APRIL 2014
CHAMBER CONNECTION THE JACKSON CHAMBER'S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
INSIDE: Students in Coding Academy Recognized for Excellence pg. 2
Orchid Orthopedic Solutions Locates Manufacturing Facility in Jackson, Tenn. pg. 6
Students in Coding Academy Recognized for Excellence More than 70 regional leaders gathered together on Wednesday, April 2 at the Jackson Chamber to learn more about the “CO:de Academy,” and to recognize the top performing students in the program. Jackson has moved to the forefront among communities who recognize the importance of integrating a coding into the public school curriculum. “CO:de Academy” is an extracurricular activity, in which Jackson-Madison County School System students learn various aspects of computer programming, including website design and development, mobile app development, database programming and user experience. Students in the academy are increasing their competency in one of the most aggressively growing technology related fields. The top six performing students recognized will receive a trip to San Francisco, California to visit Google Headquarters, and they will also have an opportunity to meet with other web developers. Vickie Deloach, a teacher at Madison Academic High School, had the most top performing students in the program and will also be making the trip to San Francisco. The top six students that were recognized are: Alyssa Gowan, Madison Academic Magnet High School Steven Prescott, Madison Academic Magnet High School Ashkan Neshagaran, Madison Academic Magnet High School Ryan Butler, Liberty Technology Magnet High School Kerry Reid, Liberty Technology Magnet High School Austin Sun, Madison Academic Magnet High School The CO:de Academy program utilizes Treehouse, an interactive, online learning experience which allows students to learn to code at any level, and at their own pace. Through video tutorials, quizzes and coding challenges created by expert teachers, students learn to code in languages like Objective-C, HTML, CSS, PHP, Ruby, JavaScript, SQL and more. “Treehouse is all about bringing affordable technology education to people everywhere to help them achieve their dreams and change the world, and empowering students to code is a huge part of that,” said Ryan Carson, Co-Founder & CEO of Treehouse. About eighty students signed up for the club in four of the five high schools in the Jackson-Madison County School District. Participating high schools in the school system are: Liberty Technology Magnet, Madison Academic Magnet, North Side and South Side. Jackson-Madison County Superintendent Dr. Verna Ruffin says administrators are thrilled with the results of the CO:de Academy program. “The excitement expressed by our students participating in the Coding program has been refreshing,” she says. After a successful start, school administrators are now seeking to make the extracurricular CO:de Academy a full course in the next school year. “I am reminded of the quote by Leonardo DaVinci that learning never exhausts the mind,” Ruffin said. “If you could see the students’ engagement, then you could appreciate this quote. They were not exhausted.”
For more information about Treehouse, visit its website online at teamtreehouse.com
“Thirty Business Professionals” continued on page 4...
JACKSON CHAMBER 22 2 JACKSON CHAMBER PG. PG. JACKSON CHAMBER PG.
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Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Spotlight Stephanie Riley, 2014 Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Board of Directors Company: Younger Associates Job Title: Partner & Director of Creative Services Q: Why did you choose to help with the Leadership Jackson Alumni Association? A: Being a part of the Leadership Jackson class of 2011 had an incredible impact on my life. It connected me to our city and the great people in it. Staying involved wasn’t even a question for me, and the LJ Alumni Association provided the opportunity to do so. Q: What are you looking forward to this year with the 2014 class? A: My favorite thing about a new class is the energy that the group gives to our community. Everyone has so much excitement and willingness to connect. It’s contagious and it spreads.
is over just as soon as it has began, so you don’t want to miss out on any experience. Giving 100 percent during the program is one of the best investments of time you’ll ever make. Q: What was your favorite memory from Leadership Jackson? A: The “My Town” experience was so much fun for our group, the Tigers. By this point in LJ, we had all gotten to know each other fairly well. We went all over Jackson and laughed the entire day. It was a blast! Q: If you could describe Leadership Jackson in one word, what would it be? A: Impact.
Q: What was the most important piece of information that you learned during your Leadership Jackson experience? A: I learned what it means to truly be plugged into our community. Between the deep friendships created and organizations I have became involved with, I can’t imagine living anywhere else.
For more information on Leadership Jackson, visit its website at www.leadershipjackson.com.
