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Welcome New Chamber Members Joined in August 2014 Joined in July 2014
Alta Via Consulting, LLC AQuate Corporation The Beef Jerky Outlet
360 Clean
Berney Office Solutions
Air Evac Lifeteam
Cerro Wire, LLC
BOH FPU Systems Chow King Grill & Buffet
CMI International
G.L. Smith & Associates
Covenant Properties, Inc.
Golden Corral
Crosstown Mobile Media
Lones Body Shop
Giancarlo Rubio
MICOR Industries
Granger, Thagard, & Associates
Mobility Works
The Grounds Guys of Huntsville
Murray Guard, Inc.
H2L Solutions, Inc.
Navigator International, LLC
Madison Settlement Services
PANDORA Jewelry (PearTree Avenue, LLC) Premier Bank of the South - Whitesburg Drive Remington Outdoor Company Rocket Town Media T-Mobile USA - Whitesburg Wholesale Trophies, Inc. Yellow Hammer Brewery, LLC
Peek a Boo 4D Boutique ProSource Technology, Inc. Quality Hearing Health Care Re/Max Alliance - Elsie Wall Rock Bottom Carpets
Rousseau Sporting Goods & Awards, Inc. Spry Funeral Home University Pickers The Work Site
If you want to make a valuable investment in your business and the community, the Chamber is the place to start. Contact Donna McCrary, Membership Retention Manager: 256-535-2027 or dmccrary@hsvchamber.org. 2
October 2014 Initiatives
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Thanks to Our Investors Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initiative
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
Development Partner ($220,000+ 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 Madison County Commission Regions Bank Tennessee Valley Authority Leadership Forum ($25,000+ annually) ADTRAN, Inc. The Boeing Company City of Madison Emerson Network Power - Avocent Redstone Federal Credit Union Remington Outdoor Company
Executive Council ($15,000+ annually)
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BB&T CINRAM Crestwood Medical Center Intergraph Corporation Lockheed Martin Corporation PNC Bank Port of Huntsville Qualitest Pharmaceuticals SAIC SES - Science and Engineering Services, LLC
October 2014 Initiatives
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 Intuitive Research and Technology Corp. Jerry Damson, Inc.
Progress Partners
L-3 Communications Corp. – HSV Operations Landers McLarty Corporation Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne P.C PARSONS Raytheon Company S3, Inc. SportsMed Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc. Wyle CAS Group
($5,000+ annually)
Ability Plus ASRC Federal Analytical Services A-P-T Research, Inc. Baron Services, Inc. BASF Corporation 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 Corporate Office Properties Trust Deloitte LLP ERC, Inc. Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc.
Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association iBERIABANK IronMountain Solutions J. Smith Lanier & Co. LEAN Frog Business Solutions, Inc. Logicore MJLM Engineering & Technical Services MTS, Inc. The Orthopaedic Center Progress Bank Radiance Technologies Rosie’s Restaurants, Inc., & Right Way Restaurants, Inc. (Steak Out) SELEX Galileo Inc. Torch Technologies Turner U.S. Space and Rocket Center Vencore, Inc. WAFF-TV Woody Anderson Ford
Progress Investors ($2,500+ annually) 4SITE, Inc. Alpha Beta Technologies, Inc. Anglin Reichmann Snellgrove & Armstrong, PC Averbuch Realty Co., Inc. – Scott Averbuch Aviagen, Inc. BancorpSouth Brown Precision, Inc. Bryant Bank CB&S Bank Century Automotive CFD Research Corporation Coast Personnel Services deciBel Research Decisive Analytics Corporation Decosimo DESE Research, Inc. Digium, Inc. Ducommun Miltec First Financial Group Wealth Management Fite Building Company, Inc. Foreign Language Services Fountain, Parker, Harbarger GATR Technologies Halsey Foodservice HEMSI Hiley Cars Huntsville Huntsville Botanical Garden
Huntsville/Madison Co. Convention & Visitors Bureau Huntsville Tractor & Equipment, Inc. Investor’s Resource/Raymond James KPS Group Kudzu Productions, Inc. Leadership Huntsville/Madison County, Inc. The Lioce Group, Inc. Littlejohn Engineering Associates, Inc. Moog, Inc. National Bank of Commerce North Alabama Multiple Listing Service PALCO Telecom Service, Inc. PeopleTec, Inc. PHOENIX PROJECTXYZ, Inc. Public Financial Management, Inc. QTEC, Inc. Qualis Corporation Renasant Bank RJ Young ServisFirst Bank Sierra Lobo, Inc. Sigmatech, Inc. Spencer Companies Incorporated Synapse Wireless, Inc. URS Corporation West Huntsville Land Co., Inc.
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Shop Local Remember to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29 6
October 2014 Initiatives
initiatives
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
october 2014 cover story
Reading, Writing, Repurposing View from Burritt on the Mountain
Two shuttered schools gain new life as business incubator, brewery campus page 18
features Armed Forces Celebration in photos 1 0 Economic Development Highlights 12
Did You Know? 16 NASA News 20 Special Speakers 21 Awards & Accolades 2 4 Small Business Center Stage 2 8 Using ChamberMaster 30 Small Business Awards in photos 3 4 Tate Farms
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.
including Calhoun Community College, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, T&W Operations, PALCO, DRS Technologies, nLogic, Raytheon Company, The VIBE Downtown and AEgis Technologies Group
developments
Huntsville Museum of Art
New Chamber Members HREGI Investors Listing Chamber Board Listing Community Profile 2014 Business EXPO Holiday Open House Chamber Staff Listing
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 NW, Huntsville, AL 35801 main line: 256.535.2000 fax: 256.535.2015
editorial staff
Publisher Chip Cherry, cce Executive Editor Patricia C. McCarter
Editorial Designer Kristi Sherrard Contributing Writers Patricia C. McCarter, Elizabeth Saba & Hannah Wallace
www.asmartplace.com
Photography Chamber of Commerce staff, publications/archive, or Shutterstock 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 Chris Soren Alabama Media Group csoren@al.com
online www.HSVchamber.org fyi
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Chamber of Commerce
Executive Committee and Board of Directors 2014 Executive Committee
A Message from Chip Cherry Dear Chamber of Commerce Investors, Community Leaders and Friends: We are blessed to live in a community with very talented people and dynamic businesses. In this issue, you will read about award winning small businesses, our community celebrating our men and women in uniform as well as our veterans. Advances in 3D printing being made by NASA and the successful GMD intercept are highlighted in the following pages as well. These are but a few of the great things that are happening in our region. Congratulations to the 27 companies who made the Inc. 5000 list. Our community had more companies on the list than any metro in Alabama! Huntsville/Madison County has a rich heritage of bright people doing very difficult things. The culture of excellence in pursuit of challenging tasks is alive and well in Huntsville. Recently NASA presented Mike Ward with the Exceptional Public Service Medal. Mike serves as the Senior Vice President of Government & Public Affairs for the Chamber. He has been a key member of our team for more than 23 years. Mike has a passion for Redstone, NASA, and the community that serves our Chamber and our members well. If you want to see his eyes light up, ask him about Dr. Wernher von Braun and the rocket team or the nuances of rocket engines. Congratulations, Mike, on this welldeserved recognition! After reading this issue, I think you will agree that our region has a great deal to be proud of. I look forward to seeing you at a Chamber event soon!
