May 2022 Mississippi Business Journal by Journal Inc

MSBUSINESS.COM | MAY 27, 2022 ISSUE

VOLUME 45 • NO. 3 | 28 PAGES

Banking and Finance

Page 6 Rivertrust, one of state’s oldest credit union, is also one of the most modern

Economic Developmment Page 13

Innovative new state program matches employees with employers like a dating app

Going Green

Financial Planning Page 17 Investment advice: Stay the course even if it gets choppy

Mississippi Sound marine sanctuary proposal faces headwinds Page 9

Pages 7, 11, 15, 19, 22, 25, 27

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Ross & Yerger named one of the best insurance agencies in the nation ... three times BY DENNIS SEID DAILY JOURNAL

TUPELO • Insurance company Ross & Yerger has been named among the 100 best insurance companies by not just one, but three leading industry publications. The Jackson-based agency has offices in Tupelo, Hattiesburg, Memphis and New Orleans, and is a full-service insurance company specializing in a broad range of business needs, including health care, energy, manufacturing, property management, business, personal insurance and several other areas of interest. Ross & Yerger was named to the Hales Top 100 Commercial Focused Agents at No 100; the Business Insurance Top 100 Brokers of US Business at No. 91; and the Insurance Journal Top 100 Property / Casualty Agencies at No. 99. Those are significant feats, considering the thousands of insurance agencies across the country. “That’s a big deal, and it’s been a team effort,” said Joey Hutto, who is a senior vice president in the Tupelo office, which

has played major part of the agency’s growth over the years. Hutto actually started his own agency in Tupelo in 1980. “I started the company from scratch and didn’t have any customers,” Hutto said. “Buzzy Mize came on board in November of that year and became a major stockholder. Over the next 10 years, we built the agency into one of the largest in North Mississippi. We had a good time, and we had a great group of associates.” They were joined by David Carlisle, who joined the agency in 1988. Carlisle was working in retail when Hutto asked him to join his agency. “We go to the same church, and he gave me an application,” Carlisle said of this recruitment. It was a fruitful partnership from the beginning. Together, the trio helped deTHOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL velop the insurance agencies to into a The Tupelo Ross & Yerger team includes, front row, from left, Joey Hutto and Paul Mize; back dominant force in the area. row from left, Michael Addison Bailey Menetre, Adam Clark and David Carlisle. The JackRoss & Yerger took notice of the upstart son-based agency has been named among the top 100 insurance agencies in the country by agency in 1990 and offered to merge with three national publications. them. It has been a marriage that has paid volved, as the recent national rankings with many loyal customers over the handsome dividends to everyone in- attest. “We’ve had the pleasure of working TURN TO ROSS & YERGER, 5F

Bank Of Okolona Okolona P.O. Box 306 • Okolona, Mississippi 38860 (662) 447-5403 Bank of Mantee 54 1st Street • Mantee, Mississippi 39751 (662) 456-5341 Houston Banking Center 321 W. Madison St. • Houston, Mississippi (662) 456-3347 Calhoun Banking Center 122 S. Pontotoc Rd. • Bruce, Mississippi (662) 983-3700

www.bankofokolona.com

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

MEC lays out vision for state economic growth in Mississippi BY DENNIS SEID DAILY JOURNAL

TUPELO • Making the fourth stop on its tour across the state at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum , the Mississippi Economic Council made its case for improving the state’s economic well-being. “We’re visiting with a lot of the people who helped us develop our ‘Securing Mississippi’s Future: Vision for Economic Growth’ that we released in February,” said Scott Waller, the president and CEO of the state’s chamber of commerce. “That was there result of 51 small group sessions held across the state.” The 50-page document outlined many things the MEC learned and helped it set goals to recommend for state leaders to address both in government and business. From those meetings the MEC formulated a three- to five-year strategic plan with five key priorities: • Education, workforce development and skills training • Talent retention and attraction • Strengthen infrastructure • Strengthen economic development and business climate • Access to health care MEC staff also met with the Tupelo Young Professionals and engaged with the before the main meeting to get input from them. Waller said it was the first time they had met with such a group, which will be replicated in some, but not all, of the other stops on the rest of the tour. “We had a small group meeting with them to hear about the things they see that’s important to keep them here in Mississippi,” he said. “And that’s quality of jobs, higher paying jobs,

involvement in the community. So as we go forward, that type of information we’ll continue to gather and look to a way to help us keep moving the needle in terms of helping our state make progress.” Waller said that the the State Legislature passing a bill that expanded the career coaching model

in schools statewide was significant. Toyota’s Wellspring Education Fund was a model and benchmark used by the state, as it has been successful in placing some 19 career coaches so far in schools in Pontotoc, Union and Lee counties. “It was really something local representa-

tives from the Tupelo that have pushed the program for years,” Waller said. “It was how to expand the program that has been so successful up here across the state and to get the career and technical programs to start feeding into our community colleges so they get this TURN TO MEC, 12F

ADAM ROBISON | DAILY JOURNAL

Scott Waller, President & CEO of the Mississippi Economic Council, speaks during a luncheon at the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum as part of the MEC Tour as it passed through Tupelo on Tuesday.

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

MBJ

PERSPECTIVE May 2022 Issue • www.msbusiness.com • Page 4

Opposition to Medicaid expansion beginning to look dumb?

hat’s the dumbest thing ever in Mississippi complained a businessman. Other businessmen at the table piped up. That may be dumb, they said, but not the dumbest. But, uh, none said it wasn’t dumb. The subject was Mississippi political leaders’ obstinate opposition to Medicaid expansion. The first businessman had attended a Mississippi Economic Council session where such expansion was discussed. Weeks before the Delta Council announced Medicaid expansion would be “in the best interest of our rural economies.” “An analysis by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning confirms that the State of Mississippi would actually profit from the decision, increase employment by over 11,000 individuals in the healthcare and social services sector, provide over 220,000 unserved Mississippians – many of them working poor – coverage for the first time, substantially enhance the bottom line and ability to provide services for the healthcare field particularly in rural areas like ours, and drive down the cost of private insurance for employers,” read the Council’s statement. The main obstacles to Medicaid expansion by state leaders, particularly

Gov. Tate Reeves and House Speaker Philip Gunn, appear to be cost and its origin as part of Obamacare. The IHL study revealed, as had others before, that the cost concern does not stand up. That just leaves the Obamacare link. Greenwood Commonwealth publisher Tim Kalich described BILL CRAWFORD the situation like this: “Gunn and other political leaders, most prominently Gov. Tate Reeves, have refused to consider expansion because it was an idea initiated and pushed by Democrats. No matter how much Mississippi insured workers would benefit, no matter how much financial struggling rural hospitals would be helped, no matter how large a boost extra billions a year from Washington would provide to the state’s economy, Gunn and others of the same mindset have refused to listen.” Well, that perspective makes state leaders’ position look pretty dumb on the face of it. But the truly remarkable aspect of all this is to hear businessmen beginning to say out loud that it’s dumb. That’s an astounding paradigm change.

No doubt the Delta Council’s position was influenced by the troubling status of one of its region’s key hospitals, Greenwood Leflore Hospital. “Hospital Laying off 30; Undisclosed Number of Physicians Included,” read the most recent headline in the Commonwealth. “The layoffs came a week after (CEO Jason) Studley publicly acknowledged that the hospital was running out of cash and would have to take ‘drastic measures’ to keep its doors open.” The hospital released financial figures showing it lost $1.9 million in April following a $3.1 million loss in March. At that rate its cash reserves would be fully depleted before yearend. Losing another hospital in Mississippi would rank high up the dumbness scale. Another businessman at the table wondered if our leaders might be smart enough to adopt a conservative version of Medicaid expansion like Mike Pence did while Governor of Indiana. As Forrest Gump said…well, you know what he said. “My people are fools…they know not how to do good” – Jeremiah 4:22. BILL CRAWFORD is a syndicated columnist from Jackson. Readers can contact him at crawfolk@gmail.com.

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May 2022 Issue | Volume 45, Number 3

TAMI JONES Publisher tami.jones@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1011 MARCIA THOMPSON Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1044 FRANK BROWN List Researcher frank.brown@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1022 LYNN LOFTON Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1018 TED CARTER Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1018 BECKY GILLETTE Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1018 LISA MONTI Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • (601) 364-1018 SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES (601) 364-1000 subscriptions@msbusiness.com Mississippi Business Journal (USPS 000-222) is published monthly with one annual issue by MSBJ 132 Riverview Dr., Suite E, Flowood, MS 39232. Periodicals postage paid at Jackson, MS. Subscription rates: 1 year $109; 2 years $168; and 3 years $214. To place orders, temporarily stop service, change your address or inquire about billing: Phone: (601) 364-1000, Fax: (601) 364-1007, Email: marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com, Mail: MS Business Journal Subscription Services, 132 Riverview Dr., Suite E, Flowood, MS 39232 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mississippi Business Journal, Circulation Manager, 132 Riverview Dr., Suite E, Flowood, MS 39232 To submit subscription payments: Mail: MS Business Journal Subscriptions Services, 2132 Riverview Dr., Suite E, Flowood, MS 39232. No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent. Editorial and advertising material contained in this publication is derived from sources considered to be reliable, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Nothing contained herein should be construed as a solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities. It is the policy of this newspaper to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal op-portunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

THE MISSISSIPPI BUSINESS JOURNAL,

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Seven ways to market your community

ecently I had the opportunity tour of the city featuring the places in to spend a few days in Vicks- the story. burg as a participant in a And what about the exposure given statewide tennis tournament. by television shows with the city’s I easily spent over $1,000 at my AirBnB, name in the title, to wit, Dallas, Proviseveral good restaurants, a gasoline dence, CSI Miami? And who can forget station and a shopping afternoon. Fargo? Especially in wintertime. My guess is that there were easily Capitalizing on famous local busiover 500 out-of-town players and their nesses is another way to get noticed. guests for this three-day People have traveled to event. If that’s the case, then so-called destination busiit means that over $500,000 nesses only to discover the was added to the local communities around those economy thanks to this one businesses. Some examples event. that immediately come to Oh, and the state high mind include the Mall of school tennis championAmerica in Bloomington, PHIL HARDWICK ships were played the day Minnesota, Cabela’s in Sidbefore. ney, Nebraska and Unclaimed BagThe essence of community econom- gage Center in Scottsboro, Alabama. ic development is to bring in more And let us not forget what L.L. Bean’s money from outside. Most communi- has done to Freeport, Maine. ties spend considerable time recruitCan you think of any towns in Mising new companies and the jobs they sissippi where people visit because bring, but there are other ways to a certain business has something inject money into the local economy. unique? Marigold, home of McCarty’s Presented here are several ways that Pottery immediately comes to my communities can capitalize on their mind. assets. Notorious past events can also draw Books, television and movies have visitors to a once economically quiet put quite a few cities on the map. For community. Consider Gibsland, Louiexample, Savannah, Georgia, and its siana, where infamous outlaws Bonnie tourism business were practically and Clyde were ambushed by law transformed after the book-madeofficers, and where there is now a mumovie Midnight in the Garden of seum and festival pulling in visitors Good and Evil hit the mainstream. It to the town. And what about the Elvis was even responsible for a new local event in Tupelo that draws thousands

into town each year? Also, many communities in the South are capitalizing on events in the civil rights era. Festivals and events that may not be so notorious can also be good for a local economy. Many, if not most communities in Mississippi have a local festival. Some examples are the Vardaman Sweet Potato Festival, the Dancing Rabbit Festival in Macon, the Blessing of the Fleet on the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi Delta Blues Festival. Many communities have developed their recreational facilities and successfully attracted athletic tournaments and activities. New Albany, Tupelo and Clinton are excellent examples of cities that have constructed first-class recreational facilities. Of course, drawing visitors to the area requires other infrastructure and amenities, such as restaurants, motels and related facilities. A community’s location is often a forgotten asset at the local level. Indeed, many cities are not taking advantage of their locations. Some cities believe that their area is a trifle more interesting to outsiders than it really is. I think the “historic downtown” sign is losing its meaning. I often stop at the so-called historic downtowns and can’t find anybody who knows why it is historic. Communities located on high-traffic arteries have a distinct advantage,

Ross & Yerger FROM 2F

years,” said Mize, who also is a senior vice president with Ross & Yerger. “When we merged with Ross & Yerger, it was family-owned at the time.” In 2002, the Yerger family sold the agency to its employees, a move that has helped power the company to its hefty status in the industry. Hutto, Mize and Carlisle were among several principles who formed the structure to buy the agency, which has grown to some 120 associates company-wide. “Every employee has stock in the company,” Hutto said. “And it’s been since 2002, that the company has seen its biggest growth.” Tupelo’s contribution has been a significant part of that, Hutto said. “We handle some of the most successful businesses in north Mississippi, and we’ve done it for many years, whether it’s manufacturing, nonprofits, schools, etc.,” he said. “The capabilities of the company are all within the top 100 of what anybody can do. The organization is just incredible.” Carlisle said being an employee-owned

THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL

This photos shows the sign outside of Ross & Yerger’s Tupelo offices. company is significant. “It’s a big deal,” he said. “Everybody from the mail opener to the CEO all have a piece of the action, and we’re all going to do what’s good for the agency. It’s almost like an extended family – everyone takes care of each other. “ Hutto said hiring bright, young and

even more mature employees who become stockholders and producers for the company is the key to Ross & Yerger’s success companywide. And all employees have the chance to become stockholders as well. Among those talents is Bailey Menetre, joined in 2008 after the regional bonding

especially if the artery is an interstate highway. Pelahatchie took advantage of its interstate highway location by recruiting a Yogi Bear Jellystone Theme Park project to the area. Technology, especially as it relates to the Internet, can put a town on the map and can be a great recruiting tool for new entrepreneurs. Indeed, highspeed broadband service is critical for a community. Finally, we come to the best marketing tool of all – word of mouth. One of the best ways to market the community is through ambassadors of goodwill, those people who see it as their mission in life to tell others about the positive aspects of their communities. Word of mouth also applies to visitors who tell others about the community. After all, how many of us make vacation decisions because we have heard others tell us about a great place. So what does your community have that would be of interest to others? One way to find out is to do something economic and community developers call asset-mapping, which is nothing more than making a list of the assets of the community and determining which could be capitalized upon. If there are few such assets, then consider starting an event or activity that will draw people to your community. PHIL HARDWICK is a regular Mississippi Business Journal columnist. His email address is phil@philhardwick.com.

