The Business View - April 2011 by Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

The

BusinessView Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

April 2011 | VOL. XLII, No. 2

Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • razie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖ ràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gra Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii anke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Gra ank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràc Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Me razie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖ ràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias erci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Dank chÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You• uchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank razzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Tha You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Graz Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràc hank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke chÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • razzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie ank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràc hank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • razie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖ ràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas racias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U razzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • M razie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn ràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias erci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Dan chÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Mu racias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You• Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • razzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank You • Muchas Gracias • Merci • Grazie • Dank U • Grazzii • Danke SchÖn • Gràcies • Thank Yo

Merci Muchas Thank You Gracias Dank U Grazie Arigato

Ohkini Grazii Toa Chie Dan San

Ga’ Cheers

Thank You Ohkini

Dankschen

Danke Schön Lenzing Plans $30M Expansion n Mobile on the Grow: Fast Facts about Mobile n Envision Coastal Alabama Connects the E’s n

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Disappointed but Not Deterred T

Winthrop M. Hallett, III President, Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

Today the Chamber’s economic development team is working 25 projects, of which more than half are active.

he news of EADS North America’s loss on the contract to build aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force captured headlines around the globe. In any competition there’s going to be a winner and a loser, but this loss stung a lot more because of the potential impact on Mobile’s economy.

As the countdown started, I was sitting in a room with Gov. Robert Bentley, Alabama Development Office Director Seth Hammett, Mobile Mayor Sam Jones, Mobile County Commission President Merceria Ludgood, Mobile Airport Authority Executive Director Bill Sisson; and Alabama State Port Authority Director Jimmy Lyons. We were being briefed by the minute by EADS North America Chief Operating Officer David Oliver and Airbus VP of Corporate Communications Clay McConnell. And then it happened, “Sorry to tell you this, but Boeing got it,” said McConnell. You could have heard a pin drop. In the coming weeks, we’ll learn more about the contract, and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s economic development team has made it through the seven stages of the grieving process – and we’re back in the thick of it, and ready to do battle again. This community has an amazing ability to bounce back from bad news, however you may receive questions by your staff, friends and family about the contract, and how this community moves forward from the announcement. Here are some important reminders for all of us when talking about our region’s future growth: • Absolutely Mobile will move forward from this disappointment and there are thousands of already-announced jobs coming to Mobile that are not tanker related. • Mobile and Tanker Team Mobile developed an outstanding relationship with EADS North America and Airbus over the last six-plus years, and we fully anticipate leveraging that relationship to help market the Brookley Aeroplex site. • Mobile did its job. We were successful in 2005 when EADS selected Mobile as the site to build wide-body aircraft. EADS conducted a national search, receiving

proposals from all 50 states. From that point, we remained supportive of EADS throughout several rounds of the competition. • Today the Chamber’s economic development team is working 25 projects, of which more than half are active. Most of these projects are not tanker or tankersupplier related. • Recruiting efforts for more than a decade have been: shipbuilding, aerospace, oil and gas exploration, healthcare/ biomedical, transportation/distribution and information technology. • The Airbus Engineering Center (located at Brookley Aeroplex) and Airbus Military (located at Bates Field) will remain in Mobile, as their work was not dependent upon the outcome of the tanker competition. • There is continued growth expected at the Port of Mobile, and APM Terminals (Mobile Container Terminal), and the completion of the Panama Canal expansion in 2014, will have a positive impact in Mobile.

• Austal’s expansion efforts with the awarding of the Littoral Combat Ship contract from the U.S. Navy in late 2010 will result in 2,000 additional jobs in Mobile. Today, potential suppliers to Austal are indicating a need to locate near the facility, and the Chamber has been actively recruiting in this sector. In this issue of The Business View, we’ve included a feature called Mobile on the Grow. Included in it are statistics about Mobile’s economic growth, recent rankings for Mobile, statistical information and other items. We’ll keep this information up-to-date, and it will be housed both on the Chamber’s web site, www.mobilechamber.com and the economic development site, www.mobilebayregion.com. I’d encourage you to check these two sites often as things change quickly. In closing, while we were all disappointed and devastated by the Department of Defense announcement, we remain resolved in growing this region’s economy! For that reason, we’re marching onward!

