The Business View - November 2011

The

BusinessView Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

NOVEMBER 2011 | VOL. XLII, No. 10

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Chamber Celebrates 175 Years: 1986-1999

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Chamber Chase Exceeds Goal, Again!

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Six Mobile Companies Make Inc. List

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The

BusinessView Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

Cover

Inc. magazine ranked its Top 500/5,000 fastest growing companies. In that list is Callis Communications, whose President/CEO Dean Parker (left) is pictured with Dean Brown, CEO of Alabama Orthopaedic Group.

See story on page 6. Cover photo by Ashley Horn.

November 2011

News You Can Use – Positive news about local businesses

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Book Review: Breaking the Tax Code

written by local CPA

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Small Business of the Month: Spring Hill Comprehensive Dentistry

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17-22 22

SCORE Column: A Quick End-of-Year To-Do List

24 25 26-29 30-31 32-33 34

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The Business View is published monthly,

The fourth installment of “A Look Back” focuses on Mobile’s history from 1986 to 1999, as revealed in the minutes from Mobile Area Chamber board of directors meetings during that time.

Chamber Chase ’11 ends well over its $1.32 million goal

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except for the combined issue of December/January, by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 451 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 433-6951 www.mobilechamber.com ©2011 Publisher.....................................Winthrop M. Hallett III Executive Editor................................Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor....................................... Jennifer Jenkins Copy Editor............................................Michelle Matthews

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Additional Writers and Editors Nedra Bloom, Ashley Horn, Leigh Perry-Herndon, Lara Menke, Susan Rak-Blanchard, Carolyn Wilson

Printing Services.. .......... Interstate Printing/Direct Mail Graphic Design . ......................... Wise Design Inc. Advertising Account Executive.. .............. René Eiland 431-8635 reiland@mobilechamber.com

Investor Focus: Lewis Communications Economic Indicators Chamber@Work Calendar Member News Anniversaries New Members

The Mobile Area Chamber was awarded a five-star rating by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the highest designation given.

Of the 6,936 chambers in the U.S., only 301 are accredited, and of those only 43 have achieved five-star distinction.

The Mobile Area Chamber has been accredited by the U.S. Chamber since the designation’s inception more than 40 years ago.

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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Ryla is

Hiring Executives at BAE’s Mobile shipyard are actively pursuing new construction contracts for vessels to be built at the Mobile facility. Pictured here is a vessel currently under construction for Mid Ocean Taker Co.

BAE Wins K

Significant Grant and Major Contract

eeping an eye out for opportunities meant more than landing a new contract for BAE Systems Southeast Shipyard’s Alabama. The company submitted a grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a steel profile processing system. It was one of 13 small U.S. shipyards receiving monies to help modernize facilities, increase productivity and help make the country’s small shipyards more competitive in the global marketplace.

A total of $9.98 million in grants was awarded, with more than $1 million going to BAE. The money, says Victor Rhoades, director of operations and general manager, will underwrite 45 percent of the system. With the updated technology, Rhoades says the company will

Remembering

Hap Myers

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NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

increase capacity, enhance safety, control costs and schedules, and be more competitive.

BAE is purchasing a fully automated steel processing system with robotic profile cutters and an automated welding system.

BAE employs 650 people, and Rhoades says the company is hiring. Three days after the grants were announced, the company landed an $85 million contract to build a 356-foot long hopper dredge vessel for Weeks Marine, based in Covington, La. Rhoades expects the local workforce to increase by 150 employees for the life of the contract, scheduled to be completed in 2014.

This and several additional contracts are helping BAE achieve its goal of entering the new construction market through the Mobile facility, Rhoades says: “We will continue to pursue additional contracts to increase our presence in new construction.”

H. E. “Hap” Myers Jr. may be best remembered in the community for the 12 years he spent in the Alabama State Senate, but the business community will recall his leadership in the Mobile Area Chamber, where he served as chairman of the board of directors in 1992. In fact, his time at the Chamber first piqued Myers’ interest in running for public office.

A new Ryla contract with an existing wireless carrier client is spurring growth at its Saraland facility, according to Jabaria Jenkins, Ryla’s local human resource representative.

Before the end of the year, Ryla is looking to hire 60 customer service agents, and Jenkins estimates the company will add between 75 and 100 more in the first quarter of 2012.

“We are actively interviewing and are working to build our candidate pool,” said Jenkins.

“We are definitely in a growth mode,” said Danel Kuhlmann, marketing and communications director for Alorica, the company that bought Ryla last year.

Kuhlmann says not only is Alorica seeing increased business from existing clients, it is landing new clients as well.

“We have plans to maximize capacity in our existing facilities,” Kuhlmann added.

Ryla’s Saraland operation is one of Alorica’s 37 global centers, employing more than 20,000 people.

Myers was first elected to the Senate in 1994, believing that business leaders were uniquely equipped to guide the state. An engineer by trade, Myers had an idea about the way things should work and, just as important, he knew what would not work.

“He was a man of principle, optimism and honesty, and he believed right would win out in the end,” said Win Hallett, president of the Mobile Area Chamber. “Maybe that’s what motivated him to return to Montgomery term after term. He was a capable engineer, businessman and politician, but above all, he was committed to Mobile and to his family.”

Six Mobile Businesses Make

Inc. List of Fast-Growing Companies

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ifty-four Alabama-headquarted companies made this year’s Inc. magazine’s 500/5,000 list of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies. Six of the companies call Mobile home, including Callis Communications, ranked 2,184; Southern Light, 2,574; Hargrove Engineers + Constructors, 3,012; Aaron Oil Co., 3022; Bulldog Marine, 4,122; and Counselman Automotive Recycling, 4,184.

Chamber Member Company Profiles

In the past three years, the local honorees created 294 new jobs and increased revenue by $58.6 million.

“There is an extraordinary amount of talk about job creation today, and growth companies, not large corporations, are where the action is,” writes Leigh Buchanan, author of Inc.’s “One Word: Jobs.” “In the United States, companies five years old and younger account for virtually all net job growth.”

Inc. has published its list of the fastest-growing companies for 30 years, expanding it in 2007 to the 500/5,000 to offer readers a better understanding of the country’s entrepreneurial landscape.

– Founded in 1995, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors offers engineering, technical support, procurement, construction and project management services. The company employs 374 people, and it hired 158 additional team members. Hargrove has been honored five times by Inc., and ranks No. 47 among engineering companies.

No. 2,184

– This is the fourth time Callis Communications has been recognized by Inc. At the end of last year, the company employed 31 people, and over the last three years 14 new employees have been hired. Founded in 1999, Callis provides cloud communications services.

It ranks No. 71 in the telecommunications industry.

No. 2,574

– Southern Light grew by 56 employees and now employs 87 people.

Founded in 1998, the company designs, builds and operates high-count fiber networks. This is the fifth time Southern Light has earned Inc.’s recognition. The company ranks No. 89 in the telecommunications industry.

No. 3,012 No. 3,022

– Aaron Oil, founded in 1981, recycles used oil and performs environmental remediation services. The company recently added 20 employees and employs 116. In the energy industry, Aaron Oil ranks No. 67. This is its fourth time to be recognized by Inc.

Huntsman Announces

Expansion at McIntosh Site Huntsman Corp. announced it would expand one of its key product lines at its McIntosh facility in 2012.

The company’s estimated $40 million expansion of its multifunctional resins capacity will serve the aerospace and composite industries.

Jesse Quillen, economic development manager for the Washington County Economic Development Initiative, a program of Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, said the McIntosh site was in competition with another Huntsman site in Switzerland for this project. He added the company is conducting an engineering study scheduled to be completed this year before construction will begin in 2012.

Quillen said about 35 jobs with average annual wages of $60,000 will be added to Huntsman’s current local workforce of 200. Production is estimated to begin in late 2013 to early 2014.

Huntsman Advanced Materials, a global market leader in multifunctional epoxy resins, has invested significantly during 2011, expanding its capacity and

capability to produce multifunctional epoxy resins both in the United States and in Europe by doubling the capacity at its Monthey, Switzerland, facility and enhancing its current capability to produce purified resins at its McIntosh site.

Once completed, the new line will further boost global production of all types of multifunctional epoxy resins.

James Huntsman, president Advanced Materials division, said, “Demand for multifunctional epoxy resins as a replacement for aluminum and other materials and the forecasted needs of the aerospace industry are major factors influencing this decision. We are committed to our valued customers in the aerospace and high-end composite industries.”

Added Quillen: “It is exciting to see industry continue to invest and grow in the Mobile Bay region during a difficult economy. Huntsman has made an enormous commitment to its McIntosh facility that will provide much needed, high quality jobs in the future.”

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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Veterans Day

Lunch and Activities

The Mobile Area Veterans Day Commission will honor a native Mobilian as Patriot of the Year. J. Lloyd “Doc” Abbot Jr., a decorated retired rear admiral for the U.S. Navy, will be recognized during the commission’s Veterans Day luncheon on Friday, Nov. 11.

Abbot Abbot served the Navy as a commissioned officer for 35 years. He commanded a variety of patrol and fighter aircraft squadrons and commanded two battleships. Abbot also led efforts to explore the use of aircraft in extreme temperatures in the Antarctic before continuing his Navy career as inspector general of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet and then director of Naval Educational Development.

“Doc has worked with and alongside people today we know as very influential,” said Retired Col. David Reaney, president of the Mobile Bay Area Veterans Day Commission.

“It’s obvious by his career he was a person who could be put on any challenge. And along the way he raised a family, instilling in his two sons a sense of service,” added Reaney.

Abbot’s two sons and two grandsons are also Naval aviators.

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NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

Abbot is a Murphy High graduate and is an alumnus of Spring Hill College, the U.S. Naval Academy, Armed Forces Staff College, National War College and George Washington University. Among his degrees, he holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration.

The commission works in partnership with the Mobile Area Chamber to produce the annual commemoration.

The event is one of several activities planned to honor America’s veterans.

Veterans Day activities begin at 10 a.m. with the annual parade through the streets of downtown Mobile, featuring several veterans’ organizations, active duty units, Reserve & National Guard units, ROTC and JROTC units, scouts and local marching bands.

The luncheon begins at noon at Fort Whiting in Brookley Aeroplex, immediately following the parade. A Freedom Celebration will follow at 3 p.m. at Battleship Memorial Park.

At 7 p.m., the Mobile Pops will perform in concert at Battleship Memorial Park.

The parade and celebration are free to the public.

Luncheon tickets are $15 per person or $120 for a table or eight. To purchase luncheon tickets, contact Ailey Shirazi at 431-8621 or ashirazi@mobilechamber.com.

Fast Facts What: Veterans Day Activities When: Friday, Nov. 11 Events: Veterans Day Parade

10 a.m. - Government St.