and insurance agency in Jackson, where he had worked since graduation from college in 2004 sold to a bank. He helped start the construction division at Ross & Yerger “Building anything from the ground up is always a challenge; however, Ross & Yerger provided me with the necessary support and resources to accomplish our ultimate goal,” he said. “Fourteen years later, we’ve grown the Construction Division to 18 team members with a heavy focus on surety program development, captive insurance programs and customized risk management mechanisms for the commercial and industrial construction sectors.” Menetre and his family moved to Tupelo in May 2008. His advice for those looking to enter the insurance industry as a career: Don’t be afraid to fail. “The insurance industry can be very rewarding, but it also takes a tremendous amount of determination and perseverance,” he said. “I am also strong proponent of identifying a niche that excites you, and then learning everything you can about that given niche.” dennis.seid@djournal.com

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Banking and Finance Rivertrust, one of state’s oldest credit unions, is also one of the most modern

BY BECKY GILLETTE

ivertrust Federal Credit Union, originally Mississippi Telco Federal Credit Union, in Pearl is one of the oldest credit unions in the state established in 1935 as the credit union for the phone company Southern Bell/BellSouth and then later AT&T. Today, it is also one of the most modern, with features including being the first financial institution in the area Robinson to offer the Verifast Palm Identification system. “Verifast is a revolutionary biometric solution which allows members to access their accounts with superior security and convenience with just the palm of their hand,” said Rivertrust Chairman E.E. “Buddy” Robinson. “Palm Identification is a fast and hygienic new way to Long sign into their accounts that makes forgery virtually impossible. It rapidly scans your palm to sign into your account. It is based on over five million reference points by using your palm veins. It is exceptionally hygienic because it requires no contact points or physical exchanges.” It also is handy for people who don’t want to carry their Debit card around with them. Other Rivertrust innovations include shared branching. The Co-op Shared Branch network allows members to have access to convenient branches from coast-to-coast. “The Co-op Shared Branch network allows members of one credit union to perform a range of transactions at another credit union,” Robinson said. “Through the Co-op Shared Branch network, participating credit unions can serve members in diverse geographical locations, even when they move or travel. By sharing resources, Rivertrust is able to provide the benefits of products and services to its members, without spending money on unnecessary other branch locations. This, in turn, saves the members money on loan rates and pays higher dividends on share accounts.” Rivertrust members have access to more than 70,000 ATMs across the world. These ATMs work much like their Co-op Shared Branch network. Members can withdraw money from ATMs in their network without incurring any surcharge or processing fees. “This makes having access to their money simpler and more convenient,” Robinson said. Online banking is a convenience most people take advantage of these days. Robinson said there’s so much more to Online Banking than just checking a balance. “Rivertrust’s Online Banking platform is substan-

concise tips for improving weak areas in their credit score, pre-qualifications for offers and savings opportunities, access to educational tools, credit report monitoring and alerts, and much more. Even better, Credit Sense is a free service that we offer our members.” Rivertrust also provides free checking for students. Long said free checking accounts are a valuable service to their younger members who are starting their financial journey. He said this service provides a betial,” Robinson said. “Along with simply checking ginning to money management and can help students account balances, members enjoy the ease of translearn the importance of financial education. ferring money (internally and externally), paying bills “Another great service that Rivertrust provides its electronically with speed and accuracy, and sending members is free access to GreenPath Financial Wellmoney from person-to-person with Zelle. In addition ness,” Long said. “GreenPath has been a trusted nato all of that, members can explore the Trends setting, tional nonprofit since 1961. Through our partnership which allows them to build a comprehensive view of with GreenPath, members who contact GreenPath all of their finances, including internal accounts and receive free financial counseling sessions. accounts they hold at other institutions. “These GreenPath counselors can help members “The transactions are automatically categorized pay down debt – make a plan for repaying debt and based on their preferences. A budget status and goal see if a GreenPath debt management plan could help progress are automatically tracked against their them lower interest rates and pay off debt faster. They targets, and charts, graphs, and advanced search also give helpful guidance to improve credit scores. capabilities make transaction monitoring and analysis They will review student loans and explore repayment simple. Online banking with Rivertrust is a great tool options. They will also help with housing decisions by to gain insight into members’ day-to-day expenses, as providing foreclosure prevention and support, homewell as, manage their savings and investments.” buyer and reverse mortgage counseling, and other Still another convenience is the credit union’s new resources to help members make informed decisions Interactive Branch Kiosk (IBK), which allows streamabout housing options.” lining branch operations by moving many of the teller A common problem with people of all ages is credit transactions to a self-service channel. card debt. People can end up not even being able to “This creates a modern experience that provides pay the minimum, and being subject to very high more valuable member interactions, more conveinterest charges. The average credit card rate is about nience, and extended branch hours,” said Rivertrust 18%, but it can go as high as 34%. According to bankpresident and CEO Kevin Long. “Think of the IBK like rate.com, there is no maximum interest a credit card a super-ATM. While ATMs can only do a limited set company can charge. People can also get in trouble of transactions, the IBK can perform cash and check with predatory payroll lenders. transactions, electronic loan payments, transfers, and “Rivertrust will be mindful of what is helpful to the much more–all while harnessing the safety and secumember, rather than thrusting them into a situation rity of the Verifast Palm Identification system, which is that may leave them financially unstable or unprothe latest technology in fraud prevention.” ductive,” Long said. “Rivertrust offers lower interest There are many different ways to qualify for memrates on loans and pays higher dividends on share bership that are detailed on their website, www. accounts. Our lending practices include looking at the rivertrustfcu.com. Their largest member demographic member’s whole history and financial background, is in the central Mississippi area. whereas a lot of other financial institutions only “But because of our Co-op Shared Branch network, consider small snapshots of the person’s financial ATM network, state-of-the-art mobile app, robust past, providing members with options that traditional online banking service, and new Interactive Branch financial institutions may not be able to offer.” Kiosk, we’re able to serve anyone in the State of MisRivertrust is an active member in the Rankin, Greatsissippi,” Long said. er Jackson, Flowood and Pearl chambers of comAnother popular feature is Credit Sense, which gives merce, and a sponsor of local schools, sports teams, members instant access to their credit score every and charitable organizations. Rivertrust can routinely single time they log into their online account. be seen participating in collaborative efforts with “It goes a step further than just providing the credit other area credit unions like CU at the Zoo, St. Paddy’s score, though,” Long said. “They will find explanaDay 5K, community shred days, various nonprofits, tions of how their credit score is calculated, clear and reality fairs, and other financial education.

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Banking and Finance Oldest Credit Unions

Oldest Credit Unions Rank

Credit Union

Address

Phone

Website

Top Officer

mutualcu.org

Michael Mathews

Mutual Credit Union

1604 Cherry Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180

601-636-7523

Meridian Postal Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 654, Meridian, MS 39302

601-693-7413

Vicksburg Railroad Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 802, Vicksburg, MS 39181

601-638-3134

vrcums.com

Founded 1931

Linda Payne

1932

David Bell

1934

Eagle Express Federal Credit Union

567 S. State Street, Jackson, MS 39205

601-355-6363

eagleexpressfcu.com

Katie Nelson

1935

Gulf Coast Community FCU

12364 Highway 49, Gulfport, MS 39503

228-539-7029

gulfcoastcommunityfcu.org

Lisa Graham

1935

Magnolia Federal Credit Union

240 Briarwood Dr, Jackson, MS 39206

601-977-8300

magfedcu.org

Michael Waylett

1935

Rivertrust Federal Credit Union

409 Riverwind Drive, Pearl, MS 39208

601-664-2085

rivertrustfcu.com

Kevin Long

1935

Navigator Credit Union

P.O. Box 1647, Pascagoula, MS 39568

228-475-7300

navigatorcu.org

Sonya Jarvis

1939

McComb Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 456, McComb, MS 39648

601-684-7764

mccombfcu.com

Laura Burris

1940

Pine Belt Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 1441, Hattiesburg, MS 39403

601-583-3242

pinebeltfcu.org

Brian Green

1942

Keesler Federal Credit Union

Box 7001, Biloxi, MS 39534

228-385-5500

kfcu.org

Andrew Swoger

1947

healthplusfcu.com

Matthew Baker

1948

Healthplus Federal Credit Union

500H E. Woodrow Wilson Ave, Jackson, MS 39216

601-354-6633

Treasury Employees Federal Credit Union

100 W. Capitol St., No. 603, Jackson, MS 39269

601-355-5411

Securtrust Federal Credit Union

3870 Goodman Road, Southaven, MS 38672

662-890-8760

Statewide Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 320483, Flowood, MS 39232

601-420-5535

statewidefcu.org

Casey Bacon

1949

Brightview Federal Credit Union

713 S Pear Orchard Rd, Ste 101, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-977-9468

brightviewcu.com

Sheila Bridges

1950

JPFCE Federal Credit Union

600 E McDowell Rd, Jackson, MS 39204

601-559-6100

Sharecia Atkinson

1952

Mississippi DHS Federal Credit Union

767 N President St, Jackson, MS 39202

601-354-6544

msdhsfcu.com

Rosalind Bailey

1952

securtrust.org

Daniel Quinn

1948

Martha Rushing

1949

Jackson Area Federal Credit Union

5675 Hwy 18 W, Jackson, MS 39209

601-922-7055

jacksonareafcu.com

Gary Fairley

1953

Meridian Mutual Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 310, Meridian, MS 39302

601-693-1900

meridianmutualfcu.com

Debbie Smith

1953

Old South Federal Credit Union

148 N. Shields Lane, Natchez, MS 39120

601-442-4382

oldsouthfcu.com

Stacy McCann

1953

Singing River Federal Credit Union

6006 Highway 63, Moss Point, MS 39563

228-475-9531

srfcu.org

James Smith Jr.

1953

Sunbelt Federal Credit Union

6885 US 49, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-649-7181

sunbeltfcu.org

Christopher Hammond

1953

Water's Edge Federal Credit Union

1976 Popps Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39532

228-896-0038

wefcu.com

Amy Olier

1953

mecuanywhere.com

Members Exchange Credit Union

107 Marketridge Dr., Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-922-3350

Mitzi Tate

1954

Shelby/Bolivar County Federal Credit Union

630 Gaines Hwy, Boyle, MS 38730

662-843-0060

Barbara Black

1955

Armstrong Federal Credit Union

1085 Highway 80 W, Jackson, MS 39204

601-960-5240

Linda Alford

1956

CenturyFirst Federal Credit Union

3318 Hardy St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

601-450-4114

centuryfirstfcu.com

John Harmond

1956

Mississippi College Employees FCU

Box 4033, Clinton, MS 39058

601-925-3895

Angela Poole

1958

Mississippi Federal Credit Union

2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216

601-351-9200

msfcu.us

Mike Lightsey

1958

trianglefcu.com

29 31

Triangle Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 8300, Columbus, MS 39705

662-434-6052

John Gibbons

1959

Forrest County Teachers Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 1271, Hattiesburg, MS 39403

601-475-0435

Keidra Roberts

1961

Natchez Educators Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 774, Natchez, MS 39121

601-445-2851

Teresa Ford

1961

United Methodist of Mississippi FCU

PO Box 245, Booneville, MS 38829

662-617-0088

Marilyn Rowland

1961

Memorial Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 1810, Gulfport, MS 39502

228-865-3142

Karen Lizana

1962

memorialfcu.org

Mississippi National Guard FCU

142 Military Dr, Jackson, MS 39232

601-932-5194

msngfcu.com

Vickie Bourne

1962

MUNA Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 3338, Meridian, MS 39303

601-693-8563

munafederal.com

Biffle "Bo" Pittman Jr.

1962

Meridian Mississippi ANG FCU

P.O. Box 4232 WSS, Meridian, MS 39304

601-483-7307

meridianangfcu.org

Darlene Wilkerson

1963

First Neshoba Federal Credit Union

Box 685, Philadelphia, MS 39350

601-656-1183

fnfcu.org

Dustin Moore

1964

mhspfcu.com

Tracy Burleigh

1964

Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol FCU

1900 E Woodrow Wilson Ave #204, Jackson, MS 39205

601-987-1290

Northeast Mississippi Federal Credit Union

101 3rd Ave S, Amory, MS 38821

662-256-9697

Biloxi Teachers Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 168, Biloxi, MS 39533

228-436-5126

Mid Delta Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 670, Indianola, MS 38751

662-887-4347

MUW Employees Federal Credit Union

1100 College St., No. 41, Columbus, MS 39701

662-327-2500

Sandra Vaughn

1964

biloxischools.net

Sherry Deshamp

1965

Faye Vance

1965

www5.homecu.net/fi/muwfcu/

Tova Hamm

1965

Citizens Choice Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 17879, Natchez, MS 39122

601-442-5888

citizenschoicefederal.com

Patricia Smith

1966

Mississippi Public Employees Credit Union

613 S West St, Jackson, MS 39201

601-948-8191

mspecu.org

Debbie Cox

1966

Tombigbee Federal Credit Union

P.O. Drawer 539, Amory, MS 38821

662-256-2791

tombigb.virtualcu.net

Carolyn Logan

1966

Camp Shelby Federal Credit Union

Warehouse Ave, Bldg 82, Hattiesburg, MS 39407

601-544-5421

campshelbycreditunion.us

Denise Collier

1967

ecmfcu.com

Jennifer Lovett

1967

ECM Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158

601-605-8600

Elevator Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 368, Olive Branch, MS 38654

662-895-2964

Vickswood Federal Credit Union

107 Thalweg Drive, Vicksburg, MS 39183

601-636-4434

vickswoodcu.com

Pamela Collier

1967

Terrie Falls

1967

Ferguson Federal Credit Union

1026 E Broad St, Monticello, MS 39654

601-806-3328

fergusonfcu.org

Vernon Clevenger

1968

AMPOT Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 352, Hamilton, MS 39746

662-343-8793

ampotfcu.org

Cristina Jones

1969

Issaquena County Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 87, Mayersville, MS 39113

662-873-4393

Ruth Evans

1969

Community Partners FCU

P.O. Box 5, Newton, MS 39345

601-683-3322

communitypartnersfcu.com

Deloris Little

1971

1st Mississippi Federal Credit Union

600 19th Ave, Meridian, MS 39301

601-693-6873

1stms.com

Rebecca Cooper

1972

Gulf Trust Federal Credit Union

2533 Denny Ave, Pascagoula, MS 39567

228-762-0659

gulftrustcu.org

Jennifer Spiriti

1973

Southern Coastal Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 503, Biloxi, MS 39533

228-432-0284

socofcu.org

Alison Lynd

1973

Choctaw Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 6284, Choctaw, MS 39350

601-656-0055

choctawfcu.org

Steve Ashton

1976

Pearl Municpal Federal Credit Union

2420 Old Brandon Road, Pearl, MS 39208

601-939-3126

pearlcu.com

Karen Williams

1981

N. Mississippi Health Services Employees FCU

830 S. Gloster St., Tupelo, MS 38801

662-377-3235

nmhs.net/creditunion

Daphne Burson

1982

CM Members Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 1444, Columbus, MS 39703

662-327-3030

cmcreditunion.com

Casey Halbert

1986

Mississippi Central Federal Credit Union

5134 Highway 80, Morton, MS 39117

601-732-8887

Delta Federal Credit Union

P.O. Box 755, Greenville, MS 38702

662-332-7184

Hope Federal Credit Union

4 Old River Place, Suite A, Jackson, MS 39202

601-944-1100

Susan Pinter

1986

deltacu.virtual.cu.net

Barbara Rodgers

1992

hopecu.org

Bill Bynum

66 First Unity Federal Credit Union 122 5th Ave Ste B, McComb, MS 39648 601-680-4419 Samuel Hall Data from the Mississippi Credit Union Association and individual credit unions. Ranked by year founded in Mississippi. Direct questions to frank.brown@msbusiness.com.