Reach 22,200 Decision Makers EACH Month Advertise in The Business View

By advertising in The Business View, you can reach the decision-makers at more than 22,200 area businesses every month plus another 7,500 business professionals who receive it electronically. The Business View – an easy and economical way to get your company in front of the Mobile area business community.

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

APRIL 2011 | The Business View

The

BusinessView Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

April 2011 4-7

News You Can Use – Positive news for area and state businesses Small Business of the Month: PlanFocus Financial Services

Meet the Chamber staff and enjoy lunch on us at Member Appreciation Day

11-14

Mobile on the Grow: View Mobile’s economic growth and area statistics, and learn what’s being said about the region.

17-20

Cover

The Chamber says “Thank You” in different languages to members. Join us for Member Appreciation Day. See page 10 for more information.

24 25

27 27

Envision Coastal Alabama’s semi- annual report is here, introducing new leaders and attainable goals for the organization’s Economy, Equity, Environment and Education teams. Also learn about new programs from Envision partners Smart Coast and Mobile Area Education Foundation and read how you can help change the region by becoming an Envision volunteer.

CEO Profile: Brian Harold, APM Terminals (Mobile Container Terminal LLC) Investor Focus: Holcim (US) Inc.

Good Habits + Problem Solving = Great Sales Board of Advisors Profiles

James Geiger joins the Chamber as technology support specialist

Economic Indicators

Rainforest exhibit coming to the Exploreum

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 ©2011 Publisher.....................................Winthrop M. Hallett III Executive Editor................................Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor.............................Susan Rak-Blanchard Copy Editor.........................................................Cori Yonge

28 28

Additional Writers and Editors Shayla Beaco, Katrina Dewrell, Ashley Horn, Christina Stimpson, Carolyn Wilson

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

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Guest columnist attorney Beth Marietta Lyons explains what Alabama’s new ethics law means to state businesses Chamber@Work Calendar Member News New Members Anniversaries

The Business View | APRIL 2011

City Opens Western Administrative Complex

Lenzing Fibers Announces

Residents in west Mobile can access local government closer to home. The city of Mobile opened the Western Administrative Complex at 4851 Museum Dr. last month. The facility once housed the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The Navy gave the building to the city. “This was a structurally sound building,” said Mayor Sam Jones. “We were extremely fortunate to acquire it from the Marines because it fit perfectly into our plans to create a western annex for city services.”

Expansion

Lenzing Fibers announced a $30 million expansion for its Mobile County facility in Axis. Company officials said the move, driven by rising cotton prices, the availability of cotton, as well as the demand for manmade cellulosic fibers, will boost local production of Lyocell (marketed as Tencel) by 20,000 tons annually – a 70 percent increase, beginning in early 2012. According to Lenzing’s local plant manager, Kevin Allen, the company plans to hire between 50 and 100 local contractors and add 63 permanent employees to its current total of 110. “Lenzing’s investment in this facility signals it is committed to turning its Mobile County operations into a mainstay for its corporate network, and we’re very excited about its growth,” said Claudia Zimmermann, the Mobile Area Chamber’s director of economic development.

APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Lyocell is a high-grade specialty man-made cellulose fiber with wood pulp as its primary ingredient. It is used in textiles including sportswear, women’s clothing and linens, as well as nonwoven products including baby care wipes and other hygiene products, cosmetics, household products and medicine. Allen said about a quarter of the company’s production goes into one product – Kirkland Premium Baby Wipes. The additional volume produced as a result of the expansion, Allen estimated, will fill an extra 1,000 tractor-trailer trucks. The majority of the monies will purchase additional equipment, with several million dollars dedicated to modernize and upgrade a production line decommissioned by Courtalds, the site’s previous owner, according to Allen. Lenzing’s added production means increased shipments for Mobile’s APM Terminals, noted Allen, who ships his product out of the terminal and advises his wood pulp suppliers to use it to get to his Axis facility. “Lenzing is an essential partner in growing our diverse economy. Its decision to expand at its North Mobile County site signals confidence in our economy. Lenzing’s investment means more highwage jobs and another opportunity to showcase the U.S. Hwy. 43 corridor as a thriving industrial area,” said Merceria Ludgood, Mobile County Commission president and district one representative. The Mobile plant is the only facility producing Lyocell in the U.S., and is one of only three in the world. The company’s corporate directors are headquartered in the Mobile plant. The parent corporation is based in Lenzing, Austria.