Chip Cherry, CCE
President & CEO Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
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Robert Mayes, Chair, BlueCreek Investment Partners Rey AlmodĂłvar, Chair-elect, INTUITIVE Ron Poteat, Immediate Past Chair, Regions Bank Tommy Beason, Chamber Foundation Chair, Consultant Joe Newberry, Secretary/Treasurer, Redstone Federal Credit Union Rose Allen, Vice Chair - Economic Development, Booz Allen Hamilton Mark Curran, Vice Chair - Government Affairs, L-3 Communications Gary Bolton, Vice Chair - Membership, ADTRAN Danny Windham, Vice Chair - Member Engagement, Digium Greg Brown, Vice Chair - Workforce & Industry Relations, Brown Precision Kim Lewis, Vice Chair - Small Business & Events, PROJECTXYZ Everett Brooks, Vice Chair - Image Development & Communications, AEgis Technologies Group
Mayor Tommy Battle, Chair-Appointed, City of Huntsville Penny Billings, Chair-Appointed, BancorpSouth David Spillers, Chair-Appointed, Huntsville Hospital Chairman Dale Strong, Chair-Appointed, Madison County Commission Mayor Troy Trulock, Chair-Appointed, City of Madison Dr. Casey Wardynski, Chair-Appointed, Huntsville City Schools Chip Cherry, President & CEO, Chamber of Commerce Elected Board Dr. Robert Altenkirch, The University of Alabama in Huntsville Bob Baron, Baron Services Dr. Marc Bendickson, Dynetics Miranda Bouldin, LogiCore Greg Bragg, Consolidated Construction Company Janet Brown, Belk Micah Bullard, Turner Construction Kevin Byrnes, Raytheon Company Kevin Campbell, Northrop Grumman Corporation Frank Caprio, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings Dorothy Davidson, Davidson Technologies Gene Goldman, Aerojet Rocketdyne Jeff Gronberg, deciBel Research John Gully, SAIC Natalie Hasley, Bama Jammer Steve Hassell, Emerson Network Power Avocent Tharon Honeycutt, MSB Analytics Dr. Pam Hudson, Crestwood Medical Center Dr. Andrew Hugine, Alabama A&M University Tony Jones, The Boeing Company Jeremiah Knight, JXC Consulting Group Rich Marsden, Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne Janice Migliore, PALCO Telecom Service Jim Owens, FirstBank George Prueitt, INTUITIVE Tom Ray, Consultant Jim Rogers, Lockheed Martin Corporation Alicia Ryan, LSINC Dr. Gurmej Sandhu, Sigmatech Charlie Sealy, Sealy Management Company Andrew Shambarger, BB&T Crystal Shell, WILL Technology E.J. Sinclair, SES - Science and Engineering Services Dr. Ashok Singhal, CFD Research Corporation Todd Slyman, Village of Providence Mike Stanfield, Ducommun Cynthia Streams, Domino’s Pizza (Valley Pizza) Nilmini Thompson, Systems Products and Solutions
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2014
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Thanks to All Who Helped Us Celebrate and Remember
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY
Calhoun Wynn Drive Property Purchase to Expand Campus in CRP Calhoun Community College and the Alabama State Board of Education have closed on the purchase of 9.91 acres, located on the west side of Wynn Drive directly across from Calhoun’s Huntsville/Cummings Research Park campus. Calhoun Community College President Dr. Marilyn Beck said the purchase marks the next step in the college’s renovation/construction project for the Huntsville campus. The purchase price was $937,410. An adjacent 2.7 acres being purchased by the City of Huntsville will allow for the relocation and straightening of the portion of Wynn Drive in front of Calhoun’s existing campus building. Once the street relocation project is complete, Calhoun will construct a new science, math and computer science building and a major renovation of the existing Huntsville campus facility. “This has been a long time coming, and we owe our thanks to many who have given innumerable hours in Beck support of this project,” Beck said. “We owe a special debt of gratitude to Mayor Battle and his team for their efforts in helping to make this project a reality for our students and for this community.” A groundbreaking for the Huntsville campus construction project is planned for Dec. 5. Huntsville architectural firm Chapman and Sisson has been selected for the project and is currently working on design plans. Bids to select a contractor for the project will go out once design plans are complete. •
Marshall Opens Latest NASA ‘Green’ Building
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center Building 4220 NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center opened the doors of its newest environmentally friendly facility which will house the program office leading development of the Space Launch System, the nation’s next flagship launch vehicle. Building 4220 was officially opened on Aug. 13 by Marshall Center Director Patrick Scheuermann and Deputy Director Teresa Vanhooser at the ribbon cutting along with U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks and Lt. Col. Tom Nelson, deputy commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Mobile District. Building 4220 replaces the nearby Building 4202, built in Marshall’s early years and now awaiting demolition. The new office building will primarily house Marshall personnel supporting the Space Launch System Program Office. That organization oversees all work at NASA and partner facilities to develop, build and fly the powerful new launch vehicle, which is poised to lift new exploration missions to space in the coming decades, including unprecedented human voyages to Mars and other destinations. “We are not just opening a building here,” Scheuermann said. “We’re adding effective, comfortable, environmentally friendly and ‘pocketbook-friendly’ infrastructure for the next two generations” of NASA workers. Designed and built to meet federally mandated standards of energy and water efficiency, Building 4220 is awaiting LEED® certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the national standard for the development of high-performance, sustainable structures. That achievement will uphold NASA’s long commitment to good stewardship of federal tax dollars, Scheuermann said. Marshall’s new, modern, energy-efficient facilities cut operating and maintenance costs by 65 percent, and reduce utilities expenses by 35 to 40 percent. By the time the center’s master plan is complete -- in roughly 2020 -- Marshall’s overall square footage on Redstone Arsenal will be reduced by 24 percent. •
T&W Opens New Office in CRP
L-R: Congressman Mo Brooks, T&W’s Tom Jarrell and Beau Bowden, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, State Sen. Bill Holtzclaw and Don Nalley cut ribbon. 12
October 2014 Initiatives
T&W Operations – founded by retired Army brothers-in-law who originally started the company to refurbish houses – has moved to a 15,000-squarefoot facility on Discovery Drive in Cummings Research Park where it’s been providing labor and support services for logistics operations with government and commercial clients for the past 10 years. Previously, the company was located on University Drive. Owner Tom Jarrell, who founded the business with Wayne Gardner in 2004, celebrated the milestone with T&W President Beau Bowden. The business has grown to about 40 employees and various office pets in five states. While the occasion was a celebration, there was also sadness, as Gardner passed away in April due to injuries incurred in a car accident. Both Jarrell and Gardner were retired military officers when they founded the company. T&W received the Chamber’s Small Business Award in 2008 for excellence in business services. •
~ continued on page 14
Orr Holds Crowdfunding Info Event at Chamber A packed auditorium of entrepreneurs and information seekers greeted State Sen. Arthur Orr at the Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 12 so they could learn more about the new crowdfunding legislation he helped pass through the Alabama Legislature. The new law – which was also supported by the Alabama Securities Exchange – allows an entrepreneur to raise up to $1 million in crowdfunding from Alabama investors. On hand to explain some of the intricacies of the law was ASC Deputy Director Ed Reed. Some of the highlights of the discussion included: • An entrepreneur may not accept more than $5,000 from any single purchaser unless that individual or organization is an accredited investor. • Crowdfunding isn’t allowed if you’ve been convicted of a felony, are subject to bankruptcy or have been barred from the securities industry. • Money raised through crowdfunding must be deposited in a bank or other financial institution doing business in Alabama. For more details, contact the Alabama Securities Commission at asc@asc.alabama.gov. •
Huntsville-Based PALCO Expanding into Asia-Pacific Region American reverse logistics firm PALCO Inc. is looking to expand. The Huntsville-based company, which set up its Penang office early this year to follow a U.S.-based data software customer, is now set to tap into its global customer base to beef up its Asia-Pacific operations. Reverse logistics are the activities associated with a product or service after the point of sale, as well as supporting re-work services. PALCO is owned and operated by Janice Migliore, CEO, and Randy Piechocki, President. “Our aim is to introduce the new Asia-Pacific offering to our existing customer base as well as target customers in the region,” said Piechocki. “We are participating in quotations that include support from our facility in Penang.” PALCO Asia-Pacific Sdn Bhd, situated in the Batu Maung Free Commercial Zone on Penang Island, began operations in March. In Malaysia, the company provides testing, reconfiguration, repair and re-work services of printed circuit board assemblies, failure analysis and related services. “Our customers include multinational telecommunication companies, computer manufacturers, data storage, webhosting enterprises and many others,” Piechocki said. “These customers have operations in China, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Mongolia, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Samoa and Tonga.” •
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 13
L-R: Congressman Mo Brooks, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison County Commission Chairman Dale Strong, Sally Wallace and Tim Smith from DRS, Chamber CEO Chip Cherry and COPT project manager Greg Hall at the groundbreaking. DRS Technologies, which was founded in Huntsville in the 1950s during the great “race to space,” will soon be doing business in Redstone Gateway, just outside the gate at Redstone Arsenal. Corporate and local officials broke ground on the new space on Aug. 27. “We would certainly not be here today if it weren’t for the partnership between our local government and Redstone, because there would be no Redstone Gateway without that partnership,” Mike Ward, senior vice president of government and public affairs for the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County, said. DRS Technologies is a leading supplier of integrated products, services and support to military forces, intelligence agencies and prime contractors worldwide. The company’s move into Redstone Gateway is expected to increase efficiency for the work they do in military sustainment and homeland security. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle pointed out that four buildings have been built in Redstone Gateway, and according to the master plan, there’s room for 48 more. DRS Huntsville General Manager Tim Smith said 200 employees will move into the new facility. The phase one move will be in late January of 2015, and the phase two move will be in June. •
