February 2010 The Business View by Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

THE

BUSINESS VIEW Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

February. 2010 | Vol. XXXXI, No. 1

2009 Mobile Area Chamber Annual Report Chamber Rolls Out 2010 Marketing Campaign

Positive Business News You Can Use

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Mobile, AL Permit #346

CONTENTS

THE BUSINESS VIEW is published monthly, except for the combined issue of December/January, by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 451 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 433-6951 www.mobilechamber.com ©2010

ON THE COVER

Publisher.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Winthrop M. Hallett III Executive Editor.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor.. . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Rak-Blanchard Copy Editor.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cori Yonge

THE

BUSINESS VIEW

Additional Writers and Editors

Ashley Horn, Mary Keller, Carolyn Wilson

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

ADVERTISERS Gary Adams, Principal Financial Group ................. 36 Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC.................................11 Bit-Wizards.....................................................................7 CH fulfillment . .......................................................... 32 Community Bank....................................................... 34 Gwin’s Commercial Printing..................................... 36 Interstate Printing...................................................... 33 Keith Air Conditioning................................................. 3 Lagniappe.................................................................... 33 Mobile Airport Authority.............................................40 New Horizons Credit Union....................................... 32 Online Payroll Services Inc.......................................... 3 Premier Medical Management.................................... 9 RBC Bank.......................................................................7 Safe Archives............................................................... 12 Safety Source................................................................. 3 SCORE........................................................................... 3 Sunbelt Business Brokers........................................... 35 United Way of Southwest Alabama............................. 8 Whitney Bank.............................................................. 12

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

4-5 News You Can Use – Positive business

updates for the new year, including cool stats about Austal’s Module Manufacturing Facility and the go-ahead on a new military On the cover: On the steps of the Federal Building are contract, cheers for the Airbus A330-200 took its maiden flight and ThyssenKrupp’s the Mobile Area Chamber’s key volunteers for legislative action. Pictured (l-r) are Lee Metzger, Providence Hospital, local countdown to opening subcomitee chair; Owen Bailey, Infirmary Health System Inc., vice chair of community and governmental affairs; Randy 10-11 The Chamber’s ongoing marketing efforts Delchamps, Randy Delchamps Real Estate & Development Co. emphasize “Strength in Numbers,” and Inc., federal subcommitee chair; and Charlie Jackson, McVeil, unveils a micro-website highlighting Jackson, Ahrens Financial Group LLC, state subcomitee chair. Mobile business success stories The Chamber’s 2010 Legislative Community Agenda can be found on pages 29-30. 13-28 2009 Annual Report reviews the memorable Photo by: Tad Denson, MyShotz.com highlights of last year

F E A T U R E S 6 Etc. – Organizational updates and

business briefs. Find out which Chamber Members were recognized as up-and- coming movers and shakers by Mobile Bay, who won Gulf Coast Technology Council scholarships and why the U.S. Chamber recognized Sen. Jeff Sessions. Plus, learn where the Mobile Chamber stands on healthcare reform and what Alabama will do with a $1.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

9 Chamber offers second trip to China

FIND THE CHAMBER ON THE WEB Group - mobileareachamberofcommerce linkedin.com Group - mobileareachamberofcommerce

31 SCORE Column: Match Up with Big Buyers 31 CEO Profile: Sam St. John, Logical Computer Solutions Inc. 31 Economic Indicators 32 Business Spotlight of the Month: Principal Financial Group *

32 Diplomat of the Month: Diana Sturm, Legacy Financial Planning LLC *

twitter.com/MobileChamber youtube.com/MobileChamber

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33 Diplomat of the Month: Nancy Peoples, Multi Staffing *

mobilechamber.com/chamberblog.asp

Forensic Financial Services Group LLC

33 Business Spotlight of the Month: Rayco Supply Inc.*

facebook.com

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.

M O N T H LY F O C U S 8 Small Business of the Month:

9 29-30 2010 Legislative Community Agenda – identified where the Chamber is directing its efforts

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34 Investor Focus: TAG/The Architects Group Inc. 35 Calendar 35 Who’s in Town? 36-37 Member News 37 Anniversaries

New Members

* Because the Chamber publishes a combined December/January issue of The Business View, there are two featured Spotlights and Diplomats.

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FEBRUARY 2010

• Positive Business News When You Need It • Positive Business News When You Need It • Positive Business News When You Need It •

NEWS You Ca Airbus A330 Makes Its Maiden Flight

Although the backdrop was Toulouse, France, halfway around the world, people cheered as the Airbus A330-200 took to the air on its maiden flight. While celebrating the accomplishment of Airbus at its French headquarters, folks in Mobile look forward

to the day when these freighters are made in Mobile. “When the aerial refueling tanker contract is awarded to the Northrop Grumman/EADS team, it will be just a matter of time before this aircraft – the

A330-200F – will be assembled in Mobile, and flying over the Port City,” said David Trent, site director of Airbus North America Engineering and Mobile Area Chamber chairman. “Airbus sees a demand for more than 1,600 mid-sized freighters over the

next two decades, and Mobile will play a key role in this successful program.” According to Airbus officials, the aircraft offers freight customers greater range and a higher maximum payload with much lower unit costs compared with its closest competitor. To date the company has 67 firm orders with nine customers, and was selected by a 10th airline for two additional A330-200s. Airbus Chief Operating Officer John Leahy said, “The A330-200F is the right aircraft at the right time. We are at the eve of a market recovery, and now is the time for airlines to prepare for future freight growth.” “Assembling tankers and freighters in Mobile will be a boon for the entire Gulf Coast region, creating significant numbers of direct advanced manufacturing, assembly and engineering jobs as well as thousands of supplier jobs,” said Troy Wayman, the Chamber’s vice president of economic development.

Austal Opens Massive Module Manufacturing Facility Facts About the Module Manufacturing Facility • The building is the length of six football fields, end zones included; • If tilted, the building would be the 12th tallest in the world; • 7,000 tons of steel were used to erect the building, the equivalent of 166 M1 military tanks; • 23,000 dump truck loads of dirt were removed for the facility; • 31,000 cubic yards of concrete were poured – enough to extend 12” x 12” concrete blocks from Mobile to Houston; and • 49,132,678 Australian-rule footballs would fill the facility. Source: Austal

FEBRUARY 2010

In less than one year, a nearly 102-acre tract of land on the east side of the Mobile River was transformed into an $81 million Module Manufacturing Facility (MMF) for Austal. Six football fields (end zones included) could fit inside the massive facility, and raised vertically, it would be the 12th tallest building in the world – taller than the RSA Battle House Tower by more than 250 feet. But what is going inside the MMF is even more impressive. The space will ultimately accommodate a total workforce of up to 1,200. It can house six large aluminum vessels under construction, such as the Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and/or Joint High Speed Rear Adm. William Lanaday keynoted Austal’s Modular Vessel (JHSV) per year. Manufacturing Facility grand opening. Pictured with Construction has already begun on Lanaday are several Austal board members and Rep. Randy the JHSV pilot module. Davis with the Alabama State Legislature. Lanaday has Attending the grand opening oversight of the Littoral Combat Ships program. ceremony was Rear Adm. Bill

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Landay, U.S. Navy Program Executive Officer, Ships, in the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Austal is preparing for the approaching acceptance trials and delivery to the U.S. Navy for the Littoral Combat Ship USS Independence (LCS 2), that successfully completed its builder’s trials in October and was commissioned in January. “This facility is a testament to Austal’s commitment to the LCS and JHSV programs. It is an enabler for Austal to continue to lead the industry in producing some of the most capable and best-valued vessels for the U.S. Navy,” said Joe Rella, Austal USA president and chief operating officer. “We intend to provide long-term employment opportunities for our workforce as we start fabrication for the Joint High Speed Vessels and subsequent LCS awards.”

Positive Business News When You Need It • Positive Business News When You Need It • Positive Business News When You Need It •

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Austal Receives Green Light to Begin Construction of First JHSV

In late December, Austal received authorization from the U.S. Navy to commence construction on the first of up to 10 103-meter Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV). After Austal successfully completed the Production Readiness Review (PRR) and necessary DoD approvals were obtained, the Navy authorized the first JHSV, named Fortitude to begin construction immediately. Fortitude will be the first Austal design to be constructed using the new procedures and processes developed in conjunction with Austal’s recently-competed Module Manufacturing Facility (MMF). The MMF provides Austal with assembly line efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced lead times.

ThyssenKrupp Inching Closer to Opening Spring 2010 looms large as a deadline for executives at ThyssenKrupp Steel USA and ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA. That’s the tentative date set by the two companies to open the large-scale facility along U.S. Hwy. 43 in Mobile County, and begin producing high quality steel. According to Bob Holt, vice president of sales and marketing for ThyssenKrupp Steel USA, the manufacturer’s hot strip mill is on schedule to begin shipping product this spring to supply the needs of the automotive, construction, heavy equipment, pipe and tube, and service center markets throughout the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) countries. In the last quarter of 2009, ThyssenKrupp Steel USA fired up its new state-of-the-art hot strip mill, giving it the capability to produce 74-inch-wide product with a thickness range of a little more than a halfinch to one inch, depending on a customer’s needs. The company also hosted several job fairs to recruit its workforce. Employment at year’s end reached for the two ThyssenKrupp U.S. entities.

Austal USA President and Chief Operating Officer Joe Rella, said, “What makes this program destined for success is the high degree of maturity of the design, coupled with the module manufacturing process to be completed in our new facility. Our workforce is in place and ready to start construction.” “This is tremendous news for Austal, and for Mobile,” said Troy Wayman, vice president of economic development for the Mobile Area Chamber. “We’ve been anxiously awaiting the green light from the U.S. Navy. We’re proud of the work taking place at Austal, and for their longterm commitment to growing in Mobile.”

The U.S. Navy ordered construction on the first of up to 10 Joint High Speed Vessels from Austal. The ships are now under construction at Austal’s recently-competed Module Manufacturing Facility, pictured here.

The Austal JHSV will transport mediumsize operational units with its vehicles, or reconfigure to provide troop transport for an infantry battalion, allowing units to transit long distances while maintaining unit integrity. The vessel also supports helicopter operations and has an off-load vehicle ramp which enables use of austere piers and quay walls, common in developing

countries. A shallow draft (under 4 meters) will further enhance theater port access. The Austal JHSV team includes platform systems engineering agent General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems and is responsible for the design, integration and testing of the ship’s electronic systems.

Construction Timeline and Progression for ThyssenKrupp Steel USA

Reliability - For 173 years, the Mobile Area Chamber

Phase I: September 2007 • Timber management: Completed • Geotechnical site testing: Completed • Permitting: Completed Phase II: October 2007 December 2009 • Site preparation: Completed • Site grading: Completed • Infrastructure construction: In Progress • Pilings/foundations installed: In Progress • Riverside/terminal development: In Progress External developments: • Pinto Island Terminal: In Progress • Overpass construction: In Progress Phase III: February 2008 December 2010 • Engineering phase: In Progress • Building Construction: In Progress • Internal components installation: In Progress • Finishing/testing: In Progress Phase IV: Spring 2010 • Plant operational

Quality - Last year, the U.S. Chamber

Source: ThyssenKrupp Steel USA

has worked to make our area the best place to start, manage and grow your business.

of Commerce awarded the Mobile Area Chamber its highest five-star accreditation, for the second consecutive five-year period.

Value - For as little as 83 cents a day, your Chamber membership yields a return in: • Business assistance; • Professional development seminars and counseling; • Networking opportunities; • Advocacy aimed at protecting your business interests, and more.

– a Significant Return on Your Investment www.mobilechamber.com You’ll see this symbol

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

with stories featuring Chamber initiatives.

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FEBRUARY 2010

ETC GCTC Awards Getting the Right Healthcare Three Scholarships Reform Remains a Top to Local Students Chamber Priority The Gulf Coast Technology Council (GCTC) provided scholarships for three local college students as they continue to advance their education in the field of technology services. The scholarships were awarded as part of GCTC’s mission to grow a highly skilled workforce in the Mobile area and keep local talent in Mobile after college. Receiving scholarships this year were: Angela Ashley, Remington College, a senior Win Hallett presents award to majoring in Pashupati Shrestha on behalf electronics and of the GCTC. computer technology; James Chad Pierce, University of South Alabama, a junior majoring in electrical engineering; and Pashupati Shrestha, University of South Alabama, a junior majoring in information systems. GCTC member businesses donating to the scholarship fund were: Alabama Power Co., Cowles, Murphy, Glover and Associates; H.M. Yonge & Associates Inc.; Naborhood Building Products LLC; N-Tron Corp.; Star Services Inc.; Callis Communications; Hargrove Engineers + Constructors; Prism Systems Inc.; Bit-Wizards Custom Software Solutions Inc.; Dogwood Productions Inc.; Remington College; Information Transport Solutions Inc.; MCG Business Solutions; Pilot Catastrophe Inc.; and The SSI Group.

U.S. Chamber Presents Award to Sen. Jeff Sessions The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) awarded its 2009 Legislative Achievement Award to Sen. Jeff Sessions for “tireless advocacy to improve our nation’s civil justice system.” “He’s not just one of those quiet, behind-the-scenes members of Congress. Senator Sessions can always be counted on to take to the floor and aggressively push back against the onslaught of liability-expanding measures that would stifle job creation during this time of economic recovery,” said ILR President Lisa Rickard. The ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial and educational activities at the national, state and local levels.

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Just before the U.S. House of Representatives voted on a healthcare bill, the Mobile Area Chamber, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, urged local Chamber members to oppose the bill and contact federal legislators to voice their opposition. The debate stirred many emotions, but Mobile Area Chamber Vice President of Community and Governmental Affairs Ginny Russell said it’s the Mobile Area Chamber’s role to advocate on behalf of its members, and the bill – if signed into law – could have devastating affects on local business owners. “The Chamber continues to support reforming the healthcare system, specifically efforts to control costs and improve quality, reforms of insurance markets, and the creation of a streamlined, simplified marketplace to purchase insurance,” said Russell. She added, though, that the bills – both the version passed in the House, and that in the Senate, put unnecessary tax increases, employer

mandates and minimum coverage on the shoulders of business owners. In its current form (at press time), President Barack Obama’s economic advisor predicted the healthcare legislation could cost five million jobs. According to Russell, those would primarily be at the expense of small business. “Healthcare reform is not easy, or pretty, and we understand that,” said Russell. “But the Mobile Area Chamber will not stand by and accept unfair disadvantages for its member businesses.”

Young Leaders Honored by Mobile Bay Magazine Readers of Mobile Bay Magazine can catch a firsthand look at the up-and-coming movers and shakers in the Mobile Bay region. The magazine recognized 40 leaders under 40 in its February 2010 magazine, and also during a luncheon held in late 2009. Mobile Area Chamber member companies with employees on the list were: Andy Anderson, Mobile Opera; John Arendall, Regions Bank; Chris Barraza, City of Mobile; Ira Bates, United Way of Southwest Alabama; Britten Britt, Lyons, Pipes & Cook; Michelle Hoobler Cook, BankTrust; Will Cooksey, Thompson Engineering; Angus Cooper III, Cooper T. Smith; Keri Coumanis, Mobile Historic Development Commission; Jennifer Davis, Lifelines Family Counseling Center; Sam Dean, Infirmary Health System; Kristen DeLaney, Beard Equipment; Peter D’Olive, Wilkins Miller Hieronymous; Jennifer Jenkins,

Red Square Advertising; Tyrone Fenderson, Commonwealth National Bank; Dr. Clayton Lane, Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic; Joel Lewis, University of South Alabama; Trey Mayhall, First Financial Group; Thomas Cookson Myers Jr., The SSI Group; Michael Mitchell, University of South Alabama; Craig Perciavalle, Austal; Hela Sheth, Gulf Coast Exploreum; Bry Shields, Lyon, Fry, Cadden Insurance; Akareem Spears, Bishop State Community College; Jay Stubbs, First Protective; Rich Sullivan, Red Square Advertising; Wesley True, True Restaurant; Ricardo Woods, Burr Forman LLP; and Enen Yu, Mobile Symphony. To learn more about the program, visit www. mb40under40.com.

Alabama Awarded $1.9 Million for Data Collection and Mapping Five states were awarded grants by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to fund broadband and mapping projects across the U.S. “This program will advance efforts to expand broadband access and adoption nationwide, which is vital to job creation and economic recovery,” said assistant secretary for communications and information and NTIA administrator Lawrence Strickling.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs received $1.9 million to use specifically for data collection and mapping over a two-year period. Local, state and federal officials can utilize the new method of data collection for a wide variety of purposes. For example, with broadband mapping, a state could determine the areas with the most/fewest number of cable and DSL modems, and where 911 service is not available or where pockets of poverty exist.