Veterans Day Lunch

Noon - Fort Whiting in

Brookley Aeroplex

Freedom Celebration

3 p.m. - Battleship USS

Alabama Memorial Park

Mobile Pops Concert

7 p.m. - Battleship USS

Alabama Memorial Park Cost: Luncheon $15 per person Info: To register or for more information,

contact Ailey Shirazi at 431-8621

or ashirazi@mobilechamber.com

Local Hotels

Sprucing Up T

wo local hotels located off the I-10 Tillman’s Corner exit have made significant upgrades.

The Holiday Inn Mobile West I-10 completed a $1 million upgrade this past spring to the outside of its building and added == new signage, and is investing another $1 million to renovate the inside.

General Manager Millard Williams says the projects are intended to keep the property “up to speed with our competition,” and will New guestroom at Mobile I-10 West Hampton Inn. be complete at the end of January 2012.

Guestrooms, the lobby, restaurant, bar and meeting spaces are all being updated. Changes include adding carpet, flat-screen televisions, artwork, furniture, fitness equipment and enhanced lighting in the parking area.

The Holiday Inn Mobile West recently The Mobile I-10 West Hampton Inn completed its “total makeover” of all of the completed a $1 million exterior renovation property’s guestrooms, says General Manager Ed Murphy, investing approximately and is starting on an additional $1 million $500,000. Among the hotel’s enhancements are new carpet, paint, flat-screen TVs, renovation to update guestrooms and other art and furniture. interior upgrades. Pictured here is Holiday Murphy adds the property’s former double-bed rooms now have two queen beds.

Inn General Manager Millard Williams.

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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Book Review:

Breaking the Tax Code Local accountant contributes to book on tax strategies A group of leading financial professionals collaborated to write Breaking the Tax Code: America’s Leading Tax Professionals Reveal Proven Strategies To Legally Minimize Your Taxes and Keep More of What You Earn. Among them is local accountant Richard A. Lindsey CPA, with Zevac & Lindsey LLC, who authored a chapter in the book titled “Health Care Tax Changes.”

Published by Celebrity Press, the book was released in March and rose to bestseller status on Amazon.com in both the personal

finance category and the budgeting and money management category.

Breaking the Tax Code features advice from financial professionals and experts from across the country and is written to help taxpayers keep more of their hard-earned money. Its simple format can be understood by all taxpayers.

In its synopsis of the book, Celebrity Press says: “If you work outside the tax accounting spectrum, chances are you have preconceived notions of the IRS and the tax code. Here is a book that will update your knowledge on a wide range of tax topics including tax shelters, divorce implications, tax planning and

Lindsey

how to stay out of trouble with the IRS – all topics that concern every taxpaying individual…. Breaking the Tax Code guides you with the advice of leading tax professionals, how to legally plan for and minimize your tax burden while maximizing your cash flow.”

Following the book’s release, Lindsey was inducted into the National Academy of Best-Selling Authors, an organization honoring authors from leading independent bestseller lists.

The book can be purchased on Amazon.com.

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small business of the month

After working with a partner for eight years, Dr. Dan Perry Jr. established his solo practice, Spring Hill Comprehensive Dentistry, in 2005 to be closer to his patients. Perry is pictured with his team (left to right) Lucia Harris, dental hygienist; Jennifer Speed, clinical assistant; Rachel Bryant, dental hygienist; and Belinda Dean, office coordinator.

The Art and Science Behind

A Healthy Smile

Go to mobilechamber.com/award.asp to submit a Small Business of the Month nomination, or contact Danette Richards at 431-8652 or drichards@mobilechamber.com.

Fourteen years ago, Dr. Dan Perry Jr. was newly graduated from dental school and seeking out area dentists for their expertise. He admired the practice of Dr. Henry Coker and met with him to learn how he could develop a similarly successful practice of his own. As it turns out, Coker was looking to retire, and he invited Perry to step in.

He continued with Coker’s partner, Dr. Bud Rogers, until 2005, when he established Spring Hill Comprehensive Dentistry and moved his practice to Old Shell Road.

Spring Hill Comprehensive Dentistry is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Small Business of the Month.

Perry and his team of four employees provide routine oral care and specialize in restorative and cosmetic procedures such as toothcolored fillings, replacing missing teeth, teeth whitening and more.

Quality is remembered long after the cost is forgotten, Perry says, quoting a sign in Coker’s waiting room. He and his dentistry team have assembled the latest technology, equipment and sterile techniques to provide the highest care to patients.

Perry invests in continuing education for his staff, and has memberships in American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Dental Association

and The Pankey Institute Alumni Association.

“Dentistry is a mixture of art and science, and sometimes the art takes over,” Perry says, an aspect that he enjoys. “I can see the confidence on a patient’s face after an operation.”

In one case Perry remembers a surgeon referred a young girl who was kicked in the mouth by a horse. Perry used implants to repair her missing teeth.

Looking to the future, he says, “We hope to grow the practice by adding new patients and to promote a lifelong relationship with them.”

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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10 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

1986-1999: Preparing for a New Century

Tuscaloosa Steel announced it would build a steel processing facility in the mid-90s, located on the western bank of the Mobile River. Both Mobile Gas and Alabama State Docks were part of the announcement, and former Docks Director Jack Ravan is pictured above at the announcement.

Unfortunately Tuscaloosa Steel was not successful in Mobile and eventually the facility was dismantled and shipped to Scotland. But Mobile did not lose.

Today the old plant’s property is the site of APM Terminals.

In 1996, news of another new industry coming to Mobile was met with open arms. Mitsubishi Polysilicon had worked out a co-location deal with Degussa to open a manufacturing and chemical plant near the Degussa site in the Theodore Industrial Complex. The plant took nearly two years to complete, but the Japan-headquartered company today has a successful and growing operation here.

Editor’s Note: With 175 years of history, the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce has a rich past. The Chamber hired freelance writer Nedra Bloom to explore the organization’s history in anticipation of its anniversary.

Based on board minutes over the years, Bloom offers a glimpse into the business, political and social workings of Mobile. In this fifth part of her series, “A Look Back,” Bloom shares her discoveries about the events and people that helped shape our city in the 14-year period from 1986 to 1999.

W

hile economic development has been a common thread throughout the Mobile Area Chamber’s history, in 1986 the program got its legs, forging a new partnership with the city of Mobile and Mobile County. The result, with this unique city/county/private cooperative, changed Mobile’s future.

In 1998, Gulf Bridge Ro-Ro was announced in Mobile. Located at the Alabama State Docks, the service was based on a roll-on, roll-off cargo capacity serving Mexico. Today a similar operation is handled

by International Shipholding Corp.

Chamber Chase grew out of an annual new member campaign Chamber volunteers led each year. The new formal campaign, launched in 1996 was designed to be fun for the volunteers who were not only selling memberships, but also event sponsorships and advertising. Pictured here leading the first Chamber Chase campaign were, from left to right: John Turner, Cliff Inge (chair), Lucy Brady and Ralph Buffkin.

At the first board meeting of 1986, Chamber Chairman Jack Edwards said it was time to move forward on a plan to raise $4 million to attract new business and industry to the region. The board hired National Community Development Services (NCDS) to manage the fundraising project, and the next month, contracted with Modern Communications Group to develop a campaign on the themes “The Sunbelt’s Best Deal, Mobile” and “Tell the World.”

In just two meetings, the board set the tone for the next 25 years.

Continued on page 12

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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Preparing for a New Century Continued from page 11

The economic outlook was good in 1987, with plans for a new U.S. Navy homeport that was expected to bring in $2.8 million annually.

And Board Chairman Fred Delchamps at the end of the year had good news to announce to the Chamber membership – 27 new companies, including 10 manufacturers, made plans to open facilities in the area, earning Mobile the distinction as the state leader for new manufacturers. An additional 34 companies expanded in 1987, representing a capital investment of $143 million dollars.

Preliminary employment statistics indicated 2,700 net new jobs. “It was a very successful first year for the Chamber’s $4 million “Tell the World” campaign and the contributions of both the city and the county to the economic development program,” said Delchamps at the organization’s annual meeting.

And suddenly, the world was the marketplace.

Representatives of 14 Asian prospects visited Mobile, and Chamber representatives planned to visit Asia the same year.

Infrastructure went hand in hand with recruiting, and the Chamber weighed in again on the preferred location for the proposed I-110 project, a raised connector along the

Mobile River that would “cut vitally into the economy of the city, the convention business and the redevelopment of downtown Mobile,” said Mayor Arthur Outlaw in August. Just a few weeks later, the Chamber applauded plans to bring I-110 to fruition.

Delight at the August 1988 groundbreaking for U.S. Naval Station Mobile turned to consternation by October amid rumors the facility would close before it ever opened. But the rumors were true, and today the buildings and property belong to the Alabama State Port Authority. A vast majority is leased to Aker Solutions, a manufacturer of subsea umbilicals.

Two issues came before the Chamber in 1988 pitting one business interest against another. The Alabama State Docks wanted support for a sanitary landfill on docks property in Theodore. Chamber leaders said they couldn’t support a landfill when the business community was opposed to it.

In another measure, the Board of Realtors asked the Chamber to oppose plans for a new stormwater management program.

The Chamber backed a plan for a $3 per household fee to fund improvements.

In 1989, Chamber members were delighted about new developments: Atlantic Marine’s plans for the Alabama Dry Docks

Shipping Co. property on Pinto Island and the new Alabama School of Math & Science. A new city-county government building was also in the works, among the first of such endeavors connecting the two governmental entities.

Chairman Frank McRight reported Site Selection magazine ranked the Chamber’s three-year-old effort among the 10 best economic development programs in the country, the only Chamber-based program on the list. The Chamber would go on to earn similar recognition from the publication several more times before 2000.

Then, in early 1990, board member Marie McConnell reported Mobile had moved up from 101st to 50th on Inc. magazine’s list of most innovative centers, and the Business Innovation Center had jumped from four tenants with nine employees to 16 tenants with 60 employees.

In 1991, the Chamber hired Win Hallett as president, setting the tone for the next two decades and beyond.

Mobile Aerospace Engineering, now ST Aerospace-Mobile, landed the first plane for its new maintenance shop at Brookley Field, but the firm’s grand opening had to be delayed due to travel restraints in the wake of the first Gulf War. Also in 1991, World Omni broke ground on its financial services facility in west Mobile.

Changing The Way Downtown Mobile Is Managed Having a great downtown may seem like just a feel-good goal, says Elizabeth Sanders, president and chief executive officer of the Downtown Mobile Alliance.

Among the most impactful downtown Mobile projects is this before and after of where the new Hampton Inn and Suites at Royal and Conti streets. Adding much needed hotel rooms for the city’s growing number of convention goers and tourists, the hotel has seven floors and 149 rooms.