nLogic Opens New CRP Headquarters
nLogic hosted a dedication for its new headquarters in Cummings Research Park on Corporate Drive on July 31, which coincided with its fifth anniversary. The company’s revenue has grown 1,000 percent since its first full year of business. It has expanded its business base to include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations, MDA and NASA with office locations in five states and supports development and sustainment of systems including command & control, sensors, missiles, aviation, unmanned and space systems. nLogic won the Chamber’s 2014 Small Business Award for Companies With 51 to 350 Employees; was a finalist in 2012 and 2013 for the Better Business Bureau Marketplace Ethics Award; spent four years on the Inc. Fastest Growing Companies in America list; won the Bank of America Hire Power Award in 2012 and 2013; received Boeing’s Performance Excellence Award for five consecutive years; and in 2012 it won the NGC Supplier Excellence Award. • 14
October 2014 Initiatives
Huntsville-Made Standard Missile-6 Test Successful Raytheon on Redstone Arsenal, where it assembles the Standard Missile-6 and Standard Missile-3, reports that its Aug. 14 flight test was successful. “[The] test was essentially a straight flush. It terms of cruise missile defense, it doesn’t get better than the performance we’re seeing out of the SM-6,” said Mike Campisi, Raytheon’s Standard Missile-6 program director. “We’ve delivered more than 100 SM-6s to the U.S. Navy from our integration facility in Huntsville, and it continues to prove its capability against a wide range of threats.” The test, named “Juliet” and conducted at White Sands Missile Range, is one of 10 planned performance and demonstration events designed to show the Navy SM-6’s ability to detect and engage a slow-moving target, even in the presence of land clutter. •
VIBE Provides Co-Working Space Downtown
Photo courtesy of The VIBE Downtown
DRS Breaks Ground in Redstone Gateway
Need a downtown space to hang out, conduct business and network? The VIBE Downtown (Vertically Integrated Business Ecosystem) opened its doors at 125 North Side Square Suite 200 in May for just that purpose. Its tag line is intriguing: Hot Coffee. Warm Atmosphere. Cool People. The VIBE Downtown is 1,500 square feet of space located in a former glamor photography studio on the Madison County Courthouse Square, sponsored by the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s College of Business Administration. It is managed by Huntsville’s high tech incubator, BizTech. The executive business lounge brands itself as the city’s No. 1 “destination for working outside the office and thinking outside the box.” A variety of meeting room space is available, at the cost of up to $50 an hour. Discounts apply for those with monthly memberships. Individual co-working spaces with high-speed internet access rent for $4 an hour or $12 a day. Bob Ludwig, interim CEO of BizTech, said much of the usage thus far has involved one- or two-person companies that don’t have official offices. “The VIBE gives them a chance to network and to have a nice professional space to meet their clients,” Ludwig said. •
~ compiled by Patricia McCarter
AEgis Technologies Group Celebrates 25th Anniversary A technology company born in a Huntsville basement celebrated its 25th anniversary on Aug. 21 with more than 500 friends at its Cummings Research Park location. Bill Waite and Steve Hill founded AEgis Technologies in 1989 after being laid off from other jobs. They now employ more than 320 people in 16 states. At their anniversary celebration, they enjoyed congratulations from local, regional and national officials in public service, academia, the Department of Defense and the commercial sector. They also provided several technical demonstrations. “This is all about our employees, making our customers successful and serving this great community,” Hill said. Waite added, “If we can accomplish this in our first 25 years with this great team and in this great community, we can expect even bigger and better things in the next 25 years!” AEgis serves customers in simulation products and training systems, geospatial programs, hardware-in-the-loop simulation systems, warfighter exercise support, systems engineering, verification validation and accreditation, and test and evaluation. Some of the company’s most touted products include 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. •
L-R: AEgis co-founders Steve Hill and Bill Waite
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PESA (pesa.com) Have you ever been watching a live event, such as a football game, concert, or debate and wished you could control your viewing experience from multiple vantage points? Now you can on the new streaming app PESA XSTREAM Live! Stadiums and arenas can equip their venues with new streaming systems, PESA XSTREAM C22 and C58, allowing multiple audio and video input sources to be synchronized in real time thereby enhancing the spectator experience. John Wright, senior vice president of business development, gave me a demonstration of this cool new technology on my company visit there. As I watched a soccer game on an iPad, I could view it from the perspective of the goalie, the audience and the offense. I also watched a debate, moving back and forth between the debaters and the individuals who asked the questions. What really blew me away was when John showed me how I could use the social media function of the app to share updates about the event with friends and family. PESA was born in Huntsville and has spent more than 40 years developing and manufacturing advanced video and audio communications equipment. Its products have been used to support Army, Navy and Air Force mission-critical activities, International Space Station operations and by some of the largest TV networks and sport broadcasters in the world. In fact, PESA recently received NAITA’s prestigious Global Trade Award for 2014 and was awarded a new GSA contract, enabling the company to continue to service the U.S. Department of Defense.
Insights on Local Manufacturing Elizabeth Saba Economic Development Specialist
Schwarze Industries (schwarze.com) Imagine walking into a sophisticated manufacturing plant with gargantuan trucks equipped with the newest technologies for sweeping, vacuuming, dumping and patching. Greg Heyer – vice president of sales, marketing, customer service and product management – showed me some new innovative products and also gave me a tour of the new Schwarze Training Academy. Schwarze’s new 7,000-square-foot Training Academy is across from the company’s manufacturing plant on Jordan Road in Chase Industrial Park. Established in 2013, the academy trains more than 100 clients a year on how to repair and maintain their street sweeping equipment. The most striking piece of training equipment was the “Six Sense” control panel from the M6 Avalanche, one of the company’s newest premier heavy duty mechanical broom sweepers. This control panel features six, LCD color-coded sections, including “lights,” “conveyor,” “broom” and “hopper dump” and the ability to pre-program in six of your favorite settings based on the sweeping environment. Schwarze Industries, owned by Alamo Group, produces and maintains street sweepers across the U.S. and more than 30 countries. Headquartered in Huntsville, Schwarze captures about a third of the U.S. and Australian market for street sweepers. Schwarze Industries offers one of the most comprehensive sweeper lines in the industry, including models for parking area cleaning, industrial sweeping, mall and shopping center sweeping, airport runway sweeping, street sweeping, and storm water runoff management.
Aviagen (aviagen.com) Do you ever wonder who helps ensure that the poultry you consume is healthy, sustainable and tasty? Tucked away in Cummings Research Park are headquarters for Aviagen, a primary poultry breeding company that brings together top experts in the field of poultry production, nutrition, genetics, and veterinary medicine to produce the highest quality poultry breeding stock. The company is committed to global education and also local development. In May 2013, more than 30 students from 20 countries gathered in Huntsville to celebrate the launch of the 50th Production Management School, hosted by Aviagen. The month-long program marked 50 years of teaching at Aviagen focused on poultry production, biosecurity, animal welfare, feed information, fertility and health in the poultry industry. Aviagen operates seven facilities in Alabama including two hatcheries, an egg depot/production office, a feed mill, veterinary services lab and a research facility. There are no chickens at its CRP facility. The company also has a strong relationship with local framers. Aviagen President Ben Thompson explained that the company partners with more than 200 farmers across the state to raise its chickens. Aviagen, which employs 65 people at its Huntsville headquarters and 389 statewide, is the largest provider of breeding stock for broiler type chickens. The company has operations across Asia, Europe, Latin America, Oceania and North America as well as a joint venture in Asia. Through these operations and a significant distributor network, customers in more than 130 countries worldwide are supplied with first-class breeding stock. Aviagen brands include Arbor Acres, Indian River and Ross. 16
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TOP 10 EMPLOYERS Population
Madison County
City of Huntsville
2010 Census
334,811
180,105
42,938
417,593
2013 Census
346,892
186,254
45,799
435,737
% Growth
City of Huntsville Madison Metro Area
3.6% 3.4% 6.7% 4.3%
131,263
Avg. Household Income $77,819 Per Capita Income
$31,367
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*
74,778
15,895
162,449
$70,546 $110,359
$75,389
$30,299
$30,072
$41,490
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (www.census.gov), 2012 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 leader in technology development. The second-largest science and
For more information, visit:
technology park in the U.S., Cummings Research Park is home to more
www.HSVchamber.org
development.