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FEBRUARY 2010 11/19/09

1:15 PM

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

mall Business of the Month

Forensic Financial Services Group, LLC Small business owners often hire trusted friends and acquaintances to help run a company. Experts warn though, when it comes to finances, the old adage holds true: “It’s not personal; it’s business.” That’s the reasoning used by Forensic Financial Services Group LLC, specializing in finding, solving and preventing fraud. It is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Small Business of the Month. According to Edward “Ned” Egbert, a company partner and certified fraud examiner, most unlawful activity is perpetuated by people with intentions of correcting their actions or paying it back. “But that never happens,” he said. “It’s the fraud triangle – it starts with the need and then a situation occurs giving someone the opportunity to commit the fraud and then comes the rationalization to justify the action.” A small business may only control one aspect of the triangle – the opportunity. According to Linda Steele, a company partner and certified fraud examiner,

Forensic Financial Services assists businesses and government agencies in a wide range of forensic accounting services. “Our job is to explain the numbers to get a clear picture of a fraud when we find it,” she explained. “People can get creative and quite clever to cover up a fraud.” Whether the crime is committed through banking, estates and trust, tax issues, governmental accounting, white collar crime or internal control and accounting systems, the company started in 2006, offers solutions and consulting services to control the opportunity. As part of its prevention and consulting services the company provides fraud examinations and bank fraud investigations, serves as expert witnesses, offers criminal and civil litigation support, pretrial investigation and more. Three partners – Egbert, Steele and Mac McCawley, each bring an area of expertise to the job. Steele worked as comptroller for the city of Mobile for 25 years and was responsible for implementing a fraud

Certified Fraud Examiners Linda Steele and Ned Egbert are two of the company’s partner trio for Forensic Financial Services Group LLC. Not pictured is Mac McCawley.

hotline as well as many internal controls and accounting systems and procedures. A former FBI agent, Egbert worked on white collar crime and public corruption investigations. A certified public accountant, he also served in the U.S. Air Force, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Based in Fairhope, McCawley is a certified public accountant and served in the U.S. Navy. Clients of the company rely on the trio as an outside source to

investigate problems through employee interviews, expert witnesses and detailed analysis of financial records. While not all cases go to court, according to Steele, “we treat all jobs as if they would go before a judge and jury.” Prevention is key to overcoming fraud. “Knowing what is going on and not blindly trusting someone else to do your job or handle your business is crucial,” said Egbert.

EMPLOYEES OF THYSSENKRUPP LIVE UNITED.

WE DON’T JUST WEAR THE T-SHIRT, WE LIVE IT. A STRONG COMMITMENT TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY. NEW AND ALREADY A GOOD CORPORATE CITIZEN.

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. THINK OF WE BEFORE ME. LEND YOUR MUSCLE. LIVE UNITED. PARTNER WITH US, CALL UNITED WAY AT 251-433-3624 OR EMAIL US AT CAMPAIGN@UWSWA.ORG TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. VISIT US AT WWW.UWSWA.ORG

FEBRUARY 2010

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Gateway of Discovery to China Hardly a day passes when the news does not include some mention of China. It is a growing world power, with a fascinating, rich history. The Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with CitsLinc International for a trip that will serve as a “Gateway of Discovery” from Oct. 13-21, 2010. CitsLinc International, the tour’s host, takes 20,000 visitors to China every year and has partnered with Chambers of Commerce around the country for many years, taking thousands of other cities’ Chamber members to China. This outstanding trip is being offered at an incredible price for Mobile Area Chamber members and their guests – only $1,999 (based on double occupancy) for nine days and seven nights. The price includes airfare from Los Angeles to China and back, all hotel accommodations in four- and five-star hotels, three meals a day, private bus transportation throughout China and airport taxes. The only additional charges are $150 for a Chinese travel visa, airfare to Los Angeles and back; $25 for tips; and nominal charges for optional tours (ranging from $25-$240 per person depending on how many tours selected). Also, if you are interested in single-room occupancy, there is an additional $450 charge. There is also a break-away side trip to Xi’an to see the Terracotta Warriors for $450. There are only 100 seats available for this trip. To register with a $500 non-refundable deposit, or for more information contact Leigh Perry-Herndon at 251-431-8645 or Ginny Russell at 251-431-8618 to pay by credit card over the phone.

Tentative China Travel Itinerary Day

Oct. 13 - Los Angeles/Beijing Travel to Bejing from Los Angeles.

Day 2 Oct. 14 - Beijing Arrive in Beijing. Visit Tian An Men Square, the largest square in the world, and the Temple of Heaven, built in 1420 A.D., where the emperors prayed to the heaven for a good harvest. Day 3 Oct. 15 - Beijing Sightseeing includes the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, home of 24 emperors with a total space of 9,999 rooms, and the Summer Palace, Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, Seventeen-Arch Bridge and Marble Boat. Tour includes the Pearl Market. Day 4 Oct. 16 - Beijing Tour the Jade Market, followed by an excursion to the Great Wall of China, the 4,000-mile long, 2,000-year-old construction that is said to be the only man-made structure visible by the naked eye from the moon. Visit the Ming Tombs, one of 13 Ming Emperors’ Tombs. Day 5 Oct. 17 - Beijing/Suzhou Travel by air to Shanghai, then take a tour bus trip to Suzhou. Afternoon trip will tour the centuries-old Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple. Visit to the National Embroidery Institute to see silk embroidery. Day 6 Oct. 18 - Suzhou/Hangzhou Trip to the National Silk Institute, followed by an afternoon bus journey to Hangzhou. Visit the Hangzhou economic development zone. Visit the centuries-old Lingyin Temple, featuring a 64.3-foot high camphor-wood-carved Buddha. Day 7 Oct. 19 - Hangzhou/Shanghai Morning boat cruise on West Lake with a relaxing stopover at jewel-like pagodas and tea houses. Tour the Longjing Green Tea Plantation. Day 8 Oct. 20 - Shanghai Sightseeing includes the Yu Garden, a maze of marvelous pavilions, ponds, rocky works and overarching trees. Visit the Shanghai Expo 2010, located on The Bund. Day

Oct. 21 - Shanghai/Los Angeles Return home.

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MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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FEBRUARY 2010

The Class of 2010

Chamber Unveils the Year’s Marketing Testimonials

benefits all members and the city of Mobile as a whole.” Fausak joined the Chamber in 1985 and has 42 employees. This year marks the fourth year of the Chamber’s “Strength in Numbers” local marketing message. In addition to Fausak, the 2010 campaign will feature Baldwin Transfer with 200 employees, joining the Chamber in 1991; Heritage Homes, 20 employees, 1991; Pollman’s Bakery, 42 employees, 1989; Superior Masonry, 35 employees, 2006; and Walks and Wags, four employees, 2005. Cindie Carter and her husband Larry, owners of Walks and Wags, evacuated to Mobile from New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina and never left. Carter said the Chamber has been a tremendous resource for her business. She has received zoning advice and numerous customer referrals. “The biggest eye opener has been the ‘Small Business of the Month’ award and especially the write up in The Business View. This has made the biggest impact to the business this year!” Exposure is a key benefit for Frank Seltzer with Superior Masonry, citing his sponsorship of the Chamber’s minority recognition program. Seltzer is also a client

of the Alabama Minority Business Enterprise Center (MBEC), operated by the Chamber. “We participated in a mentoring program through MBEC that led to securing a sizeable project from WhiteSpunner Construction Corp. at the new ThyssenKrupp Steel facility.” When Rose and Fred Pollman took over the family business, they thought it was crucial to join the Chamber. “We work with the Chamber as a team . . . supporting each other,” said Fred. Baldwin Transfer’s Lorie Gaillard said her company enjoys the communication generated through the Chamber’s business retention and expansion program. But what most impresses her is the organization’s Partners for Growth program focused on economic development. “We believe that a large part of Mobile’s success is due to the partnership and teamwork that exists between the local governments, community organizations and businesses.” Ads will appear primarily in print venues including Lamar billboards, Lagniappe and The Business View, by way of trades, discounts and donations.

Photos by Thigpen Photography

Frank Lott III, Heritage Homes

dvertising sources estimate the average American is exposed to approximately 5,000 marketing messages a day and social media sources such as Facebook and Twitter are increasing that amount significantly. So how does the Mobile Area Chamber cut through the clutter to present the value of its membership? “We stick to the message – a simple, yet powerful and very relevant message – there is ‘Strength in Numbers’ with your Chamber membership,” said Susan Rak-Blanchard, senior communications specialist for the Chamber. Chip Fausak, vice president of sales and marketing with Fausak Tires & Service, summed it up this way: “I don’t think the success of a team can be measured in individual accolades. Meaning that, I am sure being a member of the Chamber has led to increased business for Fausak Tires. But looking at the bigger picture, the Chamber’s efforts through networking, the promotion of the community and the representation of the ‘business’ point-of-view on political matters

A new group of business owners and executives tell how their companies benefit from their Mobile Area Chamber membership. This year’s local marketing campaign will feature: Rose and Fred Pollman, Pollman’s Bakery; Lorie Gaillard, Baldwin Transfer Co.; Chip Fausak and Chris Fausak, Fausak Tires & Service; Frank Seltzer, Superior Masonry; Cindie Carter, Walks & Wags; and pictured above Frank Lott III, Heritage Homes.

FEBRUARY 2010

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HowTheySeeMobileBay.com Showcases Mobile’s Economic Engine I T ’ S O N LY N AT U R A L T O E X PA N D Y O

U R AV I AT I O N BUSINESS TO A CI TY WH ER E LI FE IS AL RE AD Y SO HE AV EN LY.

Dav e Tren t, Airb us

There is so much happening here, and so much additi opportunity, that onal I think we’re finally realizing the treme potential that the ndous community has.

With a welc omin g histo ry, stron g trans porta tion infra struc ture and coas tal frequ ently turns locat ion, Mob ile Bay is a desti visito rs into resid natio n that ents. Hom e to the Mob ile Regio nal Airpo rt and Com plex, it is the Broo kley a hub of aero Airpo rt and Indus spac e traffi c, trial engin eerin g, main tena nce and techn ical with a read y train ing. All in work force , empl a right -to-w ork oyee train ing state prog rams , and tax and prop erty incen tives and how we can . Learn more prop el your busin abou t Mob ile ess to the next Bay level . How They SeeM obile Bay.c om

www. mobi lecha

mber.com - 451 Gove rnme nt Stree t - Mobi le, Alab ama 3660 2 800. 422. 6951

These executives offer their personal testimonies to others interested in expanding operations in Mobile. Pictured left to right are Dave Trent, Mark Wilson, Marc Quenneville, Brian Clark, Bob Browning, Dr. Mike Boyd and Dr. Uli Albrecht-Frueh.

How do you see Mobile Bay’s economy? Seven top executives whose companies have located here within the past decade agree that Mobile’s economic development team, comprised of the city of Mobile, Mobile County, Mobile Area Chamber, Alabama Development Office and a host of others, is better than any other program they’ve encountered. Armed with their testimonials, the Mobile Area Chamber has launched a micro-website, HowTheySeeMobileBay.com, featuring these executives and their success stories. Featured in the new campaign are: David Trent, Airbus North America Engineering; Marc Quenneville, Aker Solutions; Dr. Uli Albrecht-Frueh, ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA; Brian Clark, Mobile Container Terminal; Mark Wilson, Ryla Inc.; Dr. Mike Boyd, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute; and Bob Browning, Austal Ltd. USA. “It’s one thing for the Chamber to talk about the partnerships that are so critical for Mobile’s economic success, but it is far more impressive to hear it straight from these men who were directly involved,” said Troy Wayman, the Chamber’s vice president of economic development. “These are mostly international companies that have high expectations. Mobile has been able to meet or exceed them every time.”

The website and accompanying introductory video and print ad campaign is an enhancement to the Chamber’s economic development marketing strategy, “Mobile Bay. On the Water, On the Move.” The campaign was created in 2003 with the goal of building a brand platform to assist in attracting global businesses to expand and relocate to the area. It did just that and Mobile Bay has seen tremendous economic development successes with companies like ThyssenKrupp, Airbus and Ryla, calling Mobile home. Lewis Communications worked with the Chamber on the original campaign, and again on the new project. When Lewis professionals set out to enhance the work, they began interviewing a diverse range of business leaders – from those who have called Mobile home for decades, to those who recently launched a business or expanded operations in the area. “We consistently heard that there was a likeness of mind and collaboration among officials that supports unified goals, a probusiness environment and a Chamber that is highly responsive to business needs,” said Ellen Wingard, senior vice president at Lewis. “The ‘new’ Mobile Bay is a more dynamic, progressive city that exceeded peoples’ expectations.”

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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FEBRUARY 2010

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

9/25/09 3:36:48 PM

The ultimate business supplement for a new generation.

2009 Annual Report

From the Chairman This year hundreds of entrepreneurs and small Reflecting back on the past year as chairman of the business owners were counseled by the Chamber to Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, I turn to remarks help fine-tune business plans, launch a new business that I made in closing last January’s annual meeting. or locate the tools and partnerships needed to move In summarizing what I had hoped we could from “dream to action.” accomplish during the year, I said, “If we will stick Without a doubt, 2009 is one for the record books. together and work our plan, in years to come another While many companies I’m sure are ready to turn to a chapter will be written about the history of Mobile. God new chapter – one without looming willing, it will read, “During fear of decreased production and a the 2008 and 2009 economic If we stick together and shrinking workforce, I am confident crisis, Mobile was a great the lessons learned by our business place to be.” work our plan, in years owners and managers over the Despite a bleak national to come another chapter last 18-plus months, will have a economic picture during will be written about long-term positive impact on all 2009, the Chamber led an of us in the future. It has been an effort to recruit Ryla Inc. to the history of Mobile. honor to work for you the last year, Saraland, and with and thank you for your continued it the commitment of more support for me personally, but most especially for your than 1,200 jobs, with nearly 500 of them coming support of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. within months of the announcement. The phones are still ringing in economic development, and we are seeing ever-increasing interest in sectors such as aerospace, maritime, oil and gas exploration and Best wishes, transportation/distribution. Internally, areas that remained a priority for us in William S. Stimpson, Executive Vice President 2009 were workforce development, and the successful Scotch & Gulf Lumber LLC and implementation of the Southwest Alabama Workforce 2009 Chairman of the Board of Directors, Development Council’s program of work; enhancing Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Mobile’s infrastructure and advancing the need and support for an I-10 bridge over the Mobile River; and growing our business retention and expansion outreach to enable more local companies to grow right here in Mobile.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Economic D evelopment 2009 was known as the Year

of the Ox in China, and according to Chinese custom, the ox is supposed to endure hardship without complaint and achieve prosperity through patience and hard work. This could well be Mobile’s mantra. While many area companies undoubtedly felt the recession, the strength of the previous successes helped to soften the blow. And economic experts predict there is good news ahead for the area. Mobile has grown in the past four years due to businesses like ThyssenKrupp and Northrop Grumman’s bid for the U.S. Air Force aerial tanker contract and these companies continued to bring positive press. Named Site Selection’s top project of the year in 2008, TK is one of the nation’s largest private investment projects with $4.6 billion for the state-of-the-art carbon steel and stainless steel processing facility. More than $1 billion in contracts were awarded to date to Alabama companies. TK is expected to generate 2,700 permanent jobs when the facility opens in 2010 and 30,000 to 52,000 indirect jobs in a 20-year-period. The project, along with other investments by international companies, helped identify Mobile “as an example of American cities wooing foreign investment,” according to a July 2009 article in The Economist.

Mobile Declared Cost Effective

Mobile was recognized in fDi magazine for being among the top five in “Best Cost Effectiveness for Small Cities” in North America. Mobile was the only Alabama city to make any of fDi’s top five rankings in any category. The cost effectiveness was based on eight factors, including office rental fees, industrial rental costs, labor rates, and average gas and electricity costs.

Local Businesses Named Finalists

Competing against nearly 1,000 other economic development projects, Austal USA and SSAB Alabama, two Mobile-based companies, were named among 15 finalists for the CiCi Awards presented by Trade & Industry Development. The magazine spotlighted both companies because, according to editors, they were, “investing, locating and building relationships with the community.” The finalists were determined by using three key factors: capital investment, job creation and job retention, according to editors.

What the Panama Canal Expansion Means for Mobile

US Industry Today magazine featured the Alabama State Port Authority in an Since the Georgia-based company announced it would article on the open a new facility and regional headquarters in Saraland expansion of the in April 2009, Ryla has held its official grand opening and Panama Canal, to hired nearly 600 employees. be completed in 2014. The expansion will meet Mobile Forbes shippers’ high demand for larger vessels and cut current transit costs and is projected to increase traffic at Mobile’s port significantly.

Chamber’s New Quarterback

Forbes.com recognized Mobile as one of the “10 Best Cities for Recession Recovery” in 2009. Forbes used projected gross domestic product data from Moody’s Economy.com, an independent provider of economic analysis, unemployment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Association of Home Builders’ home prices, income and affordability. Moody’s Economy.com predicted Alabama would be among the first states to exit the recession.