12 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

But it’s much more than that. “It’s a huge economic engine for the region.” Half of Mobile’s office space is downtown, she noted, quoting Mobile commercial real estate expert John Toomey.

Efforts to revitalize downtown Mobile began in the early 1990s, Sanders said. Arthur Outlaw was then serving as mayor, the first in a series of government leaders who “had downtown in his sights as a major item,” she said, adding that his influence cannot be overstated in everything that’s happened since.

Outlaw wanted a new convention center downtown. In an odd political twist, Mike Dow ran against Outlaw, and nixing the convention center was a chief plank in his platform. But once in office, he became every bit as passionate about downtown redevelopment as his predecessor.

Elected in 1989, Dow created both the Downtown Redevelopment Commission and Main Street Mobile. The commission was

Chamber-member businesses and community leaders came together to support an Amendment One vote in 1999 to earmark more than $400 million to the Alabama State Docks for expansion projects. The vote was successful, and was the catalyst for creating a container terminal in Mobile, now called APM Terminals. Pictured here are supporters of Amendment One at a rally held at Cooper Riverside Park.

To increase awareness of Mobile, Alabama, to a national audience, the Chamber and city of Mobile elected to sponsor floats in the annual Rose Bowl parade from 1989-1993. Pictured here is the Mobile float, in partnership with Alhambra, Calif., in 1990.

In June, the Chamber debated whether to continue entering a float in the annual Tournament of Roses parade. Some members were concerned their dues were buying a float, but it was considered an economic development tool as the parade was carried on six networks and coverage was equivalent to $400,000 in advertising. (The Chamber participated in the parade from 1989 to 1993.)

Just a few months later, the executive committee received kudos from Scott Paper and Degussa for the Chamber’s role in defeating the ad valorem bill. It was a great example, said Hap Myers, of how “the Chamber can assist members to fight harmful legislation.”

“The Mobile economy continued its healthy trek in 1993. The Chamber’s economic

development program (under the new banner of Show Business Mobile) has played a key role in attracting new and expanding industry while assisting local companies in expansion efforts,” according to the organization’s annual report. Statistics show 87 new and expanding companies in Mobile, creating 1,725 new jobs with capital investments of more than $484.7 million.

Continued on page 14

designed to hit home runs by facilitating big projects, she said. Main Street was designed to hit the ball. But, says Sanders, you need both kinds of hitters to make a successful ball team.

The commission contracted for a downtown plan and worked successfully on a bond issue to pay for a history museum, the Exploreum and improved infrastructure for a pedestrian-friendly city. It sought a new hotel to complement the new convention center.

Main Street worked with individual businesses and arts groups and on visitor issues, all in concert with the commission’s lofty goals. Bienville Square and Cathedral Square got facelifts. Before the improvements to sidewalks and pedestrian lighting, only Roussos, Wintzell’s and hotel restaurants stayed open at night, Sanders points out, and now some two dozen eateries welcome diners in the evening. And in recent years, more than 100 downtown facades and buildings have been renovated.

In 2002, Main Street suggested a business improvement district might help people feel

safer downtown. It took several years to pass the required legislation and win support from downtown property owners, but as a result the Downtown Mobile Alliance was born in 2006.

Downtown Mobile offers a multi-faceted approach to winning back the heart of the city.

First, the group and its predecessor kicked off a series of annual events – BayFest, concerts in the park and a farmer’s market.

Next, it worked on physical infrastructure, such as sidewalks, environmental concerns and hospitality. The alliance commissioned a group of helpers, on foot and on bicycle, to answer questions from visitors and check in with local businesses.

To date, the alliance counts hundreds of millions of dollars in new investment and improvements from projects such as the RSA Tower and individual home improvements.

“That’s the scale we have to have,” says Sanders. “We love the big projects. We like to think big. But you can’t have a spectacular new building surrounded by a sea of desolation.”

But a strong downtown requires constant vigilance, Sanders says.

Infrastructure requires continuing investment, and the city needs a clear, new land use code for downtown – form-based rather than the use-based codes that already exist in most of the rest of the city. Every historic building that’s still standing needs to be protected, she said.

That advice came from land use strategist Chris Leinberger, speaking at the alliance’s annual meeting in August. He also suggested resurrecting the old streetcar line from downtown to the Loop, and even beyond.

In the mix of people mingling downtown, impromptu meetings occur among business people, arts leaders and others. “They germinate the creative ideas and the entrepreneurship that you have to have for a vibrant city,” Sanders said – the fundamental necessities that will help move Mobile to the forefront of the new economy.

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

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Mobile Awarded for Progress Mobile was on the move in 1993 – downtown redevelopment was thriving, the String of Pearls had led to the development of the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center and Mobile Government Plaza, and grassroots efforts to improve schools and increase public school funding were flourishing.

It seemed like the perfect time to work toward All-America City recognition, Jodi Swiderek, the energetic communications and community Mobile was named an All-America City in 1995 by the development vice president for the National Urban League. Pictured here (left) is former Chamber, suggested at a board meeting. Rep. Sonny Callahan presenting the All-America City flag to Chamber President Win Hallett.

Early in 1995, the Mobile PressRegister signed on to help with the in the nation of a community which nomination package, and every volunteer successfully uses its resources and people to pledged, “We don’t care who gets the credit.” meet its challenges,” according to Chamber Some 34 Mobilians traveled to Cleveland, board minutes. “The award does not mean a Ohio, in support of the city’s nomination, city is perfect, but rather that a community highlighting three projects: the Martin has learned how to work together.”

Luther King Jr. Drive and String of Pearls Just after winning the designation, Mobile redevelopment; Keep Mobile Beautiful’s Clean Campus project; and the Student Bill of Rights. began a campaign to win the right to host the 1998 All-America City competition and it was And the projects equaled a win for the the first city of its size to do so, it gave Mobile city in 1995. an unprecedented opportunity to showcase the “Gaining the All-America City designation signifies that Mobile is one of the best examples area to other progressive cities across the nation.

News Mobile had won the All-America City competition in 1995 was greeted with high-fives, cheers and tears. The task force had worked for more than a year to identify change-agent projects in Mobile to show judges its growth. The committee was made up of business leaders, community activists, students and elected officials.

Correction

In the September 2011 issue of The Business View, an article titled, “The Next Quarter Century 1961-1986,” the property designated to start what is known as the Dauphin Island Sea Lab should have been credited with the donation by the U.S. Department of Defense - United States Air Force. We apologize for this error.

14 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

Preparing for a New Century Continued from page 13

But there was still work to be done.

Neal Wade, then director of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), visited the Chamber in 1993 and told business leaders “companies do not look to Alabama as a location/expansion site because they perceive our workforce is under-educated and unskilled, we have a problem with race relations and we have a ‘backwoods’ image. We do attract some businesses because we’re perceived as a bargain tax-wise.” EDPA’s work at the time was largely directed to fight false perceptions and elevate Alabama’s image to attract economic investment.

Board discussions in 1993 centered around how to use the Naval Station Mobile land; whether to revamp the Chamber’s progambling stance since “the mood on the issue seems to have changed dramatically”; and how to cope with a region-wide shift in the area code from 205 to 334.

In 1994, the Chamber led an effort to land Mobile the All-America City Award, given annually to only 10 U.S. cities (see sidebar on this page).

New technology was a hot topic in 1994, as Chamber leaders saw a demonstration at QMS of something called the Internet. “This exciting technology has the potential of revolutionizing the way we access and use information,” they reported.

Another boom year was 1996, starting with an announcement that World Technology Systems would open a 600-person reservation center, and a new, low-cost air service provider announced it would begin service in Mobile.

Though the low-cost carrier moved out of Mobile, the business community learned several lessons about how to recruit, and more importantly keep, competitive air service.

Walking a fine line between two opposing business interests – oil and gas companies wanting to drill offshore and travel interests hoping to lure tourists – Chamber leaders agreed that the organization “supports any oil and gas drilling endeavor that does not harm the fragile and unique ecology of our precious Gulf Coast or negatively impact the area’s important tourism industry.”

Time Magazine listed Mobile among the nation’s Top 15 areas for job growth in 1996, ranking the Port City among the likes of Atlanta, Dallas and Raleigh.

One proposed new plant – Phenolchemie – again put the Chamber between two business interests. While economic developer Jim

For the last 14 years, regional planning has been a goal of the Mobile Area Chamber. With the help of nationally known regional planner Henry Luke, the Chamber worked with a large group of engaged volunteers to launch what was initially called Envision Mobile. From its early days, the group has taken on several name changes, including Envision Mobile-Baldwin and Envision Coastal Alabama.

Pictured below from left to right are Luke, former Envision and Chamber Chair John Davis of Mobile Gas and former City of Mobile Mayor Mike Dow.

IPSCO Steel’s announcement in the late 90s that it would build a massive steel plant in north Mobile County was welcome news following some large plant closings that had broken just the year before. Pictured here following the company’s announcement is a vendor briefing the Chamber hosted in partnership with IPSCO executives to discuss the company’s plans and outline the types of vendors and suppliers it would need. Today the steel plant is called SSAB Americas and is in the process of a $287 million-plus expansion.

Win Hallett. “And Mobile has ranked second in the state for each of the last five years in employment growth, adding 32,000 jobs in this area.”

By the end of the year, the Chamber discussed plans for its newest economic development effort, The Millenium Fund. Leaders hoped to raise $6 million in support of the fund, with a goal of 30,000 new jobs and $2 billion in capital investment by new and expanded industries.

Big announcements came in 1999. IPSCO Steel announced a $400 million plant just north of Mobile with 250 employees and 250 permanent on-site contractors. City and county officials gave $2.7 million each in incentives to the plant, now owned by the Swedish firm

SSAB. And the Chamber felt hopeful about attracting a cruise ship to the port.

The organization also began a formal effort to address workforce development. The Chamber’s Center for Workforce Development was opened to ensure business community concerns were incorporated into other workforce initiatives.

And while the world grappled with Y2K, the impending doom of computers failing when the year changed from 1999 to 2000, the Chamber was proud of its new role in economic development, the resulting jobs and investment and the accolades it drew.

And just as important was the recognition of national rankings, including Money magazine ranking Mobile No. 56 in its 1992 “Best Cities” list and No. 130 in its 1995 “300 Best Places to Live” and No. 79 in 1996; U.S. News & World Report placing Mobile sixth on its top 100 housing markets in 1993 and No. 10 in 1994; Entrepreneur magazine ranking the Mobile metropolitan area fourth in the Southeast for its excellent small business climate.

In addition, the corporate demographic research firm ACCRA rated Mobile No. 14 in the Top 25 small metro areas for small business.