than 300 companies and 29,000 people involved in technology research and
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Two shuttered schools gain new life as business incubator, brewery campus by Patricia McCarter
Brandon Kruse
Photo by Bob Gathany
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October 2014 Initiatives
H
e’s 24, and he just bought a school to convert into a business incubator/accelerator/ launchpad/coworking space. Why? Because he could… and because “something like this would have really helped me out when I was younger.” (Younger?) Instead, when still a teenager, he founded his long distance company DialMaxx in his parents’ basement, “which was fun, but it was also lonely and, at times, rather depressing.” He’s not lonely or depressed now: He sold his homegrown business to publicly traded magicJack last year in a multi-million dollar deal which gives him the freedom – and wherewithal – to assist other entrepreneurs with their ideas. He bought West Huntsville Elementary for $500,000, after two years of negotiations. He likes that the 45,000 square feet (closed by Huntsville City Schools in 2009 during a consolidation period) have been well maintained and that it’s only a few blocks down Ninth Avenue from the artsy hive of activity known as Lowe Mill. “This kind of (repurposing) is huge in other places,” said Kruse, a 2008 graduate of Westminster Christian Academy, who opted not to go on to college. He has, however, spent time in Florida and the West Coast, interacting with young, small companies in coworking spaces. He promotes “radical transparency” with his business ideas, and he’s a huge believer in “adaptive reuse” of old structures into modern workspace. He’s named the incubator West Huntsville LLC, and he’s already lined up 12 micro-business tenants. Pinnacle Schools will continue to take up about one-third of the building for at least the next three years. “I don’t need to pull a salary from this,” Kruse said. “I’ve seen a lot of entrepreneurs who jump off that cliff and hope they can find their parachute string in time… I love the entrepreneur culture. A lot of people talk about, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if…’ There comes a time when you have to act.” Part of the plan is for Kruse to serve as a mentor to his tenant companies and to anyone else who wants his counsel. He credits Mark Spencer at Digium for helping him find the confidence to go out on his own. Kruse started spending time at Digium at the young age of 15 – “mostly getting coffee for the guys writing code” – but then became a programmer there. “Mark was absolutely amazing,” Kruse said. “I had so many mentors at Digium. Mark told me to go on out and start my company, and that if it didn’t work out, I could always come back.” The entrepreneur said his parents, Eric and Penny Kruse, are his biggest fans and supporters. “They’re proud of me, sure, but they’d be just as proud if I was flipping burgers somewhere,” he said. His parents now work for him and his other ventures. His father is a real estate broker, and his mother is an interior designer who will help him reinvigorate the old school. Plans include eliminating the drop ceilings and exposing ductwork. He wants to use the gym/cafetorium area for special events, and he plans to rework the kitchen into a coworking commercial kitchen. •
This page: Architectural illustrations for the previous Stone Middle School campus at the five-point intersection of Governors Drive, Clinton Avenue and Triana Boulevard.
T
he old Stone Middle School sits at the five-point intersection of Governors Drive, Clinton Avenue and Triana Boulevard, within sight of Interstate 565. Some refer to it as the gateway into downtown Huntsville from the west. That shuttered school is set to be transformed into a different kind of campus, a “brewery campus,” if you will, home to two of Huntsville’s most popular craft beer makers, Straight to Ale and Yellowhammer. The nearly four-acre campus is being purchased by Huntsville developer Randy Schrimsher, and he’s announced a deal in which the two brewers will build production space as well as tasting rooms. Schrimsher is in negotiations to buy the school for $1.14 million. The developer said about 75 percent of the school – which was rebuilt from a fire in 1986 and then closed for good in 2009 – will stay intact. “You definitely have to have an appreciation for the older buildings to want to do this,” Schrimsher said. “The thing that is so exciting to me about this is that it will provide a brand new type of energy to this part of the city.” The developer said all of the first floor of the building has been spoken for, except for
5,000 square feet, which he is reserving for a restaurant. Demolition should being soon on Stone’s two-story wing, and that land will be used for a parking lot. “With this being a middle school, there just wasn’t that much parking space available,” he said. “We are hoping that we will have a high demand for people to park.” Straight to Ale is currently operating in a warehouse off Leeman Ferry Road. It plans to convert the gymnasium and another portion of the building into a 40,000-square-foot brewery, tap room and entertainment area. “We’re going to fill it up with happy people, we’re going to employ a lot of people locally, and we’re going to be able to put out the quantity of beer that we need to,” said Straight to Ale founder Dan Perry. Yellowhammer Brewing is just a couple blocks down from the school, and it will build a 6,000-square-foot structure on land that used to serve as Stone Middle’s athletic
fields. A biergarten and tasting room will be included. “This is the most dynamic project I’ve ever been a part of,” Schrimsher said. The City of Huntsville has announced its intention to purchase some acreage at the Stone site to build an amphitheater that can seat 2,000 for concerts and other entertainment purposes, but no renderings have been revealed yet. Huntsville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Casey Wardynski said repurposing the schools is a plus for all sectors: It provides money for the school system to improve other campuses; it gives local small businesses space to expand; and it puts properties back on the tax rolls. “This is the way that development is being done now,” said Dennis Madsen, manager of urban and long-range Planning for the city. “This serves as a great example of how redevelopment can be done in other neighborhoods as well.” •
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NASA
completes review of N Mars-bound rocket; 3D printer headed to Space Station
Propulsion engineer Sandra Greene, left, and test engineer Cynthia Sprader recently completed a series of test firings at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville to gather acoustic data on the engines to be used with the Space Launch System, a powerful heavy-lift rocket being designed for exploration missions. They took advantage of the hot-fire tests to verify that 3-D printed parts of a subscale rocket engine performed as well as traditionally manufactured parts. Image courtesy of NASA/MSFC
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October 2014 Initiatives
ASA has completed a rigorous review of the Space Launch System (SLS) – the heavy-lift, exploration class rocket under development to take humans beyond Earth orbit and to Mars - and approved the program’s progression from formulation to development, something no other exploration class vehicle has achieved since the agency built the space shuttle. “We are on a journey of scientific and human exploration that leads to Mars,” said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden. “And we’re firmly committed to building the launch vehicle and other supporting systems that will take us on that journey.” For its first flight test, SLS will be configured for a 70-metric-ton (77-ton) lift capacity and carry an un-crewed Orion spacecraft beyond low-Earth orbit. In its most powerful configuration, SLS will provide an unprecedented lift capability of 130 metric tons (143 tons), which will enable missions even farther into our solar system, including such destinations as an asteroid and Mars. This decision comes after a thorough review known as Key Decision Point C (KDP-C), which provides a development cost baseline for the 70-metric ton version of the SLS of $7.021 billion from February 2014 through the first launch and a launch readiness schedule based on an initial SLS flight no later than November 2018. Conservative cost and schedule commitments outlined in the KDP-C align the SLS program with program management best practices that account for potential technical risks and budgetary uncertainty beyond the program’s control. “Our nation is embarked on an ambitious space exploration program, and we owe it to the American taxpayers to get it right,” said Associate Administrator Robert Lightfoot, who oversaw the review process. “After rigorous review, we’re committing today to a funding level and readiness date that will keep us on track to sending humans to Mars in the 2030s – and we’re going to stand behind that commitment.” Said SLS program manager Todd May: “Engineers have made significant technical progress on the rocket and have produced hardware for all elements of the SLS program. The team members deserve an enormous amount of credit for their dedication to building this national asset.” Also in NASA news, the 3-D printing in Zero-G technology, led out of Marshall Space Flight Center, provided a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award to Made In Space Inc. to build the first 3-D printer for operation in microgravity. It is scheduled to launch to the station aboard the SpaceX-4 resupply mission. The 3-D printer is the size of a small microwave oven, and it may alleviate the need for NASA astronauts to wait for resupply ships to arrive at the International Space Station to get some essential items. Researchers hope to show a 3-D printer can work normally in space and produce parts equitable to those printed on the ground. It works by extruding heated plastic, which then builds layer upon layer to create three-dimensional objects. Testing this on the station is the first step toward creating a working “machine shop” in space. This capability may decrease cost and risk on the station, will be critical when space explorers venture far from Earth and will create an ondemand supply chain for needed tools and parts. If the printer is successful, it will not only serve as the first demonstration of additive manufacturing in microgravity, but it also will bring NASA and “Made In Space” a big step closer to evolving in-space manufacturing for future missions to destinations such as an asteroid and Mars. Long-term missions would benefit greatly from onboard manufacturing capabilities. Data and experience gathered in this demonstration could improve future 3-D manufacturing technology and equipment for the space program, allowing a greater degree of autonomy and flexibility for astronauts. •