Looking Beyond the Recession

An article in The Economist political magazine was headlined “Optimism in Mobile.” The author discussed the area’s optimistic business outlook, as well as that of the state of Alabama, despite a down economy. Local economic development highlights were mentioned, including Austal, Mobile Container Terminal and ThyssenKrupp. The article also included the area’s most prestigious ranking – Mobile County was named as the No. 1 mid-sized metro area for projected economic growth from 2008-2012 by Moody’s Economy.com

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

In January, Troy L. Wayman CEcD (certified economic developer) joined the Chamber as vice president of economic development. Wayman is also currently serving as president of the Economic Development Association of Alabama, and was previously on the economic development team with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

Ryla Inc. Selects Mobile County

In April, Ryla Inc. expanded its Georgia-based company to include a call center, data center and regional headquarters in Saraland, located in north Mobile County. This announcement was one of the year’s largest economic development projects in the state of Alabama. The company hired more than 500 full-time workers by the time it officially opened its doors in the summer of 2009, and was well on its way to a peak employment of 1,200 workers by the end of the year. Ryla is an outsourced call center that has international contracts with Fortune 500 companies to provide services such as customer care. Ryla looked at more than 2,600 applicants in the first wave of hiring, and partnered with Alabama Industrial Development Training, the state’s workforce training program, in the screening process. AIDT assisted Ryla by running help wanted ads, conducting customer service training and pre-testing applicants for basic computer skills.

Economic D evelopment Maritime Gets Job Training Boost

The Alabama Industrial Development Training Maritime Science Center broke ground in October, and is constructing an education and training facility designed to transform students into workers with skills area shipyards need. The Maritime Center will house welding shops, training labs to meet Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (OSHA) specifications, classrooms, and computer and electrical labs and is expected to open in 2010.

Bringing it Home to Mobile

Aker Solutions announced plans to create 30 new jobs and invest an additional $2.3 million in its Mobile Middle Bay Port Operations. Jobs once outsourced are now moving back to Mobile. Aker is a leading provider of engineering and construction services, and manufactures umbilicals and other sub-sea equipment used to extract oil and gas from beneath the ocean floor.

Evonik Degussa Corp. Brings Local $10 Million Expansion Online

Creating 26 new jobs in Mobile, Evonik Degussa Corp. opened a $10 million ROHACELL rigid polymethacrylimide foam production plant and is the first one to open outside Europe. It enables the company to reduce delivery time and enhance customer service. The innovative material is used in applications ranging from wind turbine blades to satellite-launch-robots to snow skis.

Traffic Increases at Mobile Container Terminal

Maersk Lines, one of the world’s largest networks of container ships with 460 vessels, announced transatlantic service from Mobile to Northern Europe, UK/Ireland, and Scandinavian and Baltic destinations. The transatlantic service is located at the Mobile Container Terminal and began in 2009.

Steel Spiral Pipe Plant Opens

Berg Spiral Pipe Corp. officially opened its doors in 2009, and achieved its American Petroleum Institution (API) certification, a national trade association representing America’s oil and natural gas industry. A division of Europipe, based in Germany, the company announced in March 2007 it would expand U.S. operations and create a spiral pipe manufacturing facility at the former International Paper site that previously sat vacant for a number of years. The area’s five class-one railroads needed to transport the pipe were a significant draw, as were dock facilities, water access, two major interstates and proximity to SSAB Alabama.

Local Shipyards Receive $6.3 Million in Federal Grants

The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded 70 grants totaling $98 million for American shipbuilders and repair facilities as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) in 2009. Five local shipyards, Austal USA, Horizon Shipbuilding Inc., Master Boat Builders Inc., Offshore Inland Marine & Oilfield Services Inc. and Steiner Shipyard Inc. collectively received more than $6.3 million in grant money for various capital improvement projects.

ST Aerospace Mobile Expects to Hire 200 Additional Workers

ST Aerospace Mobile expects to add 200 new employees to its aerospace operation after announcing it won a new airplane maintenance contract. Company employees will be working on both Airbus A320 and Boeing 767 planes as part of this announcement. It is estimated the value of this three-year deal will be $90 million with an option for an additional two years.

Airbus NA Military Expands Bates Field Presence

EADS North America expanded its Mobile presence with the opening of a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Delivery Center at Mobile Regional Airport. The center will support the company’s tactical multi-mission aircraft. The 30,000-square foot facility is in addition to the planned EADS production site at Mobile’s Brookley Complex, should Mobile win the bid to build aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force. A $6 million investment, the expansion increases EADS training, spare parts and customer support operations first opened in Mobile in 2005 to support military and civil operators, including the U.S. Coast Guard located in the U.S. and other customers in Canada and Mexico.

Murtha Adds Momentum for Split Tanker Contract

The chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, Rep. John Murtha, visited Mobile in April and toured the potential site where Northrop Grumman would build the next generation of aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force. Rep. Jo Bonner and Rep. Arthur Davis arranged for Murtha to visit Mobile, as he is a pivotal decision-maker on defense spending issues. At stake is the estimated $40 billion contract to buy 179 new aerial refueling tankers to replace the U.S. Air Force’s aging fleet over the next 15 years. If Northrop Grumman wins the contract again (it first won the tanker contract in February 2008 but Boeing protested, and the government review panel found problems with the bid), Northrop will retrofit the tankers for the military EADS A330 cargo planes in Mobile at Brookley Industrial Complex.

All About Aerospace

The Chamber, in partnership with other chambers of commerce along the I-10 corridor met to discuss the region’s emerging aerospace corridor and other issues shared by chambers along the northern Gulf of Mexico from New Orleans to Pensacola. Issues discussed included workforce, property insurance and Go-Zone extensions. From this the Aerospace Alliance was created to present a unified voice in Washington D.C. to support Northrop Grumman’s bid to build U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tankers.

Photo by Tad Denson - MyShotz.com

Mobile in Paris

EADS North America, headquartered in Arlington, Va., is the North American operation of EADS. The company opened a 30,000-square foot Overhaul Delivery Center located at Mobile Regional Airport. Airbus Military North America is headquartered in Mobile.

Alabama delegates, including Gov. Bob Riley, Sen. Richard Shelby and Rep. Jo Bonner, joined nearly 40 local elected officials and business leaders in attending the Paris Air Show in support of area aerospace companies, and to solicit support for Northrop Grumman and EADS in their bid to build aerial refueling tankers and cargo aircraft in Mobile. The Alabama delegation hosted several well-received receptions attended by aerospace industry leaders. The Chamber’s economic development team met one-on-one with potential supplier industries for the tanker contract and others that could successfully expand operations in Mobile.

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | FEBRUARY 2010 15 Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Economic D evelopment Outlining Economic Development Resources

The Chamber’s economic development and small business departments hosted a day-long workshop for more than 45 business owners in north Mobile County at the request of Mobile County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood. The seminar included information on industry recruiting efforts, updates on economic development projects in north Mobile County and explanations of sources for small businesses assistance.

Record Population Growth

Of the 67 counties in Alabama, Mobile and Baldwin were among the Top 10 for growth last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s July 2008 population projection figures. Mobile County ranked No. 7 in increasing, with a population of 406,309. Baldwin County ranked No. 3 in increasing, with a population of 174,439.

93.7 is Mobile’s Magic Number

According to the American Chamber of Commerce Research Association Survey’s latest report (3rd quarter of 2009), Mobile’s cost of living is consistently one of the lowest out of the 80 largest U.S. metropolitan area. The latest statistic available shows the Mobile area at 93.7, compared to the national average of 100. This index measures regional differences based on six major components: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services.

An Economic Developer’s New Best Friend

Working to better meet the needs of site selectors responsible for researching potential sites to locate a new industry, and sharing real-time data about Mobile and the counties surrounding it, the Chamber launched www.mobilebayregion.com. This site is a supplement to the Chamber’s website – www.mobilechamber.com, but presents more information that is specific to economic development. Funding for the site was underwritten by Partners for Growth investors.

Capital Investment Growth Manufacturing investment and expansions in the Mobile metropolitan statistical area including Baldwin County. ’09

$32.5M $846.5M

’07

$4.69B $245.3M

’05 ’04

$636.3M

The Chamber refined its successful “Mobile Bay. On the Water. On the Move.” brand in cooperation with Lewis Communications. Campaign enhancements included a short video overview of Mobile and six testimonials by company executives who have recently located operations in the area. Executives included in this campaign are: Dave Trent, Airbus North America Engineering; Dr. Uli Albrecht-Frueh, ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA; Bob Browning, Austal Ltd.; Marc Quenneville, Aker Solutions; Mark Wilson, Ryla Inc.; and Brian Clarke, Mobile Container Terminal. A new website – www.whattheyaresayingaboutmobile.com was embedded into the Chamber’s established economic development site – www.mobilebayregion.com.

Business Retention and Expansion The Chamber’s business retention and expansion program was created to nurture success of those companies that call Mobile home.

We’re Listening to Business

The Chamber’s Business Retention and Expansion Committee (BRE) surveyed 15 percent of membership to gauge critical local business needs. Responses confirmed what the Chamber thought to be true – 93 percent of companies said the national economy was impacting business. Other issues included: the financial market, increasing costs and expenses, workforce resources and government regulations.

Mobile Area Employment Number employed in increments of 1,000 ‘09

262.8

‘08

’08 ’06

Enhancing the Area’s National and International Marketing

$414M

275.6

‘07

272.2

‘06 ‘05

260.7 246.1

‘04

230.1

’03

$74.5M

‘03

224.4

‘02

$84.5M

‘02

225.5

‘01

229.7

‘01

$318M

Source: Alabama Development Office Capital investment data is collected by the Alabama Development Office with figures from local developers and the Alabama Department of Revenue, and is limited to manufacturing investments and expansions.

Source: Alabama Department of Industrial Relations

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

The survey also asked if the Chamber could “influence any area impacting your company in the next six months.” Responses were encouraging. The majority of respondents felt the Chamber’s existing programs and initiatives could positively impact their businesses.

Oil and Gas Task Force Creates Website

A Chamber-sponsored, newly-created oil and gas task force – Offshore Alabama – worked with Red Square Agency to develop a logo and identity brand for the committee and its new website – www.offshorealabama.com. The site includes a company directory and helps educate the industry on what services the area can provide to support offshore oil and gas operations.

2009 Manufacturer of the Year

Since it opened its pipeline fabrication spoolbase in 2001, Technip’s Theodore facility has become one of the most important offshore construction facilities on the entire Gulf Coast and has completed projects for more than 15 operators in the Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, Egypt and Angola. In 2009 Technip developed in excess of 60 percent market share of subsea fabrication/installation projects in the Gulf of Mexico. Technip was fortunate to buck the national and international trend by having one of its busiest years on record. The 140 employees on the spoolbase enjoy pay rates above the national level. Technip is also the owner of a fleet of offshore vessels. The reel lay vessel Deep Blue with more than 120 crew members is the largest vessel of its type in the world.

2008 Manufacturer of the Year Honored by State of Alabama

Aker Solutions was honored for being the MediumSized Manufacturer of the Year by the Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Technology Network, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama and the National Association of Manufacturers. Aker is a global provider of engineering and construction services and produces subsea steel tube umbilicals and other equipment used by the offshore oil and gas industry. The Chamber nominated the company for the state award after being named the Chamber’s 2008 Manufacturer of the Year.

Economic D evelopment Gulf Coast Technology Council With the state’s new incentive for non-manufacturing jobs, the role of the Chamber’s Gulf Coast Technology Council (GCTC) is poised to grow. Its mission is to foster long-term growth of the technology sector and position the Gulf Coast region as a global leader in technology-based jobs.

Innovation and Technology-Based Summit

The Gulf Coast Technology Council, a networking group of area high-tech companies, co-hosted the annual iTenWired Summit event in April with the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance. With more than 155 people in attendance, the summit was created to promote innovation and technology-based entrepreneurship within a five-county region from Mobile to Okaloosa County, Fla. Topics discussed included innovation, technology-based economic development and entrepreneurship, university collaborations and access to capital.

GCTC Pledges $1,000 for USA Scholarship

GCTC made a two-year scholarship commitment totaling $1,000 to the University of South Alabama’s (USA) computer and information sciences department. The contribution is closely aligned with the goals of the GCTC scholarship fund, and will endow additional scholarships to recruit technology students to USA. The scholarship fund grew to $19,000 in 2009 and is funded by local companies in an effort to retain and grow the pool talented students majoring in technologyrelated fields.

2009 Innovator of the Year Selected by Gulf Coast Technology Council

Ecovery LLC is the 2009 Gulf Coast Technology Council’s Innovator of the Year. In today’s economy, it is important to salvage every resource, even those considered no longer critical. Ecovery was founded in 2008 and recently moved into a new facility located in Loxley. Through its process, the company recovers valuable and reusable materials such as copper, aluminum, gold, silver and plastics from automotive and electronic waste – materials (some dangerous to the environment) that would until recently be thrown in a landfill. Ecovery started the year with a moderate 10-employee workforce. Since then, the metal and electronics recycler increased employment by 150 percent, now employing 25 workers. Processing capacity also increased, jumping from approximately 160,000 pounds per month to exceeding 1 million pounds per month. Scrap come from nearly every U.S. coast and numerous areas in between, and mills, foundries and smelters are the customers of the reusable materials.

The Gulf Coast Technology Council presented several scholarships to area students in 2009. Pictured here at the scholarship presentation are: (front row) Todd Hassel, Prism Systems; John Strope, Dogwood Productions; James Chad Piece, University of South Alabama and scholarship recipient; Pashopati Shrestna, University of South Alabama and scholarship recipient; Angela Ashely, Remmington College and scholarship recipient; and Steve Backman, Remington College. Back row: Louis Erikson, BitWizards; Chris Morton, MCG Business Solutions; Dean Parker, Callis; and Mahir Butts, Mobile Area Water and Sewer System.

Center for Workforce Development From identifying the top 40 high demand, high-paying jobs to helping unemployed and underemployed individuals market themselves, the Chamber’s Center for Workforce Development (CWD) revitalized and restructured its focus in 2009. By collaborating with labor market information officials to improve collection efforts, the center poised itself to meet the economic realities of today while assisting to accurately forecast future business growth needs.

Southwest Alabama Workforce Efforts for Job Growth

Alabama Department of Industrial Relations reported nearly 70,000 skilled jobs will be added by 2016 in District 9, consisting of Mobile, Baldwin, Washington, Choctaw, Clarke, Monroe, Conecuh and Escambia counties. In addition, the next seven years could yield 32,000 additional jobs, bringing the job total to 100,000 for the region. With this expected prosperity, the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council (SAWDC) Region 9, of which the Chamber is a key investor, had several significant accomplishments. SAWDC secured involvement of local business, industry, community, education and elected officials; influenced change in education at the local and state level; piloted a program for nearly 1,200 displaced workers affected by local plant closures by offering free job search seminars; created an online resource guide for employers, jobseekers and students; and launched its website – www.sawdc.com.

The council received financial commitment totaling more than $380,000 from the eight Region 9 counties, the city of Mobile, the Mobile Area Chamber, Mobile Works, foundations and businesses.

International Business Diversity Grows in the Port City

A new Hispanic-American Business Association was created in partnership with the Chamber to promote economic and business development, cultural ties and networking for the area’s Hispanic professionals and businesses. The Hispanic American Businesses Association of the Gulf Coast (HABAGC) hopes to position Hispanic leadership, contributions and voice in the community; contribute to the economic and workforce development efforts by attracting more Hispanic professionals and businesses to the region; provide networking and professional development activities; and market Hispanic services and goods. The association raised funds for scholarships and funded a workforce literacy program for 80 construction and manufacturing workers.

Investing in the Future Workforce

Area high school students had the opportunity to learn about careers in healthcare as part of the annual Summer Scrubs program and the Health Occupations Career Fair. Nearly 200 students from Mobile and Baldwin counties participated in a week-long internship at area hospitals and healthcare facilities during the July’s Summer Scrubs program. In November, a record 900 students from 28 Mobile and Baldwin County schools attended the hands-on Healthcare Occupations Career Fair where they followed “accident victims” through healthcare services, practiced CPR, worked with physical therapy and observed a mock surgery. Both programs are an initiative of the Bay Area Healthcare Coalition, organized and managed by the Chamber to introduce students to various careers in healthcare.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Economic D evelopment Supporting Vital Link

The Chamber hosted 10 students and counselors from Mobile County middle schools as part of the Vital Link program. Students and their counselors spent a week learning about day-to-day Chamber operations, attended a Mobile City Council meeting, met with Mayor Sam Jones and took a walking tour of downtown Mobile to explore career options in the heart of the city. VitalLink is sponsored by AT&T and organized by the Mobile Area Education Foundation. More than 200 students participated and were hosted by 23 area businesses.