Apple reported he had visited a Phenolchemie operation in Germany, finding it “spotless and virtually odor-free,” neighbors of the Theodore site were skeptical, asking the Chamber to oppose the project.

Phenolchemie was subsequently built, and its products can be found in baby bottles, aspirin and compact discs.

In 1996, the Chamber expanded its annual membership drive into a total resource development campaign with a goal of $500,000 in new members, needed services, sponsorships and advertisers.

In 1997, a cooperative effort, Envision Mobile-Baldwin (now Envision Coastal Alabama) was created to address more than 150 strategies outlined in six vision statements. The effort sparked a sense of regionalism and a number of projects aimed at making the Mobile-Baldwin area an even better place to live, work and build a business.

More positive economic news came in 1998. “There is a new energy in Mobile, and a commitment to progress that “Good Morning America” spent a week in the spring of 1999 touring the Gulf Coast. has resulted in investment The Chamber worked with GMA staff to plan an exceptional show at Bellingrath growth over the past four years Gardens and Home. Pictured here is then-GMA host Charlie Gibson talking with of more than $1.4 billion,” then-correspondent Robyn Roberts from the lawn of the gardens. reported Chamber President

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

15

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CHAMBER CHASE ‘11

Chamber Chase Exceeds Goal

Growing During Difficult Times Editor’s note: With the extraordinary leadership of Terry Harbin and the participation of 80 volunteers, the annual total resource development campaign, Chamber Chase, helps the Mobile Area Chamber expand its reach and further its mission as a progressive advocate for all area businesses.

We hear so much today about the difficulties of the business climate, our economic challenges, and how hard it is to grow during these uncertain times – all valid observations, to be certain, but there’s hope for those who have a solid strategy and great teamwork.

I want to commend the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce and the volunteers who made this year’s Chamber Chase a great success, once again exceeding its goal.

Everything started with vision from the Chamber’s senior leadership and extensive planning for success. When I first met with Bob Chappelle and Carolyn Golson, (senior vice president and vice president of membership for the Chamber), it was clear that they had already planned to grow the campaign again this year. Everyone at the table knew the challenges we faced, but a solid plan for success supported the vision of growth that had been set before us

by President Win Hallett and the Chamber leadership.

That plan involved individual and team goals, rewards for success, a limited time frame for the project, and team celebrations for the success we would certainly achieve.

Of course, we had an appropriate amount of healthy competition among the teams as well as great rewards for personal achievement.

A good plan always begins with a clear vision from the top and all the necessary supporting tools and training to achieve the goal. The planning had been done and the goal set at $1,320,000 to be raised in a community that believed in itself even in the middle of challenging times.

As with all good financial or sales goals, this one was divided into smaller pieces and assigned to the various teams. Teams from our local utilities, banks, real estate firms, small businesses and other Chamber members each took responsibility for a piece of the goal. Ownership and visible weekly reporting kept us on track to achieve the goal.

Everyone likes to have a little fun along the way, and our weekly reward sessions sponsored by local Chamber member-owned restaurants, caterers and companies provided the needed atmosphere to challenge each other and build team spirit. Of course, the extra benefit is allowing team members to get to know one another better and share success stories. There’s something special about getting away from the office and adding food to the fun!

Mix the above together with a little enthusiasm (okay, a lot of enthusiasm), and the results are fantastic, even in a challenging economy. The 2011 Chamber Chase resource development campaign exceeded its goal by $90,000 and achieved a new record-high total of $1,409,558.

Campaign Chairman Terry H. Harbin, COO BankTrust

Congratulations to everyone who gave so much for our community and to all the area businesses that support the Chamber.

With appreciation,

Terry H. Harbin

Chief Operating Officer, BankTrust

2011 Chamber Chase Chairman

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

17

Chamber Chase Teams

TOP

Alabama Power Co.

Arkema Inc.

BankTrust

$63,556

$59,723

$211,460

Tom Grimm Judy Smith Plant Manager Captain

Terri Owler..................................$41,947 Judy Smith.................................. $17,776

Bibb Lamar David Hagan CEO Captain

James Alexander.......................$22,400 Sherry Coker...............................$27,700 David Hagan.............................$24,884 Lisa Owen................................$128,600 Melanie Suiter.............................$6,400 Team Credit..................................$1,476

Producers

Teams Over Goal Alabama Power Arkema BankTrust BB&T iBERIABANK Jeff Tesney Photography Lewis Communications Mobile Gas Regions Bank Hancock Bank/Whitney Bank Top Producers Lisa Owen............................................ $128,600 Harrison Hawke...................................$100,610 Harris Oswalt......................................... $52,319 Karyl Hanisch........................................$51,979 Jo Shannon........................................... $46,300 Top Cash Producers Harris Oswalt......................................... $52,319 Terri Owler.............................................$41,947 Karyl Hanisch........................................$28,279 Mark Spivey............................................$26,500 Sharon Murrill......................................$22,726

Mike Saxon

Sharon Murrill

Vice President Mobile Division

Captain

Sharon Murrill..........................$38,226 Dawn Bush.................................$25,330 BB&T

Blue Cross/Blue Shield

$46,432

$15,700

Commonwealth National Bank

$5,675

Edward H. O’Gwynn III Janet Johnson Area Executive and Senior Vice President

Captain

Clay Walden

District Manager

Kay Williams Captain

Michelle Cook...............................$1,501 Dan Garland...................................$350 Jennifer Gontarski.......................$7,700 Janet Johnson............................$26,807 Team Credit................................$10,074

Kay Williams..............................$15,700

Community Bank

Evonik Degussa Corp.

iBERIABANK

$8,257

$29,716

$15,185

Tyrone Fenderson President and CEO

Robyn Anderson

Captain

Robyn Anderson...........................$5,675

Top New Member Producers Sherry Coker................................................... 10 Dorothy May..................................................... 8 James Alexander............................................... 6 Linda Faulkner................................................. 6 Cindy Longmire............................................... 6 Top Overall Producing Teams BankTrust............................................$211,460 Hancock Bank/Whitney Bank........... $203,404 Regions Bank......................................$125,776 Diplomat Team.....................................$88,076 Alabama Power.....................................$63,556 Top Cash Teams BankTrust..............................................$94,210 Regions Bank........................................$91,776 Diplomat Team.....................................$63,352 Hancock Bank/Whitney Bank..............$56,104 Mobile Gas.............................................$54,719 Top New Member Teams BankTrust....................................................... 24 Diplomat Team...............................................15 Independent Team........................................... 7 Arkema.............................................................. 6 Evonik Degussa................................................ 6 Regions Bank................................................... 6

Oliver Latil

President & CEO

Parrish Tatum

Captain

Jennifer Bergoon........................... $303 Tomi Burt.......................................$610 Parrish Tatum............................... $320 Team Credit.................................$7,024 Independent Team

$8,404

Bonnie Tully

Vice President & Site Manager

Linda Faulkner Captain

Linda Faulkner..........................$28,156 Ed Finch.......................................$1,560

Russ Ford

Area President

Laura Searcy Captain

Laura Searcy.............................. $15,185

International Shipholding

Jeff Tesney Photography

$17,800

$29,583

Maria Bladorn.............................$5,293 Tangula Grove.............................. $300 Cindy Longmire..........................$2,811

18 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

Elissa Tesney Erik Johnsen Sheila Dean-Rosenbohm Jeff Tesney Owner Captain President Captain Elissa Tesney............................. $29,583 Sheila Dean-Rosenbohm..........$17,800

Chamber Chase Teams LLB&B Inc. Real Estate

Lewis Communications

$14,652

$45,226

Melissa Morrissette Captain

Melissa Morrissette.....................$14,652

Mobile Area Chamber Board of Directors

Mobile Area Chamber Diplomat Team

$11,232

$88,076

Ellen Praytor Wingard Katharine Wilkie SVP, Managing Director Team Captain

Thomas Fowlkes........................... $300 Katharine Wilkie........................... $300 Team Credit.............................. $44,626

Joel Daves Captain

Sumner Adams...............................$325 Frank Lott.................................... $2,487 Caroline McCarthy.........................$318 Team Credit..................................$8,102

Mobile Gas

RBC Bank

Regions Bank

$54,719

$13,836

$125,776

Gary Adams................................. $1,600 Terry Downs.................................$1,545 Harrietta Eaton..........................$11,148 Sandy Frost......................................$315 Tricia Graham.............................$5,350 Karyl Hanisch............................$51,979 Millie Sue Hawk...........................$1,123 Michelle Jayroe................................$100 Michelle Kerr...................................$310 Marylee Kilday............................$2,000 Dorothy May.................................$2,781 Lloyd Meyers.................................$1,310 Sheila Murphy................................$804 Nancy Peoples..............................$1,655 Ryan Perdue....................................$325 Saty Putcha.................................... $300 Jannea Rogers................................$800 Donna Turner..............................$1,209 Kay Watson.................................. $1,000 Team Credit................................ $2,422 Thompson Engineering

$10,750 Mike Fine Harris Oswalt President Captain

Harris Oswalt..............................$52,319 Marcus Stacey............................. $1,200 Team Credit................................ $1,200

Cedric Hatcher

Matt Singleton

Regional VP Commercial Captain Markets for Gulf Coast

Carlisha Bagsby............................. $300 Julye Clark................................... $3,996 Mike Dennis............................... $3,845 Scarlet Harvill.................................$375 Amy Jacobi................................... $1,315 Matt Singleton............................... $305 Team Credit................................ $3,700

Wells Fargo

Hancock Bank/Whitney Bank

$7,500

$203,404

Joel Daves

South Alabama Area Executive

Mark Spivey Captain

Tommy Ankerson....................... $1,200 Trish Banker..............................$13,541 Bruner Binion..............................$1,575 Lee Dzwonkowski.......................$6,400 Stephen Schlautman................$17,200 Jo Shannon...............................$46,300 Mark Spivey................................$27,500 Team Credit............................. $12,060

Donations of Products/Services

$450,620

John H. Baker III Dana Glass

President

Captain

Dana Glass.................................... $7,450 Team Credit.................................$3,300

Member Investments

$127,248

Campaign Contributions

$4,378

Board of Advisors

Chuck Harmon Jamie LeDoux Market President Captain

Jamie LeDoux..............................$7,500

G. Robert Baker Jr. SVP, South Alabama Region President

$205,274

Harrison Hawke Captain

Mary Caron Downing...............$19,042 Angela Dunn.............................. $8,423 Angela Grice...............................$10,172 Harrison Hawke.......................$100,610 Jamie Horton.............................$25,743 John McCrory.............................$12,971 Ross Seifert...................................$5,743 Spencer Wiggins........................$14,204 Team Credit................................ $6,496