Two World Renown Women to Speak at Girls Inc., HudsonAlpha Fundraisers Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will be the key note speaker at the Girls Inc. “Invest in a Girl” dinner on Oct. 28 in the Von Braun Center. Rice, the second woman and first African American woman to hold that cabinet post, is currently a professor of political economy at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University. “Girls Inc. understands the importance of providing our girls exposure to diverse role models who epitomize hard Rice work, intelligence and resilience,” said Stephanie Malone, Girls Inc. of Huntsville Executive Director. “Dr. Rice is a powerful woman who inspires the next generation of girls to embrace new possibilities and give back so they are prepared to take advantage of every opportunity.” The Invest in a Girl celebration is an annual fundraising event that allows Girls Inc. to raise funds to further its mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold. Proceeds will be used to provide scholarships to attend the Girls Inc. year-round comprehensive program and provide funding that supports STEM education and workforce development programs. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available now. Contact Stephanie Malone (256) 851-9911 or visit girlsinc-huntsville.com. ~~~~~ World-renowned geneticist Mary-Claire King, Ph.D., known for discovering the BRCA1 gene mutation and its linkage to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, will present her story at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology Tie the Ribbons luncheon in November The Tie the Ribbons event raises funds to support genomic research at HudsonAlpha in the pursuit of greater understanding of genes related to breast and ovarian cancers in the hopes of discovering targeted diagnostics and treatments. The 2014 Tie the Ribbons event is Nov. 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Davidson Center for Space Exploration on the campus of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. “Mary-Claire King’s discovery of genetic linkage in breast and ovarian cancer was a breakthrough for understanding many forms of common disease in addition to cancer,” said HudsonAlpha President and Director Richard
Myers, Ph.D. “Not only did Mary-Claire show how inherited mutations contributed to the overall prevalence of breast cancer, the identification of BRCA1 led to a much deeper understanding of how cancer develops, and new strategies for cancer treatment.” People purchasing a seat or a table for Tie the Ribbons will be invited to a talk by HudsonAlpha VP for Educational Outreach Neil
Lamb, Ph.D., on Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Jackson Center. Lamb will discuss the history and impact of King’s groundbreaking discovery. To make reservations for the Tie the Ribbons event, go King to support.hudsonalpha.org/tietheribbons or call 256-327-0422. •
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Presenting Sponsor: Alabama Media Group Media Sponsors: Focus Radio Communications / WTKI • WAY-FM
Grow your business EXPOnentially by taking part in the Business C EXPO
Gold Sponsor: WAAY Television
by Patricia McCarter
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October 2014 Initiatives
ould your business benefit from 1,500 potential customers getting an up close look at your goods and services in just one day? If yes, then you should consider renting a booth at the Chamber of Commerce’s Business EXPO and Health & Wellness Showcase at the Von Braun Center South Hall on Thursday, Nov. 6 from noon until 5 p.m. For those merchants who feel like they wouldn’t know what to do or what to say to those 1,500 people, exhibitor training will be held in the Chamber’s auditorium, Oct. 23 at 11:30 a.m. Exhibitors will be walked through the EXPO planning process, given tips on how to draw traffic to their booths and how to implement successful preshow and post-show promotion. There will also be live testimonials from past vendors who have attracted new customers due to EXPO exposure. The cost of a 10-foot by 10-foot booth is $425 (or two booths for $725); nonprofits and home-based businesses will pay $300. The Chamber will provide a skirted table, back drape and two chairs. The deadline to reserve space at the Business EXPO is Oct. 15. Typically 160+ vendors participate. The event is free and open to the public, but vendors must be Chamber members. Alabama Media Group is the presenting sponsor. Prizes will be given away every hour at the EXPO. Pammie Jimmar, director of the Chamber’s Small Business & Events division, said the EXPO is one of the Chamber’s premier events because it allows members to highlight what they have to offer to customers in Huntsville and Madison County. “If you want to grow your business, there is no better way to let the public know who you are and what you do,” Jimmar said. “You can get your products and services in front of hundreds of people who are looking for people to do business with. “Reserving a space at the Chamber’s Annual Business EXPO is one of the smartest things you can do if you want to be successful.” •
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Awards &
A ccolades
~ compiled by Patricia McCarter
On the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies List... More than two dozen Huntsville/Madison County businesses were included in the recently released Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list. Inc. compiles the list by using percentage revenue growth from 2010-13, and the independent U.S. companies must have generated at least $2 million in revenue in 2013 and had at least $100,000 in revenue in 2010. •
24
Rank Company
3 yr. Growth
Revenue
43 Thompson Gray
5753%
$14.1m
67 Gideon Services
4723%
$23.3m
650%
$8.0m
698 Five Stones Research 1005 Trident Technologies
444%
$11.6m
Sippel new President/CEO of First Commercial Bank of Huntsville
1254 GATR Technologies
346%
$30.6m
1421 Kord Technologies
300%
$10.9m
1457 Curse
293%
$24.4m
Beth Sippel has been named President and CEO of First Commercial Bank in Huntsville, a division of Georgia-based Synovus Bank. She succeeds former Chamber Board Chair Charlie Kettle, who will continue to serve as Chairman of the First Commercial Bank Local Advisory Board. “Beth is an experienced banker, and she is ready to lead the talented First Commercial team forward as they serve our loyal customers in the Huntsville market,” said D. Copeland, Chief Banking Officer. “We are grateful for Charlie’s 20 years of service to First Commercial and his contributions to the economic and community development of this region, including his extensive work with the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County and United Way of Madison County. We will continue to benefit from his experience and expertise as he leads our local advisory board.” Sippel has more than 22 years in banking, including the past 10 years with First Commercial Bank, most recently leading the commercial banking efforts in Madison as executive vice president. She also previously led the bank’s retail and small business efforts. She serves on the Board of Directors of the United Way of Madison County, is a past board chair and Sippel led the fundraising campaign. She is a member of the Huntsville Botanical Garden Advisory Board, the Committee of 100, the Women’s Economic Development Council, and is a graduate of Leadership Huntsville/Madison County. In recognition of her long history of community service, Sippel was awarded Synovus’ William B. Turner Humanitarian Award in 2012. •
1642 Appleton Learning
258%
$6.5m
October 2014 Initiatives
212%
$154.7m
2081 PeopleTec
1921 Torch Technologies
193%
$41.1m
2166 IronMountain Solutions
183%
$5.6m
2186 PROJECTXYXZ
182%
$6.2m
2556 A-P-T Research
147%
$27.0m
2612 Summit 7 Systems
144%
$3.1m
3064 nLogic
116%
$14.5m
3084 Xarisma
115%
$9.6m
3310 Summit Technology
102%
$11.5m
3617 Valley Rubber
89%
$18.5m
88%
$19.0m
3825 US Diagnostics
81%
$12.9m
3883 Media Fusion
79%
$12.3m
Davis Strategic Innovations
79%
$5.3m
4159
Manufacturing Technical Solutions
69%
$19.4m
4356
AEgis Technologies Group
63%
$63.1m
61%
$29.6m
4858 deciBel Research
47%
$21.6m
4899 Brockwell Technologies
46%
$7.8m
3640 GaN
3886
4409 KAYA Associates
Lockheed Martin ‘Project Lead the Way’ funds engineering program in Huntsville City Schools Huntsville City Schools has become the largest school system in the State of Alabama to achieve 100 percent implementation of the nation’s leading K-12 science, technology, engineering and math program. Thanks to a grant from Lockheed Martin Corporation, Huntsville City Schools will extend Project Lead The Way into all of its elementary schools in 2014-15. The program has already been introduced in middle and high schools. A $200,000 grant from Lockheed Martin has allowed the Huntsville school system to implement the nation’s largest STEM education program at all grade levels. The expansion of the program, which began with the new school year, was officially announced during the 2014 Space & Missile Defense Symposium at the Von Braun Center. “Today is a great day for Huntsville, and it’s a great day for anyone who cares about children,” Huntsville Superintendent Casey Wardynski said. The $200,000 grant to Huntsville City Schools is part of a $6 million grant nationally over three years that Lockheed Martin committed to support Project Lead The Way. The partnership is designed to support district-wide implementations of Project Lead The Way in communities where Lockheed Martin has a presence. The Chamber helped facilitate a grant from Lockheed Martin to Huntsville City Schools in 2012 to support Project Lead The Way at New Century Technology High School. The expansion into elementary schools creates a seamless transition for future scientists and engineers
