The Business View - Dec. 2013/Jan. 2014 by Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

DEC. 2013 / JAN. 2014

the

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

VIEW Meet the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Board of Directors

Q&A How the Chamber

Advocates for You

with

Mayor Sandy Stimpson

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

December 2013/January 2014 | CONTENTS

the

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

VIEW 4-6

News You Can Use

7-8

Q&A With Mayor Sandy Stimpson

10-11 How the Chamber Advocates

for You – the Legislative Process

Mobile’s New Councilmen – Joel Daves and Levon Manzie

Small Business of the Month: Parkway Animal Hospital

Cover

Sandy Stimpson was sworn in as Mayor of Mobile on Nov. 4. Get to know Stimpson, who pledges more transparency in local government. See pages 7-8 for the story. Photo by Jeff Tesney Photography.

14-15 The Chamber’s Economic

Development Investors

CEO Profile: Elige Jones

19-22 The Chamber’s 2014 Board

of Directors

Social Media Plus E-mail Marketing Add up to Powerful Results

Jana Stupavsky Named Senior Project Manager

Chamber@Work

Ambassador of the Month: Beth Hill

Business Spotlight of the Month: Blue Cliff Career College of Mobile

Featured Board of Advisors

17 13

28-29 Calendar 31-32 Member News 34

New Members

Anniversaries

the business VIEW is published monthly, except for the combined issue of December/January, by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 451 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602 251-433-6951 www.mobilechamber.com ©2013 Publisher.................................................. William B. Sisson Executive Editor.................................... Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor............................................ Jennifer Jenkins Copy Editor................................................ Michelle Matthews Additional Writers and Editors Shayla Jones Beaco, Katrina Dewrell, Ashley Horn, Patty Howell, Shelly Mattingly, Susan Rak-Blanchard, Carolyn Wilson Printing Services................. Interstate Printing/Direct Mail Graphic Design.........................................Wise Design Inc. Advertising Account Executive....................... René Eiland 251-431-8635 reiland@mobilechamber.com

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

$50

Airbus

Million-Plus

Goes Vertical Company Seeks Additional Suppliers and Hires

in Road and Bridge Projects Awarded in Mobile County

ore than $50 million in 17 road and bridge projects were announced for Mobile County including nine projects in the county, two projects each for the cities of Mobile, Saraland and Satsuma; and one project each for Prichard and Chickasaw. “Gov. Robert Bentley and ALDOT Director John Cooper deserve appreciation and recognition for finding this new source of funding for roads in Alabama,” said Ginny Russell, vice president of community and governmental affairs at the Mobile Area Chamber. “Unfortunately, our infrastructure needs are greater than the funds available.” Funding for these projects comes from the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (ATRIP), established in 2012, and funded by bonds that will be paid with future federal dollars. To qualify for ATRIP funds, local governments must provide a 20 percent match, or participate in the Rural Assistance Match Program (RAMP) – a companion program of ATRIP.

Hiring has begun at Airbus. This group of 10, including six manufacturing engineers, three station managers and one quality manager, will train locally for two months before transitioning to Hamburg, Germany, to train for up to nine months alongside their colleagues in the assembly line organization there. Pictured, left to right, first row, Lindsay Thompson, Linda Taylor-Bethea and Alex Tijerina. Second row, Robert Kincaid, Joe Martin and Stephen Beal. Third row, Jud Newman, Josh Richter, Todd Janes and David Clay.

onstruction of the Airbus Final Assembly Line (FAL) has been underway since its groundbreaking in April, and progress is now visible to passers-by. After months of site work and driving pilings, the first steel column was erected on the site in September. The company continues to hire for the Mobile facility, awarding contracts to local companies. To date, local businesses doing work at the site include: Gulf States Engineering, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors, Hatch Mott MacDonald, Hoar Program

Management, Southern Earth Sciences, Terracon, Thompson Engineering, Walcott Adams Verneuille Architects and Hosea Weaver & Sons. Also involved in the construction are Alabama firms Brasfield & Gorrie LLC, and Covenant Steel. Airbus officials asked the Mobile Area Chamber to continue to spread the word to members that in order to be a vendor for Airbus, companies must be pre-registered. If your business is not registered as an Airbus supplier, go to www.airbus.com/company/ americas/us/alabama/. In the spring, Airbus will begin selecting firms to provide on-site facility management and site services, preparing for its January 2015 operational start. You’ll see this symbol with stories featuring Chamber initiatives.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

According to the Mobile County Commission, local ATRIP projects include:

✧ Completion of resurfacing projects on Beverly

Jeffries Highway and a portion of Prine Road in the Citronelle area;

✧ Resurfacing West and East Coy Smith Highway; ✧ ✧Additional lanes on Schillinger Road, a railroad

overpass bridge and resurfacing from Howells Ferry Road to U.S. Hwy. 98 (Moffett Road);

✧ Grade, drain, base and pave Broad Street from

Michigan Avenue to 15th Street (under construction);

✧ Reconstruction and widening of Broad Street from

15th Street to I-10 (let to contract);

✧ Construction of the I-65 Frontage Road relocation

and roadway improvements on SR-158 in Saraland (under construction);

✧ In the county, six other projects in various stages of

plan preparation, permitting and/or right-of-way acquisition; and

✧ In Prichard, Saraland, Chickasaw and Satsuma, five

other projects in various stages of plan preparation, permitting and/or right-of-way acquisition.

Austal Delivers

Third Ship to U.S. Navy in a Year I

n less than a year Austal USA delivered three ships to the U.S. Navy. The shipbuilder holds $5.1 billion in contracts and recently completed the 127-meter Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Coronado, the second of 12 the company expects to build. Last December, Austal delivered its first Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV) Spearhead, followed by JHSV Choctaw County in June. “The Littoral Combat Ship and Joint High Speed Vessel programs have really helped establish Austal USA as a major player in the shipbuilding industry with both programs making up about 20 percent of the U.S. Navy’s fleet going forward, and has enabled us to grow and develop into the large successful business we are today,” says Craig Perciavalle, president of Austal USA. Seven additional Navy vessels are currently being built. Under the LCS program, the Jackson, expected to launch

at the end of the year, as well as the Montgomery, the Gabrielle Giffords and the Omaha. And under the JHSV program, the USNS Millinocket will be delivered to the Navy later this year, while the Fall River and Trenton are under construction. Mobile Area Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Troy Wayman lauded Austal’s continued growth in the Chamber’s business recruitment efforts. “Austal is an integral member of our international manufacturing family,” he said. “With current employment at more than 3,500 and a plan to ramp up to 4,000 in the very near future, their economic impact on the entire Mobile Bay region is undeniable.” Perciavalle says Austal will have 4,000 employees by “the end of this calendar year, which will generate total wages approaching $200 million per year.” “Austal’s presence on the Mobile riverfront has been transformative, and they are a key player in our attraction of other foreign direct investment as a living example of the success that can be achieved by making Mobile home,” Wayman added.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Area Shipbuilders B

Announce New Maritime Contracts

ayou La Batre shipbuilder Horizon Shipbuilding and the Mobile operation of BAE Systems Shipyards South Alabama recently won new contracts. Horizon will construct a 95-foot towboat for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock district. This is the latest of three contracts for tugboats awarded by the Corps to Horizon. In August, the company delivered the 114-foot George Grugett and last April, the 58-foot General Irwin. The company also won repeat business from Florida Marine Transporters who hired Horizon to build an 80-foot

towboat with an option for two more. Previously, Horizon has built 11 vessels for Florida Marine Transporters. Global oilfield provider Oceaneering International awarded a contract to BAE Systems for a 353-foot, subsea support vessel. The ship will be constructed at the company’s Mobile shipyard, and its amenities include accommodations for 110 personnel and a 250-ton crane. Expected delivery is first quarter of 2016.

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Sandy Stimpson Takes Office as Mayor of “One Mobile”

n November, Sandy Stimpson, a small business owner, community philanthropist and 2010 board chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber, took office as mayor of the city of Mobile, nearly 14 months after he announced his mayoral bid. From his early campaign days pounding the pavement – shaking hands and listening to voters – to his swearing-in ceremony Nov. 4, Stimpson continues to pledge that local government can ‘do better.’ The Business View sat down to talk with Stimpson on a variety of topics to give Chamber members a chance to get to know him a little better.

The Business View: What prompted you to run for office? Stimpson: Over the years people have been asking me to run for political office. I was not interested in going to Montgomery or Washington D.C., and the more I thought about the opportunities ahead for Mobile, the more I thought about running for mayor. I realized we were at a “tipping point” where we had to do things differently than they had been done in the past so that we could really seize the opportunity that had been created for us by Airbus.

TBV: Did your experience with the Chamber have an impact on how you might run the city of Mobile? Stimpson: I think the Chamber experience is invaluable because you come to realize what a great job the Chamber does in economic development, but unless

you are close with the Chamber, you don’t realize it as a citizen. Obviously the things I learned as chairman, the relationships that were created, the vision for Mobile’s economy and other opportunities for the city, has a bearing on what I think needs to be done.

TBV: The Chamber emphasizes a team approach to industry recruiting. Do you think that team approach can be carried over to other areas of city government? Stimpson: Absolutely. What I sense and know is that there are so many people asking “What can I do to help move the city of Mobile forward?” The challenge is going to be taking all that knowledge and energy and channeling it in a way that helps move Mobile forward.

Continued on page 8

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

groups – give them a problem and let them come up with a solution to it. I completely agree with this. We have many opportunities to engage Gen X and Yers about what they want here in Mobile. I think the leadership (for this) has to come out of the mayor’s office. We have to develop the strategy and be more businessfriendly so that it is easier for these generations to start businesses here. Working closer with the University of South Alabama, Spring Hill College, University of Mobile and Bishop State is crucial to achieve many of our goals in this arena in a more timely fashion.

TBV: What can the Chamber’s business owners do to support you and the city of Mobile?

Sandy Stimpson, pictured above, at his official swearing in ceremony at Government Plaza on Nov. 4.

Sandy Stimpson Continued from page 7

TBV: Does the mayor’s office have a 90-day or 180-day plan? Stimpson: In early spring, I will unveil what our plan is going forward. We will have assessed the financial position of the city, and we will know more about the challenges we are facing and what needs to be done to address them. Also in that first 100 days, we will still be putting our administrative team in place and getting them where they understand the function of their various departments.

TBV: So in advance of this rolling out, listening to employees, partners and others will remain a focus? Stimpson: Without a doubt. What we found out (during the campaign) is there are many, many citizens and city employees who want to be heard and to express their concerns and solutions for what can be done to move the city forward. It’s pretty interesting, too, that when talking with city employees, I cannot think of a single time where there has not also been suggested solutions to help us do a better job. I’ve found out, after being in business for almost 40 years, that front-line employees generally have a very good idea of what needs to be done to correct a problem.