1995 2014

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Banking and Finance Interest rate hikes could aid banks’ profitability BY DENNIS SEID DAILY JOURNAL

hile consumers looking to buy homes and cars face higher payments as interest rates rise, the banking industry is hoping to improve profitability after years of lower margins due to record-low interest rates. The low interest rates have become a double edged sword: While it helped grow the economy by encouraging loans and spending, the rates also served as fuel for inflation. To curb the overheating economy, the Fellows Federal Reserve has raised a key interest rate and promises to continue raising in an effort to cool the economy. And those higher rates could benefit banks. It’s not guaranteed, however. “The Fed’s actions could have a positive impact on bank profitability and could be expected in normal economic

conditions,” said Gordon Fellows, president of the Mississippi Bankers Association. “But there are many layers of economic challenges that could limit the potential positive impact on profitability. For example, if the Fed and Congress are not able to bring inflation under control soon, or if we are faced with a recession, which I hope the Fed will be able to avoid, either of these challenges could weigh down any positive impact on profitability.” Bank profitability and interest are linked, with banks typically benefiting from higher interest rates. When interest rates are higher, banks make more money by taking advantage of the difference between the interest its pay to customers and the interest it can earn by investing. ADAM ROBISON | DAILY JOURNAL Interest rates are a bank’s best Bo Collins, CEO of BNA Bank, speaks during the ground breaking ceremony of the new BNA friend. When rates fall, banks lower the Bank Plaza being constructed in downtown Tupelo on Tuesday morning. interest they pay for deposits but keep the rates they charge to borrowers for as long as they can. a falling stock market, international high for as long as they can. But when That interest rate spread is what conflicts, etc., nothing is certain. interest rates rise, banks raise their powers a bank’s profit. “In a more static economic loan rates to borrowers but keep the But with the economy in its current interest rate they pay for deposits low state – high inflation, high gas prices, TURN TO BANKS, 12F

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Going Green Mississippi Sound marine sanctuary faces headwinds

BY BECKY GILLETTE

here is a fledgling effort to create a marine sanctuary in the Mississippi Sound in order to preserve resources and allow the fisheries to be more productive. Proponents of the idea include Capt. Louis Skrmetta, CEO of Ship Island Excursions and a member of the Mississippi Chapter Sierra Club ExecSpraggins utive Committee. Skrmetta says the Mississippi Sound has far less marine life than in decades past, and that a marine sanctuary between the Gulfport and Biloxi ship channels out to the intercoastal waterway would go a long way to helping the marine organisms, including dolphins, recover. “The dolphins really need protection,” Skrmetta said. “My experience working on the water all these years is I’ve seen a

major decline in our fisheries. The fact is that the Sound is dying. Hardly anything is left out there. The days of floundering every night and cast netting for mullet off piers is almost non-existent now. You can fish on rock jetties and the Back Bay fishing pier, but they are not catching the fish they used to. “I recall after Hurricane Katrina when everything shut down, including shrimping. All of the sudden we had flounder, speckled trout and other types of fish. It was amazing that a short rest after Katrina had a definite positive impact on the fisheries.” Skrmetta said at one time, more than 300 boats were shrimping in the Mississippi Sound. “Now you may have maybe 20 boats working Harrison County waters on the opening day of shrimp season, and they don’t last very long,” Skrmetta said. “The local fishermen find another place to shrimp. We don’t have the resources we

had years ago. It is time to seriously look at trying to fix this situation and come up with some kind of remedy. The marine sanctuary programs that include no commercial net zones off the Coast of Florida have been very successful. Maybe we could do something similar in a small way.” Skrmetta said the advantages could include better fishing on the shore for people who don’t have boats. He believes it would also improve the food source for the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, which people enjoy watching while traveling on the Mississippi Sound. “Right now, large menhaden (also known as pogie) boats come in with huge nets using fish spotter planes over the schools,” Skrmetta said. “They sweep up everything, killing a lot of species besides pogie fish, including sharks which play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Pogies are important to the marine food chain and removing them in large numbers is

not environmentally healthy. There are no catch limits for menhaden in Mississippi waters, and independent observers are not allowed on board. They are self-monitored.” Cleaner waters with greater diversity of sea life would be a benefit to Coast tourism, Skrmetta said. However, the marine sanctuary proposal faces strong headwinds due to opposition by the menhaden industry and possibly commercial and sport fishing groups. It would need to be recommended by scientists with the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) and by the Commission on Marine Resources. MDMR Executive Director Joe Spraggins said in certain instances, marine sanctuaries can be beneficial if they are implemented correctly through preserving critical spawning habitat or areas of TURN TO SANCTUARY, 12F

10 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Going Green AEC’s DeJonnette King: Bridging the gap between corporate America and workforce preparedness

BY BECKY GILLETTE

eJonnette Grantham King, president and CEO of Advanced Environmental Consultants in Jackson, has been nationally recognized by and featured in Forbes magazine as a national environmental leader and amongst America’s most powerful self-made women, but this Mississippi-born environmental influencer is more than just a scientist who evolved into a business owner. King said it was an honor to be featured in such a renowned publication. “Of course, the experience of being recognized for hard work is always gratifying, no matter the platform,” King said. “I King think that becoming the best version of myself, hard work, and experience has propelled me into the position I am now. Entrepreneurship isn’t as easy as it looks but, by following my instincts and striving to provide a quality service, I think that Advanced Environmental Consultants’ work speaks for itself.” One of her top priorities is bridging the gap between corporate America and workforce preparedness of recent graduates. She believes strongly about helping prepare the next generation to work in and help solve our environmental issues. “We prepare the next generation by mentoring and helping them to develop skills that they may not have,” King said. “Everyone is different, and much of what a person learns is based on exposure, environment, where they were nurtured, and education. I think that as college graduates matriculate through the process of education, less attention is devoted to teaching or honing simple skills. I think sometimes it may already be assumed that a person has a certain level of skill set, when they do not. “We must take the time and have the patience to teach and guide them and work to develop and enhance those skills that will prepare them for success.” Founded in 1996, AEC has certifications with the Women’s Business Enterprise South, Department of Transportation (Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas), Mississippi Development Authority, city of Jackson, Entergy, and the airport authorities in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Missis-

sippi, Tennessee and Texas. The governmental programs including those for minority and women businesses are quite useful. King said they provide opportunities on projects that otherwise may have gone unnoticed and not granted them an opportunity to engage. King earned her Ph.D. in higher education at Jackson State University and attended the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Her dissertation covered work-based higher learning, critical thinking and problem solving, development of self-managing practitioners and self-directed learners, specialized skills, effective communication, cultural fit and mentoring to be key factors in the level of workforce preparedness of recent college graduates. King said her company works to bridge the gap between corporations and universities in efforts to produce opportunities for a more prepared workforce and enhance the global reach of other small businesses. “I now have a mechanism that has vindicated, validated and transformed me as an authority to form collaborations and alliances between universities and corporations, and provide the clientele that we serve the eminence of service that they so deserve,” King said. AEC’s work includes a broad range of services including administration, construction management, project oversight and monitoring, environmental management, asbestos abatement and disposal, lead abatement and disposal, mold remediation, environmental permitting, underground storage tanks removal and closure, and waste and contaminated soil and groundwater sampling and analysis. AEC also does

trainings and data management. King attributes their success to customer satisfaction. “We are loyal, we put customers first, and we are available when our clients need us,” King said. “Those clients that we serve have trusted us and afforded our firm the opportunity to provide the expertise and the services that they needed. We are proud of every project that we do, no matter how small or large. When we can deliver quality service and meet timelines that are required for our clients, it is a win-win for all.” During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, AEC conducted asbestos inspections, lead inspections, asbestos abatement, and lead renovations/abatements along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Work included remediating more than 1,000 homes. “We were able to visually see the impact of what happened during Hurricane Katrina and were happy to assist in restoring those homes impacted at Mississippians’ time of need,” King said.

Environmental justice is part of the structure of the firm. King said they consider their company as the legal arm of the environment. “We consider all aspects of the environment and how it impacts the location of the people that live in the surrounding areas where work is conducted,” King said. “We collaborate with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to keep them abreast of situations as required. This promotes a healthy and safe environment.” King said listening to clients is key. Sometimes a client does not know what service is best. She said by taking the time to listen to them, it gives them the opportunity to do what they do best and that is use their expertise to suggest services that cater best to them. In addition to listening, she thinks that being available and willing to go the extra mile to be accommodating is the formula for having good relationships with clients. Top level employees are a critical factor to success, as well. King said they get the best out of all employees by training, mentoring, teaching, and enhancing skills to assure that they feel competent to perform the mission. King has also been an active member of a number of different organizations including the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The social disruption caused by the pandemic has affected the mobility of not only her involvement within the community, but with communities across the globe. “Despite the state of the world right now, I do continue to give support and donations to the organizations and non-profits that are dear to me,” she said.

SEMS, Inc. is a regional environmental management firm with decades of experience helping clients navigate complex projects in highly regulated industries. 601.922.0766 bsmith@semsinc.net www.semsinc.net 160 Upton Drive Jackson, MS 39209 SEMS, Inc. (formerly Hazclean)

Environmental Site Assessments Indoor Air Quality Investigations Brownfields Assessments & Remediation Asbestos & Lead Assessments Mold & Biological Assessments General Environmental Engineering

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Going Green Environmental Consulting Firms

Environmental Consulting Firms Company Address

Phone Website

Principals Founded

Services

W.L. Burle Engineers, P.A. 111 S. Walnut St., Greenville, MS 38701

662-332-2619 wlburle.com

William Louis Burle, Jr. 1991

Environmental/Civil/ Geo-technical/Structural Engineering, Land Surveying and Construction Material Testing Services

Allen Engineering and Science, Inc. 6360 I-55 N., Ste. 330, Jackson, MS 39211

601-936-4440 allenes.com

Jeffrey L. Allen 1993

Engineering, planning, consulting, and construction management services for private and public sectors.

Thompson Engineering 599 North Park Dr, Suite A, Ridgeland , MS 39157

601-899-9252 thompsonengineering.com

Bobby Moseley, Thad Hopper, Richard Sheffield 1991

FC&E Engineering, LLC 917 Marquette Road, Brandon, MS 39042

601-824-1860 fce-engineering.com

Ken L Faulkner, PE 2004

Environmental Compliance & Safety, Inc. P.O. Box 356, Sherman, MS 38869

662-840-5945 envirocomp.net

Brian S. Ketchum, Kirk A. Shelton 2002

Environmental Management Services Inc. 7350 US Hwy 98, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-544-3674 env-mgt.com

Clyde Woodward, Jr. 1997

Cypress Environment & Infrastructure 906 DeSoto St., Ocean Springs, MS 39564

228-596-1580 cypress-environmental.com

Cynthia Henderson, Marc Foster 2010

PPM Consultants Inc. 289 Commerce Park Drive, Suite D, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-956-8233 ppmco.com

Mike McCown, Annie McIlwain 1994

Multi-discipline engineering design, environmental consulting, construction management, geotechnical, quality assurance inspection & testing. 2nd office in Moss Point. Turnkey permitting and compliance services including air permitting and modeling, wastewater, SWPPP, SPCC, landfills, and hazardous waste. Environmental & Safety Consulting Firm (North MS and Gulf Coast Office) - Air, Water, Waste, Audits, Compliance Assistance, Service Plans, Training. Environmental consulting; Permitting; ESA's; Brownfields redevelopment; solid waste facility design/permitting; lowimpact development Environmental Engineering and Planning; Civil & Coastal Engineering; Regulatory Compliance; Remediation; Wetland & Stream Mitigation Assessment/remediation of soil & groundwater, Brownfields & economic redevelopment, environmental due diligence and compliance

Pickering Firm, Inc. 2001 Airport Rd., Ste. 201, Flowood, MS 39232

601-956-3663 pickeringfirm.com

Nat Whitten, Curt Craig, Rick Ferguson, Jonathan Johnson, Dan Townsend, Blake Collins, Andy Phelan 1981

Advanced Environmental Consultants Inc. 775 N. President St., Jackson, MS 39202

601-362-1788 advancedenviroconsultants.com

DeJonnette Grantham King, Ph.D. 1996

Terracon Consultants Inc. 859 Pear Orchard Rd., Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-956-4467 terracon.com

Ryan P. Steiner 1965

WGK Inc. Engineers & Surveyors 204 W. Leake St., Clinton, MS 39056

601-925-4444 wgkengineers.com

Greg Gearhart, Bill Owen, Mike McKenzie 1991

EnSafe Inc. 101 W. Washington St., Suite C5, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-981-4880 ensafe.com