from the earliest grades through high school and beyond. Project Lead The Way is recognized by two- and four-year schools that award credit for passing grades, and programs such as Toyota’s Advanced Manufacturing Technician program starting this year at Calhoun Community College give preference to Project Lead The Way graduates. •
Peek gets promotion at Port of Huntsville After a national search, Barbie Peek has been named the new Director of Business Development at the Port of Huntsville. This newly developed position within the organization will lead and direct the business development efforts for all entities at The Port of Huntsville, which include the Huntsville International Airport, International Intermodal Center and the Jetplex Industrial Park. Peek has almost 30 years’ experience in marketing, business development, market research/analysis, communications, promotions/ advertising, public relations, customer service, and brand/image management. She joined the staff at the Port of Huntsville in 1989. “We are excited about this re-organization and look forward to you and your organization working with Barbie and our team,” said Rick Tucker, executive director of the Huntsville International Airport. “TogethPeek er we would like to investigate and map out how we can further our mission of providing quality multi-modal transportation services to the region and to stimulate the economic development of the Tennessee Valley region.” •
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Awards & Accolades, continued from page 25 –
TVA top ranked for renewable energy sale
Green Mountain Soap certified as “food grade”
The Tennessee Valley Authority is No. 9 in the country for renewable energy sales among U.S. utilities in 2013. It was the only utility in the southeast to crack the top 10. This is the first time since 2003 that TVA made the list. The utility cited customer support for its Green Power Switch program as a key reason for the sales performance listed ninth in the U.S. Department of Energy rankings. Green Power Switch, which began in 2000, allows utility customers to signify if they would like to purchase a small amount of green power as part of their monthly bill. Money from that initiative is then used to buy renewable power – such as wind or solar – in the Tennessee Valley. There’s room to grow. Thus far, only a fraction - about 12,600 households out of 4 million across seven states - of TVA customers has signed up. Nearly 1,100 residential and 14 businesses are Green Power Switch customers in Alabama. Those figures include 939 Huntsville Utilities customers, TVA said. “TVA is proud to be recognized nationally for our strong and growing support of renewable energy,” said Patty West, director of TVA’s Renewable Energy Solutions. “Cost-effective, renewable energy is an important part of TVA’s diverse portfolio of energy-generation sources.” The program offers customers a chance to buy defined percentages of their estimated monthly electricity use from green sources, on top of their current rates. A given home’s participation doesn’t mean green power goes directly to that customer, but rather to TVA’s overall system. TVA spokesman Duncan Mansfield said solar power is the most common source for renewable energy purchased by the utility in the Tennessee Valley. He said there are nearly 2,000 solar photovoltaic installations in the valley and TVA has approved 340 more that are “on the way.” TVA will buy the power and offers incentive programs to encourage solar installations in homes and small businesses. •
Huntsville-based Green Mountain Soap Company’s all vegetable formulation has been awarded a “food grade” certification by NSF International, a global provider of public health standards. Green Mountain’s soap is under NSF category H1 (non-food substances with incidental contact with food handling containers), and is listed in the NSF White Book. Several years ago, a manufacturing company that produces plastic food containers using a blow molding process contacted Green Mountain Soap Company. Blow molds use bar soap as a lubricant in parts of their machinery, but if the containers being manufactured will be used to handle food, all lubricants and other materials that may come in contact with the containers must be certified as food grade. Green Mountain Soap products Green Mountain sought NSF International certification as food grade because NSF certifications are known and respected worldwide as a USDA product approval and listing program. The all-vegetable formulation exceeded all NSF requirements for success. When the plastic container manufacturer started using Green Mountain Soap, they reported two things. First, external audits were passed with higher marks, resulting in semiannual audits being extended to annual audits, saving the company time and money. Second, production crews began to notice that it was not necessary to shut down the lines to lubricate the machinery as often as with other soaps. The GMSC soap bars had greater lasting power, and the frequency of lubrication went from every four hours to every eight hours--between shifts. Green Mountain Soap is used by individuals in body care, but because of its purity, the bar and liquid soaps also find uses in the production of other products and in washing fruits and vegetables at certified organic farms. •
City of Huntsville gets another Triple-A credit rating
26
The City of Huntsville remains one of the nation’s most financially wellmanaged municipalities. Wall Street rating firms Moody’s Investors Service and Standard and Poor’s both issued triple-A credit ratings to Huntsville on Aug. 1 for the fifth consecutive year. The ratings come in advance of the City’s move to refinance debt obligations valued at about $60 million. Refinancing will save the city about $4 million. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle says the credit ratings reflect the community’s economic strength, the City’s sound, conservative management and manageable debt. “We have worked hard to remain fiscally responsible in a time of shrinking resources,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “We have put our dollars into our most critical needs – public safety, education, infrastructure and economic development – and we are being rewarded with an influx of new industries and expanding businesses that desire a secure, healthy community.” The Mayor says the positive credit ratings are also the result of strong teamwork between his administration and the City Council. Moody’s cites Huntsville’s strengths as its stable financial position, above average wealth levels and below-average unemployment, and its large, regionally important tax base with significant government presence. Also key is the City’s three-year trend of stabilized General Fund reserve levels, including the continued maintenance of a contingency reserve. Triple-A is the highest credit rating offered and allows the city to borrow money at more favorable interest rates. • October 2014 Initiatives
Huntsville Museum of Art “Best of BAMA” winner by Alabama Magazine The Huntsville Museum of Art (HMA) was recently named a “Best of BAMA” Awards recipient in the Arts and Entertainment category by the readers of Alabama Magazine. The “Best of BAMA” contest ran for 12 months and was promoted in the publication and on the magazine’s Facebook page. Alabama Magazine received more than 1,000 votes from readers who chose the people, places and events they felt were the best of the best in Alabama. “To receive the ‘Best of BAMA’ Award is an honor that is a result of the dedication and collaborative efforts of the staff, Board of Directors, Foundation Board and the many museum volunteers with whom I’ve had the pleasure of working during my past three years at HMA,” Christopher J. Madkour, the museum’s executive director, said. “I welcome you to visit HMA and find out for yourself why we were voted the ‘Best of BAMA!’” •
WEDC names honorees The Women’s Economic Development Council of Huntsville held its annual Women Honoring Women banquet on Sept. 18 at the Von Braun Center. The seven women are: Dorothy Davidson, Dr. Pam Hudson, Ellin Jimmerson, Donna Rush, Eula Battle, Nancy Jones, and Donna Coleman. They are top achievers in fields such as arts & humanities, business & professional, community and public service, education, technology, and health & human services. Members of the WEDC selected the honorees to tell their stories of success and offer words of inspiration for other women trying to succeed. Honorees shown above (L-R): Dr. Pam Hudson, CEO of Crestwood Medical Center; Dorothy Davidson, president and CEO of Davidson Technologies; Nancy Jones and Eula Battle, co-founders of Free2Teach; Ellin Jimmerson, founder of Huntsville Immigration Initiative and minister
at Weatherly Heights Baptist Church; Donna Coleman, president and CEO of Aetos Systems; Donna Rush, immediate past president of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild. “Today, too many of us have apologized for talking, apologized for thinking,” said honoree Dorothy Davidson, CEO of Davidson Technologies. “I want that to stop. I want us to have good ideas and get out and present them and be leaders.” “This is a tremendous honor,” said honoree Dr. Pam Hudson, CEO of Crestwood Medical Center. “The women who have received it in the past have been just incredible role models for our community, and especially for women.” The WEDC Foundation has given more than $275,000 in scholarships to more than 100 women across the community. •
Community Foundation, Torch Technologies create quality of life fund The Community Foundation of Huntsville/Madison County and Torch Technologies have created a new endowed fund which will provide a perpetual source of grants for improving local quality of life. The new fund, called the Community Catalyst Fund, is an endowment to be funded by unrestricted gifts which will empower the Community Foundation to make annual grants for the betterment of the community. Stuart Obermann, CEO/President of the Community Foundation, said, “This new fund will allow our foundation to become an active grant maker in our community, and allow our board and staff to make and manage strategic philanthropic investments which will have a positive impact for everyone living in the greater Huntsville area.”