Sponsorships of Projects/ Events & In-Kind

$559,006

Advertising in Chamber Publications

$63,032

FINAL TOTAL

$1,409,558 The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

19

Thanks to Those Who Supported Chamber Chase 2011 Event Sponsors Lunch & Learn: The American Café

Reward Sessions: BB&T Buffalo Wild Wings Chick-fil-A Georgia Roussos Catering Momma Goldberg’s The Original HoneyBaked Ham Co. Outback Steakhouse Regions Bank Roly Poly The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q

Chamber Chase 2011 Supporters: 3 Echoes Productions AS&I Aaron Oil Co. Accurate Control Equipment Adams and Reese Adventures in Advertising/JNC Designs AeroStar Affinity Home Medical Affordable Medical Clinic Airbus Military Airwind Creative/myshotz.com Aker Solutions Alabama Magazine Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic Alabama Power Alabama Roll Products

Alabama State Port Authority Alford Bolin Dowdy All-A-Bloom Florist Altapointe Health Systems The American Café American Cancer Society American Security & Electronics APEX Environmental Aquilex Hydrochem Arkema Armbrecht Jackson Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union Artcraft Press Ashbury Hotel & Suites Ashley’s Flower Shop ASM Recycling AT&T AT&T Advertising Solutions Austal Austin Industrial Auto Air Alabama West Ayres Composite Panels Bama Ice BancorpSouth BankTrust Barrington Park Apartments Batain Masonry Bay Bank Bay Paper Co. Bayou Concrete Bayview Ford-Lincoln Mercury BB&T Beard Equipment Co. BGR The Burger Joint Bishop State Community College

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Bodies by Cindy Boot Camp Boise Paper Boteler Finley & Wolfe BP Energy Co. BP Gulf Restoration Organization - Alabama Brian Knotts Agency Bronstein’s Fine Furniture Buffalo Wild Wings Burr & Forman Callis Communications Camellia Home Health & Hospice of Mississippi Candlewood Suites Mobile/ Downtown Canvas Products Capital Volvo Truck & Trailer Cardiac & Vascular Institute Cardiology Associates Carrabba’s Italian Grill Cash America Pawn Catfish Junction Charleston Apartment Homes Cherokee Scrubs 4 All Chick-fil-A Chill Yogurt Café China Doll CHN South CHOAmerica Chris & Carla’s Catering & Heavenly Ribs Cintas Circle of Care Health Services Claire’s Hope

Clark Greer Latham & Associates Clear Channel Radio Comcast Communication Commercial & Marine Insurance Brokers Commonwealth National Bank Community Bank Compass Urgent Care Conscious Mile Center for Spiritual Learning Continental Motors Contract Flooring Solutions Cooper/T. Smith Corp.

CorroMetrics Services Crow Shields & Bailey Crowder Gulf Crown Products The Cummings Co. Cypress Cove Apartments DailyAccess Corp.

Davis Photography Delaney Development Dex Imaging of Alabama Dexter Sutton, Personal Trainer Diamond Scaffold Service Group Direct Communications Dr. Chris Corsentino & Assoc.

Chiropractors DuPont Crop Protection Earl’s Pawn & Jewelry & Check Cashing Edward Jones Investments Efficient Forms ELG Haniel Elwood Staffing Employer’s Accounting Services

EmployUS Encore Rehabilitation Esfeller Construction Co. Estes Heating & Air Evonik Degussa Corp.

Express Shred & Digital Imaging ExxonMobil Family Security Credit Union FEDCorp FedEx First Community Bank First Data FISI Inc. Flowtec Industrial Service Fort Condé Inn Franklin Primary Health Center Fred South Construction Freeman Pest Control Friends of Mobile Animal Shelter FusionPoint Media G.A. West G.R. Harvill Gaillard Builders Gaylord C. Lyon Gem of Champions Get a Grip of FloraBama The Gift Spot Gleem’s Carpet One Glenn Crane & Rigging Gorrie-Regan & Associates Grand Band Entertainment Gulf Hospitality Systems Gulf Power Gulf South Infrasystems Gulf South Pipeline Gulf States Engineering

BankSmart

Gwin’s Commercial Printing Hackbarth Delivery Halal Cuisine of India Hampton Inn & Suites Mobile Downtown Hand Arendall Harbor Communications Hargrove Engineers+ Constructors Harwell & Co. Heggeman Realty Heritage Homes The Hiller Cos. Hixardt Technologies Hoar Program Management Holiday Inn Mobile Airport Horizon Ship Building Inc. Hosea O. Weaver & Sons Hunter Security iBERIABANK Industrial Commercial Cleaning Infinity Global Infirmary Health System Information Transport Solutions Inoxum Instrument Technical Services Integrated Electronic Technologies Intergalactech International Assurance International Shipholding Corp.

J.F. Pate & Associates Contractors Jaguar IMG Sports Marketing James B. Donaghey Jeff Tesney Photography Jenkins Brick Co.

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JMH Designs Joe-Joe’s Limo & Mortuary Jones Walker KBR Keith Air Conditioning Keith Mosley Construction Kelly’s Graphics Printwear Kern Martin Services Kimberly Clark Kingdom Coach Knox Pest Control The Koberg Co. Kristopher Portacci La Moda’s Hair Salon Lamar Advertising Lenzing Fibers Lewis Communications LifeSouth Community Blood Centers The Light of the Village Littler Mendelson LLB&B Inc. Real Estate Logical Computer Solutions Long’s Human Resources Lovin’ Care Inc. Lucille’s Fashions Alterations & Resale Shop M & A Stamp M.D. Bell Co. Malaysack Malcolm Pirnie Mama’s Manufacturer’s Packaging Services Marine Systems Maritime Equipment Services

Marks Furniture Marmaris Group Marshall A. McLeod PLS LLC Max Force Racing Mayo’s Barber Shop McDowell Knight Roedder & Sledge MCG Business Solutions McPherson Oil Mediterranean Sandwich Co. Memorial Funeral Home Merrill Lynch/The Whiting Group MH3 Printing & Ad Specialties Mississippi Export Railroad Co. Mitsubishi Polysilicon Mitternight Boilerworks Mobile Air Center Mobile Airport Authority Mobile Area Water & Sewer Service Mobile Association for the Blind Mobile Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau Mobile BayBears Mobile Comprehensive Dentistry Mobile Container Terminal Mobile County Commission Mobile Fixture & Equipment Co. Mobile Gas Mobile International Speedway Mobile Medical Museum Jeff LeBlanc, Mobile Society for Human Resource Managment Mobile Solvent & Supply Momentum Massage Momma’s Mojo

Monarch Direct US Food Music 4 U The Mutt House NACE International Nationwide Insurance Downs Agency Nationwide Insurance Adrienne Tucker Natures Way Marine Neal’s Electronics Netpoint IT-Services Norton Lilly International Nudraulix O & V Epoxy Floors Office Depot #2286 Office Pride Office Solutions & Innovations Inc. Olivella Gourmet Olive Oiles Open Window Social Media Solutions Oracle Real Estate Organize with Love Original Oyster House Orion Engineering The Orthopaedic Group Otto Brewer Agency State Farm PAETEC Page & Jones Panera Bread Parker Adult Foster Home Pat Peck Nissan The Patterson Group Pen Air Federal Credit Union Phelps Dunbar Pilot Catastrophe Premier Medical Management

Press-Register Prism Systems Providence Hospital Quality Valve Radiance Technologies RBC Bank RCT Inc. Rebound Rehab Red Brick Cafe Reed Publications Regions Bank Reliable Staffing Remington College Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel RHS Distributors Richardson Law Firm Rich’s Car Wash Robert J. Baggett Inc. Roberts Brothers Rollin’s Downtown Deli Ronald McDonald House Royal Engineers & Consultants Paul A. Russell - Morgan Stanley Safety Source Sandbar Cafe Scotch & Gulf Lumber Seedco Financial Serimax North America SH Enterprises Inc. Shell Chemical LP/ Shell Mobile Site Sherwin Williams Co. Sign Pro Signal International SMG Mobile Convention &

Civic Centers Smith, Kolb & Associates Software Technology South Alabama Spay & Neuter Southern Earth Sciences Splash Duo-Coolrayz Band Spot of Tea’s Club Insanity Springhill Medical Center SSAB Americas The SSI Group Inc. ST Aerospace Mobile St. Luke’s Episcopal School St. Paul’s Episcopal School Staggers Properties Star Aviation Star Service State Farm - Greg Jones State Farm - Makeda Nichols Steel City Crane Stirling Properties Streamline Transportation Suburban Homes Talascend LLC Taylor CPA Group Thompson Engineering ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC Top to Bottom Cleaning Town of Chatom Tractor Supply Co. TradeBank of Mobile TriNova UJ Chevrolet United Way of Southwest Alabama The University of Alabama University of Mobile University of South Alabama

University of South Alabama Army ROTC The UPS Store @ the Loop USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital USA Foundation Vending for U Via Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center VIP Nails & Tan Virginia College VisionSpot Consulting LLC Volkert Inc. Voodoo Espresso, Tea and Coffee WALA/FOX10 TV Walmart Ward International Trucks Wells Fargo Hancock Bank/Whitney Bank Windham Marketing Windstream Communications Wingate by Windham Wiregrass Hospice Wm. F. Horne & Co. WNSP/WZEW Wonderland Express World Omni Worthy Insurance

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The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

A Quick

End-of-Year To-Do List

“Why do something today when you can put it off until tomorrow?” This is the unfortunate mantra of many small business owners. Is it yours? If so, you owe it to yourself to ring in the new year with fresh plans and a fresh outlook by reviewing the following four items before the end of the year. If something needs to be addressed, changed, modified or eliminated, take care of it. You’ll be glad you did.

1. Business plan – Is your business doing what you intend it to do?

Some things to include in your business plan are your mission statement, business goals and objectives, business description and description of your products/services.

You should also take time to identify and evaluate the competition.

2. Marketing plan – Do you have a plan to reach your customers? In fact, do you know specifically who your target market is? Growing businesses continually evaluate their customer base.

They set one- and three-year marketing goals in order to stay focused on the target market. Without goals, many businesses drift into activities that may get them exposure, but not necessarily draw new customers. There are many things to consider when developing a marketing plan. A SCORE counselor can assist you with it.

3. Business and financial “stuff” – It goes without saying that you should review and evaluate your financial documents at least monthly to determine how your business is doing.

Toward the end of the year, it’s a good idea

22 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

to touch base with your accountant. You should also review your insurance policy – is it sufficient for any changes in the business? Do any licenses or certifications need to be renewed?