Q: What advice would you give the upcoming 2014 class? A: Enjoy every minute of it. It seems like Leadership Jackson
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 3
MEMBER NEWS
The Jackson Symphony Announces New Music Director
The next generation of The Jackson Symphony has spoken. Welcome to Jackson, Peter Shannon. Shannon has just been named the new Music Director and Conductor of The Jackson Symphony. “I’m truly excited and very honored to be the newest member of the Jackson Symphony,” said Peter Shannon. “Taking over the helm of an orchestra with such a great tradition is a wonderful opportunity. The energetic staff will be a joy to work with and this orchestra has shown me above all else that it is willing to work hard. This is very motivating for me.” “I look forward to working with the board to deepen the Jackson Symphony’s commitment to making Jackson a wonderful place to live and I can’t wait to get started,” Shannon said. Shannon is the current Artistic Director and Conductor for The Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus in Savannah, Georgia. His official first day with The Jackson Symphony will be July 1, 2014, although he has already been instrumental in helping program the 2014-2015 Season. Shannon will be conducting the upcoming April 12th concert. The Jackson Symphony Association has been in the process for over 18 months narrowing down candidates and happily anticipating the reveal of the new Music Director and Conductor. This process has been intense and precise, with a lot of input from the entire community and musicians of The Jackson Symphony. After narrowing the original applicants, which consisted of over 150 people from 11 countries and 36 states, the Search committee settled on, what they felt, were the three most qualified applicants. Through- ABOVE: Peter Shannon, the out this past season, each of the three conductor candidate finalists conducted a Masterworks, a Pops and an Educational concert. new Music Director and The Jackson Symphony visited three Jackson-Madison County Schools this season, performing in the school gymnasiums, much to the Conductor for The Jackson delight of the students and teachers. The students of Bemis Montessori, East Elementary, as well as Beech Bluff Elementary enjoyed Symphony. the full orchestra ensemble at these educational concerts and got to see the conductor candidates in action. The committee met numerous times over the past two years and feels the community has hit the jackpot with Peter Shannon. “On behalf of the Search Committee, I congratulate the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and her new Music Director,” said Christopher W. Mathews, Chair of the Search Committee and Chair of the Union University Department of Music. “We are honored to have served in the two-year selection process and now look forward to the exceptional music that will uplift, entertain, educate, and strengthen our community.” “The Jackson Symphony plays a very important role in the everyday life of Jackson, Madison County and the surrounding West Tennessee region,” said Lee Warren, Executive Director of The Jackson Symphony. “In 53 performance seasons, The Jackson Symphony has grown from a volunteer community ensemble to professional orchestra employing excellent musicians and is recognized as a significant and vibrant contributor to the artistic, educational, social, civic, and economic enrichment of the region’s quality of life. The Jackson Symphony exists to provide great performances of great music to this great community as well as educational opportunity for all. The appointment of Peter Shannon should be a seen as a commitment from The Jackson Symphony Association’s Board of Directors to continue the development of this great organization towards an exciting artistic future and a financially stable non-profit organization for the community.” “As upcoming president of the Symphony Association Board of Directors, I am thrilled about the selection of our new Music Director/Conductor Peter Shannon,” said Nancy McMahon. “I believe Peter will elevate our orchestra to new musical heights and he and his family will be assets to West Tennessee. Our entire Board is looking forward to welcoming Peter and to the future of our symphony orchestra.” The 2014-2015 Season Subscription packages are on sale now. Visit the Symphony’s website at www.TheJacksonSymphony.org or call 731.427.6440.
West Tennessee Farmers’ Market Wins Distinguished Award The city of Jackson West Tennessee Farmers’ Market was voted the favorite farmers’ market in West Tennessee by readers of The Tennessee Magazine. More than one million readers saw West Tennessee Farmers’ Market listed among The Best of Tennessee winners in the October 2013 edition. Voters selected their favorites in 26 categories in the publication’s readers’ choice awards contest. Corn, blueberries, tomatoes, peaches, cabbage, you name it; the Farmers’ Market has it all when it comes to fresh-grown vegetables. More than 50 vendors sell produce to hundreds of folks each week during the growing season. Some Saturdays, attendance reaches 1,500 visitors. Vendors sold over $1 million of produce during the past year. In addition to produce, the West Tennessee Farmers’ Market sells milk, flowers, canned or baked items, and meats. “We are extremely proud of our Farmers’ Market,” said City of Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist. “Nona Brummett and the vendors take great pride in their work. The people of Jackson and throughout West Tennessee are fortunate to have such a vibrant place to enjoy nature’s bounty.”
