com) For more information on the ACCRS in our local schools, watch this video produced by Madison City Schools: bit.ly/accrs-mcs. •
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
201 3 S TA FF Chip Cherry, CCE, president & CEO Amy Locke, executive assistant Richard McCollum, resource desk coordinator Danae McElroy, resource desk assistant
Communications Patricia McCarter, communications director Kristi Sherrard, graphic designer Hiroko Sedensky, web designer
Economic Development Lucia Cape, VP, workforce & industry relations John Southerland, director, Cummings Research Park | project manager
Ken Smith, research & information services director Harrison Diamond, project manager Karessa Acosta, economic development assistant
Finance & Administration Christy Nalley, finance & administration director Jamie Gallien, IT manager Mary McNairy, accounting specialist Lori Warner, accounting specialist Joe Watson, facilities supervisor
Government Affairs Mike Ward, VP, government affairs Tina Leopold, government affairs assistant
Membership Mike Brazier, membership director Donna McCrary, membership specialist Melissa Putzier, membership representative Morgan Hopper, membership representative
Small Business & Events Pammie Jimmar, small business & events director Mitzi Floyd, small business coordinator Alexandra Gonzalez, event coordinator Amanda Bishop, events assistant
Associated Organizations The Community Foundation of Huntsville/ Madison County (communityfoundationhsv.org) The Schools Foundation (theschoolsfoundation.org) WBCNA (www.wbcna.org)
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County 225 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801 phone 256-535-2000 / fax 256-535-2015
www.HSVchamber.org Initiatives August 2013
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2012 Small Business Award Winner: Technology Services Category
SPOTLIGHT ON
GaN Corporation was selected the Technology Services provider of the Year at the Chamber’s 2012 Small Business Awards. Here’s an interview with the CEO and President of GaN, Dr. Jonn Kim.
A brief history of the winner ... I started Geeks and Nerds (GaN) in 2004 after working on many challenging opportunities, including NASA, large contractors, and a venture capital start-up. Each place of employment gave me opportunities to experience different cultures and to gain exposure to different knowledge bases. In 2004, I felt I was ready to start something of my own. As CEO, my first and foremost responsibility is to establish the GaN mission and corporate culture. Additionally, as CTO, I bring ideas to the table for our competent and qualified employees to implement. Our employees are the core of our success. I often state that success happens between two I’s (Idea and Implementation). Our capable employees successfully bridge the gap from idea to implementation, thus making the vision of GaN a reality. Q: What does your company create/sell?
p GaN employees celebrate during the 2012 Small Business Awards VIP reception. Front row (L-R): Jill Milliet; Dr. Jonn Kim; Ken Fernandez; Mark Dorner. Back row (L-R): Ben Matthews; Krista Chase; Charles Wilcox. q Dr. Jonn Kim receiving the finalist award from Miranda Bouldin, 2012 Chamber Vice Chair for Small Business.
A: GaN is an innovative solution provider. We examine our customers’ requirements and provide solutions to help them accomplish their goals. We are testing complex electronic warfare systems, aviation systems, and communication systems for the Department of Defense, where our expertise ranges from complex, high performance computing to military vehicle maintenance. We have provided numerical analysis for space vehicle engine design. We have even completed an interior design project. We also team with other responsive companies that provide innovative technologies to help us deliver effective solutions to our customers. Q: What has been GaN’s greatest achievement? A: GaN and I are fortunate to have been recognized for various awards and accomplishments, and it is difficult to single out one greatest achievement. I am proud to have built a company that has been recognized for business ethics. In fact, we won the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in 2011. I believe that ethical practices are the core foundation of a successful business. We also won Chamber of Commerce awards both nationally (2013 Blue Ribbon 100 Best Businesses in the U.S.) and locally (2012 Technology Company of the Year). One of our customers, in a commendation of GaN, stated “GaN is what all businesses should strive to be.” I am also proud that GaN has been able to grow each year in this tough economy and adapt to the needs of the community while growing our reputation as a sound company. All of our success in business has enabled me to give back to the community. Specifically, I am proud that, for the last two years, GaN has donated close to $200,000 in scholarships to colleges and universities across the U.S. We are far from perfect, but we are continuously improving as a corporation. Q: What are your goals for the next five to 10 years? A: I want GaN to contribute to solutions that will enhance quality of life for all of us. I have been steering GaN towards becoming more socially responsible through urban organic gardening, renewable energy, recycling, and the Geeks and Nerds scholarships. We can do much more, and we should. I believe that the desire to improve the overall quality