TBV: You campaigned with the message “One Mobile.” Do you see this having a life outside of the campaign?

Stimpson: The “One Mobile” movement, is certainly something we will keep as we continue to go forward. “One Mobile” will evolve into its own independent organization that the community can participate in. It will take on an exciting life of its own, and will give every Mobilian an opportunity for their voice to be heard. Too often there is not a clear channel for an individual to connect with their community leaders, be heard, and also receive an actionoriented response. “One Mobile” will have longevity – outside the walls of government – because the only way Mobile can reach its full potential is if we work together. “One Mobile” will be part of the glue that begins to unite this great city.

TBV: What are Mobile’s most significant strengths? Stimpson: I believe our location and our available infrastructure to attract business (are our assets). I think the diversity of the types of businesses we have here are a strength, as well as the work ethics of the citizens here.

TBV: What are our key challenges? Stimpson: Our greatest short-term opportunity is to make sure city government is operating more efficiently. We have to make sure city government is functioning at a higher level with the customer in mind.

TBV: Who is the customer?

TBV: What are Mobile’s top Stimpson: The citizens of Mobile pressing issues? – bottom line. Stimpson: TBV: During Going back to the “The challenge is going your campaign campaign, it’s the to be taking all that you talked about four top issues we knowledge and energy keeping young always talked about professionals in – being a safe city, and channeling it in Mobile. What more businessa way that helps move should be done friendly, more Mobile forward.“ about this, and who family-friendly do you think should and education. There Mayor Sandy Stimpson spearhead this is an excitement and effort? a hope in this community that I Stimpson: Creating an environment haven’t sensed in a long time. (People) and a community where the young people have hope that we will do the things want to return home after college or early necessary to fulfill the vision that has been in their career, and where they can find the cast. quality of life they desire, is right at the top of my list. A recent article I read stated how important it is to engage young people in

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Stimpson: I think it is incumbent for city government to create an environment where small business is comfortable and growing and increasing their investment in Mobile. I don’t think it’s a matter of them doing anything for us, but rather the city of Mobile doing something for them so they are comfortable being in business in Mobile. They will do what they should be doing – growing their business – if we are doing our job.

TBV: Four years from now, how will you look back at the time between now and then? Stimpson: If we are successful at fulfilling the vision we cast in the campaign, people will absolutely feel better about their city. What they should see is a more vibrant and improved downtown. They should see infrastructure improvements that are desperately needed. They’ll see a more interactive and engaging city government. And they’ll see the population of the city is no longer declining. They’ll see the city is once again growing. I am not running for re-election. One may occur, but today I am running with and for the people of Mobile now. Why is that exciting? It’s abnormal in everyday politics. Politics today is about how you get re-elected. That is not my focus. My focus is how to get the job done.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Getting it Done – How the Chamber Creates its Policies, Position Statements and Annual Legislative Agenda The Mobile Area Chamber lobbies at the local, state and federal levels for pro-business legislation impacting the local business community. Be it developing a community legislative agenda to guide advocacy efforts throughout the year or setting a position statement in support of a critical infrastructure, the Chamber has a four-stage process to advocate on issues of importance to its members.

1 Starting with a Challenge Often, a concern or business hurdle is brought to the Chamber’s attention by a member or economic development partner organization. The Chamber’s Governmental Affairs subcommittees (local, state, federal) then meet to concur the issue is widespread and directly impacts local business. Subcommittee members research and discuss possible legislative solutions and can bring in industry representatives and subject matter experts for collaboration.

Example: In 2010 and 2011, businesses across the area saw a sharp rise in the theft of air conditioning units, construction supplies, wiring and anything that allowed for the resale of metal products. The widespread thefts were costing area businesses, utilities, schools, local governments and others significantly in replacement and repair costs.

Example: Chamber volunteers brought together a coalition of business, utilities, heavy industry, law enforcement and legislators to work through a solution to the copper theft problem. Representatives from Mobile Police Department and Mobile County Sheriff’s Office agreed without stricter laws regulating what could be resold for profit, the thefts would continue to increase. Industry pointed out as bordering states tightened its regulations, thefts in Alabama seemed to increase. Once the issue and its best resolution is identified, Governmental Affairs The coalition joined with a larger, state-wide group to subcommittees meet to review input from Chamber members and economic develop new regulatory rules on the sale of metal goods to metal development partners. Annually a survey is sent to Chamber members seeking resellers. To ensure new regulations didn’t hurt the metal input on key business issues impacted by local, state or federal government. industry, the statewide group included input from metal businesses that purchased scrap metal. Ultimately, it was agreed that new laws of identification and sale reporting requirements would serve as the necessary deterrent to rogue criminals targeting metal items and infrastructure throughout the community.

2 Researching the Issue

3 Taking a Position Governmental Affairs Committee members review survey results and economic development partners’ input. The subcommittee members vote on the issues to recommend for inclusion in the Community Legislative Agenda. The agenda is then sent to the Chamber’s executive committee and full board of directors for approval.

Example: On Sept. 28, 2011, the Chamber board of directors approved an action statement to “support legislation establishing more accountability for the sale of metal products to the secondary metal recyclers.”

* If an issue arises after the Legislative Agenda is produced and distributed, the committee will recommend a position statement for Chamber board approval.

4 Advocating for a Solution The final agenda is circulated to area elected officials and formally presented at the legislative lunch before the start of the Alabama legislative session. The Chamber actively advocates on members’ behalf for the passage of items in the agenda. 10 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Example: Governmental Affairs Committee members and the metal thefts coalition worked with members of the Alabama House and Senate to write, sponsor and introduce legislation enacting new regulations. The original Senate bill was incorporated into a House bill and enacted into law in the spring of 2012. Since that time, law enforcement officials and area business owners and operators report a significant reduction in metal thefts.

Below are some results of the legislative survey sent to Mobile Area Chamber members over the summer. Results help create the annual Community Legislative Agenda that will be presented to the local delegation of legislators in January and e-mailed to the entire Chamber membership afterwards.

More than 65 Chamber members make up the Mobile Area Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee. The members are: Committee Chair: Frank J. Lott III, Heritage Homes of Mobile Inc.

2014 Legislative Survey Results

Judith Adams, Alabama State Port Authority Gigi Armbrecht, AT&T Owen Bailey, USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital J. Gavin Bender Sr., Bender Real Estate Group 1. In order to resolve the I-10 Wallace Tunnel congestion, how important is it for the Mobile Area Kent Blackinton, Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel Chamber to support the settled-upon route in order to facilitate the timely design and construction Preston Bolt Jr., Hand Arendall LLC of a new I-10 bridge across Mobile River and the widening of the I-10 Bayway? Dee Dee Bonner, Austal USA Somewhat or Most Important 92% Claude Bumpers, University of Mobile Not Important 8% Joseph F. Busta Jr., University of South Alabama Susie Cleveland, Home Builders Association of Metro Mobile 2. How important is it for the Mobile Area Chamber to help prioritize projects and convene and facilitate Colby Cooper, City of Mobile the discussions of how RESTORE Act monies will be spent in the community? Sam W. Covert Jr., Alabama Power Co. Benjamin P. Cummings, Cummings Architecture Corp. Somewhat or Most Important 84% Scott Delaney, Delaney Development Inc. Not Important 16% Randy Delchamps, Randy Delchamps Real Estate & Development Co. Inc. 3. The Mobile Area Chamber is on record supporting the Alabama State Department of Education’s Jennifer Denson, Partners for Environmental Progress choice to implement Common Core Curriculum in Alabama schools. Should the Mobile Area Chamber Kathryn W. Drey, Jones Walker continue to support a state-wide minimum standard of education? Randall Dueitt, Mobile County Sheriff’s Office Harrietta Eaton, CorroMetrics Services Inc. Yes 81% William J. “Happy” Fulford, University of South Alabama No 19% Thomas S. Gleason Jr., NAI Mobile John Gurene, Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Park/Airport 4. Which of the following tax and revenue issues should be priorities for the Mobile Area Chamber’s Robert E. Hackbarth, Hackbarth Delivery Service Inc. advocacy efforts? Terry H. Harbin, BancorpSouth High Priority Moderate Priority Low Priority Bernard J. Heggeman III, Heggeman Realty Co. Inc. Support the collection of sales tax on all William Steele Holman II, Zieman, Speegle, Jackson & Hoffman LLC 19% 33% 48% Internet sales in Alabama. Charles Jackson Jr., Life + Legacy Benefits Paul W. Klotz, Thompson Engineering Inc. Streamline Alabama’s business licensing system by Charlotte Kopf, Alabama AGC 56% 34% 10% introducing a single, state-wide flat fee license system. Bradford Ladd Jr., Roberts Brothers Commercial & Property Management In place of the current tax appeals system in which Rick Latrace, Johnstone Adams Bailey Gordon and Harris LLC an appeal is reviewed by a judge employed by the Michael B. Lee, Page & Jones Inc. 38% 48% 14% Department of Revenue, create a non-partisan, James K. Lyons, Alabama State Port Authority independent commission to hear taxpayer appeals. Beth Marietta Lyons, Lyons Law Firm Ellen Maxime, Mobile Bay Area Apartment Association Caroline C. McCarthy, Phelps Dunbar LLP 5. Rank the importance of the following items to your business: Very Important Somewhat Not Important This would help my Important This is not Ken McElhaney Jr., State Farm Insurance McElhaney business be more This may help currently affecting Insurance Agency Inc. successful. my business. my business. Jim McIngvale, Ingalls Shipbuilding Lee Metzger, Providence Park Inc. 34% 36% 29% Improve stormwater drainage systems throughout Mobile. Frank F. Millsaps, Millsaps & Associates Inc. More uniformed officers/Increase funding for public safety. 48% 38% 14% Mary Mullins, MPACT Public Affairs Consulting Guy C. Oswalt III, Maynard, Cooper & Gale PC Remove federal financial and recordkeeping burdens 58% 25% 17% D. Scott Posey, ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC on small businesses. Tommy Praytor, Praytor Realty Co. Inc. Sydney Raine, Mobile Works Inc. David W. Reaney, Bay Area Food Bank 6. Would you support a separate, dedicated funding source, such as a utility fee, user fee or percent Andre Reid, Andre Reid & Associates of the sales tax for a specific public initiative? Robert J. Riccio, Hand Arendall LLC Yes 65% Rhett C. Ross, Continental Motors Inc. No 35% Elizabeth S. Sanders, Downtown Mobile Alliance Glenn Sigler, Regions Bank If you answered “yes” above to support a dedicated funding source, please indicate the Charles E. Story, Public Affairs Consulting infrastructure improvements you would support: Carleen Stout, Mobile Airport Authority Bill Tunnell, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park Modernization of stormwater Upkeep and preservation of existing cultural Barry A. Vittor, Barry A. Vittor & Associates Inc. drainage systems. 65% amenities and the arts,such as museums, Chester Vrocher, Alabama Technology Network theatres and historic attractions. 56% David Webber, Volkert Inc. Local match funding to receive more dollars Matt White, White-Spunner Realty Inc. for federal road and bridge projects. 61% Upgrade to local parks and area recreational Donna Wilhelm, Mercy Medical facilities. 56% Patrick J. Wilson, Mobile Bar Pilots LLC Clean-up of local creeks and rivers so they Mary S. Zoghby, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama Inc. can be used and enjoyed safely. 61% Capital investment into new cultural Jeff Zoghby, Mobile Arc attractions and downtown amenities. 54% Thomas A. Zoghby, Volkert Inc.