Smith and Melton Presented Excellence Award The 2014 annual Tennessee Airports Conference was held March 17-19 at the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro., Tennessee. Bill Orellana, Director of the Tennessee Division of Aeronautics, presented the prestigious Award of Excellence for Airport Management to Steve Smith and Cindy Melton of McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport in Jackson, Tenn. The annual conference and awards luncheon was hosted by the Tennessee Aviation Association (TAA). According to Director Orellana, Smith, Executive Director of McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport, and Melton, Deputy Director, are a team who continually performs at the very highest levels. Accomplishments include long-range strategic planning, project execution, day-to-day operations and state-wide activities involved with the Tennessee Airports Conference. They have recently completed a full-depth reclamation of their crosswind runway and constructed a new corporate hangar. Also, they have recently accepted a bid to construct a taxiway that will tie into a Cessna Service center on the field and will include reconstruction of the north ramp. Smith and Melton are currently working with TDEC to prepare a closure plan for two recently discovered underground storage tanks. Both have been major contributors to disaster relief planning associated with the New Madrid Fault earthquake zone. While serving on the TAA board over the last two years, Smith has accepted the appointment of vice-president for the upcoming year. Current board members of the McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport include Bill Sipes, Chairman; Tim Wilson, Vice-Chairman; Dr. Bob Maniss, Secretary and Treasurer; James Ross, Commissioner; and Ryan Porter, Commissioner. “The day our Board hired Steve Smith as Executive Director of the airport was a very lucky day,” said Bill Sipes. “He is driven by excellence. He and Deputy Director Cindy Melton make a great team to lead our airport into the future.”
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 4
MEMBER NEWS First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. Creates Statewide Footprint Through Merger With Southern Heritage Bancshares, Inc. First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. and Southern Heritage Bancshares, Inc. jointly announced the execution of a definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger whereby Southern Heritage will partner with First Citizens through a cash and stock merger. Following the completion of the transaction, Southern Heritage will retain its name and will remain a separately-chartered bank, operating as a subsidiary of First Citizens Bancshares, Inc. With the merger, First Citizens will extend its branch footprint statewide while solidifying its position as the 7th largest Tennessee-based community bank. In addition, First Citizens will increase its statewide market share, improving its Tennessee deposit market share ranking to 16th. The combined organization will have approximately $1.5 billion in assets, $1.2 billion in deposits, 350 associates and 24 branches across 10 Tennessee counties. “We are incredibly excited about this partnership, which introduces First Citizens to the vibrant community of Cleveland and significantly expands our presence throughout Tennessee,” said Jeff Agee, First Citizens CEO. “Southern Heritage has earned a reputation for exceptional, individualized client service, which is a testament to the strong leadership team in place. We have long admired the banking culture of Southern Heritage, which is extraordinarily similar to our own. We have known the management of Southern Heritage for quite some time, and we could not be more excited about the growth opportunities this partnership provides. We look forward to earning the continued loyalty and business of Southern Heritage’s clients. We also look forward to delivering significant long-term value for our combined shareholders as a result of this transaction.” J. Lee Stewart, Southern Heritage President and CEO, will continue to serve in this capacity following the transaction and will join the First Citizens Board of Directors. “We are very excited about the long-lasting opportunities that will be generated through this partnership between our very customer-centric organizations,” said Stewart. “Our cultures, core values, and strategies align very well, and we are both committed to the respective communities we serve.” Mr. Stewart further commented “The structure of this merger is significantly different from any that has occurred in our market area in the past. With this structure Southern Heritage will be able to advance the mission and values we started with while becoming a part of a larger, high-performing, statewide, banking company with a remarkably similar culture and customer focus.” “We are convinced this partnership will greatly benefit our shareholders, co-workers, clients and communities over the long run and look forward to joining the tremendous team of dedicated professionals at First Citizens,” said Southern Heritage COO Steve Ledbetter, who will continue to serve in this capacity following the transaction. The transaction is valued at $24.50 per share of Southern Heritage common stock or approximately $32.2 million. Under the terms of the merger agreement, which was unanimously approved by the boards of both companies, shareholders of Southern Heritage will be able to elect to receive consideration in the form of 0.5751 shares of First Citizens stock, $24.50 in cash, or a combination of stock and cash comprised of 0.2876 shares of First Citizens stock and $12.25 in cash for each share of Southern Heritage common stock. The allocation of the total form of consideration and the total and per share consideration amount is subject to proration and adjustment under certain circumstances as provided in the merger agreement. The transaction, which is expected to close in the 3rd quarter of 2014, remains subject to approval by Southern Heritage’s shareholders and approval by federal and state regulatory authorities as well as the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions provided in the merger agreement.