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Dr. Jonn Kim
of life and corporate bottom line can merge together to help our employees and our community concurrently. I want us to become more ecologically friendly and health conscious, to focus on solutions to enhance safety and health, and to continue to contribute to the community in positive and meaningful ways. Within the next five years, I see us moving towards developing technologies for better food supply and health care. Within 10 years, I anticipate that GaN will have developed technologies that revolutionize how we live, promoting well-being and improving lifestyles. Q: What does it mean to you, both personally and professionally, to receive the technology services award? A: It is mind boggling to grasp the magnitude of honor associated with being the Technology Company of the Year in the city known as the Forbes 9th Smartest City in the world. It is indeed a prestigious honor, and being a recipient makes me try harder to uphold that honor. Thanks to the award, GaN was subsequently nominated at the national level and received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Award for being one of 100 Best Small Businesses in the U.S. As the recipient of such an honor, I am motivated to continue to guide GaN in a direction where we can proudly represent this beautiful city of Huntsville and our beautiful country, America. Q: How has being active in the Chamber helped you? A: The Chamber recognized my talent before I did. They gave me encouragement before I formalized the idea of GaN, and they continue to open up opportunities for me and other companies. The Chamber also does an excellent job of portraying a true picture of Huntsville as one of the best communities to work and live. As a company of national and international ambitions, this picture helps us to recruit the best talent possible. I am thankful for their continued commitment to help local businesses grow and serve the community. • Initiatives August 2013
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HEALS, Inc. Hails Community Support for ‘Miracle Clinics’
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ealth Establishments at Local Schools’ (HEALS) commitment to providing affordable, school-based health care and dental services to low-income children in Madison County has been championed by local healthcare professionals, educators, businesses and community supporters for 15 years. HEALS operates four pediatric medical clinics and soon-to-be, two pediatric dental clinics at Title 1 schools in Madison County. Partially supported by Medicaid reimbursements and a federal grant that pays for equipment, the nonprofit calls its facilities “Miracle Clinics” because of the overwhelming support they receive from local monetary gifts and volunteers who pull together resources to tackle obstacles.
“Filling a community need always starts with big ideas from small groups of people,” said HEALS development director, Pam Clasgens. “The original HEALS medical clinic opened at Lincoln Elementary School in 1999 when a local physician, Dr. Rachelle Cassity, saw that disadvantaged children needed access to quality health care.” A couple of years later, HEALS opened another location at Terry Heights Elementary, followed by a third in 2002 at the old West Huntsville Elementary School. The principal, Barbara Johnson, approached HEALS about a clinic at her school when a kindergartener died from undiagnosed meningitis. When school consolidations threatened two of HEALS’ premier sites, local supporters
Service with a smile with Annette Potter, CRNP. Photos provided by Kerry Brooks. 30
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helped to move the clinics with the children. The original Lincoln location moved to Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary when those two schools consolidated in 2010. When Terry Heights consolidated with West Huntsville Elementary in 2009, the Terry Heights clinic relocated to University Place, and West Huntsville moved to Morris Elementary School. In 2000, HEALS saw a contiguous need for dental care as well, and opened the first HEALS pediatric dental clinic in a portable building behind MLK Elementary School. Since then, the Center for Health and Health Care recognized HEALS as a model for how to bring quality dental care to children who might otherwise never receive it. “Many of these children not only don’t have health insurance, but most of them do not even have a doctor,” said Connie Carnes, executive director. “That shows how vulnerable underprivileged children are in our community.” Children can come to a HEALS clinic from another school if they are Medicaid eligible, do not have private insurance, and have a referral from a school medical professional. “The fourth location at Madison Crossroads Elementary in Toney is our true ‘miracle clinic,” Clasgens said. “Toney is a county school, but a 40-minute drive one-way to MLK. We needed another clinic that was more convenient to that school district.” In 2009, HEALS converted a small ranchstyle home situated on MCRE property into a HEALS medical clinic. As the need for pediatric dentistry in that area grew, philanthropists donated a trailer to HEALS for use as the waiting room for a new dental clinic. “Currently we have several local businesses donating labor, time, space, and money to build the new MCRE dental clinic, which will also offer optometry services,” said Clasgens.