New civic center or events complex.

27%

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Manzie New District 2 Councilman

Daves New District 5 Councilman Joel Daves was officially sworn in on Nov. 4 as one of the newest members of the Mobile City Council after running unopposed for the District 5 seat. Daves replaces retired City Council president Reggie Copeland. Daves, a graduate of The University of the South at Sewanee, Tenn., Stetson University College of Law in St. Petersburg, Fla., and Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Delaware, ended his 30-year banking career as the South Alabama area president for Regions Bank. In addition to his many years in

banking, Daves also served in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve, retiring as a commander. Remaining active in various community initiatives upon his retirement, Daves served as the 2012 chairman of the Chamber’s economic development campaign, Partners for Growth, and led the Chamber’s total resource campaign, Chamber Chase. Additionally, Daves is immediate past board chairman of United Way of Southwest Alabama and is co-chairman of the Mobile Area Education Foundation’s 80/20 Initiative.

Levon Manzie, former Mobile County school board commissioner, joined the Mobile City Council succeeding William Carroll as the District 2 representative. Manzie was sworn in on Nov. 4. Manzie, a lifelong resident of Mobile, holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Troy University and is currently working toward a master’s degree in public administration. He was elected to the Mobile County Public School System board in 2008. While on the board, Manzie fulfilled two years as vice president and one year as president.

A fourth-generation minister, Manzie is the assistant pastor of the St. Joseph Missionary Baptist Church of Whistler. In addition to years of involvement with various community programs, civic organizations and outreach initiatives, Manzie is a graduate of Leadership Mobile and United Way of Southwest Alabama’s Project BluePrint, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Young Elected Officials Network, Mobile Area Education Foundation board of directors and the Augusta Evans Foundation.

Holiday Harmonies Scott Speck, conductor Pentatonix, a capella artists Saturday, December 14, 8 p.m. Sunday, December 15, 2:30 p.m. Sponsored by:

American Masters: Leonard Bernstein Scott Speck, conductor Adele Anthony, violin Saenger Theatre

Follow the Mobile Symphony!

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12 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Tickets start at $20 Online: mobilesymphony.org Phone: 251-432-2010 In Person: 257 Dauphin Street

Saturday, January 25, 8 p.m. Sunday, January 26, 2:30 p.m. Sponsored by: J.L. Bedsole Foundation Dr. Charles and Mary Rodning

10/15/13 3:37 PM

small business of the month

Parkway Animal Hospital serves furry friends across the Mobile area. The veterinary clinic has a staff of 10. Pictured are: front row, left to right, Beth Young, Lisandra Marrero and April Moore. Back row, left to right, Deona Smith, Tom Willemsen, April Stewart, Susan Fell and Dr. Tom Fell. Not pictured are Dr. Lauren Lackey and Katherine Lipscomb.

Parkway Animal Hospital

Go to mobilechamber.com/award.asp to submit a Small Business of the Month application, or contact Danette Richards at 251-431-8652 or drichards@mobilechamber.com.

Shows Pride in the Parkway

Dr. Tom Fell attributes his career in veterinary medicine to two events. The first was a meeting he attended with his roommate who was a veterinary student at Auburn University, where he saw a demonstration on how to remove an object swallowed by a cow. The other was a friendship with a veterinarian in Greensboro who allowed him to observe clinic cases and farm visits. After a tour in Vietnam, where he served as a Forward Air Controller with the U.S. Air Force, and graduation from Auburn’s School of Veterinary Medicine, Fell came back home to start his practice in 1984. Parkway Animal Hospital, located at 2551 Dauphin Island Parkway, has been there ever since, and Fell believes it’s important to show “Pride in the Parkway.” “There has been a tremendous change in the Dauphin Island Parkway area since the days of my education at B.C. Rain in the early 1960s,” Fell said. “The area at that time was so reliant on Brookley Air Force Base that when the political tides changed and the

base closed, the area began a slow but steady slide into an underserved and non-marketed area that has so much potential. “As many have known, and Mayor (Sandy) Stimpson has recently discovered, this area has it all. Great residents, wonderful ecological diversity and beautiful waterfront with Mobile Bay on the east and Dog River/ Perch Creek on the south and west make this area a desirable place to live. All that is needed is for those that live and work in the area to catch the vision of what it can be and make the commitment to get there.” Fell and his nine employees at Parkway Animal Hospital have sought to do their part by participating in career day at Gilliard Elementary School, hosting rabies clinics to provide funds for the Environmental Studies Center wildlife rehabilitation program, donating items for the Wesley Center animal fundraiser, sponsoring local youth sports teams and supporting the establishment of a Boys & Girls Club in the area. “In any endeavor, whether it be work, sports or improving the parkway, you will

only get out of something whatever you put into it,” Fell said. His business has been run in the same way, providing a caring staff and professional care for pet owners in the area as well as throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties. While medical and pharmaceutical advancements have given veterinarians more tools than ever to combat the common ailments of pets and other animals, Fell said it’s important to remain vigilant. “One of the greatest challenges in veterinary medicine is to not get complacent with the success that is being experienced in the area of preventative care for pets, such as that seen with the effective heartworm and flea and tick control products that are available. We have to stay one step ahead of the diseases that can affect our furry friends, as some of them are zoonotic (transmissible to humans).”

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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Economic Development Investors

Believe in the Future

251-344-6626

Referred for a reason.

very five years, the Mobile Area Chamber, as part of its Partners for Growth economic development initiative, sets defined goals and a program of work to chart a path for growth. Nearly two years ago, under stormy economic clouds, Chamber leadership began to lay the groundwork for a new initiative, “Believe in the Future.” And in only seven months, the campaign goal of $10 million was surpassed thanks to the support of Mobile’s business community.

for giving you more perspective. You’ve seen how far you can go with the right team. So have we. PNC understands that achieving clarity takes the right sets of eyes. It’s why we bring together people with the combination of industry knowledge and local experience that’s right for your business. Because when different perspectives form a unified vision, you can capitalize on all your opportunities. It’s one more way PNC creates a different kind of banking experience with a singular focus — you. For more information, visit pnc.com/ideas or contact Cedric Hatcher, Regional President, at cedric.hatcher@pnc.com. FINANCING ° TREASURY MANAGEMENT ° CAPITAL MARKETS ° M&A ADVISORY ° INTERNATIONAL SERVICES ° INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT PNC and “For the Achiever in You” are registered marks of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”). Banking and lending products and services, bank deposit products, and treasury management products and services are provided by PNC Bank, National Association, a wholly-owned subsidiary of PNC and Member FDIC. Certain banking and lending CIB PDF 0913-088-162308 products and services may require credit approval. ©2013 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

14 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Partners for Growth Investors

Believe in the Future 2013-2017

As of Nov. 1, 2013

The following companies have invested in the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s aggressive and successful economic development program of work, called Partners for Growth – Believe in the Future. Partners for Growth co-chairs are Mike Saxon of Alabama Power Co. and Brian Willman of Regions Bank. Adams and Reese LLP

Cardiology Associates

International Shipholding Corp.

Premier Medical Management Inc.

Airbus Americas Inc.

China Doll Rice & Bean / Dixie Lily Foods

iSAM North America Corp.

Providence Hospital

Aker Solutions

Cintas Corp.

Red Square Agency

Akzo Nobel Functional Chemicals LLC

City of Mobile

Jim Barnes Enterprises Inc. d/b/a McDonald’s Restaurants

al.com/Press-Register

Coastal Bank and Trust

J.L. Bedsole Foundation

Remington College

Alabama Associated General Contractors

Community Bank

Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC

Cooper/T. Smith Corp.

Alabama Power Co. Alabama State Port Authority AltaPointe Health Systems Inc. The American Equity Underwriters Inc. American Express Rep/Springdale Travel Inc. APM Terminals Mobile LLC Arcadis U.S. Arkema Inc. Armbrecht Jackson LLP ASF Logistics Inc. AT&T Austal USA BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards Alabama BancorpSouth Barry A. Vittor & Associates BASF Corp. BB&T BBVA Compass Bank Beard Equipment Co. Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc. Bender Real Estate Group Berg Spiral Pipe Corp. Block USA Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Blue Rents Inc. BMW of Mobile Briskman & Binion PC Budweiser Busch Distributing Co. Inc. Buffalo Rock-Pepsi Burr & Forman LLP Burton Property Group Cabaniss, Johnston, Gardner, Dumas & O’Neal Callis Communications

Continental Motors Inc. Crow Shields & Bailey PC DailyAccess Corp. Delaney Development Inc. DEX Imaging DuPont Crop Protection Evonik Industries ExxonMobil First Community Bank Franklin Primary Health Center Inc. G.A. West & Co. Inc. Goodwyn Mills & Cawood Inc. Grandbridge Real Estate Capital LLC Gulf City Body & Trailer Works Inc. Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Co. Inc. Gulf Distributing Holdings LLC Gulf Electric Co. Inc. of Mobile Gulf States Engineering Gwin’s Commercial Printing Hancock Bank Hand Arendall LLC Hargrove Engineers + Constructors Helmsing, Leach, Herlong, Newman & Rouse Heritage Homes of Mobile Inc. The Hiller Cos.