SeaPort Airlines Completes Cutover To Amadeus Altéa Technology Platform
New platform enables carrier to implement first Interline Electronic Ticketing (IET) agreement with Alaska Airlines Next-generation technology is now providing the power behind SeaPort Airlines, the Portland, Oregon-based regional airline which recently completed its successful migration to the Amadeus Altéa portfolio of airline IT solutions. The company’s first flight using the new system was operated between Memphis and Jackson, Tennessee, on Sunday, March 23, 2014. “The Altéa technology platform is a cornerstone of SeaPort’s strategy to provide global connectivity to small and mid-size cities across the United States,” said Rob McKinney, President of SeaPort Airlines. “This migration could not have been achieved so quickly and effectively without the teamwork and dedication of SeaPort employees and the exceptional support we received from our partners at Amadeus.” The agreement between Amadeus and SeaPort Airlines to adopt the Amadeus Altéa portfolio was first announced in October 2013 and includes IT solutions for reservation, ticketing, inventory, e-commerce, and departure control. “Our partnership with SeaPort truly showcases Amadeus’ commitment and ability to provide any airline with customizable, state-of-the-art technology that helps them enhance the travel experience for passengers while also empowering them to grow and achieve their business objectives,” said Scott Gutz, president and CEO, Amadeus. SeaPort chose Altéa because, among many other features, the system allows the carrier to offer the full benefit of interline agreements, including display of interline partner destinations and connecting itineraries for purchase on its website, single ticket itineraries, and through baggage check-in for connecting flights on interline partners. The first of those agreements, with Alaska Airlines, became active on cutover to the new system. “All of us at SeaPort Airlines are extremely proud to have Alaska Airlines as our first interline partner. Alaska’s commitment to customer service and growing network will provide our customers with great connecting opportunities,” said McKinney. The two carrier’s route systems presently connect at Juneau, Portland, San Diego, and Kansas City. Alaska Airlines provides nonstop service to 43 destinations from Portland International Airport (PDX) and 15 destinations from San Diego (SAN). With the cutover to Altéa complete, SeaPort anticipates a second interline agreement with a major U.S. airline will become effective this summer and is having discussions with other airlines for subsequent agreements. SeaPort and Amadeus are already working on secondary implementations of the Altéa system that will include online changes to reservations, automated customer SMS and email notification of schedule changes, and online changes to reservations. “All of these investments underscore our commitment to the company’s core value of ‘Forward Thinking’ and the use technology and innovation to provide our customers with the best possible experience and our employee team with the most advanced tools,” said McKinney. SeaPort Airlines, Inc. provides service to 21 cities in nine U.S. states, including operations in Southeast Alaska that are branded as “Wings of Alaska.” The company’s 220 employees operate an average of 100 daily departures from bases at Portland, San Diego, Memphis, and Juneau. The carrier will add service to Great Bend and Wichita, Kansas in May 2014, and plans to apply for authority to begin Mexico service in late 2014.
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 5
MEMBER NEWS Jon Joyner Named Partner with ATA Technologies With computer systems getting more complex, businesses are seeking the most well-trained and experienced information systems professionals. That is why ATA Technologies LLC proudly announces that Jon Joyner was recently named partner with the company. “Since Joyner joined ATA Technologies, he has continuously developed his leadership and technology skills,” said Michael Laffoon, ATA Technologies partner. “He’s participated in Leadership Jackson and earned his bachelor and masters degrees while working full-time. Our clients appreciate his depth of knowledge and excellent customer service skills. It is an honor to welcome him as a partner with ATA Technologies.” A graduate of North Side High School, Joyner joined the ATA Technologies team in 2008 with 10 years of experience in Information Technology management. Joyner earned his Bachelor of Science in Business and Master in Business Administration from Union University. His IT practice specializations include high availability solutions, virtualization, SSAE 16/SAS 70 engagements, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, designing secure systems and disaster recovery planning. Joyner is also active in the community. He’s a 2012 graduate of Leadership Jackson and serves on the board for Leadership University. ABOVE: Jon Joyner, ATA He also volunteers with the Exchange Club Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse, Jackson Area Care Center and Jackson Technologies LLC. Area Technology Group. Members of Calvary Baptist Church, Joyner and his wife Katie live in Jackson and have two daughters, Layla and Amelia, and a son Chad.