Reviewing your invoices is the easiest way to identify your most profitable and least profitable customers. If a customer costs you money, get rid of him or her. That sounds harsh, but that customer is taking valuable resources from you that you could be using to find and cultivate more profitable customers. And while you’re at it, what are your most profitable products/ services? Why not focus more effort on the things that have a higher return or greater profit margin? You may decide to focus more effort on those things.

4. You – Everyone knows we only get one chance to make a great first impression. Make sure you look like the image you want your business to project.

Pay attention to details in your public spaces where you meet your clients. It may be your storefront or your office. This is a good time for end-of-year cleaning, to start the new year on a fresh note.

And take care of yourself. Make a commitment to get together with all those folks you have been promising to play golf or eat lunch with throughout the year.

Business is about relationships, so it’s important to take care of them.

To learn more about end-of-year issues, or for a free and confidential one-on-one counseling session, contact the Mobile SCORE chapter, housed at the Mobile Area Chamber, at 431-8614, or visit online at www.score.org.

• Kem’s Restaurant on site • Located behind Edwin Watts Golf on W I-65 Service Road

• Complimentary transportation available to and from the Airport

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Premier Medical Physicians ENT Physicians RONNIE E. SWAIN, MD W. CARTER BRYARS, JR., MD BARRY L. BROWN, MD JAMES R. SPIRES, JR., MD JOHN S. WILSON, MD, FACS JAMES K. PITCOCK, MD P. VAN. CROCKER, MD MARK R. GACEK, MD ALFRED M. NEUMANN, JR., MD RONNIE E. SWAIN, JR., MD J. MARK HARRISON, MD KIMBERLY ELLIOTT, MD MICHAEL LEE, MD RICHARD L. PALESANO, MD Audiology JIM MCDILL, PHD JENNIFER TAYLOR-GUY, AUD Eye Physicians JAMES M. HARRISON, JR., MD CLAUDE M. WARREN, III, MD ROLLINS L. TINDELL, JR., MD CHARLES R. SALISBURY, MD MATTHEW W. MOSTELLER, MD CHARLES S. MOSTELLER, MD RICHARD J. DUFFEY, MD H. CHRISTOPHER SEMPLE, MD ANDREW P. TERRY, MD STUART F. BALL, MD WILLIAM F. MURRAH, III, MD MARK J. DOUGLAS, MD CURTIS M. GRAF, JR., MD BEN F. KING, OD GREGORY R. JACKSON, OD ROBERT E. EDGE, OD VALERIE L. VICK, MD JAY A. BROWN, MD CHARLES F. JONES, M.D. JEFFERY A. MORROW, O.D. CHRIS WALTON, MD ERIN E. LICHTENSTEIN, MD

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

23

investor

focus

Lewis Communications

First row (from left to right): Ben Jordan, Tripp Lewis, Thomas Fowlkes, Rhonda Wilkinson, Erin Hendricks, Ashley Adams, Erin Miller, Catherine Bartz, Kate Hannon. Second row (from left to right): Callie McArthur, Jenny Kirkwood, Nancy Hughes, Deanna Chisholm, Anne-Marie deVilliers. Third row (from left to right): Ellen Wingard, Rebecca Roberts, Amanda Peacock, Courtney Haupt, Libby Amos, Mitch Vincent, Jim Sealy.

Company Officials: Larry Norris,

President and Chief Executive Officer; Spencer Till, Executive Vice President/ Executive Creative Director; Ellen Wingard, Senior Vice President/Managing DirectorMobile Years in Business: 60 years Brief Company Description:

Partners for Growth (PFG) is the Mobile Area Chamber’s long-term economic and community development program. For more information, contact Shelly Mattingly, the Chamber’s investor relations coordinator, at 431-8655 or smattingly@mobilechamber.com.

Lewis is a full-service communications and branding company founded in Mobile in 1951, making it the oldest ad agency in the state of Alabama. Today, Lewis has three offices in Mobile, Birmingham and Nashville, staffed with experienced professionals in creative, production, media and account services.

Why are you located in Mobile?

“Lewis Communications has a strong history rooted in Mobile,” said Wingard.

“John ‘Jack’ H. Lewis Sr. founded the

24 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

agency in Mobile and since that time the Mobile office has served as our corporate headquarters.”

Why do you support the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s Partners for Growth initiative?

“We support Partners for Growth because it is an investment in the growth of the business sector in Mobile, which will have a positive impact on the community,” said Wingard. “We were involved in the initial branding of the first Partners for Growth campaign because we feel it is so important for local businesses to do their part to continually strengthen the business climate in Mobile. Every company is an integral player in creating a better community to live and work in.”

What do you see as Mobile’s greatest potential? “Having the

privilege to work with the Mobile Area

Chamber of Commerce on the HowTheySeeMobileBay.com economic development campaign, we had the opportunity to hear first-hand from top executives whose companies have relocated here in the past decade,” added Wingard. “We consistently heard that Mobile was experiencing a renaissance of sorts, supported by a unified government and Chamber – we completely agree.

Mobile is a truly dynamic city with an entrepreneurial spirit that simply can’t be denied or replicated. As a marketing communications agency with strong roots in the community, we can’t think of a better place to be.”

Length of Chamber Membership: Since 1970

Comparative

Economic Indicators The Mobile Area Chamber’s research division collects a variety of statistics each month.

August 2011 vs August 2010

Employed Mobile/Baldwin counties

Average Selling Price Mobile County

Business Licenses City of Mobile

249,941 2011

229 2011

241,237 2010

246 2010

$119,650 2011 $136,815 2010

Homes SoldâŒŚ

Building Permits

Unemployment Rates 10.2% 2011 9.8% 2010

Mobile County

316 2011 244 2010

City of Mobile

199 2011 132 2010

AOC-08-74.businessview.ad.indd 1

Value of Building Permits $9,250,469 2011 $4,730,717 2010

Air Passengers From Mobile Area 25,582 2011 24,862 2010

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

25

9/12/08 11:14:22 AM

Chamber@work Impact Alabama Meets in Auburn After Gov. Robert Bentley disbanded Alabama’s Office of Workforce Development, members of Impact Alabama met in Auburn for an in-depth look at the state’s new arrangement of workforce development.

Impact Alabama is a program intended to give Alabama’s economic development leadership a forum for productive and focused dialogue on key issues affecting the state’s economic growth.

Guest presenters at the meeting included Ed Castile, director of AIDT, and Dr. Frieda Hill, chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education. Chamber President Win Hallett is an Impact Alabama member.

Metro Chamber Executives Meet in Montgomery Senior staff members from the Mobile, Birmingham, Montgomery and Huntsville Chambers met in Montgomery to share best practices and discuss current political and economic issues affecting the state’s metro areas. Discussions included clarification on the state’s new ethics laws and the treatment of economic

development prospects, accounting practices, use of technology in Chamber operations, small- and minority-business programs, communications and marketing, and legislative issues.

Staff Participates in Diversity Lunch The Chamber staff attended a lunch meeting to discuss the value of diversity in the workplace. Guest speakers Gigi Armbrecht with AT&T and Merceria Ludgood with the Mobile County Commission discussed their longtime friendship and the womens’ recent recognition by the Birmingham Urban League with a Multi-Racial Friendship Award.

Coffee with the Chamber Beginning this year, the Chamber introduced a new casual networking event called Coffee with the Chamber. The event, held at Panera Bread, is averaging about 40 people and provides Chamber members with an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of Chamber membership and a chance to meet peer professionals.

PR Think Tank Meets The Chamber recently convened its Public Relations Think Tank, a group of professionals who market Mobile regionally, nationally and internationally.

Bill Sisson, executive director of the Mobile Airport Authority, updated members on progress and changes at Brookley Aeroplex and Mobile Regional Airport.

Envision Hosts Regional Education Forum In October, Envision Coastal Alabama hosted its first regional education forum in partnership with the Mobile Area Education Foundation and the Baldwin County Education Coalition. The forum, entitled “Business & Education: The Future is Now,” featured guest speaker William Canary, president and chief executive officer of the Business Council of Alabama.

This collaborative event provided a platform for the business community to engage in discussions involving the future of public education in the bi-county region.

Small Business of the Month Do you know a small business that deserves recognition? A 10-minute investment could earn your customer, supplier or even your own company recognition as the Chamber’s Small Business of the Month. Each month the Chamber recognizes outstanding small businesses for their contributions to the local economy. These businesses are profiled in The Business View and presented with the Small Business of the Month award at the Chamber’s board of directors meeting.

Eligibility criteria and online nomination are available at www.mobilechamber.com/ awards.asp. For more information, contact Danette Richards at drichards@ mobilechamber.com or 431-8652.

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26 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

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Chamber@work

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People are using the internet differently as the digital revolution evolves. Have you kept up?

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Chamber Names New Diplomats Jeff Johnson, C Spire Wireless; Chris Barnett, Manpower International; Ginny Byrd, Transport Commercial Leasing; and Patrick Stiver, American Medical Response, are new Chamber diplomats.

Diplomats are a group of volunteer members who assist the Chamber with a variety of projects, including event registration, member visits and attending ribbon cuttings. To learn more about this group, contact Kim Dale at 431-8649 or kdale@mobilechamber.com.

Mobile Commerce Park Selling Lots The Chamber oversees Mobile Commerce Park, a business/light industrial park located off I-10 in Theodore. Currently there are 10 companies located in the park, and several tracts of land are available for purchase. Some of the park’s amenities include: • Ideal location – less than one mile from Interstate 10, three miles from Interstate 65, with five Class I railways serving the city and a deepwater port with 45-foot-deep ship channel; • Customized sites available in sizes from 1.4 to 6.8 acres; • Room for expansion; • Campus-like business park; • Protective covenants; • Design and landscape standards; • Onsite fire and rescue station; • Well-lit boulevards, well-maintained infrastructure; • Adjacent to upscale residential neighborhoods; • Electricity, natural gas, city water and sewer service; and • T-1 and fiber optic cable are available.

To learn more about Mobile Commerce Park, or schedule a tour of the available sites, contact Claudia Zimmermann, director of economic development for the Chamber, at 431-8616 or czimmermann@mobilechamber.com.

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Member Grand Openings and Ribbon Cuttings All Around the House Inc., Information Transport Solutions, AeroStar and Jenny Craig recently held ribbon cuttings. If your business is a member and you would like assistance with planning a grand opening or ribbon cutting event, contact Kim Dale at 431-8649 or kdalemobilechamber.com.

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The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

27

Board of Advisors

Gartman

Rosson

Tully

Tunno

Mark L. Gartman is a partner in Commercial and Marine Insurance Brokers Inc. He attended the University of South Alabama and has worked in the insurance industry since 1986. Gartman is a member of Alabama Independent Insurance Agents and Downtown Mobile Alliance and serves as president of Marine Contracting Group LLC.