The following services are available in the 48,000-square-foot structure: • Police Department Second and Fourth Precincts, Traffic Unit, JAG Unit, Tactical Unit and the Motorcycle Unit; • Revenue Department – business owners can purchase or renew business licenses; • Urban Development – residents and business owners can obtain building permits, inspections and more; and • Municipal Information Technology satellite location. Because the building sits on one of the highest points in the city, the complex also serves as an emergency operation center for city hall. “In the event of a weather-related catastrophic storm that would prevent us from operating out of Government Plaza, we needed an alternate location to conduct city business,” Jones said. Mobile Police Department public hours at the annex are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The urban development and tax revenue offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You’ll see this symbol with stories featuring Chamber initiatives.

More Fly Mo “I Fly Mo” is more than just a marketing campaign. Mobile Regional Airport officials released the 2010 passenger count, showing it as the busiest on record since 2007. Airport traffic was up 2 percent, the equivalent of 12,000 passengers, over 2009. Driving this increase, said Bill Sisson, executive director of the Mobile Airport Authority, are business travelers. Preliminary data shows increased traffic between Mobile and major markets including New York, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Denver, Seattle, Kansas City and Detroit. Sisson expects that upward trend from the business community to continue in 2011, and noted the airport is also seeing increased international traffic. “There are a number of area economic development projects that are getting into full swing, and that means travel is getting into full swing,” Sisson said. While not unexpected, the number of leisure travelers decreased – something Sisson attributes to a combination of fallout from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and the recession that forced vacationers to take shorter excursions closer to home. Gulfport and Pensacola passenger counts also increased, by 10 percent and 6 percent, respectively. The central Gulf Coast from New Orleans to Panama City is one of the most competitive markets for airports, hosting six airports within 300 miles. “The airlines have kept fares in line with other regional airports and that puts us at a more competitive advantage. We hope that will continue,” Sisson said, explaining that airlines independently set their rates. According to Sisson, Mobile’s “I Fly Mo” marketing campaign is also making an impact and the www.iflymo.com web site traffic shows more people are checking fares. “If given a good choice we know passengers will fly out of their hometown airport,” said Sisson.

Saad Expanding to

Meet Rising Needs

Citing an increased demand for services, Saad Healthcare officials announced they increased their employee team by 38 percent in 2010, and are expanding operations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Last year the company hired an additional 70 full-time staff members, and in the first quarter of 2011 added 10 more full-time employees, including nurses, therapists, healthcare professionals and office personnel, according to Henry Fulgham, Saad Healthcare’s chief operations officer. The company has 262 full-time staff and 88 part-time employees.

“Our population is aging, and more and more baby boomers need care,” said Fulgham on one of the reasons for the company’s rapid growth. He also attributed the need to changes in the healthcare field, such as shorter hospital stays, longer rehabilitation and increasing chronic conditions. Saad is investing $750,000 to convert 10,000 square feet of its warehouse space into a comprehensive out-patient rehabilitation clinic used for physical, occupational and speech therapies; add to its Certified Nursing Assistant School; and increase office space. The family-owned company provides home healthcare and hospice services and sells medical supplies and equipment throughout south Alabama and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Fulgham said the company saw a 15 percent growth in revenue in 2009 and 2010, and he expects this year will meet and exceed that same level of growth.