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Shattered
magazine lets readers share their W stories by Hannah Wallace
Above: Pages from past Shattered issues.
Below: Rachel Jackson, founder and editor-in-chief of Shattered magazine.
hat began as an inspirational blog has blossomed into Shattered magazine – a publication aimed at encouraging people to live life with purpose. Founder and editor-in-chief Rachael Jackson is a West Point graduate and former Apache pilot in the U.S. Army. While this brought her a great sense pride and accomplishment, she wanted more. When the challenges of life began to weigh on her, Jackson found solace in her relationship with God, which led her to create Shattered. “This idea came to me about four years ago after my mom died. I wanted to help people find purpose in their lives,” the former Army captain said. Shattered magazine is a faith-based publication with its foundation rooted in Huntsville. With the motto “Your Story, His Glory,” Jackson said the magazine is about meeting people where they are. The title alone is meant to alter people’s perspectives on what it means to be shattered – to find goodness in both the ups and downs of life. Each issue is comprised of submissions from writers who feel they have a testimony to share. Also, magazine staff writers seek out other inspirational stories. Jackson urges people to let go of what she calls the “whitepicket-fence syndrome,” and come to the realization that no one is perfect. She strives to use her platform to help people from all walks of life find hope and encouragement in whatever life throws them. The magazine’s first print issue, published in May 2013, was made possible by the $7,000 raised with the help of local businesses during their Kickstarter campaign. Now, they are on their way to becoming a nationally distributed publication. “We went from 40 to 800 subscribers... But no matter how big we get, we know that Huntsville has played a big role in our success,” Jackson said. In an effort to touch as many lives as possible, regardless of their ability to afford a subscription or not, the magazine is engaged in what they have termed the “Shattered Effect.” When you purchase an annual print subscription to Shattered, they give away one magazine to their ministry partners, currently the Manna House and For Life Ministries. Jackson has even been told that one subscriber recycles old issues of Shattered magazine and passes them around among women she supports. Shattered magazine has been recognized for several achievements that speak to their efforts and hard work. Their magazine is distributed to select Books-A-Million and Barnes & Noble stores across the nation, and they have earned an Evangelical Press Association Award for Merit. But something more than these accolades helps Jackson to realize her purpose. Community members are also encouraged to support the “Shattered Effect” ministry partners at this event by donating items of need to Huntsville’s Manna House and by purchasing a copy of the magazine; 10 percent of the proceeds from magazine sales at this event will go to support For Life Ministries. •
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October 2014 Initiatives
Awards & Accolades, continued from page 27 –
Bill Roark, Stuart Obermann at fund announcement Torch Technologies has provided the inaugural leadership gift to initiate the new fund and has been named the Torchbearer Sponsor of the Community Catalyst Fund. Torch has donated $50,000 to jumpstart the fund, and is offering an additional $100,000 as a challenge grant to match other corporate and individual gifts to the Catalyst Fund. According to Bill Roark, Chairman and CEO of Torch, “We have been looking for the right opportunity for Torch to make a ‘signature’ type of commitment, one that would have a long-lasting positive impact on our community. We feel the Catalyst Fund provides just that opportunity.” •
NASA’s Marshall Center honors contributions to Mission NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville recently recognized more than 240 individuals and members of nearly 90 teams who supported a variety of programs, projects and activities for Marshall and NASA in 2013-14. Those honored, said Marshall Center Director Patrick Scheuermann, “exemplify the dedication, drive and innovation that underpin all our work at NASA and Marshall and help to ensure success for the agency’s continuing mission of discovery and exploration.” NASA Associate Administrator Robert Lightfoot joined Marshall leaders in presenting awards. Lightfoot is a former Marshall director himself, having led the center from 2009-2012. NASA Distinguished Service Medals, the highest honor the agency gives to its civil service employees and other federal workers, were presented to Maj. Gen. Lynn Collyar, retired former commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command in Huntsville; and Steven D. Pearson, deputy director of Marshall’s Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate. Receiving NASA Exceptional Public Service Medals were John N. Fowler and Jeffrey N. Oliver of Jacobs ESSSA in Huntsville; Robert E. Fudickar of Jacobs Technology Inc. in Huntsville; Barbara A. Maples of COLSA Corp. in Huntsville; Kent D. Schock of Bastion Technologies Inc. of Houston; Eloise Watson-Jackson of AQuate Corp. in Huntsville; Michael D. Ward of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County; and Kelli L. Wright of the Marshall Child Development Center. Receiving NASA Distinguished Public Service Medals, the highest honor the agency awards to non-government workers, were Dr. John C. Gregory, professor of chemistry and director of the Alabama Space Grant Consortium at the University of Alabama in Huntsville; Thomas Hancock, past chair of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics’ Greater Huntsville section; and Matthew N. Ramsey, a Jacobs ESSSA Group
system engineer supporting Marshall’s Engineering Directorate. NASA Outstanding Leadership Medals were presented to Jack C. Boaz, Melanie C. Gregory, Daniel W. Mitchell, Christopher G. Popp, Patrick R. Rogers, Timothy P. Vaughn and John H. Vickers of Marshall’s Engineering Directorate; Stacy M. Counts and Paul A. Gilbert of the Flight Programs and Partnerships Office; Ela M. Washington of the Office of Human Capital; and Marshall Chief Financial Officer William R. Hicks. Jacqueline Gorzynski, a retired program manager for Will Technology Inc. of Huntsville, formerly supporting Marshall’s Office of Human Capital, received the NASA Outstanding Public Leadership Medal. NASA Exceptional Service Medals were presented to Edward A. Ahmad, Elbert F. Davis, Julian S. Hamilton Jr., and Edward H. Kiessling of Marshall’s Office of Center Operations; Joe D. Davis, Timothy T. Gautney, Albert S. Johnston, Kirby G. Lawless (retired) and James E. Turner of the Engineering Directorate; Stephanie B. Lacy-Conerly and Alex S. Priskos of the Space Launch System Program Office; Martin L. Johnson, James H. Rogers and David J. Spacek of the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate; Paulette A. Davy and Jeffrey S. Ehmen of the Office of Human Capital; Anita G. Webster of the Office of the Chief Information Officer; Jimmy W. Black of the Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications; and Malcolm W. Wood of NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. Receiving NASA Exceptional Public Service Medals were John N. Fowler and Jeffrey N. Oliver of Jacobs ESSSA in Huntsville; Robert E. Fudickar of Jacobs Technology Inc. in Huntsville; Barbara A. Maples of COLSA Corp. in Huntsville; Kent D. Schock of Bastion Technologies Inc. of Houston; Eloise Watson-Jackson of AQuate Corp. in Huntsville; Michael D. Ward of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce; and Kelli L. Wright of the Marshall Child Development Center. NASA Exceptional Achievement Medals were presented to Philip A. Benefield, John R. Calhoun, Alicia S. Carroll, Daniel J. Dorney, Robin C. Ferebee, Joseph L. Gaines, Donald W. Holder Jr. and Angela L. Marsh of the Engineering Directorate; Helen J. Cole, Brent A. Harper and Jeffery A. Kolodziejczak of the Science and Technology Office; Danny W. Harris and Yancy B. Young of the Flight Programs and Partnerships Office; Van L. Strickland and Robert D. Woods of the Space Launch System Program Office; Michael W. Haynes of the Office of Center Operations; Sharon Y. Wright of the Office of the Chief Information Officer; Tyler C. Cochran of the Office of Procurement; Lindsey J. Ingram of the Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications; and Cynthia A. Spraul of the Michoud Assembly Facility. Deborah M. Mynatt of Marshall Logistics Support Services, supporting the Office of Center Operations, received the NASA Exceptional Public Achievement Medal. NASA Exceptional Engineering Achievement Medals were presented to Andrew J. Cecil, William J. Downs, Michael R. Hannan, James C. Knox and Douglas N. Wells of the Engineering Directorate; and Robin J. Osborne of Jacobs ESSSA, supporting the Engineering Directorate. Receiving NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medals were David H. Hathaway of NASA’s Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California; and Amy R. Winebarger of Marshall’s Science and Technology Office. A NASA Exceptional Technology Achievement Medal was presented to Terry L. Taylor of Marshall’s Science and Technology Office. Receiving NASA Exceptional Administrative Achievement Medals were Nancy C. Andrews and Anna R. Bevels of Deltha-Critique in New Orleans, supporting Marshall’s Office of the Director and the Office of Center Operations, respectively. Cedreck Davis, energy and water program manager in the Facilities Engineering Office of Marshall’s Office of Center Operations, was honored with the NASA Environment and Energy Awards Program’s “Blue Marble” award for 2014 • Initiatives October 2014
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Attention: Chamber Members An Introduction to Your Newest Benefits Our Members now have a valuable new benefit in the form of our new ChamberMaster database. With this tool, Members can post news releases, highlight events, offer deals and post job openings. Only membership with the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County provides exclusive access to specialized tools to promote your organization via the new online member information center, ChamberMaster. Login in today to update your information and start using these new features:
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2 3 5 1. Membership listing: Update your listing to ensure everyone has access to complete, up-to-date information. Completing your profile is critical to gaining increased visibility and exposure. Your primary information is listed on both online and printed membership directory. 2. Deals*: Offer coupons and special deals. Fellow members may well be your best customers. You’ll have an option to offer deals to anyone (Hot Deals) or just to our members (Member to Member Deals). 3. Announce your achievements*: Submit your own news releases to be included on Chamber’s News Room and the biweekly ChamberLink newsletter, sent to more than 5,500 representatives of our member companies. 4. Advertise events*: Add your events to our online event calendar displayed with quick links; use these links to share in your social media, text to mobile devices, add to calendar or email to others. Your events are also included in the Chamber’s 30 weekly Calendar email. October 2014 Initiatives
5. Job postings*: Submit your own job openings. We will promote these positions on both Chamber’s job website and Smart Place Facebook page. + Network with other members: Check out other member listings, jobs, deals. * Chamber will review your submissions before posting them on our website on a daily basis Monday through Friday. Once approved, these are available on the Chamber’s website as well as on your ChamberMaster site.