INDUSTRIAL NEWS
Orchid Orthopedic Solutions Locates Manufacturing Facility in Jackson, Tenn. Company Invests $1 Million and Initially Create 25 Jobs
The Jackson Chamber along with Orchid Orthopedic Solutions (Orchid), today announced the company has located its new manufacturing facility at 2715 Bells Highway in Jackson, Tennessee. Orchid has invested up to $1 million in the project and initially created 25 new jobs in Jackson. “We are pleased that Orchid has decided to locate its facility in Jackson,” said City of Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist. “Jackson is a community that nurtures its industries and we welcome its addition.” The facility is an expansion of Orchid’s Alabama facility which is part of the Orchid family of companies worldwide. Orchid is a worldwide leader of medical device outsourcing services providing expertise to partners in more than 20 countries with a wide-ranging offer, from design and development through finished goods manufacturing. The company offers a broad array of services and capabilities for orthopedic and medical device development and manufacturing. With 13 world class facilities located around the globe, Orchid provides the products and services that improve the lives of patients worldwide. Orchid is using the new Jackson plant to support its machining of complex instruments. The new facility has machine only, all special processes, finishing, assembly and inspection will take place at the Alabama facility. Orchid has fitted its new facility with seven pieces of equipment, with 10 more pieces coming in the future. The facility currently has six employees present and will add five more employees in the next month. The company will also continue to recruit for all three shifts, as it expects to have 40 employees on board by the end of the second quarter. The Jackson plant is managed by Kevin Thomas, Site Production Manager. Thomas is a local to the area and brings with him more than 25 years of experience in machining in the power generation and automotive industries. “Orchid will continue utilizing the facility in Jackson to supply machined components for complex instrument assemblies,” Thomas said. “Our plans are to grow the Jackson facility and maximize the use of the manufacturing space.” Headquartered in Holt, Michigan, Orchid is a global company with more than 1,500 skilled employees in major markets around the world. With experience in joint reconstruction, trauma, spine, sports medicine, craniomaxillofacial, orthobiologics, dental, cardiovascular and general surgical devices, Orchid has the expertise to bring a quality product to market with speed and precision. The company provides unparalleled customer service with innovative solutions in the following technologies: Advanced Machining Technologies; Forging and Investment Casting; Complex Instrument Manufacture; Cutting Instrument Manufacture; Plastics Technology; and Bone In-growth Coatings. “We welcome Orchid to Madison County and thank it for choosing Jackson for its newest manufacturing operation,” said Madison County Mayor Jimmy Harris. “This new investment will add to the quality and diversity of Jackson’s economy.” “Orchid’s decision to locate its facility in Jackson exemplifies our community as a place for technology and innovation,” said Jim Campbell, Board Chairman, Jackson Chamber. “On behalf of the Jackson Chamber, we welcome its commitment to our community and look forward to celebrating Orchid’s continued success.” For more information about Orchid, visit its website online at www.orchid-ortho.com.
CHAMBER NEWS
Chamber Awards Emissaries at Luncheon
The Jackson Chamber recognized the Chamber Emissaries with an awards luncheon in April to highlight their past year’s achievements. The Emissaries connect with existing chamber members to verify their contact information and to reinforce the importance of chamber membership. The Emissaries made 1,302 chamber member contacts throughout 2013. Each Emissary was recognized at the luncheon with a Certificate of Appreciation. The chamber also recognized the outgoing Chairperson, Jim Metcalf, Sonoco, and current Chairperson, Sherita Greer, BancorpSouth. The 2013-14 Perfect Attendance Awards were presented to Pam Blasingame, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now; Lynn Menendez, St. Mary’s Catholic School; and Metcalf. • Jess June, Fidelity Search Enterprises • Dana Stewart, Personnel Placements, LLC 2013-2014 Emissaries: • Sherri Kilburn, The Kilburn Group • Brandi Wilson, The Allison Insurance Group • Pam Blasingame, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now • Blake Mansfield, First State Bank • Drew Yates, FirstBank • Peggy Graves, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now • Lynn Menendez, St. Mary’s Catholic School • Franca Young, The Bank of Jackson • Sherita Greer, BancorpSouth • Jim Metcalf, Sonoco • Greg Griffin, Edward Jones Investments • Susan Morris, Express Employment Professionals • Jeffery Head, BancorpSouth • Chris Ramey, Jackson Christian School • Ray Holder, The Star Center • Stephanie Riley, Younger Associates • Rhonda Holder, Jackson Center for Independent Story Continued on Page 10... Living
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 6
Member Spotlight: Alan Brown State Farm Company name: Alan Brown State Farm Address: 15 Jackson Walk Plaza, Jackson, TN 38301-3021 Phone Number: (731) 300-4444 About Alan Brown State Farm: Insurance and Financial Services (Auto-Home-Life-Bank) Website: www.downtownalanbrown.com
Chamber Connection: What’s helped your organization become successful in our community? Alan Brown: Referrals! We have the greatest clients in the world. My staff and I do our very best to make difficult things easier, to make rough times smoother and to make the good life better. In return, our clients have sent us their brothers, sisters, parents, cousins, co-workers and neighbors. It is truly rewarding to know that we have been able to earn their confidence and loyalty. I have to mention too... location, location, location. The excitement surrounding the Shops at Jackson Walk is hard to beat. We love being a part of Downtown Jackson, and look forward to being here a long time.