You’ll see this symbol with stories featuring Chamber initiatives.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

Chamber to Host

World Trade Conference

“Doing business with the United Arab Emirates (UAE): Gateway to the Middle East and North Africa,” is the focus of this year’s regional World Trade Conference, hosted by the Mobile Area Chamber May 1-3, 2011 at Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Point Clear. The World Trade Conference is an alliance of organizations in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi sharing international business interests. It rotates between the four states annually. U.S. exports to the UAE have grown from $2.3 billion in 2000 to $12.1 billion in 2009, making the area the top market in the Middle East/North Africa region. According to Christina Stimpson, the Chamber’s trade department program manager, organizers believe a forum devoted to the UAE is timely and merited. Conference seminars and meetings will highlight opportunities, challenges and aspects of doing business with the UAE. Business leaders, local officials, and

representatives from Washington D.C. and Dubai will present topics such as identifying new export opportunities, obtaining resources necessary to succeed in the region and developing market entry strategies. Stimpson said one-on-one meetings with commercial service representatives will also be available. Based on past attendance, conference organizers anticipate strong participation from regional chief executive officers, international sales managers, logistics companies, small business owners and businesses supporting the Gulf states’ ports. The cost to attend is $175 and registrations may be made by contacting Stimpson at cstimpson@mobilechamber.com or 431-8648, or on the Chamber’s calendar of events at www.mobilechamber.com. Conference room reservations of $169 to $199 per night may be made by calling 1-800-544-9933 using group code WDT.

How can I … Answers for today’s business questions. We tie people to productivity and to profitability.

Rick Miller, CEO 251.472.5629 pro356consulting.com Fairhope, Alabama

APRIL 2011 | The Business View

By the Numbers

May 1-3 Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa

Alliance of organizations from four states will meet for the annual World Trade Conference – Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi.

$1.2 billion

U.S. exports in 2009 to the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, totalled $12.1 billion. The UAE is considered the gateway to the Middle East/North Africa region.

The Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council (SAWDC) received a much-needed infusion to support its regional efforts. The National Fund for Workforce Solutions announced the local organization is one of six communities in the South and Southwest receiving a portion of a $1.8 million grant for job training and career support. The awards represent the second wave of grants awarded to the National Fund and its implementation partner, Jobs for the Future. SAWDC’s share totaled $300,000 and will be allotted over the next two years. The council serves an eight-county region in southwest Alabama. According to Laura Chandler, SAWDC’s director, the monies

will establish and support four fully functioning workforce partnerships supporting the maritime, aerospace, healthcare and process manufacturing industries. It is expected that by the end of year two, SAWDC will have served more than 600 individuals (400 job seekers and 200 incumbent workers) and enrolled 470 in education and training. Chandler estimates at least half of the job seekers will obtain jobs, and others will receive wage increases and promotions. Of the total 600 individuals served, 100 are expected to receive industry and/or education credentials as a result of these efforts.

Each of the new National Fund sites, selected through a competitive process, has a local funding collaborative in place, comprised of an array of private and public funders, investing in sector-based, workforce partnerships. Other sites with similar organizations include Atlanta; Greenville, S.C.; Jackson, Miss.; Louisville, Ky.; and New Orleans. The Mobile Area Chamber has been an organizing, funding and working partner of SAWDC since its beginning. According to Chandler, Dr. Bert Eichold with the Mobile County Health Department and SAWDC’s founding collaborative chair, was instrumental in attaining this grant.

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PUBLICATION: APRIL MOBILE THE BUSINESS VIEW

Workforce Development

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DATE PRODUCED: 1/257/11

New Funding for

The leaders you see here are the ones entrusted to making sure that commitment is met. You can depend on their experience and expertise to provide you with the guidance you need to meet your goals. Now and in the future. Bottom Row (L to R):

Top Row (L to R):

Michael Dennis – Regional Director, Private Banking – Alabama Mike Cadden – Relationship Manager, Commercial Markets Cedric Hatcher – Regional President, Commercial Markets – S. Alabama Scott Stafford – Regional President, Retail – Alabama Dottie McKean – Relationship Manager, Commercial Markets Jason Gross – Relationship Manager, Commercial Markets

Michele Hand – Regional Retail Manager – West Mobile Matt Singleton – Relationship Manager, Commercial Markets Sam Morgart – Regional Retail Manager – Baldwin County Willson McClelland – Relationship Manager, Private Banking – Mobile Rena Davis – Relationship Manager, Private Banking – Baldwin County Rufus Hudson – Regional Retail Manager – East Mobile

Let’s do something giant.