Working to End Homelessness

The Chamber’s Center for Workforce Development is represented on the board of Housing First Enterprises, a division of Housing First, working with a training and job placement program to prevent and end homelessness in the Mobile area. A staffing business enterprise was developed to generate funding for two local programs that emphasizes workforce development and creates reliable housing options for people in danger of becoming homeless.

Job Strategies

To help jobseekers transition into a new career and thrive in the current economy, the Chamber hosted a four-part seminar on new strategies to finding a job. More than 135 people registered for the free program, whose outcome was to provide valuable job-related information, training and opportunities available in the region.

International Trade The Chamber’s international trade division helped sponsor eight trade missions in 2009 to Australia, Colombia, Cuba, Germany, France, Mexico and Thailand. Participating local companies increased sales and new business by $26 million. More than 200 people attended representing 159 companies.

Chamber Receives State Trade Excellence Award

The Chamber was one of eight Alabama organizations honored by Gov. Bob Riley with the Trade of Excellence Award at the state capitol in 2009. This annual award is given to Alabama companies in recognition of outstanding contributions to the state’s economy through exports and includes large, medium and small businesses. The award is part of the state’s “Export Alabama” initiative created under Riley’s administration to increase Alabama’s exports. Chamber member N-TRON also received a trade award as the “Industrial Network Company” in North America. The company develops, manufactures and markets industrial network products for industrial, marine, utility, rail, traffic control and military applications.

Exporting Workshop

With the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) local office, the Chamber hosted a workshop for small business owners on exporting and export financing. The workshop provided participants with an overview of available SBA tools to help small business owners grow their export market, SBA and U.S. export-import bank financing options and local trade programs currently available to exporters. More than 40 Chamber members took advantage of this workshop.

Trade Mission to Vietnam

During 2009, the Chamber’s trade division worked to recruit local companies to participate in a Vietnam trade mission, slated for March 2010. Patrick Santillo, regional director for east Asia and the Pacific for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, traveled across Alabama to promote the Chamber’s mission to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It is expected that about eight Alabama companies will participate in this trade mission.

Chamber One of Seven Selected for Thailand Trip

At the invitation of the Thai government, the Chamber, along with six other chambers from Canada, the U.S. and the Dominican Republic, was invited to participate in a trip to identify possible synergies and export/import opportunities for the respective regions. Industries of focus include: automobile, processed foods, jewelry and fashion, universities hospitals and healthcare, investment, and leisure and tourism.

Discussing TWIC

The Chamber’s Maritime Affairs Committee convened to discuss the newly implemented Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) regulation and recent funding of Alabama maritime infrastructure from the stimulus package. TWIC was established by Congress through the Maritime Transportation Security Act and is administered by the Transportation Security Administration and the U.S. Coast Guard. TWICs are tamper-resistant biometric credentials issued to workers who require unescorted access to secure areas of ports, vessels and all credentialed merchant mariners.

World Trade Conference

Photo by Robin Cooper

The World Trade Conference “Connecting the Gulf to the Global Community and Sustaining Business Development Through Trade” was held in the spring. More than 100 companies from Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida participated. The Chamber is a partner in the annual conference.

Chamber staff members Tony van Aken, left, and Bridgette Clarke, right, are presented a trade award from Gov. Bob Riley.

18 FEBRUARY 2010 | THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Small Business D evelopment The Chamber’s small business

development department assisted more than 1,900 entrepreneurs in 2009 through counseling, training and professional development seminars aimed at helping support the increased demands on small business services.

Big Opportunities for Small Businesses

More than 200 participants took advantage of a number of business skills workshops and the Executive Roundtable meetings that invited member small business owners to learn more about cash flow management, legal issues facing small businesses, export and financing, improving productivity in the workplace, detecting and preventing accounting fraud, and many other topics. One of the largest workshops, “Analyzing the Stimulus Package and Its Impact” helped Chamber members better understand the federal stimulus plan. With 125 participants, Jeffrey Brooks with Adams and Reese, and Brent McMahan with the Small Business Administration, addressed the stimulus’ impact on business through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act. Additional training opportunities offered in 2009 included “Action Oriented Leadership: Linking People, Goals And Accountability To Drive Results” presented by Dale Carnegie.

Boost Business 2009

The Chamber’s small business development department held its annual day-long professional development Boost Business seminar. Christine Corelli, best-selling author, speaker, trainer, consultant and facilitator, provided sound advice for “Powering Up for Prosperity.” Participants learned what smart businesses are doing to prepare for the inevitable turnaround in the economy and why cost control, competitive excellence, and superior sales and service teams are critical.

District by District

The Chamber assisted Mobile County elected officials in presenting small business workshops for individuals doing business or interested in doing business in the county. Topics included revenue and licensing taxes, planning, permitting, zoning, code administration, public safety and community business resources. Workshops were held in each of the three Mobile County Commission districts, and attended by more than 90 people.

SCORE Receives Performance Award

The Mobile Chapter of Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) counselors attended a regional conference and received the Performance Excellence Award. SCORE Online Counselor and Chamber Director of Small Business Development Danette Richards was a featured speaker at the conference. During 2009, SCORE counseled 370 entrepreneurs and small business owners, and added a new counselor, Lynn Mitchell.

Mobile Cookies by Design Franchise Owner Leah Brown and Shop Manager Paul Brown display a batch of spring cookies in the Sugar Mill Village located at Airport Boulevard and Hillcrest Road.

And the Winner is…

Each year, the Mobile Area Chamber recognizes five minority-owned businesses by presenting Eagle Awards to companies that have shown significant growth and promoted community activities. Winners are selected based on a set of criteria including being headquartered in Mobile, Baldwin or Washington counties with a solid financial base producing increases in revenue or employee growth. During the awards dinner, the keynote address was presented by John Cawley, COO of Music World Entertainment and Nichelle Poindexter, Senior VP Music World Entertainment’s music division, Music World Music. More than 250 people attended this year’s event. Winners were: • Crosby Catering • Hixardt Technologies Inc. • Small’s Mortuary Inc. • Turner Distribution Co. • Water & Waste Specialties LLC

Minority Business Advocate Award – White-Spunner Construction

The Minority Business Advocate Award recognizes companies that show a commitment to supplier diversity by supporting minority-owned businesses. This year’s winner was White-Spunner Construction Inc., a general contracting, design build and construction management company. The company is committed to working with minority-owned businesses and has hosted meetings to match minority businesses with large companies in the area. They have also partnered with minority firms as prime contractors and subcontractors to pursue multimillion dollar construction projects.

2009 Small Business of the Month

Featured each month in The Business View, Small Business of the Month winners are selected by a volunteer task force. Criteria for the award include a growing financial base, outstanding reputation, community involvement and employing fewer than 100 people. Winners named in 2009 include: • Armbrecht Jackson LLP • Bayside Dinners • Bay Paper Co. Inc • Cookies by Design • Creative Catering Inc. • Don’s Café and Catering Service • A Gathering of Jewels • K.Z. Corp. • L.U. Landservice • Prudential Cooper & Co., Commercial Division • Walks and Wags

2009 Small Business of the Year

JF Pate Associates and Contractors Inc. was selected the 2009 Small Business of the Year. Founded in 1927, and currently employing 37 people, the family-owned company has a variety of clients and projects, including churches, hospitals, office buildings and residential facilities. According to the volunteer committee bestowing the award, J.F. Pate’s commitment to provide the highest quality of excellence in the construction industry while meeting clients’ demands was a deciding factor.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

2009 Eagle Award winners are (from left to right) Michael Hicks with Hixardt; Irene Small with Small’s Mortuary; Dale Turner with Turner Distribution; Derek Gillis with Water & Waste Specialties LLC; and Bruce Crosby with Crosby’s Catering. John White-Spunner (right) with WhiteSpunner Construction Inc. was named Minority Business Advocate at the event.

Alabama Minority Business Enterprise Center The Chamber assisted the Alabama Minority Business Enterprise Center in October 2006 to assist minority-owned businesses. The program is funded by a federal grant from the Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency and match-grant funding from the city of Mobile. In its three years of operation the MBEC had a goal of securing $22 million in procurement contracts. MBEC not only met this goal, it nearly tripled that amount, by securing contracts worth $65 million for its clients statewide. The center and its team have assisted more than 200 clients, helping them create 143 new jobs and increase sales by more than $8 million.

MED Week Celebration Roasts Editorial Cartoonist J.D. Crowe

MBEC’s annual MED (Minority Enterprise Development) Week activities ended on a high note in August when award-winning Press-Register editorial cartoonist J.D. Crowe was the target of some good-natured fun by his Press-Register colleagues and area political leaders at a roast in his honor. More than 75 people attended this event. MED Week activities recognized the achievements of minority-owned businesses, focused on fostering innovations, competitiveness and included professional development workshops.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Photo by Davis Photography

Small Business D evelopment

MBEC Hosts Hope VI Conference

MBEC held a Hope VI Pre-Bid Conference in conjunction with the Mobile Housing Board in the spring, as well as two business-to-business roundtables to match local minority business enterprises (MBEs) to specific companies. Ten MBEs were given advice on how to use matchmaking events to their advantage when meeting with procurement officers and buyers.

Regional Company Wins the Right to Bid on Naval Contract

The MBEC assisted Pensacola-based, Hixardt Technologies Inc., was selected to achieve prime contractor status on a multi-billion dollar contract with the Naval Sea Command. To increase Hixardt’s marketability for competing on task orders for this massive contract, the MBEC with two regional minority business development agencies hosted a strategic partnership and contract opportunities matchmaker in Biloxi, Miss. As a result Hixardt gained 20 strategic partners/subcontractors and expanded the firm’s ability to compete in every category of the contract.

Community & Governmental Affairs 2009 was perhaps the busiest year in more than a decade when it comes to governmental affairs. The Chamber and its volunteers focused on numerous issues critical to small businesses, such as unemployment benefits, healthcare and permitting challenges. In addition, the Chamber supported the passage of non-manufacturing and film production incentives, helping the state compete more effectively for white-collar and hightech jobs, as well as the movie industry. Continuing the fight for a fair process in determining who will build the next fleet of aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force, the Chamber, state and local legislators voiced their support and kept a watchful eye on the $40 billion opportunity. Legislative Session Promotes Economic Development

Several statewide and local bills were passed in the Alabama Legislature that helped maintain a more positive economic climate for southwest Alabama, and were on the Chamber’s 2009 Community Agenda. Two laws in particular will greatly enhance economic development. The first, Entertainment Industry Incentive Act of 2009, will provide tax credits and rebates to companies involved in making qualifying film/entertainment productions in the state. The second is the expansion of current economic development laws to include incentives for nonmanufacturing companies to boost the state’s competitiveness in recruiting more white-collar jobs.

Chamber Board Chairman Sandy Stimpson penned an editorial on the Chamber’s position that appeared in the Press-Register.

The Insurance Conundrum

The Business View examined the issues and challenges facing insurance reform in south Alabama. The Chamber supports advocates of insurance reform and continues to work with the Mobile-Baldwin legislative delegation to find a solution to the insurance conundrum. One key piece of reform is the restructuring of the Alabama Underwriting Insurance Association, better known as the “wind pool.” Under the proposed structure, companies have less of an obligation to the pool’s deficits if more policies are written in the at-risk coastal zones, creating an attractive case for companies to write more coastal policies.

Chamber Addresses Key City and County Issues

The Chamber’s Local Governmental Affairs Committee, in coordination with the Downtown Mobile Alliance, worked with Mobile city officials to address common developer challenges within the city’s permitting and development review process. Ben Cummings of Cummings Architecture Corp. served as the Chamber’s representative to the recently-formed Development Hurdles Task Force in discussing these issues. In addition, the Chamber’s committee forwarded a letter to the Mobile County Revenue Commission requesting revisions to the annual property tax bill statements and changes to the tax evaluation appeal process. In November, the Chamber was successful in lobbying the Mobile City Council’s finance committee to postpone imposing a new formula for city business licenses, which would have resulted in increased business taxes for many retail establishments.

Sometimes “No” is the Right Answer

Chamber Speaks at U.S. Department of Interior

The Chamber participated in a regional meeting of the U.S. Department of the Interior held in Mobile. The meeting included a discussion on the future of offshore energy exploration and production in the nation’s Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from 2010 to 2015. The Chamber’s Director of Business Retention and Expansion, Steve Russell, spoke on behalf of expanding leasing on the Gulf of Mexico’s OCS.

To the Capitol

Area business leaders and local government officials traveled to Washington D.C. for the annual “Washington Fly-in.” During the two-day event, group members met with Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby, and Reps. Jo Bonner and Arthur Davis to discuss the Chamber’s 2009 legislative agenda and receive an update from Capitol Hill. In addition, the 20-plus member delegation met with representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for a public policy briefing.

Learning in Charleston

The Chamber held its 22nd annual Leadership Trip in Charleston, S.C. in 2009. The group of almost 90 Chamber members representing public and private sector businesses studied some of Charleston’s most important issues and programs influencing the region, and how their success stories can be replicated in Mobile. Among other things the group learned about the process of transportation and infrastructure improvements, including Charleston’s Cooper River Bridge. The group also looked at best practices in the areas of port development, workforce training, sustainable growth and youth development.

Left: One key topic for the 2009 trip to Charleston, S.C., was learning how Charleston businesses and residents worked toward a consensus for a high-rise river bridge. Pictured are: John Baker, Thompson Engineering; Goodman Ledyard, Piece Ledyard PC; and Randy Delchamps, Randy Delchamps Real Estate; and were among the 89 participants on the 2009 Leadership Trip.

The Chamber’s State Governmental Affairs Committee was active throughout the Alabama Legislature’s 2009 session. Chamber staff and committee members worked with area legislators to identify and support those issues necessary to maintain south Alabama’s strong business climate. In addition, the committee successfully advocated defeating a bill that would have increased unemployment benefits at the expense of area businesses, as well as an immigration bill that was potentially damaging to the legal supplemental workforce in Alabama.

Against Card Check

The Chamber is a member of Alabama Alliance of Business Against EFCA (Employee Free Choice Act), better known as “card check.” The Chamber was outraged and actively lobbied against card check’s passage because it would do away with the secret ballot in union elections. It is believed that the legislation would allow union bosses to pressure workers to vote “yes” to a union presence. Principles of secret ballot are sacred to the U.S. democracy. Not only does the Chamber feel these provisions hinder economic growth and recovery, but it is in violation of the principles of international labor law.

Right: Keri Coumanis with Mobile Historic Development Commission and Mary Merchant with the city of Mobile chat with Mobile City Council President Reggie Copeland as they prepared to depart Mobile Regional Airport for Charleston.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Community & Governmental Affairs

Mobile Area Chamber members traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby, as well as Rep. Jo Bonner to discuss the Mobile business community’s legislative agenda and priority items for 2009. Pictured here are participants in the Fly-In as they met with Sessions in his office. From left to right, front row Ginny Russell, Mobile Area Chamber; Gigi Armbrecht, AT&T; Michon Trent; Judith Adams, Alabama State Port Authority. Second row, Bob Chappelle, Mobile Area Chamber; Bill Sisson, Mobile Airport Authority; W.S. Stimpson, Gulf Lumber Co.; Sydney Raine, Mobile Works; Sen. Sessions; Win Hallett, Mobile Area Chamber; Jenny Lynn Summerall, Mobile County Commission; Mike Dean, Mobile County Commission; Happy Fulford, University of South Alabama; Herschel Vineyard, Atlantic Marine; and Preston Bolt, Hand Arendall LLC. Third row: Richard Davis, Mobile Airport Authority; Bruce Croushore, Bender Shipbuilding & Repair; Bill Pfister, Austal USA; Troy Wayman, Mobile Area Chamber; Mike Lee, Page & Jones; Jim McIngvale, Northrop Grumman; Jack Edwards, Hand Arendall LLC; Dave Trent, Airbus Engineering Center; Ritchie Hurt, Thompson Engineering; and Keith King, Volkert & Associates.

Showcasing Mobile

Mobile welcomed two different groups of delegates from Columbus, Ga., and Tuscaloosa when they brought Leadership Trips/Intercity visits to Mobile in 2009. The Chamber’s Community and Governmental Affairs department worked with Mobile area business executives and elected officials to ensure the groups saw the best of the region, including the Mobile Area Education Foundation, downtown Business Improvement District, CitiSmart, cooperative economic development and film recruitment. Columbus brought 100 participants and Tuscaloosa had 50 people on its trip.

Strategic Planning for Mobile Bay

As a follow-up to last year’s panel on community resiliency and sustainability at the National Corporate Community Investment Conference, Chamber President Win Hallett participated in a gathering of 300-plus officials from business, nonprofit and government sectors from across the country. The group met to showcase ideas on the role of business in revitalizing communities through economic and social development. More specifically, Mobile’s InterCHANGE concept of a resiliency and sustainability tool for private development was showcased to corporate foundations interested in sustainable development. Mobile partners seek ways to work with government agencies and area organizations to push forward the development of a comprehensive tool that addresses both the area’s natural and built surroundings.