Brian R. Derry 1980

Environmental Evaluation & Control P.O. Box 5422, Columbus, MS 39704

662-328-2286

Ron Robinson 1993

601-948.3071 neel-schaffer.com

Joey Hudnall 1983

662-841-0995 cobbenv.com

Brian Cobb 1997

Brown, Mitchell & Alexander Inc. 401 Cowan Rd, Ste A, Gulfport, MS 39507

228-864-7612 bmaengineers.com

Dax Alexander, Ben Smith 1967

Stormwater design & permitting; dndangered species & NEPA assessments; wetland investigations

C&B Enterprise Incorporated P.O. Box 2186, Madison, MS 39130

601-238-9129

Calvin Ousby, Sr., Barbara Ousby 2000

Environmental Assessment Phase I/II; Project Management/Development

Rank

15 16 17

Neel-Schaffer, Inc. 4450 Old Canton Road, Suite 100, Jackson, MS 39211 Cobb Environmental and Technical Services Inc. 871 S. Green St., Tupelo, MS 38804

NEPA Assessments, Asbestos Compliance, USTs, Civil Engineering and Land Surveying, Water and Wastewater Engineering, Transportation Design Project, environmental, construction management; environmental justice; asbestos; air monitoring; abatement; lead inspections; risk assessments From due diligence to facility maintenance: Env Assessments, Asbestos/Lead/Mold, Industrial Hygiene, USTs, Regulatory Compliance, Remediation. Sewage collection, treatment, disposal; water supply, treatment, distribution; industrial waste treatment; storm water handling; surveying; permitting; transportation and State Aid Engineering; environmental permitting, compliance & assessments; health & safety; remediation; abatement; technology management Asbestos/ lead-based paint inspections, mold/ indoor air quality evaluations and remediation, regulatory compliance. Environmental: Phase 1&2 ESAs; NEPA compliance; environmental permitting and compliance; underground/ aboveground tank management; solid waste. Air and Water Quality Permitting, Environmental Site Assessments, Due Diligence, Remedial Evaluation and Design, Asbestos and Mold Evaulations.

Municipal and industrial wastewater collection, treatment and disposal; water treatment and distribution; various regulatory compliance assistance Emergency Response; Env.Consulting; Toxicology; Industrial Hygiene; Air Monitoring; Air, Water, Groundwater and Soil Sampling

Environmental Staff in MS

25 19 16 15 14 12

10 10

8 8 7 6

Clearwater Consultants Inc. 316 University Dr., Starkville, MS 39759

662-323-8000

Carey Hardin 1982

CTEH, LLC 660 Lakeland East, Suite 107, Jackson, MS 39232

601-278-7814 cteh.com

Cory Davis, Chase Selby, Paul Nony 1997

Environmental Management Plus Inc. P O Box 9361, Jackson, MS 39286

601-922-1919 envmgntplus.com

Alfred L. Martin, Jr. 1993

Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint and Mold: Inspections, Abatement, Air Monitoring; UST Removals

SEMS, Inc. (formerly Hazclean) 160 Upton Dr., Jackson, MS 39209

601-922-0766 semsinc.net

Brian E. Smith 1995

Air quality surveys; mold assessments; industrial hygiene; noise assessments; and environmental permitting

Access Environmental Solutions Inc. 1100 Augusta Dr, Ste 704, Oxford, MS 38655

662-680-9927 accessenvironmental.com

David Sykes 1998

Engineering Plus Inc. 1724-B 23rd Ave., Meridian, MS 39301

601-693-4234 engineeringplus.com

First Environment Inc. 1020 W. 4th St., Wesson, MS 39191

770-424-3344 firstenvironment.com

Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. 986 Madison Ave, 2C, Madison, MS 39110

601-709-2837 woodplc.com

2014

AECOM 111 E Capitol St #400, Jackson, MS 39201

601-718-4711 aecom.com

Landon Whitton 1990

Design/build, planning, engineering, design, construction and defensive

Epes Environmental & Consulting 419 Railroad St., Water Valley, MS 38965

662-473-9800 epesenviro.com

Pierce Epes 2002

Environmental engineering, compliance, Phase I, and permitting services

PM Environmental 500 Russell St., #106, Starkville, MS 39759

800-313-2966 pmenv.com

Peter Bosanic 1992

Phase I & II environmental site assessments, underground storage tank management

Wetland delineation; permitting; mitigation; endangered species survey; ASTM Phase I surveys

Terrell W. Temple, Richmond Alexander, Steve Miller 1987 Ed Reid, Issac Edwards, Ellen Reid, Bernard Tod Delaney, Michael Slack 1987

Wetland Consulting Services, Inc. 601-550-2346 Robert Carl Anderson wetlandconsultingservice.com 1998 21 Autumn Run, Hattiesburg, MS 39402 Data provided by company representatives and MBJ research. Direct questions to frank.brown@msbusiness.com.

Industrial permitting for air emissions and water discharges, hazardous waste management, emergency response planning, Phase I ESA Highways; environmental; soils investigation; material testing; site planning; surveying; landscape design; general civil; county engineering Environmental consulting & engineering, including site investigation & remediation, litigation support, climate change & sustainability. Wood is a full service environmental and engineering firm, focused on the needs of our industrial, commercial and municipal clients.

5 5

3 3 3 3

12 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Sanctuary

Spraggins said MDMR uses multiple catch and size limits in addition to seasonal and permanent closure areas already in place to conserve fisheries and protect habitat. He said they encourage anyone interested in Mississippi’s marine resource management measures to visit the MDMR website and the current regulations the extensive list of successful management tools, including targeted closure areas, developed based on science and in place for years to the benefit of all marine species. “The most recent stock assessment of the Gulf menhaden shows that the stock is in stable condition and is not overfished or undergoing overfishing,” Spraggins said. “MDMR staff work with the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission Menhaden Advisory Committee (MAC) to ensure that the standards of conservation are continuously met year after year. Moreover, the MAC has been in development of ecosystem-centric inputs for the assessment, aiding the industry in the development of potential harvest-control rules, and modeling various sensitivities of mortality to investigate potential environmental effects on the stock. “Recently, the Gulf Menhaden Fishery was certified by the Marine Stewardship Council as a sustainable fishery. There is a processing plant in Moss Point which also docks several vessels, as well. The

menhaden industry is very important to the economy of the state. The menhaden industry is valuable to the cultural heritage of the Mississippi coast as well, as it is one of the oldest maritime industries in the United States, active in the Gulf of Mexico since 1945.” Libby Graves, who has a doctorate in zoology from Mississippi State, grew up a block from the beach in Gulfport. She has seen a major decline in seafood that used to be common like flounder and soft-shelled crab. “It is not the way it used to be,” said Graves, a volunteer with local environmental groups. “Menhaden fishing is very disruptive to the Sound. The Sound is very shallow, only about ten feet deep. Those nets are very damaging. They have spotter planes that go find the densest area of menhaden. The water is disturbed, which makes it murky and less attractive to visitors. It disrupts a food chain so fishermen have to go farther to catch fish at places like the oil rigs south of the barrier islands.” In Louisiana, the Gulf Menhaden Conservation Coalition, an alliance of environmentalists, wildlife conservationists and sport fishermen, is advocating legislation to address “the destructive and irresponsible practices by the menhaden reduction fishing industry operating in Louisiana’s waters that have damaged the state’s marine ecosystems by fishing

in shallow waters and dragging their boats and nets on the seabed.” The Minden Press-Herald reports, in a recent article titled “Destructive Practices by Menhaden Fisheries Wreaks Havoc on Louisiana’s Environment and Threatens the Sportsman’s Paradise,” that the group argues the overfishing of menhaden depletes the available food source for species like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, jacks and mackerels who depend on menhaden as a critical part of their diets. The group said purse seine nets used by the industry aren’t selective, trapping and killing many other species of fish, which are lazily discarded as waste. The group states that the menhaden harvesting industry is the second largest fishing industry by volume in the United States and well-regulated in most other states. “Yet in Louisiana, the industry is free to fish as much as they please, wherever they please, without regard to the environment, fish populations or water depth,” the article in the Minden Press-Herald states. “While state lawmakers are aware of the issue, a bill has yet to be passed to address the problem. Louisiana House Bill 1033, a bill placing catch limits and reporting requirements on menhaden fisheries, will be monumental in saving our coast if passed by the Senate.”

banking industry. “When they were so low with the FROM 8F Fed Funds rate and prime rate, people could afford the higher priced homes environment, you’d expect an increase and the higher priced cars because in profitability, but we’re in a really you’re looking at at 3%, 3.5% rate, and dynamic environment and that makes the payments are so much better than it more difficult to project,” Fellows being twice that of course,” he said. cautioned. “People were able to spend more. Indeed if a recession occurs, all bets Rising rates will slow that down some, are off. but we’re still in a relatively low-rate Bank lending tends to decline in a environment.” recession, since most companies don’t But as the rates rise, Collins said cerwant to take the risk of increasing their tain investors, like those who have CDs debt burden during uncertain times. and savings accounts, will see a higher Additionally, credit quality of existing return, albeit slowly. loans also worsens as demand for capiAs for bank profitability, Collins tal and consumer goods falls. The most admits the rising rates will help that as recent recession confirms the impact. well. Bo Collins, the president and CEO of “The interest rate spread is the No. 1 BNA Bank in New Albany said the inter- thing in the industry in how profitable a est rate environment of recent years has bank will be,” he said. “It’s the differbeen the lowest in his 40 years in the ence between what they can charge

and what they pay to attract deposits. The industry has been seeing shrinking spreads for the past few years ... I think banks have seen that downward trend in the spread bottom out and it appears to be on an upward cycle. “Quite honestly, banks will be lower to raise their deposit rates versus their loan rates. I think banks are hoping to rebuild on their spread from what we’ve seen, but be assured the rates on deposits will go up.” Better bank profitability may not be the only potential positive out of the rising interest rates, the MBA’s Fellows said. He thinks a potential byproduct could be new banks being formed out of the opportunity. “We’ve been in a low-interest rate and ever-increasing regulatory environment since 2008, and that has contributed to a historically low number of

new bank formations,” he said. “In 2007 the Fed Fund rate was around 5-5.25% for most of the year, and there were nearly 200 new banks formed in America that year. By the end of 2008, the Fed Fund rate was down to about 0.25% and stayed at less than 1% until 2017. “And at the same time Congress enacted Dodd-Frank, which created a lot of regulatory changes that added new pressures as rates went down. Over this time period, the number of new banks created in the country fell to nearly zero annually. In Mississippi, we haven’t had a new bank chartered since 2007, so it would be nice to see some new market entrants formed. Hopefully the rising rate environment helps spur that, but regulatory costs will remain a challenge to new bank formation even as rates go up.”

Regional Education Board. Some 87% of Mississippi employers believe their current workforce needs additional training, credential, certifications or degrees in the next 10-20 years. During a poll of the crowd gathered on Tuesday, 92% said they were either somewhat or extremely concerned about the lack of key skills in the local workforce and saw that as a threat to

their businesses. Waller said much progress has been made in many areas, but opportunities remain. “I feel like there’s momentum, but like anything if we’re not careful, we can lose it,” he said. “We just have to keep pushing to get better and stronger.”‘

FROM 9F

concern to include threatened or endangered habitat. “Their direct impact, specifically to population levels outside of the sanctuary, is not conclusive across all regions,” Spraggins said. “Mississippi has ‘marine sanctuaries’ or protection of critical habitat already in place through statutes and regulations: “1. There is no commercial shrimp trawling allowed within half mile of the mainland shoreline from Bayou Caddy east to the Alabama State line. This was implanted to protect critical nursery habitat in the inner estuaries. “2. There is no commercial fishing of any kind north of the CSX railroad bridge which protects those inner estuaries or bays. “3. There are a multitude of areas closed to net fishing of all kinds that can be found in MDMR Regulations. “4. There are regulations limiting the use of purse seines for taking menhaden within one mile of the shore line of Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties. “5. There is a one-mile boundary around Ship, Horn and Petit Bois islands that restricts the use of trawls, pots, nets and other commercial gear. There is no scientific or other compelling reason to add more closed areas at this time.”

Banks

MEC FROM 3

training and education and get into this workforce and be part of that pipeline. I really think that’s a strong start. Without that quality workforce, all these issues we talk about don’t happen.” One of the key components of educat-

ing and training the state’s workforce is pushing up the number of working-age adults who have a degree or high-quality credential, otherwise known as educational attainment. The national average is right under 52%, but Mississippi lags at 44.4%. The Ascent to 55% is a plan for the state to reach 55% by 2030 and 60% by 2035, which is the goal of the Southern

dennis.seid@djournal.com

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Economic Development Innovative new state program matches employees with employers like a dating app BY LISA MONTI

MORE INFORMATION

ississippi’s innovative new program to match employees with employers is like a dating app but for today’s workforce environment. Here’s how it works: An individual creates a private profile by taking an online 10-minute quiz with multiple-choice answers that reveal traits and behaviors such as being a good listener or detail oriented. The quiz, called the PATH Assessment, predicts an individual’s probability of a successful career in a number of job roles, and instantly shares that info with the individual. Participating employers subscribe to the program to get leads on profiles that match up with job openings. Prospective candidates are notified of matches and if they decide to accept, their name is sent to the employer. If they decide not to accept, their info remains private. The program announced in April by Gov. Tate Reeves and Ryan Miller, Accelerate MS executive director, is a partnership between Accelerate MS, the state’s newly created lead office for workforce development, and GoodJob Software of Birmingham. “Job searching is not fun,” said Stephen Johnston, CEO of GoodJob and former CEO of Mississippi-based tech company SmartSynch. “We want to have one central place where you can create a profile and let technology do the work for you.” The program helps employers “quickly identify people that can be successful, hire them faster and retain them longer because the program is finding people who are great matches,” he said. The profile-building software is based on the PATH Assessment developed at Harvard in 1982 and refined by GoodJob for the Mississippi program. The PATH Assessment measures an individual’s purpose, approach, thinking and habits with questions about qualities and capabilities such as organizational skills, information gathering and honesty. “We took the science behind it and made it relevant for today’s working

maximize career opportunities and expand the pool of people available to go to work,” he said. “We can match them to job opportunities with those traits and behaviors. It’s a different way to identify and hire people.” Johnston said more than a dozen employers are signing on to program, including Nissan and Stripling Equipment and other large employers. North Mississippi Health Services based in Tupelo has been using the PATH software for several months to hire health care workers. Johnston said the state and GoodJob are working with community colleges, veterans groups and other organizations to help people find job opportunities through the new program. He said one of the most powerful features is the system works 24/7 every day so if someone with a profile isn’t looking for a job today, they are always in the mix. “You may not be looking for a job today but maybe this will elevate your career and you don’t even know what’s possible.” Johnston praised Mississippi for taking such an innovative approach to solving its workforce issues by embracing technology and creating the Accelerate MS job marketplace where employers can find people willing to work, whether they are in Mississippi or want to live or work in the state. “Accelerate MS is a new organization and what they are trying to do is take action. They have listened to employers who need more workers and to be able to identify and place them,” he said. “It’s also a way for college graduates to be connected to Mississippi employers before out of state employers can recruit them. I’m not aware of another program like this in the country.”