Member FDIC. ©RBC Bank (USA) 2011. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. RBC Bank is a trade name used by RBC Bank (USA) and its branch offices operate under this trade name.

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The Business View | APRIL 2011

2/3/11 2:59 PM

APRIL 2011 | The Business View

small business

of the month

With more than 75 years combined experience in the financial industry, the partners of PlanFocus Financial Services are independent advisors helping clients manage their money. They are from left, Kevin Morgan, Carl Dekle and Dan Rollo.

Financial Experts Keep an Eye on the Bottom Line

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.

Many people only pay attention to their retirement funds and investments on the day their monthly statement arrives, opting instead for a financial advisor to keep a daily eye on interests and the bottom line. One firm doing just that is PlanFocus Financial Services, the Mobile Area Chamber’s Small Business of the Month. Located in Mobile and launched in 2010 by Carl Dekle, Kevin Morgan and Dan Rollo, PlanFocus Financial Services was created to help bridge the gap between the complex regulatory environment and the day-to-day running of a corporation’s retirement plan. The company offers both individual financial planning as well as company employer

retirement plans for clients on both sides of Mobile Bay. The trio works with LPL Financial, the largest independent broker dealer in the country. “As independent advisors, we are free to choose the best solutions for our clients and are not asked to ‘push’ the latest product,” said Dekle. The partners have more than 75 years combined experience working with corporations and individual clients. Morgan’s expertise lies in the education and client sector, Dekle specializes in corporate retirement planning and Rollo is the financial planner reviewing plans and projecting investments. They agree diversification is what sets the firm apart from other financial planning groups in the area.

“It’s a very good combination for our clients, in that we can work together to listen to our clients and we also can each bring to the table our strengths and experience for their benefit,” said Rollo. The three say education is key to explaining and guiding clients about the importance of financial planning. “There is a tremendous amount of fiduciary risk associated with corporate retirement plans and our goal is to help corporations do what is in the best interest for their employees,” said Dekle. “We want to educate and give people good content they can easily understand,” added Morgan. For more information, call 544-2400 or visit www.planfocusllc.com.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

Member Annual Fête to Appreciation Honor Day Chamber Members Friday, April 8 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 451 Government Street Join us for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s Third Annual Membership Appreciation Day and Open House Meet the Chamber staff and learn how we are working for your business Sponsored by:

Participating Members: The Battle House Spa Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe Chiropractic Life Center: A Creating Wellness Center Dorsett Productions Unlimited Elements Therapeutic Massage Flowers Baking Co. Friends of the Mobile Animal Shelter Mobile Gas Music 4 U Office Depot Business Services Division Port City Rentals Inc. Sam’s Club

For more information call 251-431-8622 • Live Music • Free Food • Giveaways

10 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Not a day goes by when the Mobile Area Chamber doesn’t value its members. That’s why Chamber staff will host an official thank you on Friday, April 8, at the Chamber, 451 Government St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chamber members, board of advisors, board of directors, Partners for Growth investors, volunteers and clients are encouraged to drop by Member Appreciation Day to enjoy live music and a light lunch. Representatives from each of the Chamber’s departments – administration, communications and marketing, community and governmental affairs, economic development, international trade, membership, small business and workforce development – will be available to answer Chamber-related questions, provide details about upcoming events and share information on how to gain the most from Chamber membership. Members are also welcome to participate in the event by offering coupons, giving away specialty items or other products. “Member Appreciation Day is an opportunity for our members to come by the Chamber in a casual atmosphere and learn more about how we can assist their business,” said Carolyn Golson, the Chamber’s vice president of membership.

“Plus it’s a great way to network with other businesses executives,” she added. Now in its third year, Golson expects the event to draw a record crowd. Last year more than 200 members participated.

Why Should

You Attend Member

Appreciation Day?

Let the Mobile Area Chamber thank you for your valuable membership.

Find out more about what the Chamber can do for your business.

Tour the updated meeting room space available to Chamber members.

Fast Facts What: Member Appreciation Day When: Friday, April 8 Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber 451 Government St. Cost: Free Info: Carolyn Golson at 431-8622 or cgolson@ mobilechamber.com

Learn about the many networking events, member discounts, professional development seminars, business advocacy initiatives and awards programs.