Joe Bullard Automotive Cos. Johnstone Adams Bailey Gordon and Harris LLC Jones Walker KBR Keith Air Conditioning Inc. Kimberly-Clark Corp. Lawrence & Lawrence PC Leavell Investment Management Inc. Lewis Communications Inc. Life + Legacy Benefits LLB & B Inc. Real Estate Long’s Human Resource Services Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance Agency Inc. Maynard Cooper & Gale PC McDowell Knight Roedder & Sledge LLC Merchants Transfer Co. Mississippi Export Railroad Co. Mitsubishi Polysilicon Mitternight Inc. Mobile Airport Authority Mobile Area Water and Sewer System Mobile County Mobile Gas, a Sempra Company NAI Mobile National Community Development Services

Regions Bank Robert J. Baggett Inc. Roberts Brothers Inc. Russell Thompson Butler & Houston LLP Safe Archives LLC Seabulk Towing Shell Chemical LP/Shell Mobile Site Signal International LLC Smith, Dukes & Buckalew LLP Southern Earth Sciences Southern Light Springhill Medical Center Springhill Toyota/Lexus of Mobile SSAB Americas The SSI Group Inc. ST Aerospace Mobile Inc. Star Aviation T.A. Hall Contractors Inc. Tate & Lyle Sucralose Inc. Taylor-Wharton Cryogenics Tensaw Land & Timber Co. Inc. Thames Batré Insurance Thompson Engineering Inc. Thompson Tractor Co. Inc. ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC Trustmark National Bank U-J Chevrolet Co. Inc.

Norton Lilly International

University of South Alabama Vickers Riis Murray and Curran LLC

Holcim (US) Inc.

Offshore Inland Marine & Oilfield Services Inc.

Volkert Inc.

Horizon Shipbuilding Inc.

Olin Corp.

Ward International Trucks LLC

Hosea O. Weaver & Sons Inc.

The Orthopaedic Group

Wells Fargo

iBERIABANK

Outokumpu Stainless USA

White-Spunner Construction Inc.

Industrial Development Authority of Mobile County

Page & Jones Inc.

White-Spunner Realty Inc.

Industrial Development Board of the City of Mobile

Performance Contractors Inc.

Wilkins Miller Hieronymus LLC

Phelps Dunbar LLP

Willis of Alabama Inc.

PNC Bank

World Omni Financial Corp.

Praxair Inc.

Zieman, Speegle, Jackson & Hoffman LLC

Hoar Program Management

Infirmary Health Information Transport Solutions Inc.

Precision IBC Inc.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

16 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

CEO profile

Elige Jones Company: Mobile Community Action Inc. Title: Executive Director Hometown: Huntsville Education: Jones earned a bachelor’s degree in business education and a master’s degree in business administration, both from Alabama A&M University in Huntsville. First job: Business manager/treasurer at J.F. Drake State Technical College in Huntsville Previous experience: Jones served as vice president of administration and finance for Kaskaskia College of Kaskaskia, Ill., as well as the college’s interim president. Later he was vice president for business and finance at Talladega College in Talladega, Ala. Before taking the job at Mobile Community Action, he was a budget analyst for NASA at its Washington D.C., headquarters. Accomplishments: Jones was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the fourth-highest individual military award and the ninth-highest by order of precedence in the U.S. military, for meritorious service in the combat zone of the Republic of Vietnam, 197071. During his term at Talladega College, he solicited the largest alumni gift of record ($1 million) for the college. Jones is also a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Secrets to success: Humility, compassion and drive. “Remembering that the work I do is bigger than my personal dreams and aspirations, by helping others realize and achieve their dreams,” he said. “And you must really care about the people you work with as well as those you serve. Lastly, I begin with the end in mind.” Brief company description: The nonprofit organization was established in 1966, with the goal of eliminating poverty in the greater Mobile area. Today, Mobile Community Action (MCA) Community Services, located at 461 Donald St., operates 10 community centers and offers a variety of programs to assist needy families in Mobile and Washington counties. Services include early childhood development, education, energy, housing and community services.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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BamaByDistance.ua.edu/mobile 18 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

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[ 2014 Board of Directors ] From taking a stand on legislative issues to supporting Mobile’s business community to recruiting new jobs and capital investment, the Mobile Area Chamber’s board of directors serves as the organization’s governing and policy-making body. The board is comprised of 45 members representing a cross-section of the business community – 37 men and eight women. Approximately 56 percent of the companies represented on the board have fewer than 101 employees; seven employ 1-10 individuals; five employ 11-25; eight employ 26-50, five employ 51-100; and 20 employ more than 100. Of those companies represented on the board, four are listed as minority-owned and four are listed as women-owned. On the following pages are profiles of the Chamber’s 2014 board members.

* Denotes new Board of Advisors.

Denotes Partners for Growth investors.

K.W. Michael Chambers

Michael Banks

Raymond L. Bell Jr.

Leigh Ward Breal

Chairman of the Board Chambers is president and chief executive officer of Swift Biotechnology, a company developing screens for endometrial and ovarian cancer. He received bachelor’s and juris doctorate degrees from The University of Alabama and a doctorate from the University of Geneva in Switzerland. He was a Rotary Ambassadorial Fellow and a Swiss Confederation Fellow. Chambers helped establish InnoRx Pharmaceuticals, where he served as president and CEO until negotiating its sale and merger into SurModics. He serves on the board of directors of ProUroCare and GeneCapture and InQ Biosystems. He was selected to serve on then-Gov. Bob Riley’s team to create the Alabama Science & Technology Roadmap. Chambers is also “Of Counsel” to the law firm of Cabaniss, Johnston, Gardner, Dumas & O’Neal.

Banks is president of B & C Trucking LLC. Born in Tampa, Fla., he grew up in Mobile. He graduated from the University of South Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Banks served as a quality manager working for KBR during Operation Iraqi Freedom. B & C Trucking was formed in 2006 and hauls nonhazardous tanker freight throughout the United States.

Bell, managing partner for Bell Law Firm PC, practices civil litigation and criminal law, and is a registered mediator with the State of Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution. He also serves as a special district court judge in the 13th Judicial Circuit, and as a criminal justice act panel attorney in the U.S. Court for the Southern District of Alabama. He graduated from the University of Montevallo and the Jones School of Law. He is a member of the Mobile and Vernon C. Crawford Bar Associations. Bell is a past chair, vice chair and member of the Alabama Ethics Commission. He works with multiple agencies and boards, including Goodwill Easter Seals and the Boys and Girls Club and is a volunteer youth coach.

Breal is owner of Ward International Trucks LLC, with dealerships in Mobile, Pensacola and Tallahassee, Fla. She graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi and joined the company’s service department, later moving into sales, where she was recognized with the International’s Diamond Club award. She graduated from the National Automobile Dealers Association NADA/ATD Dealer Candidate Academy. She serves on the finance committee for the Alabama Trucking Association and is a member of the University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Foundation board of directors. Breal is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Steven D. Carey

W. Lance Covan

J. Kenny Crow Jr.

Military Affairs Vice Chair Carey is owner of CertaPro Painters of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. He retired in 2007 as the commandant of the College of Aerospace Doctrine, Research and Education, and the vice commander, Air Force Doctrine Center, Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the U.S. Air Force Academy, and a master’s degree in business administration from Golden Gate University. He also serves the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce and is president of the South Alabama Air Force Association.

Economic Development Vice Chair Covan, a Mobile native, is chairman of Mitternight Inc. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Alabama and completed a postgraduate program at Sichuan Union University in Chengdu, China. He speaks Mandarin Chinese, and is involved in various nonprofit and for-profit ventures in Asia. He is a member of the Young Presidents Organization and serves on boards for several organizations including PathNorth in Washington D.C., The University of Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute advisory board and Mobile’s Senior Bowl committee. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Membership Vice Chair Crow is managing shareholder in Crow Shields & Bailey PC. He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. He is a member of the American Institute, Alabama Society and local chapter of Certified Public Accountants. Crow’s civic involvements include the Senior Bowl committee, Distinguished Young Women Foundation board, Ronald McDonald House of Mobile, McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Foundation board and Stadium board, the UA Capstone Council, University of South Alabama Gift Council and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Charles W. Daniels Jr. *

Daniels is a commercial litigator with a heavy emphasis in construction at Burr & Forman LLP. After graduating from Birmingham-Southern College, he served for five years as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army. He is also a graduate of Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. He is a member of the Alabama State Bar, American Bar Association, Defense Research Institute, International Association of Defense Counsel and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

[ 2014 Board of Directors ] Daniel A. Dennis IV Governmental Affairs Vice Chair Before moving into his current role as president of Roberts Brothers Inc., Dennis served as director of business development, provided legal counsel and served as a liaison with Roberts Brothers’ parent company, HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. He was corporate counsel for The Merrill Trust, a real estate investment and asset management company based in Atlanta. Dennis earned a juris doctorate from Cumberland School of Law, as well as a master’s degree in real property development from the University of Miami School of Law. Dennis is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Walter S.F. Dickerson

Christian Dohr

Larry C. Dorsey

Dickerson is president of Diversified Emergency Management Associates LLC. He is a retired Marine Corps officer with 22 years of distinguished service. He is past president of the Alabama Association of Emergency Managers and the Gulf Coast Chapter of Society for Logistics Engineers. He is a member of the International Association of Emergency Managers and the Port City Chapter of Blacks in Government. Dickerson is involved in numerous community activities, including the Boys and Girls Club of South Alabama, Mobile Area Retired Military Officers Association, 100 Black Men of Greater Mobile, Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association and the Montford Point Marine Corps Association.

Dohr is president and CEO of ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC. Dohr has more than 10 years of senior management experience with ThyssenKrupp in Europe and the U.S. Over the course of his ThyssenKrupp career, he has organized and supervised similar plants in Italy, Sweden, Turkey and Mexico. He has a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Stuttgart, Germany. He is the recipient of the ThyssenKrupp Award for Innovation for his work leading to a new and innovative product the company launched in Europe and NAFTA. Dohr is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Minority Business Vice Chair Dorsey is president and CEO of Dorsey & Dorsey Engineering Inc. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The University of Alabama, after completing pre-engineering studies at Troy State University. Dorsey is a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Chamber’s board of advisors and the Society of America Military Engineers, and is registered as a professional engineer in the State of Alabama. During his career, Dorsey has worked with the Alabama Department of Transportation, the Alabama Department of Industrial Relations and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He is also an ordained minister and serves as pastor of the Jesus the Light of Love Church in Mobile.

James M. Fine

Harrietta Eaton

Mark Fillers

Eaton is CEO for CorroMetrics Services Inc. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from the University of Montevallo, and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Alabama. She was director of administration for the city of Pascagoula during Hurricane Katrina. She is the first Alabama native elected vice chair of public affairs for National Association of Corrosion Engineers International. CorroMetrics was named Mobile Area Chamber’s 2010 Small Business of the Year.