• Individuals can take the PATH Assessment at acceleratems.pathassessment.com • Employers who want to list jobs at acceleratems.org/goodjob-form

Stephen Johnston population,” said Johnston. The software provides “deep matching of jobs and candidates,” according to the company, and is more effective than the standard practice of hiring someone based only on skills and qualifications. GoodJob says its software’s machine-learning algorithm is based on psychological data that removes implicit bias and identifies candidates who will be most successful in the new job.

“After taking the test, you have a profile in the Accelerate MS Marketplace and now the system is out there working for you to find opportunities where you can be most successful and lead to having a better career,” Johnston said. GoodJob says it also simplifies the hiring process for employers and helps applicants choose a job, education or career field that is a good fit. “It’s all about helping Mississippi

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Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Economic Development Regions Bank’s Leard stresses importance of diversity Highest Paid Occupations

Highest Paid Occupations Rank 1 2

Occupation

Workers

BY LISA MONTI

Mean hourly wage

Mean annual wages

Emergency Medicine Physicians 270 $171.55 $356,830.00 Ophthalmologists, except pediatric 50 $166.56 $346,450.00 Obstetricians and Gynecologists N/A $166.56 $346,450.00 4 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric N/A $159.25 $331,240.00 5 Surgeons, All Other N/A $158.57 $329,820.00 6 General Internal Medicine Physicians 360 $139.40 $289,950.00 7 Pediatricians, General 50 $124.89 $259,780.00 8 Family Medicine Physicians 840 $100.58 $209,210.00 9 Nurse Anesthetists 580 $87.95 $182,940.00 10 Physicians, All Other 1,790 $85.90 $178,670.00 11 Psychiatrists 50 $81.81 $170,160.00 12 Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary 1,750 N/A $163,160.00 13 Dentists, General 830 $77.74 $161,700.00 14 Optometrists 220 $64.21 $133,570.00 15 Chief Executives N/A $63.27 $131,600.00 16 Architectural and Engineering Managers 830 $59.52 $123,800.00 17 Pharmacists 2,900 $57.33 $119,250.00 18 Economics Teachers, Postsecondary 60 N/A $112,650.00 19 Captains, Mates and Pilots of Water Vessels 450 $53.75 $111,800.00 20 Nurse Practitioners 3,860 $53.73 $111,750.00 21 Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers 210 N/A $111,250.00 22 Computer and Information Systems Managers 1,080 $53.23 $110,720.00 23 Physicists 50 $52.71 $109,630.00 24 Orthotists and Prosthetists 50 $52.54 $109,270.00 25 Chemical Engineers 180 $52.31 $108,800.00 26 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary 220 N/A $107,930.00 27 Ship Engineers 70 $51.80 $107,740.00 28 Natural Sciences Managers 180 $50.77 $105,600.00 29 Marine Engineers and Naval Architects 60 $50.39 $104,810.00 30 Architects, Except Landscape and Naval 410 $50.12 $104,240.00 31 Purchasing Managers 250 $49.81 $103,600.00 32 Industrial Production Managers 1,340 $49.06 $102,050.00 33 Veterinarians 560 $49.01 $101,930.00 34 Human Resources Managers 610 $48.90 $101,710.00 35 Computer and Information Research Scientists 640 $48.58 $101,050.00 Engineers, All Other 470 $48.58 $101,050.00 37 Financial Managers 3,420 $48.37 $100,600.00 38 Law Teachers, Postsecondary N/A N/A $100,350.00 39 Marketing Managers 640 $47.63 $99,060.00 40 Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary 90 N/A $98,920.00 41 Lawyers 3,390 $46.85 $97,440.00 Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators and 42 80 $46.51 $96,730.00 Hearing Officers 43 Physical Therapists 1,530 $46.15 $95,990.00 44 Soil and Plant Scientists 40 $46.10 $95,890.00 45 Medical and Health Services Managers 3,990 $45.32 $94,270.00 46 Commercial Pilots 290 N/A $93,590.00 47 Education Administrators, Postsecondary 1,540 $44.60 $92,770.00 48 Business Teachers, Postsecondary 490 N/A $92,540.00 49 Physical Scientists, All Other 360 $44.16 $91,850.00 Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery 50 940 $43.88 $91,260.00 Operators, and Gaugers 51 Training and Development Managers 170 $43.58 $90,640.00 52 Sales Managers 1,220 $43.43 $90,330.00 53 Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 470 N/A $90,210.00 Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and 54 360 $43.36 $90,180.00 Geographers 55 Air Traffic Controllers 120 $43.31 $90,090.00 56 Database Architects 120 $43.13 $89,710.00 57 Management Analysts 2,320 $43.08 $89,600.00 58 Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary 160 N/A $89,460.00 Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, 59 60 N/A $89,380.00 Postsecondary 60 Materials Engineers 140 $42.89 $89,210.00 61 Electronics Engineers, Except Computer 390 $42.83 $89,090.00 62 Compensation and Benefit Managers 60 $42.67 $88,740.00 63 Real Estate Brokers 180 $42.45 $88,300.00 From the 2021 Mississippi Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates report, as created by the Labor Market Information Department for the Mississippi Department of Employment Security. Direct comments to frank.brown@msbusiness.com

obert Leard, Regions Bank’s Commercial Banking Executive for Mississippi, says he and his team of 14 commercial banking relationship managers stay focused on new client acquisition, “from Tupelo to the Delta to the Gulf Coast,” to keep the bank growing. Part of their strategy is to find new opportunities by building relationships with women and minority business owners. “The bank is a strong legacy franLeard chise in Mississippi, and we do our best to take care of that,” he said. In the last few years, Regions has put more emphasis on new client acquisition, Leard said, “recognizing that there are businesses that bank with us today that are going to sell or that are going to consolidate and in order to sustainably grow our franchise we have to be in the market looking for those opportunities to bring on new relationships.” The bank also has focused on its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy, which is led by Clara Green, a member of Regions’ executive leadership team. Leard said he and his team across Mississippi “consistently talk about the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, internally and externally with organizations we partner with. The way you get new business is to get out there and meet and build relationships and ask for it. We’re running across more opportunities that we might not have discovered in the past. It’s a more robust and balanced and intentional approach.” The strategy shows a change in the bank’s culture to take a “broader approach to marketing, creating more opportunities to help women and minorities who traditionally have been underserved. It’s part of who we are as a bank,” he said. Leard said “the spotlight on small business has never been brighter” and Regions works closely with the Small Business Administration as a preferred lender and one of America’s most experienced SBA lenders to assist owners such as Amanda Stegall, owner of McGraw Rental & Supply in Ridgeland. Stegall started working at the power equipment shop when she was 19 and me-

thodically learned the ins and outs of the operation. Ten years later she bought the company, with help from Regions and the SBA. Scott Parrish, a commercial relationship manager in Ridgeland, and Megan Owens, a Regions Small Business Administration banker based in Mobile, worked with Stegall to put the deal together. “Scott was who I called when I needed anything, anytime of day,” Stegall said in a story the bank published on Regions’ corporate news site, Doing More Today, in honor of Women’s History Month. “And we’re still talking about possibilities.” Stegall credited Owens with making her dream of business ownership a reality. “She went over and beyond to help me get here,” she said. Stegall’s success story highlights Regions’ philosophy of how important relationships are, Leard said. “We really do believe it is important to understand the needs, goals and aspirations of our customers before we can provide products and services.” He said taking the time to get to know customers is part of the bank’s service model called Regions360. “Once we understand the needs and goals of our clients, we bring in specialized expertise from across the bank to work together to come up with a holistic and customized set of solutions to meet the needs of our clients.” Leard joined Regions Bank in 1995 as a consumer credit policy officer and has held several leadership roles at the bank. He also has been a leader in the community, serving on the boards of the Woodward Hines Education Foundation and Canopy Children’s Solutions, among others. Woodward Hines’ mission is “to help more Mississippians obtain postsecondary credentials, college certificates, and degrees that lead to meaningful employment.” Its flagship program is Get2College, a boots-on-the-ground college planning program that provides free college counseling. The nonprofit Canopy provides children’s behavioral health, educational and social services. Leard said Regions is supportive of Canopy among other organizations and agencies involved in the TURN TO DIVERSITY, 16F

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Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Economic Development

Mississippi Power’s Stacy Lester named one of top economic developers

BY LISA MONTI

tacy Lester, Growth Initiatives project manager for Mississippi Power’s Economic Development team, has been named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers in 2022 by Consultant Connect, a national consulting firm. The honorees were nominated by colLester leagues in economic development and site location consulting industries for their excellent practices, innovation and success in helping to build the communities where they work. A part of Mississippi Power’s Economic Development team, Lester involves dsevelops innovative ways to attract companies to Mississippi, and she works with up and coming professionals working in economic development. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many incredible developers and mentors throughout my 15-year career,” said Lester in a statement after her selection was announced. “I love to give back to younger economic developers, especially younger women, so they have the opportunity to shine and make an impact in the communities they serve.” Prior to joining Mississippi Power, Lester worked for the Mississippi Development Authority. She also worked as the Chief Operating Officer for the Madison County

Diversity

Economic Development Authority where she led workforce development initiatives for new and existing industries. Lester received a bachelor’s in Polymers Science and master’s in Economic Development from the University of Southern Mississippi. She provided more background into her work in a Q&A with the Mississippi Business Journal. MBJ: What got you interested in economic development? Lester: While I was working on my undergraduate degree in Polymer Science at the University of Southern Mississippi, I had several people ask me where I wanted to work after graduating. As a young college student, I just assumed that there was an abundance of job opportunities close to home in the science-related field I was pursuing. I have always called Mississippi home and for me, there was no other place I wanted to start my career. However, I did not realize that the opportunities in my chosen field were limited in Mississippi. Leading up to graduation, I received several job offers to go to work in Ohio, Nevada, California, but I knew I wanted to remain in Mississippi. Feeling very discouraged, I had a chance meeting with a professor in the Economic Development Master’s program at the university. He talked to me about opportunities in the economic development profession. Knowing that I could play a part in bringing high quality jobs to Mis-

wellness at all ages. “We believe it’s important to FROM 15F help people learn how to save, balance a checkcommunity. He said book, plan for retirethe bank’s philanthrop- ment, buy a home and ic investment is not manage credit,” Leard just financial. “We’re said. talking about the time The bank also supand talent of our peoports community and ple and investing back economic development into the community to efforts as well as edumake a difference,” he cation and workforce said. readiness opportunities. Regions’ approach Leard is a strong to community engagebeliever in education, ment includes financial something that is close

to home. “I come from a family of educators,” he said. “My father was a professor of chemistry, and my wife is an English teacher. I understand the value of education for a community to thrive.” He believes that improving Mississippi’s educational system is key to the state’s continued growth and economic health. “I think it drives everything,” he said.

sissippians who wanted to remain in the state made me feel like I had found my calling. That passion also led me to return to Southern Miss and earn a Master’s in Economic Development. MBJ: Brian Useforge, Mississippi Power’s Economic Development Director, said you understand that building and maintaining relationships at the local, county, state and national level is the key to economic development success. What else does it take to be successful? Lester: Having humility and a willingness to help at any stage of a project, regardless of title or position, makes you a strong economic developer. Some days you may be playing the role of the researcher supporting the project team, other days you may be out front leading the recruitment effort. In this profession, we are all charged with the same mission: improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. That means doing whatever it takes to make sure you are putting your best foot forward to achieve a win for the region. It is vitally important to have a passion for this business. MBJ: What are some examples of innovative ways you have used to get companies interested in relocating to or expanding in Mississippi? Lester: Technology supporting economic development has definitely changed since I entered the field. Everything has transitioned to digital formats and the amount of databases has increased drastically. We are

fortunate to have a vast library of information at our fingertips so we can respond more efficiently to requests. MBJ: What are the state’s best selling points for economic development? Where can it improve? Lester: Our state’s pro-business environment is one of our top competitive advantages. From the state to the local level, we are extremely fortunate to have creative economic development leaders that constantly look for ways to provide a clear path for companies to be successful long-term in Mississippi. Whether it is through tax reforms that reduce the cost of doing business in Mississippi, or proactively preparing our key industrial sites for the fast paced projects we are seeing today, our state excels at creating an attractive business climate. MBJ: In mentoring younger economic developers, what advice or guidance do you give them as they start their careers? Lester: Do not let fear hold you back from achieving your goals. It is okay to work outside of your comfort zone. That is where true growth happens, and it makes you a better developer in the end. It is impossible to know the answer to every question a company may have. Ask questions and lean on your partners for help. There have been many times throughout my career where I encountered challenging situations, but persistence and a positive attitude is key. You have to be relentless!