To login, please visit our website (www.HSVchamber.org); click “I Am a Chamber Member” menu at the right-hand side; then click “Members Only” button. Or simply type https://secure2.chambermaster.com. If you are unsure of your login information, check with your organization’s Chamber representative. You may also contact Robert Ivory (rivory@hsvchamber.org) for an email invitation to create your login.
Updating your profile:
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How to update: On ChamberMaster, click “Settings” icon located on the top. Personalize your membership listing page with your detailed description, business hours, logos, photos, map and a video clip. For public: Your company information can be found on the Chamber’s searchable online membership directory. Go to www.HSVChamber.org, click “Member Directory” under “Chamber Directory” menu on the right-hand side.
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Posting events: How to post: On ChamberMaster, click “Events” icon located on the top, click “Add Event” button. You can easily add gallery photos and a link to your YouTube video! After you fill in the form, click “Submit for Approval”. For public: Your events can be found on the Chamber’s website (HSVchamber.org). Under “Chamber Events” menu on the right-hand side, choose either “Upcoming Events (a list of events with the event thumbnails)” or “Events Calendar (monthly calendar format)”.
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Posting deals:
How to post: On ChamberMaster, choose “Hot Deals” or “Member to Member Deals” from the menu on the left-hand side. Then, click “Add Deal” button. After you fill in the form, click “Submit for Approval”. Make sure to set the active dates.
4 Posting news releases: How to post: On ChamberMaster, choose “News Releases” from the menu on the left-hand side. Then, click “Add News Release” button. After you fill in the form, click “Submit for Approval”. Make sure to set the date for “Publish End Date” and check multiple categories if desired. For public: Your announcements can be found on the Chamber’s website (HSVchamber.org). Choose “Chamber Member News” from the “Newsroom” pull-down menu.
Posting job postings:
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How to post: On ChamberMaster, choose “Job Postings” from the menu on the left-hand side. Then click “Add Job Posting” button. Fill in all the form and click the “Submit for Approval” button. To manage your postings, use the “Manage Job Postings” button next to the “Add Job Posting” button. Before submitting your job, be sure to select the dates in which you would like your job to be posted. If dates are not selected, your post will automatically expire within one week unless modified. For public: Your job positions can be found on the Chamber’s job website (ASmartPlace.com). Click “Work” menu, then click “Job Postings”. These positions are also promoted on Chamber’s Smart Place Facebook page.
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October 2014 Initiatives
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
STA F F Chip Cherry, CCE, president & CEO Amy Locke, executive assistant Heather Lindsey, resource desk coordinator
Economic Development Lucia Cape, vice president, economic development John Southerland, Cummings Research Park director | project manager
Ken Smith, research & information services director Will West, Economic Development Specialist | project manager
Elizabeth Saba, economic development specialist Karessa Acosta, economic development assistant
Communications Patricia McCarter, communications director Kristi Sherrard, graphic designer Hiroko Sedensky, web designer
Government & Public Affairs Mike Ward, senior vice president, government & public affairs
Tina Leopold, government & public affairs assistant
Finance & Administration Christy Nalley, finance & administration director Jamie Gallien, IT manager Mary McNairy, accounting specialist | human resources
Lori Warner, accounting specialist Joe Watson, facilities supervisor
Membership Wendy Kirk, vice president, member engagement Donna McCrary, membership retention manager Tiffany Rogers, membership representative Lisa Smith, membership representative Robert Ivory, membership services assistant
Small Business & Events Pammie Jimmar, small business & events director Alexandra Gonzalez, event coordinator Beverly Pike, small business coordinator
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 NW, Huntsville, AL 35801 phone 256-535-2000 / fax 256-535-2015
www.HSVchamber.org Initiatives October 2014
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Jonn Kim , Byron H ea d rick L ea n Frog Bus in ess Sol ut io ns
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undreds of business leaders were decked out in their finest disco and flower power ensembles as the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County celebrated its 29th Annual Small Business Awards on Sept. 4. Emcees Darin Windham and Tim Knox announced the finalists and winners at the Von Braun Center amid a soiree of disco dancers and groovy music. “The Small Business Awards celebration was a huge success as we took time to recognize the accomplishments of our members,” said Pammie Jimmar, the Chamber’s Small Business & Events director. “We could not have done it without the dedication and support of our committee, led by Mary Grace Evans of Redstone Federal Credit Union, our Chamber staff, our sponsors and technical support team.”
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Those honored were: Russell G. Brown Executive Leadership Award Jonn Kim, winner Sheila Cummings, finalist J. Brent Romine, finalist Young Professional of the Year Lauren Battle, winner Ivy Bentley, finalist Mallory Johnston, finalist Nonprofit of the Year Christian Women’s Job Corps of Madison Co., AL, winner AIDS Action Coalition/Davis Clinic, finalist Still Serving Veterans, finalist
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e Kim Lewis
Small Business of the Year with 51-350 Employees nLogic, Inc., winner KAYA Associates, Inc., finalist Progress Bank, finalist Small Business of the Year: Government Contracting Aetos Systems, Inc., winner LSINC, LLC, finalist Systems Dynamics International, Inc., finalist
Tim Thornton, nLogic
Small Business of the Year: Business/Professional Services LEAN Frog Business Solutions, Inc., winner Secure Destruction Service, finalist Stoneridge Homes, finalist Small Business of the Year: Technology F1 Solutions, Inc., winner nouSystems, Inc., finalist Seabrook Solutions, LLC, finalist
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The Huntsville Association of Small Businesses in Advanced Technology also presented a Small Business Advocate for Excellence Award, which was given to Mary Jane Fleming, procurement counselor with the Small Business Development Center at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.The Women’s Business Center of North Alabama’s Small Business presented a Start-up of the Year award to Image in a Box. Special thanks to the band, GROOVE, and the Grissom High School Images Dance Ensemble for helping everyone Get Their Groove On! •
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PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Birmingham, AL Permit #40
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October 2014 Initiatives