Fillers is South Alabama market president for BBVA Bank. He received a bachelor’s degree in business management from The University of Alabama and a master’s degree in business administration from Auburn University. Fillers is a graduate of Leadership Mobile. He is on the board of directors of United Way of Southwest Alabama and Boy Scouts of America. He is a previous member of the finance committee of Dauphin Way United Methodist Church. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Fine is president of Mobile Gas, a Sempra Company. His previous employment with Centerpoint Energy spanned 23 years, culminating as division vice president of Mississippi Gas. He received a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering from Texas Tech University. He has been a licensed professional engineer in Texas since 1988. He has also completed the Louisiana State University Executive Program. Fine is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Communications and Marketing Vice Chair Freeman is vice president and co-owner of Long’s Human Resource Services. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in human and organizational development. She chairs the USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital advisory council and is on the board of directors for United Way of Southwest Alabama, UMS-Wright and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Russell Golson *

Daniel Jason Gregory *

Perry A. Hand

Victor Gaston Gaston, speaker pro tempore of the Alabama House of Representatives, received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, a master’s degree from the University of South Alabama, and doctorate from Auburn University. He serves on the House Rules, Ways and Means, General Fund, Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure, and Mobile County Legislative committees. He also serves on the Legislative Council, United States Energy Council, and is chairman of the Permanent Oil and Gas Study committee. He is on the boards of Volunteers of America, Penelope House, Home of Grace for Women, 4-H Club Foundation, AltaPointe and Mobile Arc.

Golson is the operations superintendent at ExxonMobil in Theodore. He received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Louisiana Tech University in 1979. He has been employed by Mobil Oil since 1980 and has worked in Louisiana, Texas, Nigeria and Italy prior to coming to Mobile. Golson is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

20 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Gregory joined Willis of Alabama Inc. in 2003 as a producer and client advocate. In 2010, he was promoted to managing partner of the Mobile operations. Gregory received a bachelor’s degree in education from The University of Alabama and a master’s degree in business administration from Spring Hill College. He holds the professional designation of Certified Insurance Counselor, and is a graduate of Leadership Mobile and Leadership Alabama. He is on the board of directors for the YMCA of South Alabama, is a “Big Brother” for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama and is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Elizabeth Freeman *

Hand is president, CEO and chairman of the board for Volkert Inc. He received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Auburn University. He founded and managed his own engineering and surveying company from 1970 until 1989, when he became Alabama’s Secretary of State. He later served as Alabama highway director, and served two terms in the Alabama State Senate. He returned to Volkert in 1993, and was named to his present post. He is a licensed professional engineer in eight states and was recently elected to the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame board of directors. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

[ 2014 Board of Directors ] Charles E. Hyland Jr. *

Hyland is the director of the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS). He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Alabama. He is also a graduate of the American Water Works Association Utility Management Institute. He has worked at MAWSS for 25 years in a variety of positions before becoming director in March 2013. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Elliot B. Maisel Maisel, chairman of Gulf Distributing Holdings LLC, earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Alabama. He is a member of the board of directors of the Congregation Ahavas Chesed, the Country Club of Mobile and Elk Creek Ranch. His many civic involvements have included the Rotary Club, Leadership Mobile, Senior Bowl and the American Cancer Society. Maisel has served on the boards of Alabama A & M University, Mobile Jewish Welfare Fund, American Heart Association, The Salvation Army, Gulf Coast Exploreum, Prichard Economic and Community Development Corp., the University of South Alabama Athletic Department’s President’s Club and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Loka Mistretta Workforce Development Vice Chair Mistretta is general manager for Cintas Corp. The New Orleans native has a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in strategic management from The University of Alabama. Mistretta is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Michael Lapeyrouse *

Lapeyrouse is president and CEO of The American Equity Underwriters Inc., an AmWins Group Company. Prior to joining Cooper/T. Smith Corp., he practiced law with the Mobile firm Armbrecht Jackson. Lapeyrouse is a member of the Mobile Bar Association and Alabama State Bar Association. He serves on the boards of the Harleysville Mutual Insurance Co., St. Paul’s Episcopal School, Big Brothers Big Sisters, as well as the American Longshore Mutual Association.

Frank Lott III

James M. Lyons

Chair-Elect of the Board Finance & Operations Vice Chair Lott is president of Heritage Homes of Mobile Inc., a scatter-lot builder of homes throughout Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, with offices in Mobile, Pensacola, Gulfport and Tuscaloosa. Lott graduated from The University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He currently serves on the boards of UMS-Wright Preparatory School, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Mobile, Goodwill Easter Seals and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Lyons is president and CEO of The SSI Group Inc. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and economics from the University of South Alabama and is a certified public accountant. He is on the board of Southern Light LLC, St. Luke’s Episcopal School, the advisory board for the School of Computing of the University of South Alabama, the Child Advocacy Center, the Chamber’s board of advisors and the past chair of the American Red Cross, Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter.

Keith J. Manwaring

Latitia D. McCane

Manwaring is district director for LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Inc. A native of South Africa, he originally came to Mobile from Australia to work with Integrity Media. He retired as president of Integrity International Group after 15 years overseeing its global expansion and operations in more than 160 countries. Manwaring majored in financial management, and later studied international contract negotiations and conflict resolution at Harvard Business School’s Executive Education Program. He currently serves on the boards of several nonprofits and is a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

McCane is dean of academic services for Bishop State Community College. Prior to working at Bishop State, McCane was the associate dean of instruction at Jefferson Davis Community College. She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Alabama State University through the Minority Biomedical Research Support Program. She was the recipient of the Patricia Harris Fellowship at Texas Southern University where she earned a master’s degree in organic chemistry and a fellowship recipient at the University of Alabama where she earned a second master’s degree in organic chemistry. She earned a doctorate from Lacrosse University in education administration.

McCreary is vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards. McCreary has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the University of Michigan. He is a member of several marine organizations including the Navy League, Society of Naval Engineers, American Bureau of Shipping and the U.S. Coast Guard Foundation. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

James B. Newman

D. Mark Nix

Legal Counsel Vice Chair Newman is managing partner with Helmsing Leach Herlong Newman & Rouse. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor’s degree and served in the U.S. Navy before returning to Cumberland School of Law, where he earned a law degree. He is a member of the Mobile and American Bar Associations, and is a member of the Paul W. Brock Chapter of the American Inns of Court. He is past chancellor of the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast, past chairman of Wilmer Hall and the Mobile Mental Health Center, and is chairman of the Cawthon Foundation.

Laurie Owen *

Nix serves as president and CEO of Infirmary Health System based in Mobile. He graduated from the The University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He obtained the certified public accounting designation in 1981 and practiced public accounting before joining a real estate development and management company. He serves on the board of directors of Mobile Arts and Sports Association, Regions Bank - South Alabama, UMS-Wright Preparatory School, Leadership Alabama, VHWSoutheast, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, Mobile Infirmary Association and Infirmary Health System. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Richard T. McCreary

Owen is associate director of basic and translational science at USA’s Mitchell Cancer Institute. She earned a doctorate in microbiology and immunology at the University of Oklahoma and completed postdoctoral work at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. She holds four patents related to the development of novel cancer therapeutics forming the basis for a spin-out biotechnology company that became a publicly traded company. Owen is a member of the Alabama Science and Technology Roadmap, the Alabama Innovation Council and the Gulf Coast Angel Network Technical Advisory Council for Biotechnology. She is a board member for the Melton Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, BioAlabama and the American Cancer Society (Mid-South region).

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

[ 2014 Board of Directors ] Craig Perciavalle *

Perciavalle is president of Austal USA, a whollyowned subsidiary of the Australian shipbuilding company, Austal Limited. Austal USA is America’s largest aluminum shipbuilding company. He joined Austal USA in 2007 from Jeffboat Inc., where he was the director of quality control, program management and production control. Currently he serves as an executive control board member of the National Shipbuilding and Research Program. He is a graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, N.Y., with a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering systems. He served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Travis R. Short Small Business Development Vice Chair Short is president of Horizon Shipbuilding Inc. He is a graduate of the University of South Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He has 25 years of experience in the marine industry and has held positions including plant manager, operations manager and production manager. He serves on the board of directors of the Bayou La Batre Area Chamber of Commerce, and chairs the advisory council of the Alabama Industrial Development Training’s Maritime Training Center.

Lee Michael Walters *

Walters is a professional wetland scientist and regional vice president with of Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood. Walters received a bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences from Auburn University. He is a member of the Society of Wetland Scientists and is one of only 11 current professional wetland scientists in Alabama. Walters currently serves on the board for Alabama Coastal Foundation, Alabama Clean Water Partnership Steering Committee, Mobile Bay National Estuary Program project implementation committee and the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Mark Quenneville Quenneville is president of Aker Solutions Umbilicals North America. A native of Ontario, Canada, he received his formal education in chemistry from St. Lawrence College/Ottawa University. Quenneville joined Aker Solutions as part of the start-up team for its new facility in Mobile and soon became vice president of operations. After a two-year temporary transfer to Aker Solutions’ corporate headquarters in Oslo, Norway, he returned to Mobile to lead the local facility. Quenneville is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

William B. Sisson *

President and CEO Sisson is president and CEO of the Mobile Area Chamber. Sisson earned a master’s degree in business administration from The University of Alabama and a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. He is a graduate of Leadership Mobile and Leadership Alabama. He also serves on the boards of the UMS-Wright School and the University of South Alabama Real Estate advisory board.

Donna J. Watts *

Watts is store manager for Belk, Bel Air Mall. She graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Watts has been in retail management for 36 years with Gayfers, McRae’s and Belk. She is a past member of the Distinguished Young Women’s board of directors, and served on the Envision Coastal Alabama education and equity committees.

22 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Rhett Ross *

Ross is president and a member of the board of directors of Continental Motors Inc. Ross holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Florida. His 25-year career encompasses a wide range of management experience in basic research, product development and manufacturing operations in the nuclear power, industrial gases, fuel cell and general aviation market sectors. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

R. Michael Saxon Immediate Past Chair Saxon is Mobile Division vice president for Alabama Power Co. He received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of West Florida, and a master’s in business administration from Troy University. In 2003 he was named region manager of Georgia Power, and in 2005 became Southeast Division vice president for Alabama Power. He is on the United Way of Southwest Alabama board of trustees and was the 2012 United Way campaign chairman. He serves on the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science Foundation, the industrial advisory board of the University of South Alabama, GulfQuest board of trustees, Regions Bank South Alabama area advisory board, the Chamber’s board of advisors and is co-chair for Partners for Growth.