Chamber Connection: What does your organization do that most people don’t know about? Alan Brown: Many folks perceive State Farm to be “old school”. I say all the time, “We are not your granddaddy’s State Farm.” We’re here to do business with you on your terms...anytime, anywhere, any way you choose. My office has the ability to serve you face to face, over the phone, online or through your smartphone. The financial ups and downs of the past few years have convinced many people they have to take a closer look at how they save for retirement. Most people don’t know that I can help them navigate their various options. My job is to partner with my clients; help them identify their risks, prioritize their needs and then provide solutions based on their own individual situation. There is nothing like finding a person who can help you break down what you’re doing right and what you’re doing wrong. I love opportunities for me to fill that role. Chamber Connection: What are some recent successes your organization has experienced? Alan Brown: We have been so incredibly blessed with success the past year. We locked down a phenomenal location—a space that my clients can be comfortable, safe and happy in. We assembled a knowledgeable, professional and caring team with a wide scope of experience: non-profit, retail management and even ministry. We climbed the ranks and quickly became a production leader in this area. We are real. We have real conversations with real people. We ask them about their lives and what is important to them. This approach just resonates with folks and has brought us great fortune thus far. Chamber Connection: What’s new with your organization? Alan Brown: We have a renewed focus on educating our customers about the products and services offered by State Farm Bank. So many folks are unaware that I can help them with home and auto loans, deposit products and even retirement savings. It’s so nice that my customers can consolidate their banking, insurance and investments; one company that serves all of these needs can make a world of difference in simplifying life. Better than that, every product and service we offer comes with the same good neighbor service that our customers have come to expect! Also relatively recent, the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. We have clients call or stop by daily for help navigating how these recent changes will affect them and their family. We do, of course, offer major medical policies, but our main priority is to help our customers’ money work smarter—not harder. That looks different for everyone, but many folks can benefit from Health Savings Accounts or supplemental medical policies to help offset those higher deductibles. Chamber Connection: What’s the biggest community project you’re working on right now? Alan Brown: We’re partnering with The Lift Wellness Center to offer a free Financial Forum for those over fifty. Several weeks ago, I had the opportunity to sit in on a presentation by Herschel Wheetley, a Financial Specialist from Franklin. He was so engaging, energetic and knowledgeable. We’re very excited to be creating a fun scholarship program with Jackson Central-Merry High School. I’m a big basketball fan, so we’re envisioning a student shooting a half-court shot at their home games. Of course, we’re brainstorming ways to be involved with all of the seasons. The administration has expressed sincere excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to work together on something like this. We should have final approval and more details in the weeks to come. This is also the time of year for us to get started with Relay for Life. Cancer has had such an ugly impact on the world; it is nice to be involved in such a beautiful attempt to wipe it out. A couple of my team members, Talitha and Patricia, are passionate about the cause, they are taking the lead, but we’re all looking forward to it on Friday, May 9, 6 p.m. Chamber Connection: Is there anything we didn’t ask that you would like to share? Alan Brown: We are so excited to be serving the good people of West Tennessee. There are many people who still may not have heard about our new office. We’d like to invite everyone to stop by and check us out. We’ve always got fresh coffee, an open chair and a listening ear. We would love the opportunity to help you manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, or realize your dreams.
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 7
NEW MEMBERS: MARCH 2014 AC Service Company Eric Bell 1806-A Hollywood Dr. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 300-4545 Category: Contractors-HVAC Bath Fitter Mary Matthews 621-H Old Hickory Blvd. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 423-5505 www.bathfitter.com Category: Bathroom Remodeling Bobby’s Grub House Bobby Kliem 1938 Hwy. 45 Bypass N. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 616-2448 Category: Restaurants Buchanan Group/Coldwell Banker Real Estate Brandon Buchanan 327 N. Parkway Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 225-0560 www.buchananrealtygroup.com Category: Real Estate-Commercial Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now-Anne Anne A. Short 327 N. Parkway Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 668-1777 www.renow.com Category: Real Estate Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, Inc. Casey Coatney 1320 S. Highland Ave. Jackson, TN 38301 (731) 736-3401 www.giveit2goodwill.org Category: NonProfit Organizations