Get pampered by several Chamber members. (See the list of participating members on the ad on this page.)

Enjoy live music on the Chamber lawn with Music 4 U.

FREE lunch – hot dogs, snacks, ice cream and drinks will be served.

Photos by Thigpen Photography

Mobile

on the Grow

Lagniappe Recent Announcements/ Expansions

The Mobile Bay region offers an abundance of cultural and recreational opportunities for people of all ages – a variety of museums, theater, symphony, opera, ballet, fishing, golfing, relaxing at the beach and more.

F Mobile’s cost of

living is consistently one of the lowest out of the 80 largest U.S. metropolitan areas, according to an ACCRA survey.

F Mobile was

founded in 1702 and celebrated its Tricentennial in 2002.

F The Mobile Bay

F Mobile was named

area welcomes nearly 7.2 million visitors a year.

F Mobile is home to

F Regional golf is

among the nation’s finest, with more than 25 courses.

F Mobile has three

major universities – one public, University of South Alabama; one private Jesuit, Spring Hill College; and one private Southern Baptist institution, University of Mobile.

F Mobile Bay is the

hometown of baseball Hall of Famers Hank Aaron, Ozzie Smith and Satchel Paige.

F Mobile Bay is home to America’s Mardi Gras, instituted in 1704, 62 years before New Orleans adopted the celebration.

an All-American City by the National Civic League, one of the most coveted titles among U.S. cities.

the GoDaddy.com Bowl, Senior Bowl, Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, the Dauphin Island Regatta and the Distinguished Young Women (formerly America’s Junior Miss) scholarship program.

F Six different flags

have flown over Mobile: French, Spanish, British, Republic of Alabama, Confederacy and United States of America.

F The Mobile Tennis Center is the nation’s largest public facility with 50 hard courts.

F At least 31

international companies have current operations in Mobile.

Published by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, April 201 1

F Mobile is known

as the Azalea City thanks to Frise Langlois, who first brought the bright pink blossoms here from his father’s garden in Toulouse, France, in 1754. www.mobilechamber.com

• Airbus Americas Engineering (aircraft manufacturer) • Airbus Military North America (aircraft manufacturer) • Aker Solutions (oil and gas) • Alabama Power Co. (electricity) • APM Terminals, Mobile Container Terminal (intermodal port facility) • Arc Terminals (oil storage) • Austal USA (shipbuilding) • Berg Spiral Pipe (steel pipe) • C & G Boat Works (shipbuilding) • Evonik Degussa Corp. (chemicals) • Holcim (U.S.) (cement) • Horizon Shipbuilding (shipbuilding) • International Shipholding Corp. (water transportation services) • Kimberly-Clark (paper products) • Krispy Mixes (production) • Lenzing Fibers (Lyocell fibers) • Regent Aerospace Corp. (aircraft maintenance) • Ryla Inc., an Alorica subsidiary (telecommunications) • SSAB Americas (steel) • Silver Ships (shipbuilding) • ST Aerospace Mobile (aircraft maintenance and repair) • ThyssenKrupp Steel & Stainless (steel)

As the Mobile Area Chamber celebrates 175 years as Mobile’s progressive business advocate, the organization remains focused on its core strengths – recruiting new jobs and retaining current ones, advocating on behalf of its members, and improving the region’s infrastructure and workforce development. Interest in the Mobile Bay region continues and the Chamber’s economic development team is working viable and diverse projects representing sectors such as aerospace, maritime, oil and gas exploration, and transportation and distribution. As the region’s lead economic developer, the Chamber’s efforts are supported by Partners for Growth, a coalition of public and private investors. Goals set for 2008 - 2012 are: create 3,750 jobs over five years; with targeted annual salaries of $38,500 and higher; and generate $1 billion in capital investment. Since 2008, announcements have included: • More than 5,599 primary full-time positions • With average wages of more than $53,507 annually and • $1.35 billion in capital investment The Chamber has more than 2,200 members, representing 107,000 employees in the region. This document is continually updated and available on the Chamber’s web site, www.mobilechamber.com, providing readers with quick “elevator speeches” about key areas of industry growth.