Tim E. Rosson is BBVA Compass Bank’s market president for Mobile and Baldwin counties. He holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Kansas and a master’s degree in business administration from Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif. He received a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the College of Financial Planning in Denver. Rosson has worked in the banking industry for 33 years, 24 of those with BBVA Compass Bank. Over the previous 11 years he was commercial district executive for the south Alabama region. BBVA Compass Bank is a Partners for Growth Investor.

Bonnie Tully is vice president and site manager for the Mobile operations of Evonik Degussa Corp. She has worked in a wide range of engineering and manufacturing assignments, most recently as plant manager for Evonik’s lubricant additives facility in Singapore. Tully received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University.

W. Miles Tunno is president and CEO of Mobile Paint Manufacturing Co. After earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina, he began his career as an auditor for the state of Texas and then for Price-Waterhouse. Tunno joined Hanley Paint in 1986 and became its president in 1995. He also served as president of Kwal Howells Paint and as senior vice president of sales for Comex Group-North America before taking the reins at Mobile Paint Manufacturing.

For more information about the Chamber’s board of advisors, contact Katrina Dewrell at 431-8611 or kdewrell@mobilechamber.com.

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Business Spotlight of the Month - Gulf Coast Bio Clean

Photo by J. Tesney Photography

Gulf Coast Bio Clean (GCBC)is a locally-owned and operated specialty service providing lab testing and cleaning of residential homes and businesses after homicides, traumas, hoarding, industrial accidents, odor control and more.

The company is an American Bio Recovery Association-registered business, and is certified in meth lab testing. GCBC also provides home cleaning prior to move-in, as well as remediation following traumatic experiences. The company employees are on call 24-7.

Irby

The Business Spotlight of the Month is selected at random from a business card drawing at the Chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event.

Mobile native Jessica Townsend, pictured above, owns and operates Gulf Coast Bio Clean.

Diplomat of the Month – Kasie Irby Though she is one of the newest members to join the Chamber’s diplomat program, Kasie Irby earned this month’s Diplomat of the Month. Irby, a Huntsville native, is a business development officer at Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union, where she promotes the credit union’s products and services. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, Public Relations Council of Alabama and Mobile Area Association of Realtors.

The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

29

November Calendar of Events 8

Lunch and Learn

The U.S. federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world. If you’d like a piece of the action and want to learn how, attend “How to Make the World’s Largest Consumer Your Client,” on Tuesday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ben Broadwater, local attorney with Zieman, Speegle, Jackson & Hoffman LLC, and an expert in the Federal Acquisition Regulations, will explore the pros and cons of selling to the government.

Being a supplier to the government is very different than the business-to-business market.

Find out if it’s right for you, how to do it, and how to avoid the problems.

The cost is $20 for members or $25 for potential members.

For reservations contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber.com.

9

Networking@Noon *Members Only

Get the undivided attention of 40 business professionals at Networking@Noon on Wednesday, Nov. 9, at Outback Steakhouse, 901 Montlimar Dr., from noon to 1:30 p.m. This bi-monthly event is for Mobile Area Chamber members only and is limited to one representative per company.

The cost is $10 and includes lunch, and payment is due with reservation. No refunds will be given after Nov. 7.

To make reservations, contact Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@ mobilechamber.com.

30 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

10

Contacts and Contracts Learn how the South Region Minority Supplier Development Council expands business opportunities for Minority Business Entreprises (MBEs) and links MBEs with corporate partners. Martha Bozeman, the council’s certification consultant, will outline the organization’s strategy at the quarterly Contacts and Contracts, set for Thursday, Nov. 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Reservations are requested, and there is no charge to attend.

For more information, contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@ mobilechamber.com.

For information on Chamber events, visit events.mobilechamber.com.

11

Veterans Day Lunch

15

*Members Only

See story on page 6.

Executive Roundtable

Are you ready? Don’t miss this month’s Executive Roundtable on Tuesday, Nov. 15, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Mobile Area Chamber. Learn how the American Red Cross Ready Rating program, a free online assessment program, can benefit your business in planning for disasters.

Seating is limited, and there is no charge to attend. To reserve your seat, contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber. com.

17

Business After Hours

It’s the last Business After Hours of 2011, so be sure to join Chamber members and diplomats Thursday, Nov. 17, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Citrin, Rihner & Gupta Cardiology PC, 600 Providence Park Dr. E. This Chamber networking event is a great venue to introduce your company and make new contacts.

The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for potential members. Reservations are not needed. For more information, contact Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@ mobilechamber.com.

The Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce E-newsletter...

24 -25

Chamber Closed Thanksgiving

Are you connected... to the latest business news in the Mobile area on a weekly basis?

If not, then subscribe now for FREE by sending an e-mail to Ashley Horn at ahorn@mobilechamber.com.

Citrin, Rihner & Gupta Cardiology, PC

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www.bellingrath.org The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

31

Member News Who’s New

Fitts

Brooks

Hassell

Collins

Hand Arendall welcomed partners Stephen N. Fitts III and Katie Hammett Hassell, both graduates of The University of Alabama VanDerpool School of Law. Associates K. Megan Brooks, Allison L. Collins and Jonice Marie VanDerpool also joined the firm. Brooks has a bachelor’s in political science from Spring Hill College and earned a law degree from The University of Alabama School of Law. Collins has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Auburn University and a law degree from The University of Alabama School of Law. VanDerpool has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and earned a law degree from Vanderbilt University School of Law. X Beth Walton was hired as an Alabama MarketMaker outreach coordinator for the MississippiAlabama Sea Grant Consortium and Walton Auburn University Marine Extension and Research Center.

MarketMaker is a web-based, interactive tool that connects food producers, processors, retailers and consumers in 17 states, including Alabama.

X G. C. Specialties Inc. hired Alex Fleming as a salesman.

Fleming graduated from The University of Alabama.

Fleming

Morgan Prestwood joined the accounting and consulting firm of Crow Shields Bailey PC. Morgan has a bachelor’s in Prestwood accounting and a master’s degree in tax accounting from The University of Alabama.

X Alabama State Port Authority promoted four employees to senior management. Linda Paaymans is now senior vice president of finance; Bradley Ojard is senior vice president of operations; Jerald Kichler is vice president engineering services; and Bob Harris is vice president environmental and program management.

X Rob Downing joined Community Bank in Mobile as senior vice president.

Downing graduated from the Graduate School of Banking Downing at Louisiana State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from The University of Alabama. He has more than 15 years in commercial lending.

X

Lindsey

Colley

Pendleton

Garrett

Ron Lindsey and Natalie Colley joined Roberts Brothers, The Real Estate Center.

Ursula Pendleton and Paul Garrett joined the Roberts Brothers West office.

X Carol M. Foley joined Bay Area Food Bank as operations director. Foley previously served as deputy director of resource development Foley at the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma in Tulsa, Okla.

32 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

Baliog

Gulati

Haynes

Scammell

Lewis

Webster

The University of South Alabama College of Medicine made several appointments: Dr. Crisostomo Baliog Jr. was named assistant professor of internal medicine; Dr. Salil Gulati, assistant professor of surgery; Dr. Johnson Haynes, assistant dean of the new Office for Diversity and Cultural Competence; Dr. Jonathan G. Scammell, assistant dean for admissions; and Dr. David F. Lewis, professor and chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology.

In other news, USA named Karen Webster director of alumni relations.

Webster received a bachelor’s degree in communication from USA. X JJPR, a Mobilebased public relations and advertising agency, hired Kelsey Blohm as assistant account executive.

Blohm has a bachelor’s degree in public Blohm relations from Auburn University.

X Russell Thompson Butler & Houston LLP accounting and consulting firm promoted Amanda D. Mangum CPA to accounting supervisor.

Mangum is a graduate Mangum of the University of Southern Mississippi.

Commonwealth National Bank promoted Rodney A. Lee Sr. to vice president and compliance officer. Prior to his promotion, Lee served as assistant vice president and manager of Commonwealth’s Crichton office.

X Wilkins Miller Hieronymus LLC accounting and consulting firm welcomed accountant Blake Ethredge to its Mobile office.

Ethredge Ethredge has a bachelor’s degree in commerce and business administration with a major in corporate finance from The University of Alabama and is a certified public accountant.

Business Endeavors Mobile-based Trax Tires opened its ninth location at 7953 Moffett Rd. in Semmes. Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays.

X Server Corps data service now has BroadSoft BroadWorks-hosted Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) phone systems.

Well Done Austal USA honored 38 graduates of its four-year apprenticeship program. Each graduate completed a minimum of 576 hours of classroom time and an additional 8,000 hours of on-the-job-learning. The apprenticeship program is certified by the U.S. Department of Labor, Alabama department of Post Secondary Education and the Veteran’s Administration.

X Henry Callaway III, a member at Hand Arendall LLC, received the American Bar Association’s Pro Bono Publico Award for his work at both the local and state Callaway levels. Callaway is the first Alabama lawyer to be honored with ABA’s most prestigious award for public service.

Cherniak

Christian

Clute

Collins

Hannan

Hardie

Harris

Perry

Five physicians from the University of South Alabama Physicians Group and USA Mitchell Cancer Institute appeared in the Top Doctors directory issued by U.S. News and World Report. Drs. Michael Finan, Johnson Haynes Jr., Arnold Luterman, Eddie Reed and William Richards were each listed among the top physician specialists in the United States.

They are the only doctors in the region to receive this honor.

In other news, Assistant Dean Carl Taylor of the University of South Alabama College of Medicine co-authored a book entitled Getting It Done: Experienced Taylor Healthcare Leaders Reveal Field-Tested Strategies for Clinical and Financial Success. The book was intended to guide healthcare leaders during disasters.

Submission deadline for Member News is two months prior to publication. News releases should be one or two brief paragraphs. Photos must be professional headshots, labeled with the person’s last name, and must be 300 dpi at full size and saved in an eps, tif or jpg format.

Send your information to news@mobilechamber.com.

Community News

Denson

Hardee

McAtee

Harris

Otts

Davis

Preston Denson, Justin Hardee, Patrick McAtee, Brad Harris and Robert Otts of Thompson Engineering received Professional Engineer (PE) certification, and Jeremiah Davis earned a professional land surveyor in training registration.

The Mobile County Emergency Medical Services System and Rescue Squad Inc. receives a building in August donated by oil and gas company Denbury Resources Inc. The emergency service has the only ambulance running full-time in north and far west Mobile County.

X United Way of Southwest Alabama awarded $200,000 in community vision grants to seven local nonprofit community programs that make long-term impacts on critical issues in education, financial stability, health and essentials. The following Chamber members included are: AltaPointe Health Systems, Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama, Dumas Wesley Community Center, Family Promise of Coastal Alabama and United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile. Funds for the grants are from the UWSWA annual fundraising campaign.