Beth Stafford

Michael Wallis

Stafford is president and owner of Stafford & Associates Inc. She graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a double minor in mass communications. She has served in a variety of offices for nonprofits, community and civic organizations. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Mobile and is a Paul Harris Fellow. She is a member of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, the Southern Public Relations Federation and the American Advertising Federation.

Wallis is CEO of Outokumpu Stainless USA. He has 30 years of general management experience in the stainless steel and aluminum industries across Europe and North America. He began his career with British Steel. Shifting to the aluminum industry in 1986, his career spanned aerospace, can sheet and automotive products for clients such as Airbus, Boeing, Ford, GM and Coca-Cola. Most recently, he managed the P&L for Alcoa’s $6 billion aluminum rolling business across three continents. Wallis is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors.

Brian R. Willman Willman is executive vice president and South Alabama and Florida Panhandle area president for Regions Bank. Prior to assuming his current position in 2012, Willman served as community banking executive for the Georgia and South Carolina markets for Regions. Willman received his bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is also a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors and serves as co-chair for Partners for Growth.

Patrick J. Wilson *

Wilson is state pilotage commissioner, appointed by Gov. Robert Bentley in 2012. He is past president of Mobile Bar Pilots, a position he relinquished in order to serve as commissioner. He is a graduate of The University of Alabama with degrees in communications and business. He is past-president of the Propeller Club of Mobile and the Coastal Conservation Association, and serves on the boards of Dauphin Island Sea Lab, GulfQuest Museum and the Seamen’s Foundation. Wilson is a member of the Business Council of Alabama and its Progress PAC and Regional Area Committee. Wilson is a member of the Chamber’s board of advisors and its governmental affairs committee.

Social Media Plus E-Mail

Marketing Adds Up to Powerful Results Blogs, Facebook, Twitter and other social media channels are rapidly gaining popularity among small business owners as a means for connecting with current and prospective customers. In fact, approximately 75 percent of small businesses have at least a page on a social networking site, according to Social Media Today, an online community of public relations, advertising and marketing professionals. But don’t let social media overshadow other equally valuable options in your marketing toolbox. Each has its own advantages and features for effectively getting the word out about your products, services and expertise. And when combined with social media, the results can be even more powerful. For example, e-mail marketing has the highest return on investment of all marketing tactics – about $40 for every dollar invested, according to Jeanne Rossomme, president of RoadMap Marketing in Washington D.C. Digital and physical communications integrator Pitney Bowes also reports that more than twothirds of all small businesses currently do some type of e-mail marketing (e.g., newsletters, press releases, announcements, coupons, etc.). So what happens when you integrate social media with e-mail marketing? A great deal, says Rossomme. “By posting interesting content nuggets and links through your social media channels you can allow this content to spread beyond your e-mail lists,” she explains. “Customers, fans and friends can pass on this information to their networks.

And these links are actually stronger since they come as an independent referral, rather than a perceived ‘marketing message’ from you.” As with any other form of social mediabased marketing communication, content is key. Providing relevant, engaging content attracts both customers and prospects, enticing them to read on and learn more about your business – especially when you have conveniently and appropriately placed links to get them there. In other words, you can count on investing time and energy in creating email newsletters with interesting articles, polls, stories and even videos. But the effort is well worth it. “Wouldn’t you like to get even more reach and more interest with that same content?” asks Rossomme. You can familiarize yourself with the social media/e-mail marketing approach by studying other small businesses, both similar to yours and outside your industry. “Social media plays to small business strengths; as owners you are personally connected to and constantly interacting with clients,” Rossomme explains. But also best-in-class larger companies may provide some ideas for content you can tailor to your customers, as well as marketing ideas such as contests and incentives. See page 28 for details on the Mobile Area Chamber’s upcoming workshops “Hands-On: Getting Started with E-mail Marketing.” Contact the Mobile SCORE chapter, housed at the Mobile Area Chamber for free and confidential counseling at 251-431-8614, or visit online at www.mobile.score.org.

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Chamber Hires Stupavsky as Senior Project Manager With experience in assets for the Chamber. industrial marketing and She has a superb eye for economic development detail and will strengthen and the ability to speak the look and quality of six languages, Jana the responses we provide Stupavsky has filled the to our prospects.” position of senior project “I feel privileged to manager in the Mobile serve the business Area Chamber’s economic community in this era development department. when people are so In her previous role excited about Mobile,” with the Mobile Airport added Stupavsky. “And Stupavsky Authority and later as a if we serve the business consultant, Stupavsky worked with the community well, then it serves the entire Chamber on several aerospace projects, community.” including Airbus and its bid for the U.S. Air A native of Slovakia, Stupavsky received Force tanker project, and 2013 Leaders’ a basketball scholarship to the University Exchange to Hamburg, Germany. of South Alabama, where she earned a In Stupavsky’s new role at the Chamber, bachelor’s degree in marketing and her primary focus will be aerospace and international business and a master’s European business development. degree in business administration. In “Jana brings a wealth of experience to addition to English, she speaks Czech, our team,” said Chamber Vice President of Croatian, German, Slovak and Swedish. Economic Development Troy Wayman. Stupavsky can be reached at “Her experience and familiarity with the jstupavsky@mobilechamber.com Airport Authority and aerospace industry, or 251-431-8616. combined with her language skills and international expertise, will be outstanding

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24 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Chamber@work Publicity for OffshoreAlabama.com OffshoreAlabama.com, the Chamber’s task force for the oil and gas industry, was featured in Alabama Seaport magazine. The article described how OffshoreAlabama.com joined with 10 area companies to exhibit at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, the world’s leading industry event. The Chamber and other area industry leaders participated in OTC to expand the area’s offshore oil and gas industry. In addition, Business Alabama magazine featured Alabama’s Gulf Coast offshore oil and gas industry in the July edition in a story titled “Think Money: Five Great Ideas Out of Alabama That Made Big Bucks.” The article explained the economic benefit to Alabama of jobs, payroll and the taxes generated for the Alabama Trust Fund. Health Occupations Career Fair Set Planning has begun for the 11th Annual Health Occupations Career Fair, a project of the Bay Area Healthcare Coalition and the Chamber. It is scheduled for Feb. 5-6, 2014. The event will host approximately 1,000

Baldwin and Mobile county high school students who have expressed and demonstrated a strong desire to enter the healthcare profession. Wayman Participates in Leadership Mobile Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Troy Wayman was selected to participate in Leadership Mobile’s Class of 2014. Wayman Marketing the Chamber’s New President In advance of Chamber President and CEO Bill Sisson’s first day of work, the Chamber hosted a video series called “20 Questions with Bill Sisson.” It ran on the Chamber’s YouTube channel and was cross-promoted on its Facebook page. In addition to Sisson’s plans and goals for the Chamber, the package featured a few fun facts and “get-to-know you” questions to help members learn more about the new leader. To view all of the series, go to www. youtube.com/MobileChamber.

Chamber Names New Board of Advisors New Board of Advisors are American Tank & Vessel Inc., BancorpSouth Insurance Services Inc., Bender Real Estate Group, BMW of Mobile, Brasfield & Gorrie LLC, Coastal HR Inc., Dorsey & Dorsey Engineering Inc., Equity Technologies Corp., Gulf Fasteners, JubileeScape Inc., Keith Mosley Construction Inc., Marine Well Containment Co., Meador Warehousing & Distribution, OEC, S and M Transportation Inc., Safety Plus, Sanders Hyland Corp., STC, USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Vance McCown Construction Co. Inc., Wal-Tech Valve Inc. and Wesco Gas & Welding Supply Inc. The total number of members on the Board of Advisors is now 249. To learn more about this exclusive group of members, contact Katrina Dewrell at 251-431-8611.

in the survey. With its association with high-profile project Airbus, the Chamber made strides in how the organization is perceived, and results offer the Chamber feedback on its programs and messaging. Chamber Participates in Member Grand Openings and Ribbon Cuttings Greer’s CashSaver Cost Plus (Cottage Hill Road), Greer’s CashSaver Cost Plus (Springhill Avenue), Sawgrass Consulting, The Center for Family and Community Development and Turner Industries recently held grand openings and ribbon cuttings. If your business is a member and you would like assistance with planning a grand opening or ribbon cutting event, contact Dawn Rencher at 251-431-8649 or drencher@mobilechamber.com.

Benchmarking Chamber Progress This past summer, the Chamber finalized its bi-annual benchmark survey, conducted by New South Research. Both members and non-members participated

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Ambassador of the Month

Hill Beth Hill, the Mobile Area Chamber’s Ambassador of the Month, joined the Mobile Area Chamber’s ambassador program in June 2012 to meet and work with a wide variety of business owners in the area. As a producer with Thames Batré Insurance, Hill helps businesses and individuals find efficient solutions to protect their assets. Originally from Decatur, she now calls the Mobile Bay area home. Ambassadors are volunteers working for Mobile Area Chamber member businesses. They support the Chamber by visiting members, assisting with event registrations and participating in Chamber Chase. To learn more about this program, contact Dawn Rencher at 251-431-8649 or drencher@ mobilechamber.com.

26 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Business Spotlight of the Month: Blue Cliff Career College of Mobile Blue Cliff Career College of Mobile provides career training in the fields of massage therapy, cosmetology and aesthetics. Its mission is to facilitate professional preparation, professional development and responsibility through academic studies, diligent practice and community involvement. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Founded in 1997 by owner Richard Denney (pictured), Blue Cliff is located 2970 Cottage Hill Rd., Ste. 175. For more information, go to www.blue.edu, or call 251-473-2220. The Business Spotlight of the Month is selected at random from a business card drawing at the Chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event.