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May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Financial Planning

Investment advice: Stay the course even if it gets choppy BY DENNIS SEID

at a higher rate, you have to look at the bond market and maybe invest in some longer-term bonds to give you a he bears are growling on Wall guaranteed return. We’re not there yet Street. because we’re not done with inflation Investors have not had a lot yet.” to be happy about in 2022, as And while the markets have actthey’ve seen their portfolios take some ed relatively poorly to the Fed’s significant hits. announcements of raising interest As of Wednesday, the rates, Reed said the markets discount Dow Jones Industrial information to the worst-case scenario Average is more than immediately. 14.4% below its most re“So when the Fed said it planned cent high, while the S&P to raise interest rates probably seven 500 index is down more times at half a percent a shot which than 18% from its high at is 3.5% on the Fed rate – and that’s a the start of the year. The lot – they discount that immediately in Reed Nasdaq is already in a the market and what happens is that bear market, down 29% from its peak if it comes up at that or less, then even on Nov. 19. though it might appear to be bad news, It would be quite understandable it’s less bad news than what people to want to get out of the market, but Reed said drawdowns of the stock but we’ve also had abnormal markets feared, and that becomes good news, investment professionals say it’s no market as a whole happen all the time the last four years because large-cap and the market rallies,” Reed said. time to panic. and and are to be expected, but he growth stocks have banged it out of the Investors shouldn’t sell out of down Scott Reed, CEO of Hardy Reed, a does admit the current down market is park.” markets like this because the markets registered investment advisory firm in a bit different than most. The market fluctuation comes as no are so efficient that they have already Tupelo, agrees. “It’s very rare to see bonds perform- surprise to Reed, who has seen many discounted the prices that investors are “The highlights a few weeks ago ing worse than equities, which is a little over his long career. selling to avoid. everywhere I was was that we haven’t unusual in a down market. You expect For long-term investors, there is light Some investors are selling out of the had as bad a start to the equity markets them to perform worse in a up market at the end of the tunnel: Over time, market because they’re scared, but since 1939,” he said. “Technically that’s but you expect them to be the ballast in large pullbacks of 20%-40% typically Reed advises against it . true. Two years ago we had a 34% dea down market and help your portfolio last about 14 months. “Timing the market has never been cline in March but we managed to rally but it’s not because of interest rates,” Said CNBC, “Another way to slice a good investment plan,” he said. “And back by the end of April.” he said. “When you have to re-price the data is this: When dividends are by the time you’re ready to sell out of Reed said the stock market has bonds in a rising interest rate market factored in, the S&P has risen 72% of the market, it’s probably too late. Can always been cyclical – there will be ups every day you’re just repricing lower the time year-over-year since 1926. you get lucky every now and then? and downs, but for the most part, the pricing and negative returns. To have That means roughly one out of every Yes. Sticking with a portfolio is hard highs have outweighed the lows. this inflation at the same time and all four years the market is down. It can because the market is just begging you Global investment and advisory this going on in the equity markets is (and does) put together strings of down to do the wrong thing. financial services firm Guggenheim a bit unusual, but this looks like pretty years. “Warren Buffet said the only unforsaid since 1946, there had been 84 normal market cycles in general.” “But that is not the norm. In fact, the givable thing is a permanent loss of declines of the S&P 500 of 5% to 10%, Bond markets have helped out in the opposite is true. More than half the principle. By that he means that if you which works out to more than one second quarter so far, as they should, time (57%), the S&P posts gains of 10% owned $10,000 in stocks and it drops to a year. CNBC noted that the market Reed noted, and value stocks have or more.” $7,000, you know it’s going to go back usually bounces back fast from these started performing better than growth The best protection against rising in- up and go higher than $10,000 because modest declines, with the average time stocks. flation is to invest in the equity market, the stock market averages an increase to recover from those losses taking one “In general, that’s what happens Reed said. of 10% a year over time. So if you sell at month. over long periods of time, but growth As a rule of thumb, an investment $7,000, that $3,000 never had a chance Steeper declines do happen. Destocks has been been where everything mixture should be based according to to rebound and it’s a permanent loss clines of the S&P 500 of 10%-20% have has been the last six years or so, and so one’s risk tolerance, and to rebalance a of principle. So as frustrating it is – I happened 29 times – about once every we have seen some normalcy in stock portfolio to buy low and sell high. don’t like a down market either – but it 2.5 years since 1946. Declines of 20%market returns,” he said. “InternationWith the market down, “now’s the should be expected and it’s something 40% have happened nine times (about al stocks are doing better and intertime to buy,” Reed said. “I still think you knew when you got in this thing. once every 8.5 years) and drops of 40% national value stocks were actually equities offer the best fight against So ride it out and stay the course.” or more have happened three times positive for the first quarter. So there inflation. Inflation is certainly here, dennis.seid@djournal.com (every 25 years). are just certain things look normal, and maybe it will level off. And if it’s DAILY JOURNAL

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Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Financial Planning

Housing market could cool off with rising interest rates BY DENNIS SEID DAILY JOURNAL

omebuyers are in a tough spot. They’re facing a perfect storm of record-high home prices, a limited supply of homes, and now rising mortgage rates. According to a recent Gallup poll on homeownership, only 30% of respondents say it’s a good time to buy a house. Conti A year ago, more than half – 53% – were in a buying mood. And according to the Associated Press, it’s the first time since the poll began in 1978 that most Americans agreed that it is a bad time to buy a house. Cayce Conti, the president of the Northeast Mississippi Board of Realtors, said that while there are many factors at play, three major themes appear to be driving a home affordability crisis that has left most of the nation increasingly bearish about their ability to participate in the American Dream.

Increasing mortgage rates is likely to occur as long as inflation remains high. One of the main reasons for this, it that the Federal Reserve fights inflation by raising short-term interest rates. In turn, that pushes up mortgage rates. For homebuyers still facing inventory shortages, rising rates only further cut into affordability. But, you can still become a homeowner now if you have patience and a good idea of what you can afford. In the past month, mortgage rates have been rising in the face of rapidly rising inflation as well as the prospect of strong demand for goods and supply disruptions. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage topped 4% on March 17 for the first time since May 2019, according to Freddie Mac. And it probably will rise further; the Fed is projecting six more rate increases this year. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.67% for the week ending March 31. A year earlier, the 30-year rate averaged 3.1%. dennis.seid@djournal.com

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Financial Planning Financial Planners

Largest Financial Planners

CFA's/ CFP's

Advisers

Financial education through Financial Wellness Workshops.

Billy Siddall 1914

Financial Planning / Retirement Planning / Estate and Wealth Transfer Full service firm

601-208-6767 trustmark.com

Scott Woods 1925

Northwestern Mutual 210 Draperton Grove, Ridgeland, MS 39157 Ashford Advisors 5898 Ridgewood Rd., Suite A, Jackson, MS 39211 Morgan Stanley — Ridgeland/Hattiesburg 1018 Highland Colony Pkwy, Suite 105, Ridgeland, MS 39157 Raymond James - Jackson 4266 I-55 N., Suite 200, Jackson, MS 39211 Morgan Stanley — Jackson/Hattiesburg 4450 Old Canton Rd Ste 100, Jackson, MS 39211

601-664-1212 ridgeland.nm.com 601-956-6656 ashfordadvisors.net

Nick Fiorito 1968 Camille Snyder 1978

601-605-4000 morganstanleybranch.com/ridgeland

Douglas C Rule

601-368-2200 raymondjames.com 601-321-7800 morganstanleybranch.com/jackson220

Bill Geary 2013

Regions Wealth Managment 1020 Highland Colony Pky, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-790-8377 regions.com

Bubba Holloway 1970

Hancock Whitney Corporation 2510 14th St, Gulfport, MS 39501

800-448-8812 hancockwhitney.com

John M. Hairston 1899

BankPlus Wealth Management Group 1200 Eastover Drive Ste 300, Jackson, MS 39211

601-607-4282 BankPlus.net

2002

601-607-7206 raymondjames.com /artyfinkelberg/

Hance (Butch) McKenzie, Jr. 2011

Raymond James & Associates- Ridgeland 1062 Highland Colony Pkwy, Suite 100, Ridgeland, MS 39157 Hardy Reed, LLC 101 S. Front Street, Tupelo, MS 38804 Ballew Wealth Management 100 Vision Drive, Suite 325, Jackson, MS 39211

662-823-4722 hardyreed.com 601-368-3500 ballewwealth.com

Scott Reed, John Hardy 2006 Brooks Mosley 1988

Citizens National Bank Wealth Management 512 22nd Ave., Meridian, MS 39301

601-484-5253 wealth.yourcnb.com/

Teresa Thornhill 1888

Personal trust services; corporate trust/ institutional custody services; retirement planning; asset, risk and financial management Investments, financial planning, college savings, risk management, estate planning, retirement Estate planning, Business planning, Personal Wealth Management and Risk Management Wealth Planning, Investment Portfolio Management, Corporate Services, Investment Products, Banking & Lending Products Financial planning, including branches in Grenada, Hattiesburg, Oxford, Tupelo. Wealth planning, investment portfolio management, corporate services Investments; estate & financial planning; trust administration; business succession; lending consulting; insurance; real estate management. Banking services; trust and investment services; certain insurance services; mortgages. Investment Management; Trustee under Agreement or Will; 401K and Retirement Services; Financial and Estate Planning Personalized financial strategy; Asset management; Estate management; Mutual funds; Retirement and college planning. Wealth Management; Retirement Plan Services; Nonprofit Services; Fiduciary Services Asset management; 401(k); 403(b); defined benefit; profit sharing; financial planning Trust and investment management services; Advice that assists with the accumulation, preservation and transfer of wealth.

Navitas Wealth Advisors, Inc. 574 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ste. 310, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-991-2830 navitaswa.com

Jason Hester 2001

Financial wealth; Personal wealth; Legacy wealth; Business wealth

Raanes Capital Advisors, LLC 22 Milbranch, Ste 500, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-450-6650 raanescapitaladvisors.com

Duane Raanes, Brady Raanes 2009

Sound Financial Strategies Group 579 Lakeland East Dr., Flowood, MS 39232

601-856-3825 soundfsg.com

Chris McAlpin 1993

Stephens, Inc 140 Township Ave, #202, Ridgeland, MS 39157 Argent Trust Company 613 S. Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655

601-605-5683 Stephens.com 662-550-4443 argentfinancial.com

Lane Cockrell 2009

Buckingham Strategic Wealth Ridgeland 661 Sunnybrook, #330, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-500-5838 buckinghamadvisor.com/locations/ridgeland

Stan P. Purvis 2009

EFP Advisors 1501 Lakeland Dr., #250, Jackson, MS 39216 Pinnacle Wealth 101 Port St., Suite 200, Madison, MS 39110 Summit Wealth Group 4815 North Park Drive, Meridian, MS 39305 WealthPartners 220 Trace Colony Park Dr, Ste A, Ridgeland, MS 39157 Branning Wealth Management, LLC 400 Fontaine Pl, Ste. 101, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-206-0006 efpinc.com 601-957-0323 mypinnwealth.com 601-553-3686 summitwealthgroup.com/p/meridian

Doug McDaniel 2012 Martin E. Palomo, IV, Reid Davis 1997 Gary James 2014

601-414-4455 wealthpartnersllp.com

John F. Hill, Jeff Turnipseed 2004

601-500-7925 branwealth.com

Mackenzie & Associates 106 E. Washington St., Kosciusko, MS 39090

662-289-1013 stuartmackenzieadvisor.com

Mascagni Wealth Management 205 E. Main St, Clinton, MS 39056 Rasberry Financial Services 401 Central Ave., Laurel, MS 39440

601-925-8099 mascagniwealth.com 601-335-0024 rasberryfinancial.com

SoundPath Investment Advisors, LLC 795 Woodlands Pky., #104, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-982-4123 soundpathinvest.com

Jason K. Branning 2009 Stuart Mackenzie, Steve Rawson, Wendy Thomas 1991 Randy Mascagni 1990 James Daniel Rasberry 2002 Julius Ridgway, Doug Muenzenmay, Edward Carlisle 1989 Jerry Toney 2009 Nancy Lottridge Anderson 1993 Lynn Phillips-Gaines 1984

Wealth accumulation, distribution, asset management & risk management. Retirement Plans for business and individuals. Faith-based Investing; investment allocation; retirement planning; financial education; valuations Private Client Group, Public Finance, Commercial Insurance Trust services, Investment management, Estate and Financial planning, Family Office services Investment management and wealth planning solutions for high-net worth families, business owners and institutions Investment management, Retirement planning, 401ks Asset management; financial planning; corporate retirement plans Retirement and small business planning, including tax and accounting with wealth management Retirement Distribution, Estate & Legacy Planning; Business Succession; Wealth Accumulation; Investment; Insurance Analysis Retirement Income Planning, Investment Management, Professional Athletes, Divorce

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14 15

Company Address

Phone Website

Top Officer Founded

Specialties

Primerica Financial Services 3900 Lakeland Dr. Suite 500, Flowood, MS 39232 Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 1022 Highland Colony Pkwy, Suite 100, Ridgeland, MS 39157

864-608-2407 primerica.com

Bill Lane Burns 1977

601-607-7600 local.ml.com/mississippi_complex/

Trustmark Tailored Wealth 248 E. Capitol St., Ste. 1000, Jackson, MS 39201

Jason Berry

2008

Cadence Bank, N.A. 662-324-4740 cadencebank.com 301 E. Main St., Starkville, MS 39759 New Perspectives, Inc. 601-991-3158 piggyplanit.com 303-B Highland Park Cv., Ridgeland, MS 39157 Phillips Wealth Partners 662-324-2889 phillipsfinancial.org 104 W. Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759 The William Morris Group, P.A. 601-948-0030 1980 wmorrisgroup.com 4400 Old Canton Rd. #240, Jackson, MS 39211 Wealthview Capital, LLC 601-981-4040 Samuel J. Taylor wealthviewcapital.com 2009 4500 I-55 North, Ste. 263, Jackson, MS 39211 Information provided by company representatives and MBJ research. Direct questions to frank.brown@msbusiness.com.

Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor,Certified Long Term Care, Investment advice/portfolio allocation; retirement, estate; business succession; education savings Retirement Planning, Investment Planning, NFLPA Registered Player Financial Advisor

Retirement, Financial, Estate Planning; Executive Compensation Planning; Investment Management Investment management; financial planning; business retirement planning; 401(k) analysis Legacy, charitable and investment planning; wealth enhancement, preservation and protection. Financial planning, life and disability Insurance, Investments, employee benefits Wealth management, goals-based planning, asset management, fiduciary consulting, retirement.

20 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Law and Accounting What is the job outlook for law, accounting graduates?