Fly from MOB

In early 2009 the Chamber’s Air Service Task force joined forces with Mobile Regional Airport and Springdale Travel to co-host an event highlighting the status of air service in Mobile. “Air Service: A Driver of Economic Growth” was an informative session attended by 150-plus Chamber advisors and directors to welcome Bill Sisson as executive director of the Mobile Airport Authority and hear comments from a senior airlines executive. Research with area travelers led to in-depth conversations with several airlines, including Southwest Airlines, on beginning air service to Mobile. Chamber Air Service Task Force members jumped to the call as more than 25 letters of support were written and received in a matter of days and more than 300 business leaders participated in the survey to help quantify Mobile’s commitment to the low-cost carrier. In addition, comments from seven key community leaders were included in a persuasive video message to Southwest Airlines that was e-mailed to officials in the fall.

Honor Flight

Honor Flight South Alabama sent two flights to Washington D.C. to visit the World War II memorial in 2009. The organization’s inaugural flight was on May 6 with 92 veterans and the second flight was Sept. 16 with 94 veterans. The Chamber supports this effort by coordinating the participants and volunteer registration. More than 1,200 people welcomed home the WWII veterans at rallies held at Mobile Regional Airport after both flights returned home. More flights are being planned for 2010.

Military Affairs

Pork & Politics

City, county, state and federal politicians attended Pork and Politics in the Park in August at Battleship Memorial Park. The nearly 500 attendees used this event as an opportunity to network with elected officials and candidates for Mobile City Council to find out where they stand on key business issues.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Gov. Bob Riley

Dr. Barry Booth

The annual Armed Forces Day luncheon in May was a sell-out with more than 300 people in attendance. Maj. Gen. Michael Sumrall was the event’s keynote speaker. The 2009 Veterans Day luncheon held in November, honored Gov. Bob Riley as Patriot of the Year and Dr. Barry Booth with Honor Flight South Alabama as Veteran of the Year. This event was also a sell-out with more than 700 people in attendance.

Community & Governmental Affairs Envision Coastal Alabama Launched in 1997 with citizen input, Envision, the regional strategic plan, continues to be a platform for dialog and action between Mobile and Baldwin County leaders. This initiative works toward a variety of community goals from financial literacy to environmental sustainability with the help of 30 partners and 600 volunteers.

Coastal Economy Outlook Featured Nationally Acclaimed Economists

Envision supported the 2009 Coastal Economy Outlook, organized by the University of South Alabama Center for Real Estate Studies. The event featured two renowned economists – Dennis P. Lockhart and Dr. Martin Regalia. Lockhart, president of Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta; presented views on the current state of the economy and an analysis of post-economic recovery efforts. Regalia, vice president for economic and tax policy and chief economist at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, presented his assessment on current economic drivers and its impact on American business. More than 300 people attended this event.

Bestselling Author Speaks at Envision Annual Meeting

In Good Hands

Donna Watts, president of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, and Mike Hofto, chief financial officer with Leavell Investment Management, served as co-chairs for Envision Coastal Alabama in 2009. Other Envision chairs included economy co-chairs, Steve Walker, The Walker Co., and Ray Moore, Hutchinson Moore & Rauch LLC; education co-chairs, Dr. Rhonda Waltman, Waltman & Assoc., and Jim Kellen, Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council; environment co-chairs, Dr. George Crozier, Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Bethany Kraft, Alabama Coastal Foundation; equity co-chairs, Shirley Sessions, Regions Bank, and Chris Miller, South Alabama Regional Planning Commission.

Joel Kotkin, an internationally recognized authority on global, economic, political and social trends and author of the critically-acclaimed book, The City, was the keynote speaker during Envision Coastal Alabama’s annual meeting. Kotkin spoke on the future sustainability of the nation’s cities and shared his perspective on the evaluation of urban life. He shared a similar message with the Chamber’s board of directors during its October meeting. Kotkin rated Mobile as the 10th best mid-sized metro area for job growth in 2008, and 37th overall.

Inaugural Envision Mayors’ Summit Promotes Regionalism The inaugural Envision Coastal Alabama Mobile/ Baldwin Mayors’ Summit hosted by Envision’s economy team sought to promote a spirit of cooperation and regionalism from mayors on both sides of Mobile Bay. Concerns included: creating economic diversity,

managing growth, lack of publicly owned industrial property and protecting quality of life. Mayors from Daphne, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Gulf Shores, Magnolia Springs, Mount Vernon, Robertsdale, Saraland and Spanish Fort attended the meeting.

Income Tax Assistance

In partnership with several local agencies, the Chamber and Envision Coastal Alabama hosted a training workshop for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) preparers. Fifty VITA workers were trained to provide free tax preparation services, tax credit education and general financial counseling for low- to moderate-income wage earners. During the past year’s tax season, the VITA coalition processed more than 1,300 tax returns, and netted more than $1.5 million in refunds for working families.

“Green Streets”

Envision, in collaboration with the city of Mobile and Downtown Mobile Alliance, hosted Auburn University’s Landscape Architecture design students to facilitate a public design charrette in Mobile. The intensive planning session engaged citizens and government and civic leaders in exploring opportunities for a Green Street initiative. An outcome from this study will result in the development of innovative planning and design techniques addressing the challenge of storm water management within the highly urbanized core of downtown.

Internet Forum for Idea Sharing

The Alabama Conservation Forum was created to swap ideas, share resources and create potential partnerships for conservation among area conservationists. The Internet forum is part of the Envision environment team’s 2009 project goals to provide a networking opportunity for conservationists in the two-county region and a platform to discuss a variety of environmental topics impacting coastal Alabama. The Alabama Conservation forum used Ning.com, a social networking tool for groups with similar interests, to link area conservation professionals.

2009 Corporate Community Service Award

American Equity Underwriters Inc. (AEU) was the recipient of the 2009 Corporate Community Service Award. Striving to make a difference in Mobile, AEU began a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA to provide one-on-one school-based mentoring to local at-risk youth. AEU’s 48 employees are committed to donating their time to mentor and support youth in the Mobile area. Envision, Volunteer Mobile and the Chamber present the award annually.

The Envision Annual Meeting featured Joel Kotkin, an internationally recognized authority on global, economic, political and social trends and author of the critically-acclaimed book, “The City,” who spoke to the crowd on the future sustainability of our nation’s cities and share his perspectives on the evolution of urban life. From left to right: Win Hallett, Chamber president; Joel Kotkin; and ECA co-chairs Donna Watts and Mike Hofto.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Membership F

or many businesses, being counted among the Chamber’s membership was a key marketing strategy in 2009. More than 320 businesses joined the organization, helping to offset those who had to discontinue their membership, primarily for financial reasons. The Mobile Area Chamber fared better than average when compared to similarly-sized Chambers in member retention. The Chamber represents nearly 2,400 companies that employ 91,000-plus employees. For as little as 83 cents a day, Chamber membership yields a return in: business assistance, professional development seminars and counseling, networking opportunities and advocacy aimed at protecting business interests.

Because it Matters

Thirty-five companies joined the Chamber’s board of advisors (BOA) in 2009, for a total of 249 participants. This group represents the Chamber’s most generous supporters, and BOA membership provides chief executives, owners and managers an avenue for valuable input on critical Chamber and community issues. Additional benefits include advance information on Mobile’s business progress and three-times-a-year meetings with the Chamber’s governing board of directors.

For the Record Books: Chamber Chase Eclipses Goals

Under the leadership of Matt White, president of White-Spunner & Associates Inc., Chamber Chase 2009 raised $1.24 million in new member dues, sponsorships, donations and advertising contracts for publications such as The Business View and Membership Directory and Buyers Guide. Surpassing the 16-week total resource development campaign goal of $1.23 million, more than 80 volunteers representing 48 Chamber member businesses worked to buck the sour economy. More than 75 new Chamber members were also recruited during this time.

With more than 1,500 in attendance, the Chamber’s Business & Technology Expo, the area’s largest business to business trade show, included more than 200 business booths and restaurants servings specialty menu items.

Getting Connected in 2009

With the goal of adding value to Chamber membership, the Chamber hosted Get Connected 2009, combining four events in one day. First was a “Get Connected Luncheon” featuring Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Troy Wayman, who discussed Mobile’s economic development process for success. It was attended by more than 110 people. Following the luncheon, the Business & Technology Expo and Business Resource Fair were held simultaneously. The expo included nearly 200 Chamber member businesses showcasing their goods and services. The resource fair, designed with small business owners in mind, put them face-to-face with local, state and federal agencies to help them with day-to-day operations. Attendance for these two events totaled more than 1,500. Finally Expo After Hours, completed a day of networking at the Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel with nearly 300 in attendance.

Chamber Golf Classic

The annual Chamber Classic Golf tournament was held in March at TimberCreek. The tournament was a sell out once again with more than 200 players. In addition to a day of networking on the course and the awards ceremony, golfers participated in the following contests: chipping, putting and closest to the pin.

Inaugural Member Appreciation Day

In April the Chamber hosted its first Member Appreciation Day. More than 300 Chamber members attended the day-long event that included lunch and door prizes. Chamber staff members hosted booths and were available to answer Chamber-related questions, provided details about upcoming events and shared information on how to make sure member businesses get the most out of their investment.

Forum Alabama

Left to right: Cristi Evans, Janet Hope and Mark Allen enjoy Member Appreciation Day at the Chamber.

The Chamber hosted two Forum Alabama luncheons in 2009. These luncheons are held periodically and feature important and timely topics and speakers. Both luncheons drew nearly 250 people. Rep. Jo Bonner spoke in February and Sen. Richard Shelby spoke in April. Both gave a Congressional update to our members.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Unique Networking Venues

Whether early bird or night owl, the Chamber continues to offer numerous unique networking opportunities for its members, including Business@Breakfast, Business After Hours and Networking@Noon. More than 1,500 attendees participated at these events in 2009.

Chamber Diplomats

There are more than 58 Chamber diplomats representing 53 member companies. The Diplomat of the Month is featured monthly in The Business View, and is based on participation of visiting members, attending member grand openings and working Chamber events. Diplomats participated in 46 grand openings in 2009. Diplomats recognized as Diplomat the Month for 2009 were: • Millie Sue Hawk, Welcome Friends • Michelle Kerr, Chiropractic Life Center • Dorothy May, A Gathering of Jewels Inc. • Lloyd Meyers, University of South Alabama • Sheila Murphy, Southern Tele-communications Inc. • Ryan Perdue, Callis Communications • Karen Presley, Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union • Diana Sturm, Legacy Financial Planning LLC • Eric Walker, Impresario Promotional Concepts LLC • Kay Watson, Adecco Employment Services • Angela Williams, LifeSouth Community Blood Center * Diplomats can be awarded this distinction more than one time annually

Diplomat of the Year

Each year Chamber diplomats compete for the coveted title of Diplomat of the Year. Millie Sue Hawk, owner of Welcome Friends, was named 2009 Diplomat of the Year. Hawk has participated in the program for six years. She has been recognized as Diplomat of the Month seven times. Hawk Millie Sue Hawk is often seen networking at Chamber events and meeting with members.

Communications I n the midst of a national economic

recession, Mobile area projects, the economy, the port and even the area’s optimism drew attention from national and international publications. From a monthly print magazine with a circulation exceeding 22,000, to a weekly online headlines and events e-newsletter, to social media posts, communication tools became more critical to sharing the Chamber and the local business community news in 2009.

National Media Eye Mobile

Articles featuring the Mobile area in 2009 were published in the New York Times, The Economist, Forbes, fDi, The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times and GlobeSt.com. Topics included the area’s growth during the national recession; the Retirement Systems of Alabama and how its investment in the Port city positively impacted downtown growth; the Port of Alabama and its potential for growth if Cuba opens up for trade. Rankings highlighted Mobile as having the “Best Cost Effectiveness for Small Cities” in North America, being one of the “Best Mid-Sized Cites for Jobs” and one of “America’s 25 Next Recovering Job Markets.” Several of these articles were pitched and coordinated with the help of Development Counselors International (DCI), a national economic development public relations firm retained by the Chamber along with the Alabama Development Office, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce.

State of the City and County

During the Mobile Area Chamber’s 12th annual State of the City and County luncheon, city of Mobile Mayor Sam Jones and Mobile County Commission President Mike Dean discussed the local government entities’ year in review and announced several future initiatives. Jones spoke about the success of Carnival’s cruise ship, the Holiday, and the impact the Fantasy will have on Mobile. Dean encouraged attendees to support roadway projects through the $136 million voter-approved Pay-AsYou-Go program. The event was a sellout with more than 850 attendees.

Touring China

The Chamber hosted a group of nearly 90 people for a nine-day/seven-night tour of Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou, China. This opportunity provided participants a very unique understanding of one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The trip was planned in coordination with CitsLinc International, a tour group that annually takes more than 60,000 Chamber members throughout the U.S. to China. The Chamber plans to host another group to China in October 2010, in time for the World Expo 2010.

Media Bus Tour

Forty area public relations executives and small business owners participated in a Media Tour designed to give them an opportunity to learn more about the day-today operations, get a behind-the-scenes look at where reporters operate and hear from media representatives about the best way to pitch a story. The Chamber coordinated this trip that included a newsroom tour of the Press-Register and FOX10 and a keynote lunch speaker – Dave Perry, editor of the Mobile Bay Business Journal.

Keeping it Local

Over the course of 2009, the Chamber continued is public relations effort to share the area’s business story with local media. Chamber Chairman Sandy Stimpson of Scotch & Gulf Lumber LLC, Chamber President Win Hallett and Vice President of Economic Development Troy Wayman met with several members of the PressRegister’s editorial department and business staff to discuss a variety of projects, including Mobile’s projected growth, the national economy and its impact locally, the I-10 bridge issue and Chamber legislative issues for the coming year. Chamber staff also appeared on television and radio broadcasts such as Trinity Broadcast Network’s show, “Joy in our Town,” and radio shows such as Cumulus Broadcasting’s weekly public affairs show and “Let’s Talk Real Estate” on WNTM.

Strength in Numbers

The Chamber continued its “Strength in Numbers” marketing campaign based on member testimonials. It is the campaign’s third year and highlights six members and the benefit each values most. Print ads were again featured in such venues as The Business View, PressRegister and Lagniappe, and on Lamar billboards and signs in Mobile Regional Airport. Featured in the 2009 campaign were: • W. Edward Dismukes Jr., Wilson-Dismukes Inc. • Leslie and Danny Fox, Tanner’s Pecan & Candies • Paula Jones, Paula’s Hair Unlimited • Brent Keith and Wayne Keith, Keith Air Conditioning • Dee Lam, Postmark Ink • Oliver Washington IV, Shore Acres Plant Farm

Showing Off

During the 2009 Annual Meeting, the Chamber launched is updated logo and new collateral pieces. The new stationary, envelopes, note cards, etc., were designed by Burton Designs, and provided the Chamber with an additional avenue to tell the story of Mobile – through images. All of the new stationary includes various images of Mobile – both its industry and tourist attractions.

Tweeting, Blogging, Uploading

The Chamber expanded its online presence with a Twitter account and grew its usage of additional online communication tools with Facebook, Linkedin and YouTube and its own blog on its newsroom at www. mobilechamber.com. To find the Chamber’s social media sites go to: • Facebook.com:groupmobileareachamberofcommerce • Linkedin.com: groupmobileareachamberofcommerce • Mobilechamber.com/chamberblog.asp • Twitter.com/MobileChamber • Youtube.com/MobileChamber

The Value Symbol

In 2009, the Chamber took its role in publicizing positive business news and reinforcing member investment even more seriously. In The Business View, all Chamber initiatives were spotlighted with a COC symbol at the end of the story and a new column kicked off the magazine – News You Can Use. These small changes were made to help members better understand the value of membership, and how the Chamber is working on their behalf.

The Chamber took nearly 90 people to China in October 2009. Pictured here are local participants at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Chamber News Chamber Presents Alfred F. Delchamps Award

Dr. Stephen Dill was honored for his life and work as the recipient of the Alfred F. Delchamps Award, presented at the 2009 Annual Meeting. The award was established two decades ago to honor individuals who carry on the vision and principles of Alfred F. Delchamps Jr., who was a moving force in the community and the Chamber.

Chamber Foundation Recognizes Robert Guthans, Ernest Todd

The Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation recognized two long-time board members, naming them emeritus members of its board of directors. Robert A. Guthans was first elected to the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation board of directors to a three-year term in 1987. He was subsequently re-elected to the Foundation board in 1998, and became board chairman in 2001, where he has faithfully served since. Guthans also served as chairman of the board of directors of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce in 1985. He was the first recipient of the Alfred F. Delchamps Award. Guthans was named chairman emeritus. Ernest W. Todd Jr. was a founding member of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, established in 1978. He has served faithfully and continually on that board for 31 years. Todd was president of the Headquarters Building Executive Committee, and was involved in raising funds and having the Chamber building at 451 Government St. constructed and

Ernest Todd (left) was named vice president/ secretary emeritus for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation in 2009. Pictured with Todd is Bestor Ward, president of Safe Archives and chairman of the Chamber Foundation.

maintained for these past 28 years. In addition to his leadership of the Chamber foundation and building committee, he was chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors in 1977 and 1978. Todd was named vice president/secretary emeritus.