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Rue

Simpson

Turner

Watts

Twelve attorneys from Johnstone, Adams, Bailey, Gordon & Harris LLC are included in The Best Lawyers in America list for 2012. The list incorporates numerous specialties and is compiled by a comprehensive peer review. Honorees from Johnstone Adams include I. David Cherniak, Alan C. Christian, Robert E. Clute Jr., Celia Josephine Collins, David C. Hannan, William H. Hardie Jr., Ben H. Harris Jr., Wade B. Perry Jr., Thomas S. Rue, Charles C. Simpson III, Tracy P. Turner and R. Gregory Watts.

Accurate Control Equipment....................7 Advanced Payroll Solutions....................25 Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC...........25 BankTrust............................................... 20 Bellingrath Gardens and Home............31 Boteler, Finley & Wolfe........................... 30 Burr Forman LLP....................................10 Community Bank.....................................6 Employer’s Administrative Services...... 28 Fusion Point Media.................................27 Greater Mobile Urgent Care................... 28 Gwin’s Commercial Printing.................27 Hancock Bank.........................................26 Harris Business Machines......................22 Holiday Inn Mobile Airport....................23 iBERIABANK............................................ 8 Interstate Printing & Graphics Inc........31 Lagniappe............................................... 29 Mobile County Health Department.......21 MyStockShotz.com................................. 29 Premier Medical Management..............23 The University of Alabama.....................16 United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile........... 30 Wonderland Express...............................33

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The Business View | NOVEMBER 2011

33

New Members

If you know of a company interested in benefitting from Chamber membership, contact Tricia Seibt at 431-8642 or Rebecca Milam at 431-8647.

View the complete membership directory at www.mobilechamber.com. Clip and add to your Membership Directory.

Acatour Concierge Crystal Blume P.O. Box 2584 Daphne, AL 36526 -850-238-9254 Concierge Services Ayers USA Cranes LLC Quintin Ayers 16767 State Hwy. 181 Fairhope, AL 36532 251-929-1773 www.ayersusa.com Cranes - Overhead ChemPro Services Inc. Aaron Hayek 2953 Bienville Blvd., #132 Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228-447-4127 www.chemproservices.com Facility Maintenance Clear Away Cleaning & Multi-Services LLC Karen Alexander 2559 Trophy Ct. Mobile, AL 36618 251-656-9903 www.clearawaycleaning.net Cleaning Service - Commercial Clever Ogre Nora Jones 526 W. Chase St. Pensacola, FL 32502 850-912-4203 www.cleverogre.com Advertising

Constant Asphalt Maintenance Inc. Rickie Constant 9560 Gallops Creek Wilmer, AL 36587 251-610-8684 www.constantasphalt maintenance.com Asphalt/Paving Contractors Crowder Gulf Amber Ramsay 5435 Business Pkwy.

Theodore, AL 36582 251-459-7430 www.crowdergulf.com Disaster Cleanup A. Evans Crowe LLC Evans Crowe 209 N. Joachim St. Mobile, AL 36603 251-431-6011 Attorneys

Greenie in a Bottle LLC K.D. Johnson 264 S. Washington Ave. Mobile, AL 36603 251-591-1268 www.greenieteam.com Recycling Services Hair Club Thom Kaz 917 Western America Cir., Ste. 501 Mobile, AL 36609 251-342-7898 www.hairclub.com Hair Replacement Haner Environmental Services Judy Haner 2304 Perch Point Ct. Mobile, AL 36605 251-281-4022 www.hanerenvironmental.com Environmental Consultants

Marks Furniture Co. David S. Marks III 5955 Airport Blvd.

Mobile, AL 36608 251-341-1036 Furniture Stores Merchant Services Mobile David Hanlin 6771 Bay Rd. Mobile, AL 36605 251-443-8121 www.merchantservicesmobile.com Credit Card Service Oak Ridge Pharmacy & Home Medical Cindie Hall 4180-A Oak Ridge Ave. Mobile, AL 36619 251-666-0891 www.oakridgehealth.com Pharmacies

Encore Rehabilitation Inc. Elaine Hyatt-Woodyard 6701 Airport Blvd., Suite D-234 Mobile, AL 36608 251-656-5616 Physical Therapy

Jones Lang LaSalle Carter Burwell 8650 Minnie Brown Rd., Ste. 231 Montgomery, AL 36117 334-215-4527 www.joneslanglasalle.com Real Estate-Commercial

Otto Brewer Agency State Farm Otto Brewer 1000 Hillcrest Rd., Ste. 110 Mobile, AL 36695 251-660-9962 www.mysuperagent.com Insurance Agents & Brokers

The Factory Connection LaKisha Amos 5701L Moffett Rd. Mobile, AL 36618 251-342-8849 www.factoryconnection.com Clothing-Retail

Keller Williams Realty Frank Peoples 6333 Cottage Hill Rd. Mobile, AL 36609 251-662-5660 www.kw.com Real Estate

The Patterson Group Nathaniel Patterson Jr. P.O. Box 161216 Mobile, AL 36616 888-599-5502 Marketing Consultants

Radiance Technologies Inc. Stuart Fowler 350 Wynn Dr. Huntsville, AL 35805 256-704-3408 www.radiancetech.com Engineering Services Select Communications Verizon Premium Retailer Brenda Sloan 5611 Old Shell Rd., Ste. B Mobile, AL 36608 251-342-2030 www.selectcommunicationsinc.com Wireless Communications SMS Designs LLC Susan Stanfield 8593 Dawes Trace Ln. Mobile, AL 36619 251-689-2492 Floral Designs Steel City Crane Mark Dowler 600 University Pk. Pl. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-426-3807 www.steelcitycrane.com Cranes-Renting & Leasing

Sunrise Dermatology LLC Dr. Ryan Ramagosa 70 Midtown Pk. E. Mobile, AL 36606 251-289-1786 www.sunrisederm.com Physician/Surgeon-MDDermatology Taylor-Wharton Cryogenics Len York 4075 Hamilton Blvd.

Theodore, AL 36582 251-443-8680 www.taylorwharton.com Manufacturers The Village at Midtown Elisa P. Toth 320 Stanton Rd. Mobile, AL 36617 251-473-8800 www.thevillageatmidtown.com Apartments Williams Consultants Willie Williams 17420A Confederate Rest Rd. Point Clear, AL 36564 251-928-9672 Advertising Agencies

As of 8/31/11

Anniversaries

Members Are Our Greatest Asset! Please show your support through the patronage of these businesses.

40 YEARS U.S. Amines

35 YEARS

Jacksoco Oil Co. Inc.

25 YEARS

Joe H. Little Jr., Attorney at Law Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance Agency Inc. RTS Transportation Inc.

20 YEARS

Winton Cowles DMD, Frederick Miller DMD, and Dr. Shaun Small DMD

10 YEARS

Air Hydraulics & Mechanical Equipment Inc. Ferriss Industries Inc. d/b/a First Response Services Heron Lakes Country Club Lenzing Fibers Inc. MacKinnon Paper Co. Inc. Primeship Agencies Inc. Professional Employment Resource Management Inc. Mary White, Mobile Society for Human Resource Management

5 YEARS

Broussard’s Piano Gallery and Academy of Music Business Communications Distributors Inc (BCD) Coldwell Banker Charles Hayes Real Estate Inc. Driven Engineering Inc. Farmers Insurance-Brian Sanderson Fluor Ford Lumber Co. Inc. Horne LLP Hutchinson Moore & Rauch LLC LANICO Inc. Peavy Construction Co. Shipyard Supply

1-4 YEARS

Accurate Control Equipment Inc. AD Venture Specialties Co. AL-Trans Service Inc. Alabama Magazine Alabama Railroad & Construction Amber Lane Designs Anytime Fitness Anytime Fitness-West Mobile APEX/FCC Oilfield Services LLC A & W Lighting Corp.

Bruno’s & Food World #8821 Camp Rap-A-Hope Chef Rob & Co.

34 NOVEMBER 2011 | The Business View

Child Evangelism Fellowship of Southwest Alabama CMA Technology Solutions Coastal Ready Mix LLC Dr. Chris Corsentino & Associates, Chiropractors The Egg & I Maternity The Gathering of Jewels Inc. Geotechnical Engineering Testing Inc. Griffith Shell Service H&R Block Hudgens & Associates Hummingbird Ideas Advertising & Design Inc. JADE Consulting LLC Jewels by Park Lane-Joan Miller Keith Kingan’s Classic Cars Inc. Kevin Carter Realty League of Women Voters of Mobile Lewis Precision & CNC Inc. MACTEC Engineering & Consulting Inc. Magic Moments Inc. Maxum Industries LLC Minto Energy Corp.

Mobile Bay Young Professionals LLC/MAYPA NACE International National Vision Center-Walmart Tillman’s Corner OK Bicycle Shop Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy Panera Bread-Airport Boulevard Panera Bread-Eastern Shore Boulevard

Panera Bread-Schillinger Road Pro356 Consulting LLC The Quality Group Inc. Regenerative Medicine Center Regina’s Kitchen Karen Rhodes, NAIFA-Mobile Secure Horizons Shrimp Basket of Old Shell Inc. Karen C. Simmons PC Skyline Gulf Coast LLC Slaton Moving & Warehouse SouthEastern Appraisal Services State Farm Agency Recruiting Supreme Cleaning Inc. Swift Biotechnology TKR Technologies Inc. Trinity Broadcasting Network Value Place Viva Medicare Plus Washington County Business Park wellbornIdeas Wetlands Solutions LLC Wilkins Miller Hieronymus Information Technologies LLC Williams Financial Group LLC World Ventures Dream Trips

Reach 22,200 Decision-Makers EACH Month Advertise in The Business View By advertising in The Business View, you can reach the decision-makers at more than 22,200 area businesses every month plus another 9,300 business professionals who receive it electronically.

The Business View – an easy and economical way to get your company in front of the Mobile area business community.

Contact RenĂŠ Eiland to discover how advertising in The Business View can complete your marketing plan at 251.431.8635 or e-mail reiland@mobilechamber.com. www.mobilechamber.com/view/media_kit.pdf

The Business View | OCTOBER 2011

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STRENGTH IN NUMBERS ...ensures peace of mind.

For Bo Mattei, knowledge is a key component of his business strategy. He relies on Chamber forums, The Business View magazine and The Business View Weekly e-newsletter to see what other businesses are facing and find opportunities to compliment clients who are recognized. As one of 2,200 Chamber members, Bo has access to resources, exposure and networking to help Thames, Batré grow and make it thrive – and with his Chamber membership Bo says, he is prepared for whatever the future may bring.

Bo Mattei Thames Batré Mattei Beville & Ison 46 Employees Founded 1891

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