BY LYNN LOFTON

t’s the season for graduation and accounting and law college graduates are turning in textbooks for employment. But what does the real world hold for them? “Overall, the outlook for accounting majors is really good. Nationwide there is a shortage of accounting students at the university level,” said Bailey Harris, marketing coordinator for the College of Business & Economic Development at the University of Southern Mississippi. “From Summer 2020 through Spring 2021, we have awarded 93 undergraduate and 20 graduate accounting degrees.” Karen Moody, president and CEO of the Mississippi Society of CPAs, agrees. “Yes, the future is bright for graduates. Firms and industry companies are desperate to hire and salary

requirements are of course being taken under consideration. We must continue to seek ways to keep our best and brightest in Mississippi,” she said. “The School of Accountancy at Southern Miss has a separate accreditation, and only 5% of the business schools worldwide have both accounting and business AACSB accreditation,” Harris said. “Our MPA program has maintained 100 percent employment placement for all graduates looking for employment.” In the fall, the school’s Meet the Firm event provides an opportunity for 25 to 35 firms to meet with accounting majors. “Many of our students earn internship opportunities from this event that leads to full-time TURN TO OUTLOOK, 21F

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Law and Accounting Jones Walker adapting to growing pace of, emerging technology in legal industry

BY LYNN LOFTON

hanks to today’s instant technology, the practice of law is “24/7/365,” according to Tommy Shepherd of the Jones Walker firm in Jackson. Attorneys are also getting to know people all over the world through technology. “The practice of law has become more demanding, Shepherd and client expectations are greater than ever. In the early years of my practice, I would get a phone call advising me that documents for a transaction would be arriving in the next few days,” Shepherd said. “Now, the documents can show up in my email inbox overnight with no warning and an expectation that I will review and provide comments that same day.” Shepherd, a partner and the leader of the Gaming Industry Team of Jones Walker, explains that the window of opportunity to reflect on revising a document or consider the best way to resolve a client problem is narrower than ever before. “As we have come more and more to represent international clients, the need for accessibility and flexibility is greater than ever,” he said. “Now, I find that I am answering emails as soon as I awake in

Outlook

and now has more than 355 lawyers practicing across the country and internationally. The firm of Watkins Ludlam Winter & Stennis merged with Jones Walker in 2011 to become the Jackson office. Other locations include Atlanta; Baton the morning or sometimes even in the Rouge; Lafayette; New Orleans; Birmingmiddle of the night. It is simply a fact of ham; Mobile; Houston; The Woodlands; life, and I would not trade my career for Miami; New York City; Phoenix; and any other. I now have friends around the Washington, D.C. world because of what I do for a living.” The Jackson office practices in nuA veteran member of the firm, Shepmerous areas of law, including banking, herd said Jones Walker has always prided commercial transactions, real estate, itself on adapting to fast-paced changes public finance, litigation, gaming, labor in technology, which has made a signifand employment, tax, and government icant difference in the way they practice relations. law across the firm, especially over the The firm participates in a broad range past two years. of volunteer activities that promote “Technology has allowed us to conduct health, educational opportunity, and business almost without disruption artistic development. because we have been able to conduct “Partners and associates provide pro virtual meetings, conferences, and social bono counsel to individuals and organievents via online platforms,” he said. zations that lack access to or the ability “Interestingly, a number of clients now to pay for legal services, and many of our prefer to meet virtually and courts conattorneys serve on the boards of arts, edtinue to hold virtual hearings. Through ucation, and service organizations across technology, we can move seamlessly the region,” Shepherd said. with confidence into a remote working The office is active with Habitat for scenario in the event of severe weather, Humanity, Mississippi Children’s Musepandemic, or any other serious business um, Women’s Foundation and Juvenile interruption.” Diabetes Research Foundation. Most The Jackson office of Jones Walker LLP recently, they committed to serve as an has 34 attorneys and 24 staff members. underwriter for the William and Elise The firm was founded in New Orleans Winter Education Endowment.

graduates secured and accepted employment opportunities before FROM 20F graduation. “Employers who tend to hire prior employment. In the spring, we hold to graduation include law firms of a less formal event called The Spring various sizes seeking entry-level Meet and Greet,” Harris said. “The attorneys, as well as the federal and USM Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi pro- state appellate judiciary seeking vides networking opportunities and graduates for prestigious post-gradcareer service advice. uate judicial law clerk positions,” “Finally, we implemented a oneshe said. “Graduates still seeking hour course recently that is entiwork in the Class of 2022 are seeing tled, Introduction to Professional a strong number of opportunities Accountancy. This course covers available, with openings in smaller networking, the accounting profeslaw firms, government agencies, and sion, interviewing, resumes, CPA ex- state judicial clerkships among the amination, and other career related most available at this stage of hiring. topics.” We’re seeing this uptick in available Christina Steube, manager of opportunities on a national level as marketing and communications for well.” the School of Law at the University At Mississippi College School of of Mississippi, said that after reLaw there are 106 students compriscently collecting initial hiring data ing the Class of 2022. This includes from UM Law Class of 2022, many students who graduated in Decem-

ber 2021 and who are graduating in May or August of 2022, according to Ellen Robb, director of Career Services. “The outlook for employment this year seems to be quite good. We are currently receiving multiple requests or job postings and resumes from law firms and other potential employers,” she said. “Students from the Class of 2022 report that more than 40 percent of them have a job lined up after graduation or are pursuing an additional year of education with an LLM.” Robb says the jobs are with law firms of all sizes, federal and state clerkships, corporate counsel, and government jobs such as a prosecutor or public defender. “Many employers do not make offers or hire law school graduates until they have passed the bar, so the employed percentage should

There have been honors throughout the years for the practice groups, industry teams and individual attorneys who were named among the top providers and leaders in their fields by ratings agencies, publications, and associations. Those include Chambers USA, which ranks attorneys in the practice areas of Bankruptcy/ Restructuring, Corporate/Commercial, Gaming & Licensing, Litigation, General Commercial, Real Estate, Tax, and High Net Worth. Also, attorneys have been recognized by the Mississippi Business Journal with Leadership in Law, 50 Leading Business Women, Top 50 Under 40, Leaders in Finance, and Top in Tech along with graduates of Mississippi Economic Council’s Leadership Mississippi program. The firm’s Clarence Webster is currently serving as president of the Capital Area Bar Association. “At Jones Walker, we pride ourselves on providing our clients with the best service and counsel, but we also know that giving back to and supporting the places where we live and work is equally important,” Shepherd said. “Our commitment dovetails with our belief that going beyond to help our neighbors and those in need is essential if we are to make the places where we work, live, and play the places we love and are proud to call home.”

continue to rise as graduates sit for and receive their bar exam results,” she added. The law school has a career services office separate from the career services department on the main campus. “Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities made available to the law school students from their 1L year through graduation,” Robb said. “There are various opportunities for the students including campus interviews, a job board, frequent newsletters, assistance with resumes, surveys to determine each participating student’s interest, various guest speakers, informational sessions with law firms, resume collect opportunities, and a spring semester kick off. These can be helpful in guiding students to their first job after law school.”

22 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

Law and Accounting Largest Accounting firms

Largest Accounting firms Firm Local Address

Telephone Website

Top Officer Year Founded

Partners in Mississippi

CPAs in Mississippi

HORNE 661 Sunnybrook Road, Ste. 100, Ridgeland, MS 39157

888.821.0202 horne.com

Neil Forbes 1962

Watkins, Ward & Stafford, PLLC 561 Commerce St., West Point, MS 39773

662-494-5732 wws.cpa

James L. Stafford 1949

Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC 400 W. Parkway Place, Suite 300 , Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-853-7050 cricpa.com

Elton Sims 1997

GranthamPoole PLLC 1062 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 201, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-499-2400 granthampoole.com

Robert Cunningham 1977

Harper, Rains, Knight & Co., P.A. 1052 Highland Colony Parkway, Ste 100, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-605-0722 hrkcpa.com

Cecil Harper 1952

BKD CPAs & Advisors 1400 Meadowbrook Rd, Suite 300, Jackson, MS 39211

601-948-6700 bkd.com

Andrew Williams 2008

Haddox Reid Eubank Betts PLLC 188 E. Capitol St., One Jackson Place Ste. 500, Jackson, MS 39201

601-948-2924 HaddoxReid.com

Mike H Gladney 1958

TMH 2 Southern Pointe Pkwy., Ste. 100, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

601-264-3519 tmhcpas.com

Emily Paige Johnson 1977

Matthews Cutrer & Lindsay CPAs 1020 Highland Colony Parkway, Ste 500, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-898-8875 mclcpa.net

Matt E. Freeland 1988

T.E. Lott & Company 221 N. 7th St., Columbus, MS 39701

662-328-5387 telott.com

Stewart R Greene 1926

Silas Simmons, LLP 209 N. Commerce St., Natchez, MS 39120

601-442-7411 silassimmons.com

1932

Nail McKinney P.A. 110 N. Madison St., Tupelo, MS 38804

662-842-6475 nmcpa.com

Richard D Bullock 1951

Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC 9490 Three Rivers Rd., Gulfport, MS 39503

228-863-0411 avlcpa.com

Cindy Sloan 1967

Rea, Shaw, Giffin & Stuart 2415 9th St., Meridian, MS 39301

601-693-2841 rsgscpa.com

O. Keith Evans 1935

May & Company, LLP 110 Monument Pl., Vicksburg, MS 39180

601-636-4762 maycpa.com

H. Riley Nelson 1922

KPMG, LLP 188 E. Capital St., Ste. 1100, Jackson, MS 39201-2127

601-354-3701 kpmg.com

Ashley E Willson 1987

Taylor, Powell, Wilson & Hartford, P.A. 1705 U.S. 82 West, Greenwood, MS 38930

662-453-6432 tpwh.com

Howard Raymond Davis, Jr. 1917

Byrne Zizzi CPA, PLLC 111 E. Washington Street, Houston, MS 38851

662-456-5757 byrnezizzi.com

Thomas A Byrne, Jr, Emily Zizzi 1961

Williams, Pitts and Beard, PLLC 2042 McIngvale Rd., Ste. A, Hernando, MS 38632

662-429-4436 wpbcpa.net

Jerry Pitts 1983

Piltz Williams LaRosa & Co. 1077 Tommy Munro Dr., Biloxi, MS 39532

228-374-4141 pwlcpa.com

David C Neumann 1962

BFMW Group, PLLC 115 W. Market St., Greenwood, MS 38930

662-453-3235 BFMWgroup.com

N. Craig Brewer, III 1999

Tann, Brown & Russ Co., PLLC 1501 Lakeland Dr., Ste. 300, Jackson, MS 39216

601-354-4926 tbr.cpa

Richard W. Russ 1970

McArthur Slay & Dews, PLLC 1 Commerce Dr., Ste. 100, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-264-2423 msd-cpas.com

L. Andrew Dews, Harry McArthur, III, Raymond Polk, Laura Blackwell 1935

The Burgess Group, P.A. 2506 Lakeland Dr., Ste. 401, Flowood, MS 39232

601-939-7116 burgessgroup.net

Beth B. Burgess 2001

JE Vance & Co., P.A. 825 W. Jefferson St., Tupelo, MS 38804

662-842-2123 jevance.com

James E. Vance 1989

DeVoe Carr, PLLC, CPAs & Businerss Advisors 1420 N. Lamar, Oxford, MS 38865

662-234-0703 devoecarr.com

Richard L. DeVoe, Phillip A. Carr, Rebecca Simmons, PJ Belk 1994

Orsborn, Sutphen & O'Neal, P.A. 208 George St., Greenwood, MS 38930

662-453-4175 osocpa.com

F. Marshall Sutphen, Sr. 1951

Sayle, Sandifer & Associates, LLP 2037 Highway 82 E, Greenville, MS 38704

662-378-2222 sayle-sandifer.com

V.L. Sandifer, Jr., Lisa Sandifer, Ben B Sayle, Brandon Johnson 1969

Collins, Barr & Hembree, Ltd. 130 Fountains Blvd., Ste. 100, Madison, MS 39110

601-707-7536 cbhcpas.com

Wallace B. Collins 1976

Postlethwaite & Netterville, APAC 103 Madison Plaza, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-583-1000 pncpa.com

Jim Koerber, Dan Gardiner 1949

Huffman & Company, CPA, P.A. 497 Keywood Circle Suite A;PO Box 321330, Flowood, MS 39232

601-933-1986 huffmanandcompanycpa.com

Tony Huffman 1991

Rank

Information provided by firm representatives and MBJ research and ranked by CPAs in Mississippi. Direct questions to frank.brown@msbusiness.com.

May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Governor approves new state eviction law

BY TAYLOR VANCE DAILY JOURNAL

JACKSON • Mississippi lawmakers have changed state laws to give tenants who have been evicted time to gather their personal belongings before they are forced to leave, making the statute more palatable to a federal judge currently reviewing the practice. The law would give a tenant seven days to gather their property and vacate a residence after a local judge allows a landlord to gain control of the property. But if the occupant does not leave the residence during the initial order, a judge could issue a separate order that would authorize law enforcement to remove a tenant. Under this order, an occupation would have an additional 72 hours to gather their personal belongings. “A (federal) judge called on the Legislature to make changes, so that’s what we’re doing with this bill,” Senate Judiciary A Chairman Brice Wiggins said during the legislative session. The previous law allowed landlords to immediately seize a delinquent occupant’s personal property and was believed to be the harshest eviction law in the nation. Lawmakers were forced to make significant changes to the law after U.S. District Judge Michael Mills in November declared portions of the eviction law unconstitutional because it violated an occupant’s right to due process. “Mississippi’s eviction statutes fail to engage in such a reasonable balancing of the interests of the landlord

The landlord, in what Mills called “an act of pure mean-spiritedness and spite,” eventually sold, donated or threw away all of Conner’s possessions, according to legal documents. Mills paused his order from going into effect to give lawmakers a chance earlier this session to amend the laws to offer tenants more constitutional protections. “In that case, the landlord was not representative of all landlords,” Wiggins told the Daily Journal. “But what he did was violate the Constitution. So we needed to fix it.” While Conner’s case seeking damages from the landlord is still pending in federal court, Mills, a former BY TAYLOR VANCE/DAILY JOURNAL state legislator, appears to believe that the new law is Sen. Brice Wiggins, R-Pascagoula, questions Mississippi significantly better than the old one. “While this court had hoped that the Legislature State Superintendent of Education Carey Wright, earlier this year during a budget hearing. Wiggins authored legislation would act more quickly than it did,” Mills wrote in changing Mississippi’s residential eviction laws. (AP Photo/ April, “it is pleased that it did, eventually, enact legislation which, upon first reading, appears to represent Rogelio V. Solis) a substantial improvement over the statutes which it and tenant, instead giving the landlord full and comdeclared unconstitutional.” plete authority to immediately ‘dispose of’ any personal The Legislature attempted to overhaul eviction property of the tenant, with unpredictable and absurd statutes even further by reviewing the process for results,” U.S. District Judge Michael Mills wrote. commercial buildings, but that bill failed to garner an The impetus for Mills’ order is a lawsuit involving agreement between the House and the Senate. Samantha Conner, a Columbus woman who sued her Wiggins said he expects lawmakers to address the landlord after he took nearly everything she owned commercial process during the 2023 legislative seswhen she was evicted. sion. Lowndes County officials, according to Mississippi “Based on what I’ve been told, there is a recognition Today, served Conner with a removal warrant, and she that we need to address these laws,” Wiggins said. “But was not allowed to take any of her personal items with they need to be fair.” her. taylor.vance@djournal.com

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24 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

North Mississippi

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May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Security

Security Firms

Security Firms Company

Address

Phone

Website

Services

Sealed Security

330 Wallfield RD, Pontotoc, MS 38863

662-419-0313

Security Plus, Inc.