Robert Guthans (right) was named as chairman emeritus for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation by Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce President Win Hallett. Guthans was recognized for his more than 25 years of service and leadership to the Chamber and its foundation.

A Chamber Welcome

The Chamber held a reception for new CEOs in the Mobile area to introduce them to area business and community leaders at Space 301 this spring. More than 100 of the Chamber’s board of directors, board of advisors and Partners for Growth investors attended. Approximately a dozen new CEOs were in attendance.

Business Leaders Take the Plunge

In their October and November meetings, directors and advisors pledged their support of free enterprise by signing on to the U.S. Chamber’s American Free Enterprise. Dream Big. initiative. U. S. Chamber vice president Brian Gunderson addressed the November meeting at Point Clear regarding the values of free enterprise - individual initiative, hard work, freedom of choice, and the free exchange of trade, capital and ideas - as the answer to the nation’s current economic crisis.

Members of the Mobile Area Chamber’s board of directors signed a pledge to support free enterprise. From left to right: John Baker, Thompson Engineering; Brad Beard, Beard Equipment Co.; Dave Trent, Airbus Engineering Center; Makeda Nichols, State Farm Insurance; Henry O’Connor III, IPC Capital Partners; Sandy Stimpson, Scotch & Gulf Lumber LLC; Herschel Vineyard, Atlantic Marine Alabama; and Owen Bailey, Infirmary Health System.

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Administration and Finance Chamber Staff Administration

International Trade

Tony van Aken, Director: 431-8651 Bridgette Clark, Trade Promotions Manager: 694-0702

Winthrop M. Hallett III, President: 431-8610 Robert L. Chappelle Jr. CCE, Executive Vice President: 431-8644 Katrina Dewrell, Executive Coordinator: 431-8611 Judy Winfield, Information Technology/Webmaster: 431-8626 Jackie Davidson, Administrative Assistant: 431-8605

Workforce Development

Leida Javier-Ferrell, Director, Center for Workforce Development: 431-8631 Carol Lambert, Project Manager, Center for Workforce Development: 431-8619

Communications

Leigh Perry-Herndon, Vice President: 431-8645 Ashley Horn, Director: 431-8623 Susan Rak-Blanchard, Senior Communications Specialist: 431-8641 Carolyn Wilson, Communications Assistant: 431-8606 René Eiland, The Business View Advertising Account Executive: 431-8635

Community and Governmental Affairs

Ginny Russell, Vice President: 431-8618 Patty Howell, Director of Regional Affairs: 431-8601 Shayla Jones Beaco, Director of Local Affairs: 431-8628 Ailey Arrow, Administrative Assistant: 431-8621

Finance and Operations

Joseph A. Mareno, Chief Financial Officer: 431-8624 Charlotte Buffington, Director: 431-8625 Chani Johnson, Senior Finance Assistant: 694-0701 Donna Ikner, Finance Assistant: 431-8609 Jackie Davidson, Administrative Assistant: 431-8605 Ballery Johnson, Custodian: 431-8634 James Smiley, Security: 431-8658

Membership

Carolyn Golson, Vice President: 431-8622 Kim Perrone, Director, Customer Service: 431-8649 Julie Luker, Events Coordinator: 431-8640 Heather Bell, Senior Account Executive: 431-8627 Rebecca Milam, Account Executive: 431-8647 Quandra Thomas, Membership Service Representative: 431-8617 Cynthia Clement, Help Desk Receptionist: 433-6951

Economic Development

Troy L. Wayman CEcD, Vice President: 431-8650 Shelly Mattingly, Coordinator: 431-8655 Divisions Business Development

Jesse Quillen, Director, Washington County Initiative: 251-847-2810 Herman Tinsley, Senior Project Manager: 431-8657 Al Ruffin, Research Manager: 431-8656 Graham Jones, Project Manager: 431-8648 Christina Stimpson, Administrative Assistant: 431-8636

Small Business Development

Business Retention and Expansion

Pamela Ramos, Director: 433-2276 Machelle Leslie, Business Consultant: 433-2250

Darrell Randle, Vice President: 431-8615 Danette Richards, Director: 431-8652 Brenda Rembert, Administrative Assistant: 431-8607

Minority Business Enterprise Center

Steve Russell, Director: 431-8654

2009 Expenses 4%

Center for Workforce 23% Administration, Finance Development & Operaions

2009 Revenue

10%

17%

30%

Community and Governmental Affairs

Events, Programs, Sponsorships and Donations

Membership

11%

Small Business Development

12%

Communications

18%

Membership

22%

Economic Development

25%

24%

Service Contracts & Grants

*This is based on the organization’s 2009 Budget. The Chamber’s financial statements are audited annually by McKean and Associates.

1% Other

Partners for Growth Economic Development Fund

Publications

Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 2009 Annual Report

Volunteers 2009 Executive Committee

William S. Stimpson

Sumner G. Adams

Conrad P. Armbrecht

Owen Bailey

Brad Brightman, BG,

Melissa Morrissette

Makeda Nichols

Michael H. Payne

William R. Seifert II

Dr. John W. Steadman John Strope

Scotch & Gulf Lumber LLC Chairman of the Board

Norton Lilly International Armbrecht Jackson LLP Maritime Affairs Legal Counsel

LLB&B Inc. Real Estate Membership

State Farm InsuranceMakeda Nichols Small Business Development

Sam W. Covert

Monique Rogers Henley Gregory R. Jones

Infirmary Health System Inc. ANG (Ret) Alabama Power Co. Bay Security Co. LLC Hand Arendall LLC Governmental Affairs University of South Workforce Development Community Development Trade Alabama Military Affairs

David L. Trent Winthrop M. Hallett, III

Gwin’s Commercial Regions Bank Dogwood Productions Inc. Airbus North America Mobile Area Chamber University of South Printing Immediate Past Chairman Technology Engineering Inc. of Commerce Alabama Communications Chair-Elect of the Board Economic Development Finance & Operations

In addition to the Executive Committee, serving on the 2009 Board of D irectors were: Celia Mann Baehr

Scott Delaney

Hon. Jamie Ison

Andy Newton

Steven M. Solberg

Celia Mann Baehr CFP

Delaney Development Inc.

Alabama House of Representatives

Southern Light LLC

PCH Hotels & Resorts Inc.

John H. Baker III

W. Edward Dismukes Jr.

Erik L. Johnsen

Joseph Ng

Robert P. Soulliere

Thompson Engineering

Wilson-Dismukes Inc.

International Shipholding Corp.

ST Aerospace Mobile Inc.

ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC

Brad Beard

Patricia W. Esfeller

Keith A. Jones

Henry O’Connor III

Herschel T. Vineyard Jr.

Beard Equipment Co.

Esfeller Construction Co. Inc.

Prism Systems Inc.

IPC Capital Partners LLC

Atlantic Marine Alabama LLC

Dean Brown

Ralph A. Hargrove

Christopher Lackinger

Richard Perry

Matt White

Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC

Hargrove Engineers + Constuctors

ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC

DuPont Agricultural Products

White-Spunner & Associates Inc.

Bob Browning

Cedric J. Hatcher

Frank Lott III

Beth McFadden Rouse

Ellen Praytor Wingard

Austal Ltd.

RBC Bank

Heritage Homes of Mobile Inc.

McFadden Lyon and Rouse LLC

Lewis Communications Inc.

Lynda Burkett

Bree A. Hayes

Dr. James Lowe

Frank S. Seltzer Jr.

Marshall A. McLeod PLS LLC

The Hayes Group

Bishop State Community College

Superior Masonry Inc.

451 Government Street • Mobile, AL 36602 • (251) 433-6951 • www.mobilechamber.com 28

FEBRUARY 2010

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Local

State

Photo by Wendi L. Lewis, Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce

National

2010 Community Legislative Agenda The members of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce have identified the following issues, policies and appropriations as fundamental to Alabama’s progress because they will help to build additional jobs and a more positive business climate in the Mobile area.

Critical Issues

F Support the efforts of the Alabama Gulf Coast Regional Sewer Supply District to build more resilient and efficient infrastructure that provides reliable, cost-effective wastewater treatment in support of the long-term needs of the region.

F Support efforts to secure federal military contracts, including Northrop Grumman-EADS’s efforts to build a new refueling tanker for the U.S. Air Force and Austal USA-General Dynamic’s next-generation Littoral Combat Ships for the U.S. Navy.

F Strengthen strategic workforce partnerships developed through the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council Region 9, the secondary school and community colleges to create seamless, demand-driven education and training services that produce a highly-prepared and competitive workforce for our region.

F To relieve growing congestion, seek increased state and federal support and funding to address transportation infrastructure needs, including a western Mobile bypass, a Mobile River bridge and completion of the four-laning of U.S. Highways 98 and 45; support the timely reauthorization of SAFETEA-LU.

F Seek a revenue-neutral state sales tax abatement for ST Mobile Aerospace Engineering on the materials involved in the maintenance/conversion of commercial planes to FedEx cargo planes so as to maintain the $500 million contract for Mobile’s largest manufacturing employer.

F Advocate for local consensus regarding the proposed I-10 Mobile River bridge to expedite a final decision from the Alabama Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. F Support and encourage balanced and inclusive pro-business practices and procedures that encourage development and growth within the city of Mobile and Mobile County; encourage fair and expeditious permitting practices for both local and out-of-town investors. F Support a comprehensive, federal energy policy that increases the supply of energy in a manner that is safe and protective of the environment, promotes comprehensive energy conservation and encourages research and development of clean and alternative energy sources. F Support state and federal tort reform measures including reduction in postjudgment interest, caps on mental anguish and limits on product liability awards. F Seek legislation to establish state-guaranteed, zero-interest small business loans available immediately following a federally-declared natural disaster to bridge the time until insurance claims are paid and other disaster relief funds or financial assistance can be acquired.

Legislative Action F Seek further market-driven health insurance legislation changes that are affordable and accessible for small business; seek innovative solutions for providing prescription drug coverage at a reasonable cost; support the purchase of health insurance through insurance pools that cross state lines. F Support market-driven legislation to increase the availability of property insurance coverage at competitive pricing so individuals and businesses can find reasonable and available protection for their homes and businesses. F Seek a reasonable alternative to forecast budgeting so to better prepare the state of Alabama for revenue downswings. *

* New action item for 2010

The Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a progressive advocate for business needs to promote the Mobile area’s economic well-being. MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

FEBRUARY 2010

Policy Statements F Support the city of Mobile’s annexation efforts in order to expand the city’s future economic growth opportunities. F Advocate for stable sources of adequate funding for all state-directed public education initiatives that will ensure an improved student achievement and a fundamentally well-rounded education. F Protect manufacturers from frivolous plaintiff law suits due to noise and/or other minor nuisances. F Support the review and repeal of unnecessary regulations and seek greater reform, efficiency and accountability in federal, state and local government. F Reform federal immigration policy to strengthen our national security, including increasing protection of our borders, while providing a supplemental workforce for American businesses and industry; ensure the continuity and expansion of H-1B, H-2B and L-1 visas for professionals and highly-valued workers. F Support fair trade initiatives and agreements designed to increase access to global markets, including reducing trade and tourism restrictions with Cuba. F Support fair and equitable tax reform to stimulate business growth and development; ensure that taxes and tax reform are applied fairly, without levying a disproportionate burden on individual segments of Alabama’s economy. F Seek a fair and level distribution of fuel tax dollars that will allow for adequate funding of critical road and bridge infrastructure projects in southwest Alabama. F Support infrastructure project funding and legislative initiatives that improve the prospect of future economic success, including improvements to the port, airport, rail, water, sewer and industrial site infrastructure as well as strategic transportation infrastructure needs.

2010 Alabama Legislative Directory Mobile Area State Legislators Sen. Marc Keahey D-Butler, Dist. 22 P.O. Box 934 Grove Hill, AL 36451 Work: (251) 275-3127 Montgomery: (334) 242-7748 Sen. Trip Pittman R-Daphne, Dist. 32 P.O. Box 1812 Daphne, AL 36526 Work: (251) 621-3555 Montgomery: (334) 242-7897 Sen. Vivian Davis Figures D-Mobile, Dist. 33 2054 Clemente Ct., Mobile, AL 36617 Home: (251) 457-4567 Montgomery: (334) 242-7871 Sen. Rusty Glover R-Semmes, Dist. 34 4225 Camellia Cir., W., Semmes, AL 36575 Home: (251) 649-7380 Montgomery: (334) 242-7800 Sen. Ben Brooks R-Mobile, Dist. 35 4953 Audubon Dr., Mobile, AL 36619 Work: (251) 344-7744 Montgomery: (334) 242-7882 Rep. Harry Shiver R-Bay Minette, Dist. 64 46007 Sunset Dr., Bay Minette, AL 36507 Home: (251) 937-1391 Montgomery: (334) 242-7745

F Support the creation of a state-appointed board of directors to oversee the Alabama Department of Transportation.

Rep. Alan Baker R-Brewton, Dist. 66 P.O. Box 975, Brewton, AL 36427 Home: (251) 867-6514 Montgomery: (334) 242-7720

F Support existing eminent domain statutes to maintain economic development and quality of life initiatives, such as new manufacturing facilities and industrial/commercial parks as well as the revitalization of blighted areas, public housing and green space.

Rep. Joe Faust R-Fairhope, Dist. 94 20452 Beecher St., Fairhope, AL 36532 Work: (251) 990-4615 Montgomery: (334) 242-7699

F Seek an equitable resolution on the Medicare wage index issue so hospitals in the region will be fairly reimbursed for the services they provide to the Medicare population.

Rep. Stephen A. McMillan R-Orange Beach, Dist. 95 P.O. Box 337, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Home: (251) 937-9546 Montgomery: (334) 242-7723

F Simplify and reform the 1901 Constitution of the state of Alabama, including the opportunity for counties to choose “home rule” and provide the governor with line-item veto powers.

Rep. Randy Davis R-Daphne, Dist. 96 6590 Thompson Lane, Daphne, AL 36526 Home: (251) 621-0814 Montgomery: (334) 242-7724 Rep. Yvonne Kennedy D-Mobile, Dist. 97 1205 Glennon Ave., Mobile, AL 36603 Home: (251) 438-9509 Montgomery: (334) 242-7737 Rep. James Gordon D-Mobile, Dist. 98 7818 Lukoli Ln., Saraland, AL 36571 Work: (251) 476-7246 Montgomery: (334) 242-7772 Rep. James Buskey D-Mobile, Dist. 99 2207 Barretts Ln., Mobile, AL 36617 Home: (251) 457-7928 Montgomery: (334) 242-7757

FEBRUARY 2010

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Rep. Victor Gaston R-Mobile, Dist. 100 1136 Hillcrest Crossing West, Mobile, AL 36695 Home: (251) 639-2555 Montgomery: (334) 242-7675 Rep. Jamie Ison R-Mobile, Dist. 101 57 Byrnes Blvd., Mobile, AL 36608 Home: (251) 342-6697 Montgomery: (334) 242-7711 Rep. Chad Fincher R-Semmes, Dist. 102 P.O. Box 981, Semmes, AL 36575 Work: (251) 649-2722 Montgomery: (334) 242-7778 Rep. Joseph Mitchell D-Mobile, Dist. 103 465 Dexter Ave., Mobile, AL 36604 Home: (251) 473-5020 Montgomery: (334) 242-7735 Rep. Jim Barton R-Mobile, Dist. 104 3824 St. Andrews Dr., Mobile, AL 36693 Home: (251) 666-4642 Montgomery: (334) 242-7754 Rep. Spencer Collier R-Irvington, Dist. 105 P.O. Box 550, Irvington, AL 36544 Home: (251) 824-1011 Montgomery: (334) 242-7719 State Legislative Delegation Offices Mobile County: (251) 208-5481 Baldwin County: (251) 937-0240

U.S. Congressmen Sen. Jeff Sessions 335 Russell Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510-0104 (202) 224-4124 • (202) 224-3194 Fax Local Office: Valerie Day 41 W. I-65 Service Rd., N., Ste. 2300A Mobile, AL 36608 Mobile: (251) 414-3083 Sen. Richard C. Shelby 110 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510-0103 (202) 224-5744 • (202) 224-3416 Fax Local Office: Tera Johnson 113 St. Joseph St., Mobile, AL 36602 Mobile: (251) 694-4164 Rep. Jo Bonner 315 Cannon Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-4931 • (202) 225-0562 Fax Local Office: Eliska Morgan 11 N. Water St., Ste. 15290, Mobile, AL 36602 Mobile: (251) 690-2811

State

Alabama

Gov. Bob Riley State Capitol, 600 Dexter Ave. Montgomery, AL 36130 (334) 242-7100 • (334) 353-0004 Fax

CEO

SCORE

Sam St. John

The Mobile Chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a part of the national nonprofit organization of more than 10,500 volunteer business counselors who provide free, confidential business counseling and training workshops to small business owners.