Featured Board of Advisors John Strid is senior project manager

for Brasfield & Gorrie LLC. The company is currently leading construction of the $23.2 million Airbus Central Utility Plant at Brookley Aeroplex, where Strid is responsible for all aspects of project management. His recent experience includes the 382-foot lift span replacement at Galveston Railway Bridge in Texas and major manufacturing and balancing equipment for Alstom and its turbine manufacturing facility in Tennessee. Strid earned a bachelor’s degree in Strid building science from the University of Florida’s Rinker School of Building Science. He is 30-hour OSHA certified, U.S. Corps of Engineers Construction Quality Management (CQM) certified, and is a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professional.

thames

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T. Bragg Van Antwerp Jr. is an investment counselor with Mitchell McLeod Pugh & Williams Inc. Van Antwerp attended the University of Virginia, where he received a bachelor’s degree in government. He began his career in the financial services industry at Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. in New York City, where he was promoted to vice president in 2003. He moved to Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. LLC, also in New York, where he continued Van Antwerp to work in equity sales and trading before ultimately assuming relationship management responsibilities for a diverse group of institutional clients. He was named a director at Bernstein in 2011. He serves on the board of the Mobile Carnival Museum and on the Floral Parade Committee of the Mobile Carnival Association. J. Dirk Young is president and chief executive officer of Hurricane Electronics. He earned an associate’s degree in safety engineering from International Correspondence Schools. Previously, Young was manager of national public safety markets at Harris Corp. He has more than 20 years of public safety experience, serving 11 years as a firefighter, with a total of 10 years of experience as a paramedic and Young flight paramedic. From 1992 to 1997, Young was executive director of Mobile County Emergency Management Services, where he implemented the first EMS system for rural Mobile County. Mobile County EMS was also the first dispatch center to implement a priority dispatch solution in southwest Alabama. From 1997 to 2006, Young worked in the public safety software market for computer-aided dispatch and record management software/Mobile Data vendors, including Intergraph, Tiburon and SunGard OSSI.

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For more information about the Chamber’s board of advisors, contact Katrina Dewrell at 251-431-8611 or kdewrell@mobilechamber.com.

251.968.4322

W W W. T H A M E S B AT R E . C O M

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Calendar

DECEMBER 2013

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

MEMBERSHIP 101

When & Where: 8 to 9 a.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Contact: Kelly Navarro at 251-431-8638 or knavarro@mobilechamber.com

Women’s roundtable

*Members Only

When & Where: 8 to 9 a.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: Laura Armstrong, dietician, Springhill Medical Center Topic: “Eating Healthy for the Holidays” Contact: Kelly Navarro at 251-431-8638 or knavarro@mobilechamber.com No charge, but seating is limited. Reservations are requested. Sponsor:

GCTC ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET

A bi-monthly lunch hosted by the Gulf Coast Technology Council

HOW exports create jobs: A conversation with greg canfield Learn how exporting creates jobs and gain knowledge of the resources that can help you achieve global success. Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce will lead this informative trade discussion, followed by an optional tour of the AIDT Maritime Training Center.

Tax strategies for exporters The Mobile Area Chamber and the Alabama International Trade Center will present this educational workshop on the tax benefits offered to exporters under the IRS program for the Interest Charge Domestic International Sales Corp. (IC-DISC). Presenters Edward K. Dwyer CPA MS-Tax and Alex McGowin MS-Tax will offer insight on this valuable money-saving tax vehicle.

When & Where: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Contact: Christina Stimpson at 251-431-8648 or cstimpson@mobilechamber.com or http://aitc.ua.edu/ic-disc No charge, but seating is limited. Advance registrations are requested. Two continuing education (CEU) credits will be offered pending approval and a boxed lunch will be served.

*Members Only

A monthly forum for Chamber member small business owners and managers

When & Where: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. – AIDT Maritime Training Center, 360 Addsco Rd. Contact: Christina Stimpson at 251-431-8648 or cstimpson@mobilechamber.com No charge, but seating is limited. Advance reservations are required and a light breakfast will be served.

When & Where: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl Topic: Opportunities for Our Citizens Cost: $20 for Chamber members, $25 potential members, includes lunch Contact: Emily McGrath at 251-431-8651 or emcgrath@mobilechamber.com Payment due with reservation. Cancellations after Dec. 6 will not be reimbursed to cover the cost of lunch. Sponsor:

executive roundtable

When & Where: 8 to 9 a.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: Bill Sisson, Mobile Area Chamber president and CEO Topic: Update on Chamber programs and initiatives Contact: Brenda Rembert at 251-431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber.com No charge, but seating is limited. Sponsor:

A bi-monthly forum for Chamber member women business owners and managers.

No charge, but seating is limited. Reservations are requested.

Come meet other members and Chamber staff to learn more about the benefits of Chamber membership.

CONSTANT CONTACT: E-MAIL MARKETING Use your own laptop (no iPads or tablets) and your own e-mail marketing account to apply tips and techniques to build your e-mail marketing campaign.

When & Where: Two sessions to choose from – 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

or 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St.

Cost: $89 for Chamber members, $99 potential members Contact: 8:30 a.m. – http://conta.cc/1gpI9KV

1:30 p.m. – http://conta.cc/GMH8iV Advance reservations are required and only online registrations are accepted.

24-25 & 31

chamber closed

CONNECT with the Chamber Like us. facebook.com/MobileChamber

28 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Join us. linkedin.com Group - Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

Watch us. youtube.com/MobileChamber

JANUARY 2014

1 & 20 8

Networking@Noon

chamber closed

When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Where: Navigator Credit Union, 1950 Government St. Cost: $5 for members, $10 potential members Contact: Kelly Navarro at 251-431-8638

*Members Only

Make 40-plus business contacts in 90 minutes over lunch.

When: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Cost: $10 and must be paid with reservation Contact: Kelly Navarro at 251-431-8638 or knavarro@mobilechamber.com Sponsor:

or knavarro@mobilechamber.com Reservations are not needed. Sponsor:

executive roundtable

*Members Only

A monthly forum for Chamber member small business owners and managers

When: 8 to 9 a.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: Dean Parker, president and CEO of Callis Communications Topic: The advancements in telecom and IT for businesses and how unified communications can impact and enhance your business. Contact: Brenda Rembert at 251-431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber.com Sponsor:

Doggie Daycare • Pet Sitting • Boarding At Doggie Daycare endless play with a nap at mid-day.Your pet comes home clean with their nails done. Or let us Dog Walk or Pet Sit! Our excellent services will ease your mind so you can stay focused at work and enjoy your travels while you are away.

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The event program includes introducing the Chamber’s 2014 chairman of the board, looking back at the area’s accomplishments and acknowledging local businesses’ contributions. The evening concludes with the area’s largest networking reception featuring 15 restaurants and caterers showcasing their culinary masterpieces.

When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Where: Mobile Civic Center Cost: $50 each for Chamber members or $485 for a group of 10 tickets

Program Sponsors: Alabama Power Co.; Austal USA; BB&T; Burr &

Forman LLP; Callis Communications, ExxonMobil; Hancock Bank; H.H. Jordan Construction Co. Inc.; Infirmary Health; Meyer Vacation Rentals/ CENTURY 21 Meyer Real Estate; Mobile Airport Authority; Mobile Gas, a Sempra Co.; Phelps Dunbar LLP; Russell Thompson Butler & Houston CPA; Southern Earth Sciences; ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC; and the University of South Alabama.

critical issues affecting your small business *Members Only

DOggie Daycare

177th Annual meeting

(Chamber members only) or $60 each for potential members Contact: Carolyn Wilson at 251-431-8606 or cwilson@mobilechamber.com Payment is due at time of reservation. Cancellations after Jan. 24 will not be reimbursed. Presenting Sponsor:

DOg WalkS

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Local attorneys and small business experts in a variety of areas will present and give critical information for local small business owners and managers.

When: 1 to 5 p.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Contact: Brenda Rembert at 251-431-8607

or brembert@mobilechamber.com No charge to attend, but seating is limited. Reservations are requested. Sponsor:

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Member News Who’s New E-worc Web & New Media hired Lacy Duke as graphic designer/project coordinator. Duke holds a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the University of South Alabama. X Dr. Kathy H. Thompson is the new dean of technical education and workforce development at Bishop State Community College. Thompson Thompson earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from The University of Alabama; a master’s degree in public administration from Auburn University; and a doctorate of philosophy from Virginia Commonwealth University. X Sherman Blosser joined Walks and Wags as director of in-home pet services. She has than 10 years pet service experience and is a member of Petsitters International.

Gayles

Strategic Wealth Specialists welcomed financial representatives, Pamela Gayles, Lance Niel and David Stookey. X

P. Vanlandingham

Niel

Stookey

Reggie Copeland joined Turner Supply Co. as business development manager. Copeland previously served 28 years on the Mobile City Council Copeland and most recently as the city council president.

Strength leads to opportunity.

S. Vanlandingham

CENTURY 21 Meyer Real Estate announced the addition of Paul and Susan Vanlandingham, Wendy Hamme Hamme and Damon Hitt as sales associates for the real estate sales team.

Ricardo A. Woods of Burr & Forman was selected by Mayor Sandy Stimpson to serve as city attorney to provide legal counsel on critical issues that impact the city of Mobile.

Woods

Business Endeavors Robertson Gallery moved to 312 Marine St. in the Oakleigh Garden District. The new location showcases the work of Brad Robertson, an award-winning contemporary artist known for abstract landscapes, color and texture, as well as work of established and emerging regional artists. X Tanner’s Pecans and Candies Inc. reopened its 10 Springdale Blvd. location for the holiday season. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Strength is not something

HANCOCK BANK AWARDED A

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you claim. It’s something you prove. Recently, BauerFinancial, Inc., the nation’s leading financial

rating firm, awarded Hancock its highest 5-star rating. This rating attests that Hancock Bank excels in the areas of capital, asset quality, profitability, risk management and sound business practices. For 23 consecutive years, BauerFinancial, Inc. has recommended Hancock Bank as one of the most financially sound banks in America. A strong bank leads to a strong Gulf Coast. Put Hancock to work for you. Call 800-448-8812 Click hancockbank.com Come by one of our convenient locations

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The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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University of Mobile named its new art space the Marilyn Foley Art Gallery after the wife of UM President Mark Foley. The gallery includes rotating exhibits by professionals and students. The gallery is located in the university’s newly renovated Ben May building, and includes rotating exhibits by professionals and students. It is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. X Harbor Financial Services LLC expanded its operations to include a public finance division. Pfilip Hunt will serve as director of this new division, and will allow the company to expand its municipal underwriting practice. Most recently Hunt was affiliated with Gardynr Michael Capital. Rick Coad, Ralph Cellon and Reese Rainey have also joined Harbor as part of this new division.

Well Done RSQ, a division of Red Square Agency, announced its social media experiment, Valenvine, is a 2013 OMMA Award winner. The OMMA Awards are MediaPost’s celebration of the year’s most innovative and brilliant online advertising creative, campaigns and websites across 67 categories.

The public relations office of Bishop State Community College received six state Pyramid awards during the annual conference of the Alabama Community College System Public Relations Association. Honors included three first-place awards, two awards of achievement and an award of merit. X Mobile Area Water and Sewer System’s C.C. Williams and Wright Smith Jr. Wastewater Treatment Plants received platinum peak performance awards from the National Association for Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). X Courtyard Marriott Mobile/ Daphne, Eastern Shore hotel received the Expedia Insiders Select 2013 Award TripAdvisor’s 2013 Certificate of Excellence Award and Marriott’s Gold Award for consistently delivering top-notch service, exceptional guest experience,and outstanding value. The hotel is located at 13000 Cypress Way in Spanish Fort. X The Mobile Society for Human Resource Management (MSHRM) selected Spring Hill College as the recipient of the chapter’s Annual Diversity Award. The college was selected for its longtime commitment to equality and diversity.