Quench Juice, LLC Jen Stasel 19C North Star Dr. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 613-0401 www.quenchjuiceonline.com Category: Health & Wellness RTH Temporary Housing, LLC Joseph Igou 91 Stonebridge Blvd., Ste. 108 Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 300-0538 www.rthhousing.com Category: Real Estate Sarah Clayborne-Jones & Associates Sarah Clayborne-Jones 36 B Brentshire Square, Ste. 1 Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 927-9995 www.sarahclayborne.legalshield.com Category: Employee Benefits & Consultants Spa Vita Amanda Schrupp 319 Vann Dr., Ste. K Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 300-4989 www.spavitaofjackson.com Category: Beauty Salons Tennesse Correctional Services Stacy Miller 204 W. Main St. Jackson, TN 38301 (731) 427-4155 www.correctionalservices.net Category: Social Service Agency Volunteer Lenders, Inc. Vaughn Watson 8 Stonebridge Blvd., Ste. H Jackson, TN 38305 Category: Loans
Jackson N2 Publishing David Snyder 34 Sleepywood Cove Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 426-2940 www.n2pub.com Category: Marketing Lamont Ingram Developmental Organization Lamont Ingram 609 E. Lafayette Jackson, TN 38301 (731) 300-0781 www.secondchance731.org Category: NonProfit Organizations
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RENEWING MEMBERS: MARCH 2014 Air Evac Life Team Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC All Fiber & Scrap Recycling, LLC (AFS Recycling) Allison Contracting Company Allstate-Hughes Insurance Agency Allstate-Tina Clark Agency American Insurance Management American Johnny Arrington Funeral Directors and Crematory AT&T B & B Solutions Bob’s House of Honda Boogie Nights Bramblett Group Cambridge, Ltd. Camp Clark Williamson Chefmart Jackson Christian Brothers Automotive-Jackson Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Cody’s Saloon & Dance Hall Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now-Lee Godfrey Dermatology Associates, LLC Designs by Julie Deviney Construction Co. EconoLodge Inn & Suites Employment Pro of TN, LLC Eric’s Rentals, Inc.-Jackson Executive Impact Fair Oaks Farmers Insurance-Mike Richards Fisher Construction Co., Inc. Five Star Real Estate Services GCO Flooring Outlet Geisler Young, LLC Habitat for Humanity Jackson, Tennessee Area, Inc. Hayes & Sons Construction LP HCB Development HCI Supply of Jackson Hub City Bicycle Co., Inc. ING Financial Partners, LLC Intrepid USA Jackson Cheer Company Jackson Engraving & Awards Co. Jackson Oaks-Brookdale Senior Living Jackson State Community College Jackson Surgical Associates Jackson-Madison Co. Sports Hall of Fame JDRF-West TN Chapter Kroger Co. Labor Finders of Tennessee, Inc. Lawn Doctor of Tupelo-Corinth-Jackson Le Bonheur Community Outreach LegalShield/Consumer and Business Protection Group Longhorn Steakhouse Madison-Haywood Developmental Services, Inc. Malco Theatres March of Dimes Matrix Wellness Solutions, LLC
McCoy’s Heating & Air Nancy’s Carousel of Flowers & Gifts NHC Healthcare Milan Northwestern Mutual Parker’s Flooring Parkway Animal Hospital Peaceful Oaks Bed Breakfast and Barn Pratt Ind. (USA) Corrugating Div. Preferred Plus Financial Corp. R & J Feed Supply Company, Inc. Randstad US Raymond James Red Lobster Regency Retirement Village Saver’s Painting and Wallcovering, LLC Sipes & Seaton CPA Solus Performance Training Southern Concrete Products Sports Orthopedics & Spine Stanley Black & Decker Steele Martin Jones & Company, PLC Support Solutions of the Mid-South Tennessee Industrial Printing, Inc. The Barber School The Buckle, Inc. The Jackson Clinic The Jackson Sun The Tennergy Corporation Town & Country Inc., Realtors-Lana Petrinjak US Farathane Corporation Volunteer Technology Systems Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors Waldrop & Hall, PA West Tennessee School for the Deaf WKNO Stations WLJT-DT
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 9
RIBBON CUTTINGS: MARCH 2014 Ambassadors with Perfect Attendance, March 2014: Kathy Canovan, Rodan & Fields Amanda Davenport, Complete Restoration, Inc. Regetta Nelson, Madison County Mayor’s Office 150th Anniversary Celebration First Tennessee Bank 325 Oil Well Road 731-660-7200 www.ftb.com Category: Banks & Banking Associations
Kingdom Care Solutions 8 Stonebridge Boulevard, Suite 8 Jackson, TN 38305 731-660.6003 www.kingdomcaresolutions.com Category: Home Health Care
The Montessori School at Bemis – New Playground 230D Street Jackson, TN 38301 731-422-3116 www.jmcss.org Category: Education
Pam Seddelmeyer, Sew Detailed
Art in the Village 40 Casey Jones Lane, #3 Jackson, TN 38305 731-616-8083 www.jacksonartinthevillage.com Category: Art/Art Galleries
Siroky Law, PLC 316 South Shannon St. Jackson, TN 38301 731-300-3636 www.sirokylaw.com Category: Attorneys
West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation Heart House In 2013 the Foundation established an advisory board for the West Tennessee Heart and Vascular Center with the purpose of raising funds and awareness for this center of excellence. The first project of the board was the development of a Heart House. This home will provide patients’ families (who live 50 miles or more away) with a place to stay while their loved one is in the hospital. Located on a property adjacent to Jackson-Madison General Hospital, the Heart House will provide respite for the family while allowing them to stay close to the patient. The board has worked to gather items and donations to furnish this home with all the amenities families would need for an extended stay. Come and celebrate this wonderful new resource for our patients and their families.