Annette Potter, CRNP, and Janice Powers, RN, get ready for their patients at one of the area Miracle Clinics. “Many of them are participating members of the North Alabama Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors Association (ABC). The structure is being built offsite, will be moved to the MCRE location, and attached to the trailer, hopefully this fall.” Having the clinics located on school grounds and operating during school hours has many benefits. “It makes the services more convenient and accessible to a parent who would otherwise have to take off work, pull their child out of school, drive 45 minutes into Huntsville, and back again,” said Clasgens. “Also, with a pediatric doctor on site at the school, we can educate parents about the health of their child,” said Carnes. “We show them how to treat a child with an illness, how to recognize when a child is sick, how to check for a fever, what types of medicines like Tylenol and cough syrup to give their child, and how much.” HEALS has a slow but sustainable growth strategy for the future. “We are so grateful and appreciative to the community for their generous support and willingness to help when needed,” said Carnes. “We have an obligation to care for the most vulnerable among us, and that is our children.” • Kimberly Ballard Initiatives August 2013
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2013
Gen. Dennis Via
2013 Armed Forces Celebration Luncheon hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
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L-R: John Rogers and Joe Fitzgerald
L-R: WWII Veteran Tony Victor and CSM Derise C. Miller
L-R: Robert Mayes and Art Gribensk
MG Lynn Collyar
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle
Madison Mayor Troy Trulock
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Presentation of the Community Covenant – L-R: CSM Ronald Riling, Max Bennett, Gen. Via, Mayor Battle
2013 Armed Forces Week “Concert in the Park” event featuring the AMC Band
In June, the Chamber challenged its Ambassadors and Emissaries to visit small businesses and share our “I Shop Local” buttons. Total, more than 230 visits were made. The winners are deemed Chamber Champions of Small Business! Pictured from left are Ashley Shady, Regus Business Center; Nicole Jones, Nicole Jones Development; Jennifer Burnette, Hiwaay Information Services; Susan Schulte, Quality Outdoor Advertising; and Kathy Franks, Kathy Franks Marketing. Initiatives August 2013
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It’s been almost a year since I was asked to be the director of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. As a 25-year NASA employee, I was familiar with Marshall and its work when I arrived. But I continue to be amazed at the depth and breadth of the knowledge and capabilities we have here. I knew less about the rest of the Huntsville community, but I’ve quickly discovered that it is just as impressive, from our other federal neighbors on Redstone Arsenal to the businesses and research organizations that go well beyond the borders of Madison County. This community is among Marshall’s greatest strengths and assets. In fact, it has been for many years. Marshall’s first center director, the famed rocket scientist, Wernher von Braun, had a grand vision for space exploration. He also understood that it took a larger community to support the challenging and important work Marshall does for this nation. The research and industrial parks, the city’s strong educational component, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the city’s cultural amenities, and even the supporting infrastructure were all part of the vision and influence of Dr. Von Braun and his Rocket Team. Marshall is stronger because of the community vision that Von Braun brought and many others here carried on. There are very few communities in the world with this combination of knowledge, skills and capabilities. It is uniquely positioned to take on the challenges facing our nation today and in the years ahead. That’s the reason I have placed so much emphasis on collaboration and partnerships as I’ve spoken with our civic, business, and professional organizations. I appreciate the support we have enjoyed from the community over the years. We’ve worked closer with our Team Redstone colleagues, local business, academia, and civic leaders in recent years, and we are going to continue building on that this fall. I hope you’ll join us for three upcoming “Doing Business With Marshall” events. Partnering with many other organizations in this community, these will be excellent opportunities for strengthening and expanding our ties with the community. On August 27 at the Davidson Center, the TechConnect Summit will inform small busi34
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nesses about how they can get involved with emerging R&D technologies in the Huntsville business and government communities. There will be exhibit booths and technology demonstrations by small businesses, prime contractors and Team Redstone agencies. A new feature this year will be Marshall and defense agencies joining the Huntsville Advanced Defense Technology Cluster Initiative (ADTCI) to showcase technology transfer exhibits on partnerships and commercial licensing. This will provide a great networking opportunity for both small and prime contractors. Dr. Henrik I. Christensen, KUKA Chair of Robotics at the College of Computing at Georgia Institute of Technology, will be the keynote speaker. On September 19, the Marshall Small Business Alliance meeting at the Davidson Center will reveal upcoming opportunities. Senior managers will present program and project updates, contract overviews, organizational overviews and acquisition updates. Since the Alliance was created in 2007, it’s been one of the agency’s best tools for bringing together key Marshall managers and industry partners, and we’ve worked hard to meet or exceed our small business goals every year. On October 7, our MSFC Partnerships Office will once again sponsor an event to encourage collaboration and provide information to the partner community. The event, titled, “Marshall Collaboration Forum: Partnerships for the Future,” is the second annual event (previously called “Industry Day”) and will be held at the Jackson Center. We will discuss our core capabilities, our center priority areas, improvements made in our partnering process, specific business opportunities, and outreach plans to keep partners informed of the center’s activities. The Partnerships Office has coordinated with Marshall’s Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications and Technology Transfer organizations to provide break-out sessions for more in-depth discussions. Members of these offices
NASA/MSFC/Emmett Given
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center Update with Patrick Scheuermann
will answer questions on how you can do business with Marshall. Like the other events, we want this to foster two-way discussions between Marshall and the community. There are other NASA events this fall to consider. On Sept. 4, we will host a business forum in the Mobile area. The Space Launch System Program Office, Marshall Prime Contractor Supplier Council, Small Business Executive Leadership Team, NASA Shared Services Center, and Stennis Space Center and Marshall Small Business offices are working closely with the Mobile Chamber of Commerce. This is an outreach tool designed to introduce communities to the NASA marketplace. Also, NASA’s National Institute for Rocket Propulsion Systems, dedicated to revitalizing the propulsion industry, will sponsor two workshops in October. The industry workshop will cover industry health and competitiveness, NIRPS collaboration with industry, long-term strategy and course correction. The academic workshop will focus on concerns in that sector, long term strategy, revalidation of the NIRPS “grand challenges” and future directions. Taken together, these events are a great forum for new ideas and new opportunities to emerge that will make this community an even more prosperous and a better place to live and work. Wernher von Braun understood the importance of partnerships 50 years ago, and those partnerships are more important than ever today. •
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