Community News

Wells

Bains

Maynard, Cooper & Gale PC was recognized by Benchmark Litigation: The Definitive Guide to America’s Leading Bolus Litigation Firms & Attorneys as a “highly recommended” firm in Alabama, the highest distinction that Benchmark Litigation awards. Attorneys H. Thomas Wells Jr., Lee E. Bains Jr. and John N. Bolus are listed as “Local Litigation Stars.” Wells is chair of the firm’s environmental and products liability practice group and a fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the Litigation Counsel of America. Bains’s practice focuses primarily on complex civil litigation. Bolus is chair of the firm’s general litigation practice group.

The Women’s Business Center received a $10,000 grant from the PNC Foundation to support the center’s Credit Strong Program. The goal of the program is to arm low- to moderate-income women in Mobile and Baldwin counties with the financial acumen needed to secure capital and reach entrepreneurial success X The University of South Alabama received 22 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and accessories valued at $36,300 from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The AEDs will be placed across campus, and shorten response time in cardiac emergency situations.

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, tiff or jpg format. Send your information to news@mobilechamber.com.

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32 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014 | The Business View

Get noticed! Make a splash! Your print jobs need to make the right impression for you and your business. Sometimes that’s a big splash. Sometimes it’s a bit more subtle. Either way, Interstate Printing & Graphics can help. We’re Mobile’s full-service printing solution. From big jobs to small jobs, Interstate offers the latest cutting-edge technologies and solid customer service to ensure uncompromising quality and unparalleled value. We turn your big ideas into print jobs you’ll be proud of.

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC.............23 BancorpSouth..............................................6 Blue Haven Pools & Spas......................... 25 Coast Safe and Lock................................... 5 Community Bank.....................................24 C Spire Business Solutions.........................2 Gwin’s Commercial Printing..................23 Hancock Bank............................................31 Infirmary Health...........................16, 26, 35 Interstate Printing & Graphics Inc.........33 Lagniappe...................................................34 LaQuinta Inns & Suites............................35

Logical Computer Solutions......................9 Mobile Symphony.....................................12 Premier Medical Management...............32 PNC Bank................................................... 14 Regions Bank.............................................33 The University of Alabama................18, 30 Thames Batré Insurance......................... 27 The Maids................................................... 14 United Cerebral Palsy...............................24 Walks and Wags........................................29 Wonderland Express...................................6

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.

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The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

The besT docTors from across The counTry are even beTTer when They’re jusT across The hall. There’s a shortcut on the path to wellness. Diagnostic and Medical Clinic, where more than 70 physicians, from primary care to subspecialists, combine the resources of Infirmary Health with the convenience of same-day appointments. Because patients should spend less time getting from doctor to doctor— and more time getting better.

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New Members

If you know a company interested in benefiting from Chamber membership, contact Rebecca Milam at 251-431-8647 or Tricia Bradley at 251-431-8642. View the complete membership directory at www.mobilechamber.com.

Al-Fla Plastics Chuck Snead 3450-C Armour Ave. Mobile, AL 36617 251-471-1130 www.al-flaplastics.com Plastics-Rods/Tubes/Sheets Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Mobile LLC Christopher Mau 2573 Government Blvd. Mobile, AL 36606-1613 251-706-0890 www.AnimalERofMobile.com Veterinarians-DVM Blue Cliff Career College Richard Denney 2970 Cottage Hill Rd., Ste. 175 Mobile, AL 36606-4749 251-473-2220 www.blue.edu Massage School C Spire Wireless Anita Clarke 3430 Bel Air Mall, Ste. F2A Mobile, AL 36606-3411 855-277-4735 www.cspire.com Wireless Communications

The Center for Family and Community Development Tarrant Lanier 126 Mobile St. Mobile, AL 36607 251-599-0157 www.cfcdofalabama.org Nonprofit Organization

John Fayard Moving & Warehousing LLC John R. Fayard Jr. 6030 Rangeline Rd. Mobile, AL 36582 251-443-9125 www.johnfayardwarehouse.com Warehouse

CENTURY 21 Meyer Real Estate Sarah Kuzma 1585 Gulf Shores Pkwy. Gulf Shores, AL 36542-3437 251-968-2930 www.meyerre.com Real Estate

First Light Home Care of Mobile & Eastern Shore Dani Feldman 1203 Hwy. 98, Ste. 2D & 2E Daphne, AL 36526 251-281-2004 www.firstlighthomecare.com/ home-healthcare-mobile/ Home Care Services

CN Stacey Lyons 297 Rivergate Rd. Memphis, TN 38109 888-668-4626 Transportation Services Daten System Consulting Catina Short 1111 E. I-65 Service Rd. S., Ste. 216 Mobile, AL 36606 251-288-3083 www.datensystemconsulting.com Business Consultants

The Fresh Market Ray Melton 3940 Airport Blvd. Mobile, AL 36608-1624 251-344-8026 www.thefreshmarket.com Grocers

25 YEARS

Keep Mobile Beautiful Inc. Gaylord C. Lyon & Co. Inc.

15 YEARS

Atria Regency IMC, Industrial Medical Clinics of Mobile PC Norfolk Southern Corp. Oil Recovery Co. Inc.

10 YEARS

Mobile Technical Institute/ MTI Business Solutions

5 YEARS

Ball, Ball, Matthews & Novak PA Chef Rob & Co. CorroMetrics Services Inc. Growing Potential LLC Hummingbird Ideas Advertising & Design Inc. La Quinta Inn & Suites Mobile County EMS

Harrison Brothers Dry Dock & Repair Yard Inc. William H. Harrison III P.O. Box 1843 Mobile, AL 36633-1843 251-432-4606 www.harrisonbrothers.com Land Leasing

Jet Services Inc. Bobby Marks 371 Flare Pierce Rd. Mobile, AL 36608-0031 251-300-6600 www.flyjetservices.com Aircraft Charter-Rental-Lease

Gordon Oaks Senior Living Community Ashley Fuqua 3145 Knollwood Dr. Mobile, AL 36693-2753 251-661-7600 www.gordonoaks.com Assisted Living

Merry Maids Penny Nichols 4325 Midmost Dr., Ste. D

The Mishkin Group Inc. Joseph W. Mishkin 105 N. Conception St. Mobile, AL 36602 251-344-2000 www.themishkingroup.com Advertising The Net Effect LLC Glenda Snodgrass 56 S. Conception St. Mobile, AL 36602 251-433-0196 www.theneteffect.com/ Information Technology Consulting Ocean Freight Express LLC Thomas (Mac) McPhillips 812 Downtowner Blvd., Ste. K Mobile, AL 36609-5418 251-414-3306 www.oceanfreightexpress.com Freight ForwardingInternational Olive Garden Italian Restaurant #1055 Kenneth E. Smith 3701 Airport Blvd. Mobile, AL 36608-1617

251-343-0467 www.olivegarden.com/ourmenus/ Restaurants ReNew Softwash of the Gulf Coast Monica Leslie 251-581-4827 Pressure Washing SKW Quab Chemicals Inc. William J. Cox 4201 Degussa Rd., Box 868 Theodore, AL 36590 251-443-4781 www.quab.com Chemicals-Manufacturer Sunset Mortgage of AL LLC Dean Watson 6483 Van Buren St., Ste. 201 Daphne, AL 36526-7573 251-644-6188 www.sunsetmortgageal.com Mortgage Brokerage Wingate by Wyndham Stan Rutter 516 Springhill Plaza Ct. Mobile, AL 36608 251-441-1979 www.the.wingateinns.com/ mobile30363 Hotels

As of 9/30/13

Building For Lease

Members are our greatest asset. Please show your support through the patronage of these businesses.

W. Keith Harvey DMD PC

Mobile, AL 36609-5545 251-342-9520 www.mm814.isiedge.com Cleaning Service

hibu Lisa Brunies 27121 Bit and Spur Dr. Daphne, AL 36526-4378 251-604-2924 www.hibu.com Advertising

Anniversaries

45 YEARS

Gulf Fastener Mike Montgomery P.O. Box 7188 Mobile, AL 36670-0718 251-473-2116 www.gulffastener.com Fasteners-Distributor

The Grounds Guys of South Mobile County iSAM North America Corp. J. Townsend Personnel Inc. & JTP Temp Inc. Legacy Bar and Grill YEARS Mobile Heart Specialists PC Alabama Public Radio/WHIL Ameri-Force Craft Services Inc. Office Depot #2286 Patterson Marketing Group LLC ASP of Mobile Performance Personnel Services Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Swimming Pool Pond Elegance Arc Terminals Preble-Rish Inc. Asphalt Services Inc. Professional Forestry Services Bank of the Ozarks Roberts Brothers Bellator Real Estate & Mia Burmeister-Laws Development LLC Cameron Valve & Measurement Sugarlots Decor and More Career Education Services Co. Taylor-Wharton Cryogenics Tennessee Valley Training Child Evangelism Fellowship Center of Southwest Alabama Theodore Industrial Port D. R. Horton Thompson Properties LLC DSI LLC Total Athletic Development Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Systems University Trillium Marine/Construction Exotic Import Specialists d/b/a Rettigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto Body Tyndall Federal Credit Union Five Star Property & Vail Rubber Works Inc. Development LLC Washington County Business Park

PowerSouth Energy Raymond James Financial Services/Gulf Coast Group STOA Architects

1-4

Location:

456 Civic Center Drive

Size:

Approximately 5,000 square feet Short-term lease proposals welcome

Features:

Vaulted ceilings Five private offices Custom cubicles Large conference room Storage area Kitchen/breakroom Gated secure parking Close proximity to Brookley Aeroplex

Availability: Immediately

Contact:

Joe Mareno, Mobile Area Chamber, 251-431-8624, jmareno@mobilechamber.com Janet Keene, Bender Realty, 251-445-2468, janet@benderrealestategroup.com

CCD Ad 9172013.indd 1

The Business View | DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 9/17/2013 2014

2:56:03 PM

See Mobile Differently and get a new perspective on what it has to offer

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

177th Annual Meeting

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 5:30 - 8:30 pm Mobile Civic Center Tickets are $50 or $485 for a group of 10 (Chamber members), $60 for potential members RSVP to 251-431-8606 or email cwilson@mobilechamber.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.mobilechamber.com