Match Up with Big Buyers For a small business, trying to land that first sale to a public institution, government agency or major corporation can be frustrating. One of the most helpful steps is often the most difficult to take – meeting personally with the right person. But a fastgrowing program from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering hope to small business owners. Business Matchmaking is a series of regional events bringing corporate and government buyers face to face with small business owners. To date, business owners have landed more than 20,000 one-on-one appointments with key government and corporate officials from hundreds of major corporations and agencies. Dale Turner, president of Turner Distribution, is proof the program works locally. Turner attended an SBA-sponsored business matchmaking event in Mobile, where he met purchasing agents from the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS). From that meeting he received several small orders and is now bidding on what could be a lucrative project. Archinique Kidd, underutilized business coordinator for MAWSS, participates in the business matchmaker every year so that she can meet new suppliers, learn about what they offer and let suppliers know what MAWSS will be looking to purchase in the future. Suppliers also receive information on how to become a vendor with MAWSS. “It’s quick, but we’re both getting good,

targeted information in a short period of time,” Kidd said. Business matchmaking doesn’t promise you’ll snag a deal, but it does give you a chance to state your case directly to decision makers. If you’ve never sold to large corporations or government agencies, this is an excellent starting point. Business matchmaking levels the field, allowing every small business an equal opportunity to learn about selling to big business, public institutions (like universities) and government entities at local, state and national levels. If you aren’t sure how to prepare your pitch, small business advisors can help you: 1. Identify potential buyers of your product or services. 2. Write and submit successful proposals. 3. Plan your marketing and sales approach, and line up financing. The south Alabama business matchmaker is Thursday, Feb. 11, at the University of South Alabama (USA) Student Center and is presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration, USA Small Business Development Center and the Mobile Area Chamber. For more information, to register or to set up an appointment visit http://www. southalabama.edu/sbdc/. Appointments are limited so sign up early.

Profile

Company: Logical Computer Solutions Inc. Title: President/Owner Hometown: Mobile Education: St. John holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from The University of Alabama. First job: In his early years, St. John worked summers as a route driver for City Sales Co. He also mowed lawns, potted plants in a nursery and painted houses to earn money. Previous experience: St. John began his career as an electronics manufacturing process engineer at Monsanto Electronic division in St. Louis making silicon wafers for computer chips. He later sold computerized factory automation systems throughout North America before starting his own company. Career-changing moment: St. John said he redefined his career when his wife asked him to quit traveling and stay in Mobile to help raise their family. Accomplishments: Starting a computer company that has grown steadily for more than 23 years, servicing hundreds of customers along the Gulf Coast. Secret to success: “Hire talented and friendly people,” St. John said. Which historical figure would you like to invite to dinner and why? “Bill Gates, to thank him for creating the need for computers-service companies.” Family: St. John and his wife have three children. Brief company description: Logical Computer Solutions Inc. is a computer and technology systems integrator providing design, installation and support services for businesses and their information technology professionals.

For additional help identifying potential business opportunities or a confidential one-on-one counseling session at no charge, contact the Mobile SCORE chapter at 431-8614.

omparative Economic Indicators

OCT. 2009 vs OCT. 2008

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

Business Licenses

Unemployment Rates

City of Mobile

Mobile/Baldwin counties

Average Selling Price Mobile County

226 2009

10.6% 2009

218 2008

5.0% 2008

$142,156 2009 $156,666 2008

Homes Sold⌦

Building Permits

Employed Mobile/Baldwin counties

234,660 2009 256,702 2008

Mobile County

City of Mobile

338 2009 348 2008 MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Value of Building Permits $36,009,535 2009 $34,860,335 2008

Air Passengers From Mobile Area

298 2009

23,874 2009

253 2008

21,548 2008

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

FEBRUARY 2010

usiness Spotlight of the Month

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

We offer a

variety

of Loans...

Principal Financial Group

Pictured left to right standing: Gary Adams, Craig Brantley, F. Ray Hall, Michael James and Rick Little. Seated: Kim Bush and Brenda Street. The company provides customized business packages for insurance, retirement, 401(k) plans and many other financial needs.

• New or Used Auto • Boat • RV • Motorcycle • ATV • Farm Equipment • Signature/Personal • Share/CD Secured • First Mortgage • Home Equity • Lines of Credit • Home Improvement • Undeveloped Property • VISA Credit as low as 8.9% • And Great Rates!

Owner: R. Craig Brantley Location: 917 Western America Cir., Ste. 350

Member since: 1988

Brief description of business: Principal Financial Group is a global financial service provider of full packaged retirement solutions and life and health insurance services for both businesses and individuals. What is unique or innovative about your business? “Our commitment – with our track record of 130 years of delivering solid financial results and retirement solutions during even the most difficult of conditions,” said Brantley. Most significant challenge: According to Brantley, the current economy creates challenges for companies and individuals mapping out a financial future. “The recent turmoil among financial institutions and turbulent market conditions may have caused many to wonder, ‘is my money safe?’– a fair question to ask if you are a participant in an organization’s retirement plan,” said Brantley. “Our fundamentals have remained strong.” Phone number: 344-3100

Website: www.principal.com

iplomat of the Month

Diana Sturm

Teaching a relaxation technique to reduce money anxiety may be one of Diana Sturm’s most unique services. The founder of Legacy Financial Planning LLC, a financial consultant service, Sturm provides advice on budgeting, taxes, home purchases, debt reduction, cash flow analysis and insurance investment. She is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Diplomat of the Month. Sturm’s role as a diplomat enables her to visit fellow Chamber members and learn about area businesses. Through Chamber events such as Business After Hours, Sturm

FEBRUARY 2010

said she has gained friends and support for her business. “The event allows me to take time to learn from business associates on a more personal level,” she said. Sturm is a member of the National Association for Tax Professionals, American Association for Long Term Care Insurance and a registered investment advisor with the Alabama Securities Commission. She is a co-host for Alabama Business Today radio show and a facilitator for the Women’s Business Center.

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

251•316•3240 www•newhcu•org

usiness Spotlight of the Month

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

Rayco Supply Inc.

Why? Faster Turn Times The Highest Quality (up to 1200 dpi) Personalization Tools Interstate Printing Service & Care

Why not? See how digital printing can revitalize your marketing techniques while driving down your cost. Interstate Printing is your source for the latest technology and great service. Call us today to learn more!

Owners Ray and Kathy Thompson celebrate Rayco Supply’s 20 years in business. The company originally opened as a manufacturer of toner cartridges, now offer full technical support as well as supplies and printing service

Owner: Kathy and Ray Thompson Location: 808 Executive Park Dr.

Member since: 1991

Brief description of business: Rayco Supply Inc. began as a re-manufacturer of toner cartridges and expanded its services to include full technical support, printer supplies, laser printer and computer repair, network support, structured cabling services (copper and fiber) and managed print services. What is unique or innovative about your business? “Our business society has become more and more dependent on computers and their peripherals, and our ability to respond quickly and effectively has been our mainstay since inception,” said Ray. He added customers request Rayco techs by name because of their dedication to solving problems. Most significant challenge: Competing with “Big Box” stores for market position and staying ahead of the technology growth curve. Rayco meets the first challenge by keeping prices low and recognizing customer needs. “The difference is in the service – local, homegrown and with a ‘Southern Accent,’” said Ray. Phone number: 476-2224

iplomat of the Month

Nancy Peoples Nancy Peoples is a familiar face at Chamber events as she registers guests, gives directions or networks with fellow Chamber members. Peoples is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Diplomat of the Month. A volunteer on the diplomat committee for more than eight years, she served as co-chair in 2007 and committee chair in 2008. Peoples is the account manager/ recruiter for Multi Staffing Service, a

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

locally owned and operated full service staffing firm, where she coordinates staffing personnel for companies in the Mobile area. She is also a member of the Senior Bowl committee, Mobile Society of Human Resource Management and a marketing partner for the Mobile Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau.

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

FEBRUARY 2010

Photo by Jeff Tesney

Website: www.raycosupplyinc.com

n v e s tor Focus

TAG/The Architects Group Inc. Company officials: Robert Ronald Taylor AIA (American Institute of Architects), principal/president; David M. Barr AIA, principal/vice president; Robert M. Krchak AIA, principal/director of project management; Daniel J. Borcicky AIA, principal/director of design; and Alice H. Cutright ASID (American Society of Interior Design)/ NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification), director of interior design Years in business: 38 Brief company description: Based in Mobile, TAG/The Architects Group Inc. offers master planning, architecture, interior design, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and construction management services for a variety of project types including commercial office buildings, government and judicial, industrial, military and training, convention and meeting, museums and cultural, educational, major healthcare, financial institutions and housing facilities. TAG is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, has LEED accredited professionals on staff and is currently pursuing LEED certification with several upcoming projects.

Seated (left to right): Cindy Klotz, Meghan Shehi, Alice Cutright, Mary Ellen Zoghby-Lee. Standing (left to right): Justin Lucas, Tom Kelly, Jan Jenkins, Edward Struthers, Cecile Sparks, Steve Stone, David Barr, Dan Borcicky, Ryan Kiefer, Mike Kavanagh, Matt Wheeler, Ronnie Taylor, Robert Krchak and Bill Hines.

Why are you located in Mobile? “The owners and principals of TAG live in Mobile and Baldwin County,” said Taylor, principal/president of the company. “Mobile is centrally located with easy access to projects in surrounding states. TAG has provided architectural and interior design services nationwide for multiple clients and does so successfully from our Mobile office.”

What do you see as Mobile’s greatest potential? “The ability to attract and capture international investment, and our position as an alternative gateway for trade with Central and South America,” said Taylor.

economy, but the local workforce including contractors, laborers, vendors, suppliers and professional consultants.”

Length of Chamber membership: Since 1979

Why do you support the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s Partners for Growth initiative? “TAG supports the Partners for Growth initiative in part to keep opportunities local,” said Taylor. “Design projects kept in Mobile support not only the local

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

Nobody works harder than the owners.

Oliver Latil

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Hutch Thompson

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Roy Hudson

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Poenta Luckie

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Parrish Tatum VICE PRESIDENT

Amy Lassiter

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

Come experience the difference of always dealing with an owner. At Community Bank, we fully-understand the meaning of the term “owner’s mentality” –because you’re always dealing with an owner here. Community Bank is one of the only staff-owned banks in the state, so we always deliver the best service possible. Call or come by to discuss your next loan, a great CD rate or any other services that our staff-owners can help provide to you.

6808 AIRPORT BLVD., MOBILE (251) 338-6200 2101 HIGHWAY 98, DAPHNE (251) 338-8200

FEBRUARY 2010

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CommunityBank.net ® 2009 Community Bank | Member FDIC

FEB. 2010

BUSINESS @BREAKFAST*

*Members Only Time: 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. Place: The HoneyBaked Ham Co. 3851 Airport Blvd. Cost: $10, includes breakfast Contact: Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@mobilechamber.com

GCTC LUNCHEON

Time: Place: Cost: Contact:

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Mobile Area Chamber McGowin Room, 451 Government St. $15 for members/$20 for potential members, includes lunch Christina Stimpson at 431-8636 or cstimpson@mobilechamber.com

CHAMBER CLOSED FOR MARDI GRAS CONTACTS AND CONTRACTS

15 16 18

Time: 5:30 - 7 p.m. Place: Black History Museum, Bishop State Community College, main campus, Martin Luther King Ave. Cost: Free Contact: Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber.com

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Time: 5:30 - 7 p.m. Place: Portier Place, 4363 Old Shell Rd. Cost: $5 for members/$10 for potential members Contact: Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@mobilechamber.com

Contacts and Contracts Contacts and Contracts, formerly Diversity Business Network, will be Thursday, Feb. 18 at the Black History Museum at Bishop State Community College, 1365 Martin Luther King Ave., from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. This quarterly, business developmentnetworking event is designed to give small and minority owned businesses the opportunity to meet representatives from large companies and governmental agencies and learn about their supplier needs and bidding procedures. There is no charge to attend; however reservations are requested. For more information, contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@mobilechamber.com.

alendar

Business@Breakfast* Business@Breakfast will be Wednesday, Feb. 10, at The HoneyBaked Ham Co., 3851 Airport Blvd., from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. B@B is a bi-monthly event offering members 45 seconds to introduce themselves and their business. Following a brief presentation, introductions and breakfast, attendees are invited to continue networking. The breakfast cost is $10 and payment is due with reservation. Only one representative per company. Reservations are required by Monday, Feb. 8, for this event and cancellations will not be reimbursed after this date to cover the cost of breakfast. For reservations, contact Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@ mobilechamber.com. *Members Only

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

ho’s In Town?

February 2010

The Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau (MBCVB) provides a list of the current month’s conventions coming to the bay area. For more information, contact the MBCVB at 208-2000.

Feb. 14-17 Shrine International Yachting Club Association Delegates: 100 Phone: 810-966-4605 Hotel/Location: Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel Feb. 16-20 Alabama High School Athletic Directors & Coaches Association Delegates: 384 Phone: 334-263-6994 Hotel/Location: TBD/Mitchell Center at the University of South Alabama

GCTC Luncheon

Feb. 19-21 JAMFest Events Inc. Delegates: 1,500 Phone: 502-266-6526 Hotel/Location: Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel/Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center Feb. 19-23 University of South Alabama Athletics Delegates: 300 Phone: 251-460-6213 Hotel/Location: Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel Feb. 23-28 Gulf Games Delegates: 70 Phone: 504-347-6097 Hotel/Location: Ashbury Hotel & Suites

The Gulf Coast Technology Council will host its monthly luncheon Wednesday, Feb. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Chamber’s McGowin Room, 451 Government St. The cost to attend is $15 for Chamber members or $20 for potential members and includes lunch. Reservations are required and cancellations after Feb. 5 will not be reimbursed to cover the cost of lunch. For more information, contact Christina Stimpson at 431-8636 or cstimpson@ mobilechamber.com.

Business After Hours Join business professionals at Business After Hours at Portier Place, 4363 Old Shell Rd., on Thursday, Feb. 25 from 5:30 until 7 p.m. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages at this casual evening of networking. This is one of the best opportunities to introduce yourself and your business to other members and make new business contacts. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for potential members. Reservations are not needed. For more information, contact Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@ mobilechamber.com.

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

FEBRUARY 2010

e mber News

Regions Bank named Anna Louise Bender as area marketing Rendfrey officer for south Bender Alabama. Bender came from Deloitte and Touche Consulting in Atlanta, where she served as a total rewards consultant. In other news, Leigh Rendfrey was promoted from business development manager to business development officer. Rendfrey also recently received the 2008 Loaned Executive of the Year Award for her work with United Way of Southwest Alabama. X Ilka Porter joined GulfQuest (Mobile’s Maritime Museum) as education director. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Porter elementary education from University of South Alabama and Spring Hill College, respectively.

Lori Nolan joined Red Square Agency as vice president of integrated production. Nolan previously worked at Atlanta’s Crispin Porter + Bogusky. She received a bachelor’s degree in Nolan information architecture and usability from the University of Massachusetts. X University of South Alabama (USA) Physicians Group welcomed David G. Laycock MD. Laycock will see patients at USA Knollwood Physicians Laycock Group and the USA Student Health Center. He previously served as staff pediatrician and president of Mobile Pediatrics Inc. Laycock earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Saint Procopius College in Lisle, Ill., and his medical degree from the USA College of Medicine. Laycock completed his internship and his pediatric residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C.

Hand Arendall announced Wes Hunter joined as an associate in the firm’s litigation section. Hunter received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Georgia and his juris doctorate from Cumberland School of Law. X Matt May joined Dauphin Realty’s corporate office in midtown, specializing in residential sales. May X The Mobile office of Burr & Forman LLP announced Anna L. Scully as an associate in the commercial litigation section. Scully earned her juris doctorate from Cumberland School of Law. She received her master’s degree in American studies and her bachelor’s degree in politics from University of Dallas. X Rico Brogna will manage the Mobile BayBears in 2010 with returning hitting coach, Turner Ward and returning pitching coach, Dan Carlson. Brogna previously played nine seasons with the Atlanta Braves, Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies.