141 N Main St, Pontotoc, MS 38863

662-419-3765

Johnson Controls Security Solutions

181 Davis Johnson Drive, Richland, MS 39128

601-503-2100

BadgePass

280 Trace Colony Park, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-499-2131

badgepass.com

Access, video

Innovative Solutions & Communications

206 Park Court, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-983-2220

insolcom.com

Access, alarm, automation, videeo

Magnolia State Security Solutions

112 Business Park Dr, Ridgeland, MS 39157

601-499-5799

magnoliastatesecuritysolutions.com

Security, surveillance, access, consulting

Lee Security LLC

5 CR 541, Rienzi, MS 38865

662-462-5844

leesecurity.net

Access, alarms, intercoms, CCTV, automation

Security Alarms of Tupelo Inc

PO Box 1425, Saltillo, MS 38866

662-842-7221

securityalarmsoftupelo.com

Access, alarm, video

ctspage.com

Security Systems Services Guard service tycois.com

Residential Smart Home; Security

Cyber Technology Security

226 E Main St Suite E, Senatobia, MS 38668

662-562-7484

Keltech Inc

PO Box 667, Shannon, MS 38868

662-767-3696

Access, alarm, video, guards

Brandon Technologies

N/A, Southaven, MS 38671

662-280-1338

Security Systems Services

Matheson & Associates

2090 Colonial Hills Dr, Southaven, MS 38671

662-393-4544

PowerTechnics, Inc.

187 Stateline Rd E, Suite 7, Southaven, MS 38671

662-470-3002

ThePowerItTakes.com

Access, Smart-Home, Surveillance, Alarms,Medical

Security Solutions & Communications

901 Lynn Lane, Starkville, MS 39759

662-323-0102

securitysolutionsms.com

Access, Fire and alarm system, Home automation systems, Video and sound systems, networks

Wizard Electronics

822 Robb St., Summit, MS 39666

601-276-9973

wizardelec.com

Cameras, home security, auto security

Access, alarm, systems, video

Access, alarm, video

Active DataComm Inc.

1203 Nelle St., Tupelo, MS 38801

662-620-7996

adcmsp.com

Managed Service Provider, Remote Monitoring and Management, Cloud Backups, Office 365, Help Desk, In-shop repair and store sales.

E Fire Inc

2075 McCullough Blvd., Tupelo, MS 38801

662.842.7201

efire.info

Fire alarms, home security, emergency lighting

Southtec Inc

1936 East Main St., Tupelo, MS 38804

662-307-2980

tupelosecurityservice.com

Alarm, automation, video

Digital Security Systems LLC

15412 Old River Rd, Vancleave, MS 39565

228-218-9988

Berkley Enterprises Inc

3512B Manor Dr., Vicksburg, MS 39180

601-636-6955

Vicksburg Alarm Service Inc

100 Windy Lake Cir, Vicksburg, MS 39183

601-638-6021

Security Zone

2226 Kiln Waveland Rd., Waveland, MS 39576

228-467-9736

Security installation and monitoring for residential and commercial berkleysecurityusa.com

Alarm, automation, video Alarm

securityzonellc.com

Access, alarm, automation, systems, video

List is ranked alphabetically by city. Data provided by Mississippi Electronic Security Association, individual firms and MBJ research. Direct questions to frank.brown@msbusiness.com.

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26 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue

“NORTH MISSISSIPPI’S COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY” CLAY SHORT

(662) 231-4262

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(662) 321-1201

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May 2022 Issue

Mississippi Business Journal

Security Security Firms

Security Firms Company

Address

Phone

Website

Services

Failsafe Security

PO Box 922, Bay Springs, MS 39422

601-764-3463

Tapper Security

15113 Lemoyne Blvd., Biloxi, MS 39532

228-591-8276

tappersecurity.com

KOL Systems Inc

11 Thorngate Drive, Brandon, MS 39042

601-573-1562

KOLSystems.com

Brown Security Systems

111 N Whitworth Ave, Brookhaven, MS 39601

601-833-2900

Electronic Controls Inc

1068 W. Congress St., Brookhaven, MS 39601

601-833-8133

ecinow.com

Access, alarm, video

Franklin Telephone Company, Inc.

1094 Monroe Rd, PO Box 446, Bude, MS 39630

877-422-1212

ftcweb.net

Alerts, remote, motion

Elliott Security & Electronics, Inc.

, Byram, MS 39272

601-594-3450

elliottsecurity.com

Security Systems Services

Pro-Tech LLC

109 S. Davis Ave Suite B-2, Cleveland, MS 38732

662-545-3465

a-pro-tech.com

Alarm, automation, video, voice.

Mississippi Safe & Lock Inc

1202 Springridge Road, Clinton, MS 39056

601-924-4184

mississippisafeandlock.com

Access, alarm

Watchdog Security Systems Inc

12638 Marshall Beeman Rd, Collinsville, MS 39325

601-986-4661

watchdogsecuritysystems.com

Alarm, automation, video

ADS Security

2500 Military Rd Suite 5, Columbus, MS 39701

601-329-4222

adssecurity.com

AlarmPro of Mississippi

125 Maxwell Lane, Columbus, MS 39702

662-352-8005

alarmproms.com

Mississippi Alarm Inc

2605 Cleda Dr., Box 9423, Columbus, MS 39701

662-329-5990

msalarm.com

Access, automation, cameras alarms, cameras, sound systems, gps tracking, 24 hour monitoring Access, automation, alarm, video

The Phone Booth, Inc.

809 Tate St, Corinth, MS 38834

662-286-6600

thephoneboothinc.com

Access, alarm, video

Netcomm Wiring

1792 MS Hwy 50 W, Eupora, MS 39744

662-258-6802

Allied Universal

1307 Airport Road, Suite C, Flowood, MS 39232

901.488.1638

AUS.com

Contract security and access control

Global Sector Services Inc

3953 Underwood Dr, Flowood, MS 39232

601-982-4585

globalsectorservices.com

Access, alarm, automation, systems, video

Pennington & Trim Alarm Services

4374 Mangum Dr Ste C, Flowood, MS 39232

601-939-5231

penningtonandtrim.com

Access, alarm, video

601-731-9288

Security, Monitoring, Surveillance, Access Control Alarms, video, surveillance systems, home automation Access, alarm, video for financial institutions only Access, automation, video, alarm

Alarm, video,telephone,cabling,fiber

Smart Call Alert LLC

568 Pounds Road, Foxworth, MS 39483

Alert 1, LLC

558 Ash Cove, Greenville, MS 38701

Fortress LLC

505 S Washington Ave, Greenville, MS 38701

662-335-8373

Interface Security Systems

2355 Highway 1 S, Greenville, MS 38701

662-335-5300

Jay Martin Security

P.O. Box 4995, Greenville, MS 38704

662-822-3073

Security Systems Services

Security Plus of MS Inc

PO Box 3973, Greenville, MS 38701

662-827-0707

Access, alarm, automation, systems, video

Security Systems, monitoring, medical alerts Security Systems Services Alarm, automation, response, systems, video, access interfacesys.com

Access, alarm, systems, video

Security Systems South Inc

PO Box 1615, Greenwood, MS 38935

662-455-6130

securitysystemssouth.com

Access, alarm, automation, video, voice

Upchurch Telecom & Data

PO Box 301, Greenwood, MS 38930

662-455-1510

uptel.com

All Safe Technologies LLC

2620 25th Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501

228-575-9550

allsafetec.com

Omni Technologies LLC

4307 15th St., Gulfport, MS 39501

228-467-8324

omni-technology.com

Access, alarm, automation, video Burglar & Fire Alarms, Commercial & Res, Access Control, Video Surveillance, Smart Home Automation Access, alarm, automation, video, voice

Alarm Central, LLC

312 West Ray St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

601-582-8607

alarmcentralsecurity.net/

Alarm

Interface Security Systems

124 Grand Dr, Ste 1070, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

601-261-3230

interfacesys.com

Access, alarm, systems, video

PRO 1

255 McLemore Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

601-544-4504

pro1ms.com

Access, alarm, automation, video, voice

Security Blanket, Inc

5009 Old Hwy 11, Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-296-9627

securityblanketinc.org

Alarm, video

The Final Touch Security

1250 McIngvale Rd., Hernando, MS 38632

662-429-0653

finaltouchsecurity.com

Smart Home Systems, Cameras

Whitfield Electric

222 Kapik Industrial Dr., Hernando, MS 38632

662-449-1072

Fant's Telephone Service

824 E. Salem Road, Holly Springs, MS 38635

901-485-8215

telefants.com

AED Security Services

407 Briarwood Dr. Suite 206C, Jackson, MS 39206

601-624-3470

aedsecurityservices.com

Alarm Telephone system, data network cabling, security camera system Access, alarm, video

AVS, Inc.

3801 I-55 South, Jackson, MS 39212

601-355-8833

avsbanktech.com

Access, alarm, video

Capital Security Systems

3737 Robinson St, Jackson, MS 39209

601-922-4333

CDE Integrated Systems Inc

6 Twelve Oak Cir, Jackson, MS 39209

601-960-8500

cdelink.com

Access, alarm, video, voice

Comcast Broadband Security

5915 I-55 N, Jackson, MS 39213

215-286-4893

comcast.com

alarm, automation

Eagle Eye Security & Surveillance, LLC

N/A, Jackson, MS 39206

769-208-0724

TEC

236 E. Capitol St., Jackson, MS 39201

601-624-7882

tec.com

Access, CCTV, Basic Security Monitoring

Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, LLC

2102 Sandy Lane, Laurel, MS 39443

601-428-7233

pyebarkerfire.com

Access, alarm, automation, video, voice

ADS Security

338 Distribution Drive, Madison, MS 39110

601-898-3105

adssecurity.com

Automation, alarm, video, voice

Netlink Cabling Systems

102 Plantation Cv, Madison, MS N/A

601-856-0600

netlinkms.com

Access, alarm, automation, video

Pro-Tech Security, LLC

PO Box 770, Madison, MS 39130

601-668-3501

pro-techsecurity.info

Access, alarm, automation, response, systems, video

telpro.biz

Telpro Communications Co.

105 Lone Wolf Dr., Madison, MS 39110

601-856-1070

Simmons Security Inc

311 Canal St, McComb, MS 39468

601-684-6635

CUI Systems Inc

1312 22nd Ave Ste C, Meridian, MS 39301

601-693-6574

Security First of Meridian Inc

3119-C Highway 45 North, Meridian, MS 39301

601-483-1890

Absolute Protection Inc

PO Box 8581, Moss Point, MS 39562

Access, alarm, video,

Home security

Phone Systems, Audio/Video, Security Cameras Access, alarm, video, voice

cuisystems.com

Access, alarm, video, voice

228-475-1888

absoluteprotection.com

Alarm, Church Security Access control, CCTV, fire and burglary

Alarm

Alarm Securities Inc

105 Main St W, New Albany, MS 38652

662-534-4987

asitelecom.com

Grand View Security LLC

N/A, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

228-761-6539

grandviewsecurity.com

Rhino Security Solutions Inc

PO Box 1726, Olive Branch, MS 38654

662-404-1777

Residential, commercial and industrial security Access, alarm, video

Oxford Alarm & Communication

179 Hwy 6 East, Oxford, MS 38655

662-816-5520

oxfordalarm.com

Access, alarm, automation, systems, video, voice

Access Control Group Inc

125 Paul Truitt Lane, Pearl, MS 39208

601-939-9295

accesscontrolgroup.net

Access, alarm, video, parking revenue control

ADT LLC - Pearl MS

195 Country Place Pkwy Ste A, Pearl, MS 39208

601-664-1100

adt.com/local/ms/pearl

Access, alarm, automation, response, systems, video

Buckley Security Service Inc

PO Box 6163, Pearl, MS 39288

601-939-5752

buckleysecurity.net

Access, alarms, smart home, camera, guards

Central Alarm Systems Corp

509 N Bierdeman Rd, Pearl, MS 39208

601-932-2022

Watchman Security Services LLC

707 Joyce Street, Pearl, MS 39208

601-955-9952

watchmansecure.com

Advanced Consulting Technology Inc

113 Rehobeth Road, Pelahatchie, MS 39145

601-854-5528

Alarms Access, alarm, automation, video, fire alarm, panic button, mag locks, medical alert Security Systems Services

Gentry's Alarm & Security LLC

11121 Rd 181, Philadelphia, MS 39350

601-562-7440

Datastar Inc.

321 W. Canal St. , Picayune, MS 39466

601-875-1701

datastar.net

Access, automation, alarm, response, systems, video Remote Management, Surveillance Systems, VoIP, Network Services, IT Consulting and Backup Solutions

28 n

Mississippi Business Journal

May 2022 Issue