Month of Miracles Kick-Off Event Month of Miracles is an annual event, created by the City of Jackson, TN and designed to encourage organizations and individuals from all backgrounds to participate in making their community a better place through volunteering. To learn more, visit the Month of Miracles website online at www.miraclesinjackson.com.
CHAMBER NEWS Chamber Awards Emissaries at Luncheon Story Continued from Page 6...
2013-14 Star Performers Award Winners: *Award given to those who reached their goal of 60 contacts for 2013 • Pam Blasingame • Peggy Graves • Sherita Greer • Ray Holder • Rhonda Holder • Sherri Kilburn • Blake Mansfield • Lynn Menendez
• Jim Metcalf • Susan Morris • Chris Ramey • Stephanie Riley • Dana Stewart • Drew Yates
Kickin’ It Award: Peggy Graves, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Now David Hallock Emissary of the Year Award: Lynn Menendez, St. Mary’s Catholic School 2013-14 Chamber Emissaries
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 10
ECONOMIC INDICATORS: MARCH 2014 Total Labor Force
Feb. ’14
Feb. ‘13
Madison County 47,120 49,430 Jackson MSA 55,070 57,850 (Madison & Chester Counties) Tennessee 3,017,000 3,092,600
Rate Change
United States 155,027,000 154,727,000
Unemployment
Feb. ’14
Feb. ‘13
Madison County 7.2% 8.1% Jackson MSA 7.3% 8.3% (Madison & Chester Counties) Tennessee 7.3% 8.2%
United States 7.0% 8.1%
Sales Tax Collected City of Jackson
April ‘14
April ‘13
Rate Change
Jan. ’14
Jan. ’13
-4.7%
46,980
49,570
-5.2%
-4.8%
54,930
58,040
-5.4%
-2.4%
3,019,400
3,106,800
-2.8%
0.2%
154,381,000
154,794,000
-0.3%
Jan. ’14
Jan. ’13
Rate Change
Rate Change
-0.9%
7.3%
8.4%
-1.1%
-1.0%
7.4%
8.7%
-1.3%
-0.9%
7.2%
8.5%
-1.3%
-1.1%
7.0%
8.5%
-1.5%
Rate Change
March ‘14
March ‘13
Rate Change
$3,750,468
$3,677,829
2.0%
$3,321,360
$3,296,612
0.8%
Madison County $3,992,165
$3,872,611
3.1%
$3,554,948
$3,564,131
-0.3%
Feb. '13
Building Permits
Residential
March ‘14
March ‘13
Feb. '14
Number Issued Permit Value
12 $2,115,000
10 $2,295,000
10 $2,175,000
13 $3,156,000
21 $1,894,367
12 $1,634,223
12 $2,594,037
11 $3,023,782
Commercial
Number Issued Permit Value
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 11
Jackson Chamber Staff Directory
Kyle Spurgeon, President/CEO kspurgeon@jacksontn.com
Ryan Porter, Chief Operating Officer/General Counsel rporter@jacksontn.com
Kingsley Brock, Executive Director, Jackson Regional Partnership kbrock@jacksontn.com
Russell Cook, Manager of Accounting rcook@jacksontn.com
Lisa Cothran, Vice President, Membership Development lcothran@jacksontn.com
Kristy Dew, Receptionist kdew@jacksontn.com
Joel Newman, Director, West TN Business Resource Center s.jnewman@gmail.com
Shirley Jones, Sr. Vice President, Public Affairs sajones@jacksontn.com
Lori Nunnery, Executive Director, Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau lnunnery@jacksontn.com
Beth Parnell, Manager of Events bparnell@jacksontn.com
Judy Renshaw, Executive Director, Leadership Jackson jrenshaw@jacksontn.com
Megan Seals, Communications Coordinator mseals@jacksontn.com
Brandy Stutsman, Program Coordinator bstutsman@jacksontn.com
Carolyn Vaughan, Membership Development Coordinator cvaughan@jacksontn.com
Joyce Welch, Executive Assistant jwelch@jacksontn.com
Mandy White, Sr. Vice President, Economic Development mwhite@jacksontn.com
CONNECT WITH US! jacksontn.com
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 12
For decades, Jackson has connected businesses to success. Today, we are connected by more than roads, rail and runways – we connect people at the speed of light. Jackson is looking ahead as a sustainable city with a growing focus on wellness. Our hundreds of doctors, specialty centers and pioneering robotics have captured national attention. The surprising variety of arts, sports and music is kept vibrant by a growing number of students and professionals. The Jackson Chamber invites you to Connect Here.
JACKSON CHAMBER
PG. 13