Commonwealth National Bank added Karlos F. Finley and Manual G. Estrada to its board of directors. Finley Estrada Finley is an attorney with Mobile-based Moor & Wolfe. Estrada is vice president and chief financial officer of International Shipholding Corp. X Christy Duprey joined Marriott Mobile’s management team as general manager of the company’s Residence Inn. Christy attended Louisiana State University. X Stephen W. Callahan joined Allstate Financial Services division as a personal financial representative. Callahan has more than 35 years experience as a CPA and 18 years as an investment representative. X Hancock Bank named Rebecca Dillard Turner as vice president. She directs the company’s Bank-at-Work program across Hancock’s four-state Turner footprint. Turner joined Hancock Bank in 2007 and has 13 years of professional financial service experience. X Stephanie Constantine, owner of Constantine Human Resource Consulting LLC, is the human resource correspondent for Citybiz Constantine USA’s website, http://www. citybizmobile.com. Citybiz is a networking site for Mobile businesses to promote & advertise their products or services. X Jamie Ison joined LLB&B Inc. Real Estate as a sales agent. Ison

Cellular South purchased Corr Wireless in Alabama. The acquisition expands Cellular South’s north Alabama and north Georgia coverage. X Franklin Primary Health Center Inc. recently celebrated the grand opening of its Loxley Family Dental Center and its West Mobile Family Medical Center.

FEBRUARY 2010

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

Member News Anthony Stutts, with Farmers Insurance in Mobile, completed the insurance agent career accelerator course designed for agents to learn the best methods surrounding staging, business management, marketing and sales. X Roberts Brothers at the Airport Square office announced Sandy Frost earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert designation to provide Frost solutions for foreclosure avoidance. X Shape magazine chose the Spa at the Battle House Hotel as one of the magazine’s “7 Must-Visit Spas.” The October 2009 ranking was awarded to spas considered relaxing and spirit-reviving getaways.

Members Are Our Greatest Asset!

35 YEARS

The Orthopaedic Group PC

25 YEARS

Evonik Degussa Corp. Shoe Station Inc. Treadwell Ford

20 YEARS

Bay Area Physicians for Women Coastal Insulation Cockrell Body Shop Gulf South Pipeline Co. LP Handyman’s Railroad Salvage Inc. Thigpen Photography Inc. John M. Warren Inc.

15 YEARS

Comfort Inn Logical Computer Solutions Inc. Marine Rigging Inc.

10 YEARS

Barry A. Vittor & Associates Inc. Distribution International DTI Partners Inc. Galbraith & Associates LLC Malcolm Pirnie Inc. Modspace

5 YEARS

Goodwill Easter Seals’ Special Needs Cheer Squad won first place at Mrs. Lisa’s Gulf Coast Classic competition. X Glyn Ed Newton of Glyn Ed Newton & Associates Inc. received the Dorothy Carnegie Award for outstanding contributions to Dale Carnegie Training in south Alabama for more than 37 years. Training included helping companies improving employee performance. X Mobile Area Water & Sewer System’s H.E. Myers Water Filtration Plant received the Optimized Plant Award from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). The award is based on daily turbidity performance, and recognizes plants and operators who have consistently maintained treatment standards above those required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and ADEM.

Affordable Health Insurance Services American Heart Association Benz LLC d/b/a Berney Fly Bed & Breakfast BNI Business Resource Center

Latham

Partridge

Libba Latham and Kathy Webster of LLB&B Inc. Real Estate earned the National Association of Realtors’ GREEN Designation. Designees learn environmental real estate concepts, principles, practices and benefits. In addition, Nancy Partridge completed the Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI), a program providing real estate training to serve and protect clients. X Employees at Mobile’s Evonik Industries hydrogen peroxide plant were recognized for going three years without a lost-time accident – a work-related personal injury resulting in at least one day off from the job.

nniversaries

Mac Papers Inc. Materials Recovery Corp. McJunkin RedMan Corp.

1-4 YEARS

AAF Mobile Bay Ace Hardware and Unfinished Furniture of Cottage Hill Airbus Military North America America’s Junior Miss Annie’s Beauty Salon Bama Pest Control Inc. Jim Blackman Jr. DMD Blankenship’s Universal Glass Co. Inc. Broussard’s Brown-Keahey Starter & Generator Service Inc. Brownlee-Morrow Engineering Co. Boy Scouts of America Broadway South Dance Studio Business Communications Distributors Inc. (BCD) Camille’s Sidewalk Café Camp Rap-A-Hope Choctaw Transport Inc. Citslinc International Inc. Coastal Bank and Trust Community Bank CorroMetrics Services Inc. Dana & Friends Pet Grooming Davies Air Design Inc. Deas Construction Inc. Delta Sanitation of Alabama LLC John Dendy & Associates Architects Ferguson Enterprises Inc. FHS Inc. FMS Engineering LLC

Webster

The USA Mitchell Cancer Institute was awarded a grant by The Community Foundation of South Alabama to provide free screenings for cancer, hypertension and diabetes. More than 800 individuals from an eight-county area received the screenings. The program focused on health education, information and prevention of life-threatening illness. American Cancer Society’s second annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer five-mile walk and event raised more then $206,000. The event drew 8,000-plus participants from Mobile and Baldwin County. Funds will go toward early detection and prevention education, research and programs.

Please show your support through the patronage of these businesses.

Gaillard Builders Inc. The Gates of Fowl River Grant Nichols Construction Inc. Gray Construction Gutter Guys Harbor Financial Services LLC Heritage Compounding Pharmacy Hometown Mortgage Hood’s Discount Home Center of Foley Horne LLP CPAs & Business Consultants Hudgens & Associates Hutchinson Moore & Rauch LLC Johnson Development Associates Jos. A. Bank Jubilee BEST Robotics Inc. Junior Achievement of Mobile Ken’s Car Tunes Inc. Knight Abbey Printing & Direct Mail Laser and Skin Care Center of Mobile Lifeguard Transportation Service Inc. of Mobile MACTEC Engineering & Consulting Inc. Malouf Furniture & Design Buffy Marston MS LPC LLC MASTRO Photography and Design Mobile Container Terminal LLC Outlaw Plastic Surgery Penelope House PowerSouth Energy PRemployer Inc. Prichard & Dewberry & Hodges PC Print King Public Relations Council of Alabama Mobile Chapter Pumping Systems Inc. Quick Shot Trucking Inc.

MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Red Roof Inn Red Roof Inn - Mobile South Rite Way Service Inc. Roly Poly Royalty Products Inc. Ruston Industrial Supplies Inc., a division of Motion Industries Secure Horizons Serenity on the Bay Elaine Sessions-Roberts Brothers Inc. S & K MachineWorks and Fabrication Shaklee Small’s Mortuary Inc. Southern Haulers LLC Southern Trailer Repair Inc. Spherion Recruiting and Staffing St. Luke’s Episcopal School State Farm Agency Recruiting STOA Architects Superior Masonry Inc. Synergy Yoga & Pilates Tender Loving Care ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA LLC ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC Tooling Concepts & Industrial Supply Inc. TORP Terminal Triple H Specialty of Mobile LLC Trinity Broadcasting Network Ron Twilley Builders Inc. United Rentals UPS Wealth Management Consultants White’s Big & Tall WTI Transport Young Leaders of America

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

As of 11/30/09

FEBRUARY 2010

Clip and add to your Membership Directory.

e w Members

View the complete membership directory at www.mobilechamber.com.

If you know of a company interested in benefitting from Chamber membership, contact Heather Bell at 431-8627 or Rebecca Milam at 431-8647.

Accurate Control Equipment Inc. Randall Staab 455 Pine Ave. Fairhope, AL 36532-2432 251-928-4976 www.aceinc1.com Mailing Machines & Equipment Admoni Photography Keegan McWhorter 164 St. Emanuel St. Mobile, AL 36602-3007 251-680-4588 www.admoniphotography.com Photographer APEX Environmental Services LLC Wendell L. Spencer 7455 Rangeline Rd. Theodore, AL 36582 251-443-6324 Environmental Services

Chiropractic Works PC Dr. Be Phetsinorath 3263 Demetropolis Rd., Ste. 10 Mobile, AL 36693-4619 251-665-4999 www.chiropracticworks.info Chiropractors, DC Comfort Suites Daphne Shanna Rhodes 29450 N. Main St. Daphne, AL 36526-9550 251-626-1113 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al142 Hotels Comfort Suites Eastern Shore Shanna Rhodes 8931 Sawood St. Daphne, AL 36526 251-625-6260 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al284 Hotels

Marion Elledge Dauphin Realty Marion Elledge 2569 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36606 251- 463-9232 www.mobilerealtoreality.com Real Estate-Residential & Commercial

HeroMan Services Plant Co. LLC Deborah Heroman 131 Le Port Dr. Pensacola, FL 32561-3914 251-450-5099 www.HeroMan.biz Interiorscape Design & Maintenance

EnduraCare Acute Care Services LLC Meagan Mangold 3765-A Government Blvd. Mobile, AL 36693-4307 251-666-7867 www.enduracare.com Rehabilitation Services

Ideacom of the Gulf Coast Jared Smith 26376 Pollard Rd. Daphne, AL 36526-2217 251-626-1313 www.ideacomgc.com Telecommunications

Exotic Import Specialists d/b/a Rettig’s Auto Body Melinda Smith 1408 Montlimar Dr. Mobile, AL 36609-6513 251-343-2300 Automobile Body and Collision Center

Best Western Moffett Rd. Inn Shanna Rhodes 7688 Moffett Rd. Mobile, AL 36618-4134 251-645-1275 www.bestwestern.com Motels

Comfort Suites Saraland Shanna Rhodes 1200 Shelton Beach Rd. Saraland, AL 36571-3017 251- 675-5552 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al142 Hotels

Best Western Motorsports Inn & Suites Saraland Friday Sayasy 1118 Shelton Beach Rd. Saraland, AL 36571-3016 251-675-4446 www.bestwestern.com Hotels

Comfort Suites Tillman’s Corner Shanna Rhodes 5660 Tillman’s Corner Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36619-1962 251-665-0161 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/al236 Hotels

Breland Homes Ray Hudson 5011 Government Blvd., Ste. B Mobile, AL 36693-5029 251-666-7616 www.brelandhomes.com Home Builders

The Complete Skin Care Center Jeanne Sanborn 3604 Old Shell Rd. Mobile, AL 36608-1307 251-344-4049 www.completeskincarecenter.com Skin Care

Food World David Sullivan 4055 Cottage Hill Rd. Mobile, AL 36609-4290 251-661-2434 www.food-world.com Grocers

The Courtyard Manor Tiffany Washington 751 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36602-1514 251-434-9456 www.TheCourtyardManor.com Special Events

Food World Debbie Robinson 2962 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 251-471-1681 www.food-world.com Grocers

Cream & Sugar Rebekah Lasher 351 George St. Mobile, AL 36604 251-405-0003 Coffee Shop

Food World Mike Brunson 3170 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36606 251-479-3294 www.food-world.com Grocers

Bruno’s Jim Moody 4350 Old Shell Rd. Mobile, AL 36608 251-380-0020 www.brunos.com Grocers Business Personnel Solutions Inc./The Payroll Source Jeff Pierce 851 E. I-65 Service Rd., Ste. #302 Mobile, AL 36606 850-377-3227 www.businesspersonnelsolutions.com Professional Employer Organization Butterflies Are Free! Mary Sandoz Ladd P.O. Box 82292 Mobile, AL 36689-2292 251-709-6717 Gifts

Cypress Cove Apartments Rhonda Fowler 2175 Schillinger Rd. S. Mobile, AL 36695-4173 251-633-0599 www.sealyrealty.com Apartments

FEBRUARY 2010

Focus Tax Service Chelsea T. DuBose 1907 First Ave. Prichard, AL 36610-3603 251-408-3220 Tax Return Preparation Food World Shannon Eskridge 2501 Government Blvd. Mobile, AL 36606-1600 251-476-4530 www.food-world.com Grocers

Fuego Coastal Mexican Eatery Mike Perez 2066 Old Shell Rd. Mobile, AL 36607-3349 251-378-8621 Restaurants

iSAM North America Corp. Dr. Juergen Hellmich 1111 E. I-65 Service Rd. S., Ste. 106 Mobile, AL 36606-3101 251-338-2528 www.isam-na.com Industrial Automation & Welding Systems Jubilee Marketing & Distributing Stephani Norwood 2616 Old Shell Rd. Mobile, AL 36607-2921 251-479-4060 www.jubileewater.com Marketing McNorton Jones PC Jacquelin Jones 41 W. I-65 Service Rd. N., Ste. 190 Mobile, AL 36608-1223 251-316-3636 www.mcnortonjonescpa.com Accountants-Certified Public Miche Bags of the Gulf Coast LLC Karen Reeves 10510 Reva Rd. N. Chunchula, AL 36521-3394 251-455-8313 Handbags Miflin Promos James Summersgill 901 Somerby Dr. Apt 409 Mobile, AL 36695-3496 251-607-1171 www.miflinpromos.com Promotional Advertising Mobile Heart Specialists PC Hal Daugherty Jr. 6701 Airport Blvd., Ste. A-107 Mobile, AL 36608 251-435-8570 www.mobheart.com Health Care Services Mobile Mechanical Service Chris Burns 5787 I-10 Industrial Pkwy. Theodore, AL 36582-1663 251-653-6948 www.mobilemechanical.com Compressors

Mobile Weightloss Center Dr. Lawrence Carpenter 3 Mobile Infirmary Cir., Ste. 202 Mobile, AL 36607 251-434-0005 www.mobileweightlosscenter.com Weight Control Services

Signs Now Susan Pigott 3747 Government Blvd., Ste. B2 Mobile, AL 36693-4307 251-660-0639 Signs

Denise Moore Life Coach Denise Moore 51 N. Monterey St. Mobile, AL 36604-1349 251-591-7005 Consultant

South Alabama Spay and Neuter Center Dr. Jeni Knizley 7380 Zeigler Cir. S. Mobile, AL 36608-4850 251-607-0005 www.southalabamaspayneuter.com Veterinarians-DVM

Mount Hebron Church Ministries Joe F. Johnson 2531 Berkley Ave. Mobile, AL 36617-1703 251-457-9900 www.mthebroncm.org Churches

SportPlex of Mobile Deena B. Hudson 6363 Piccadilly Sq. Dr. Mobile, AL 36609-5125 251-342-1777 Health Clubs

Heath Parker Insurance Agency/ State Farm Heath Parker 4960 Springhill Ave. Ste. A Mobile, AL 36608 251-344-5876 www.heathparkeragency.com Insurance & Financial Services PC Professionals OnSite Chris Rabig 8150 Pueblo St. Mobile, AL 36619-5226 251-295-2109 www.gulfcoastpcpro.com Computers-Service & Repair Re/Max Select Ashlie Laster 30 Schillinger Rd. N., Ste. 101 Mobile, AL 36608-5060 251-445-7999 www.ashlielaster.com Real Estate Office Resources for Independence Edwin Aikens 1000 Hillcrest Rd., Ste. 210 Mobile, AL 36695 251-607-9990 www.sunrisegroup.org Non-Profit Organization Serotonin Plus Weight Loss MD Dr. Max Rogers 3 Mobile Infirmary Cir., Ste. 414 Mobile, AL 36607-3512 251-435-7546 www.mobileweightlossmd.net Weight Control Services Signature Real Estate LLC Stephene Renee 4413 Old Shell Rd. Mobile, AL 36608-1911 251-343-3004 www.mysignaturerealestate.com Real Estate Office

| THE BUSINESS VIEW | MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Sylvan Learning of Semmes Cynthia Landrum 8020 Moffett Rd. Semmes, AL 36575-4700 251-649-8522 www.sylvansemmes.com Tutoring Thompson Properties LLC Robert Thompson 2136 Marchfield Dr. W. Mobile, AL 36693-2961 251-709-8155 Real Estate TKR Technologies Inc. Tiffany J. Levy 6845 Hwy. 90 E., Ste. 105-120 Daphne, AL 36526-9545 877-406-3028 www.tkr360.com Technology Consultants Universal Engineering Sciences Roger Matthews 1985 Cope Ln. Pensacola, FL 32526-3931 850-944-5555 www.universalengineering.com Engineers-Surveyors Williams Financial Group LLC Rebecca Williams 2566 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36606 251-473-2120 www.williamsfinancialgroup.org Financial Planners Consultants As of 11/30/09

HELPING THE REGION

GETTING YOU THERE

A thriving airport brings more businesses to the state and the region, which provide jobs and help our economy grow.

Offering 25 all-jet departures each day to 5 of the nation’s largest hubs means the world is just a ticket away.

GIVING YOU MORE With great amenities like convenient parking, easy access to gates and free Wi-Fi, you’ll soon see you get more when you fly MO.

HELPING YOU SAVE Our competitive fares frequently match or even beat other regional airports, and the more people who fly MO, the lower they’ll go.

WHY FLY MO? That's easy. MO is a part of our community, a vital link in the region's economy and an important resource that makes it easier for you to get where you're going. The more we all fly MO, the more airlines will want to locate here, and the lower our fares will be. Flying MO is not only a way to support Mobile today; it’s a way to develop better business for our city’s future. So pack your bags, it's time to fly MO. MOBILE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

THE BUSINESS VIEW |

FEBRUARY 2010