Austal

What’s Being Said About Mobile

High-Profile Economic Development Activity

n Mobile was ranked No. 10 overall in the Small Cities category by fDi Magazine

Late in 2010, the U.S. Navy awarded Austal USA a contract worth an estimated $3.5 billion to build up to 10 Littoral Combat Ships. The project will add 2,100 jobs to Austal’s workforce. Earlier in the year, the Navy awarded Austal a $1.6 billion contract to build four Joint High Speed Vessels, resulting in the hiring of 800 employees. The $5.2 billion ThyssenKrupp (TK) Steel and Stainless complex reached significant milestones in 2010, and is now producing carbon and stainless steel. Named one of the nation’s largest private economic development projects, the two plants, both located on one site, will ultimately generate 2,700 permanent jobs. The sites have a current workforce of more than 1,800. The need for suppliers to locate near the TK complex is generating new jobs and capital investment in Washington County, just north of Mobile. Pump Pros sells, services and repairs hydraulic pumps and opened a new facility in Chatom.

In 2011, the University of South Alabama (USA) will complete a $400 million expansion project with the opening of the Richard Shelby School of Engineering. Other new projects include a student dining hall, student recreation center and the Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.

Mobile Area Statistics

n IHS Global Insight projected employment will grow in Mobile by 2.07

percent a year between 2010 and 2016, ranking Mobile No. 73 among 392 urban areas examined by the economic forecasting firm. Mobile is Mobile is the largest metropolitan area along projected to have the second fastest job growth among Alabama and the Gulf of Mexico between New Orleans and Tampa, Fla., and is the 70th largest MSA Gulf Coast metro areas. (January 2011) (Metropolitan Statistical Area) in the nation.

n Ranked among the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas, Mobile

Alabama State Port Authority

The Alabama State Port Authority (ASPA) continues to add infrastructure to make the Port of Mobile more competitive, announcing in late 2010 it would invest an additional $360 million in infrastructure improvements with a new interchange, intermodal rail yard, cargo yard and warehouse and other cargo terminal improvements. The Port of Mobile is one of the nation’s largest, full-service seaports handling in excess of 54 million tons annually.

Reaching its target employment of 150, Airbus Americas Engineering announced in 2010 it would add 90 new positions, and invest another $1.7 million at its engineering center located at Brookley Aeroplex. In 2010, Regent Aerospace, the world’s largest aircraft interiors maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) company, opened a facility in Mobile and hired 90 employees.

landed at No. 62 in Forbes’ annual Best Places for Business and Careers list. Both Projected Economic Growth and Projected Job Growth categories earned the No. 5 rank. In the Cost of Doing Business category, Mobile ranked No. 35. (April 2010)

Lenzing Fibers, a manufacturer of Lyocell (a cellulose fiber marketed as Tencel and used in clothing, linens and wipes) announced it would increase production by 70 percent at its manufacturing facility in north Mobile County. With a 2012 completion date, the company is adding 63 jobs and investing $30 million at its site. Last year, Aker Solutions announced a $7.3 million local expansion driven by new contracts in the Mediterranean Sea. The company added 20 new jobs with an average compensation package of $56,000.

City of Mobile Mobile County Baldwin County Mobile Bay Area

Population M edianAge 195,111 36 412,992 37 182,265 38 595,257 37

Source: 2010 Census

n The Economist featured Mobile’s optimism about its economic future.

The author also mentioned recent rankings by Moodys.com and Forbes.com as well as the city’s efforts to reconnect with Cuba. (July 2009)

n In 2009, Forbes.com listed Mobile as one of

the 10 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Recession Recovery. That spring, Mobile came in at No. 10 on Forbes.com Top 10 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Jobs. (April 2009)

12%

Mobile Manufacturing Profile

7% 15%

n Textiles n Food n Chemicals

28%

SSAB has a $287 million capital investment underway and plans to add 137 new positions with an average annual wage of $90,000.

n Other n Transportation Equip. n Lumber

27%

A $174 million carbon capture project is nearing completion at Alabama Power’s Barry Steam Plant in north Mobile County. Expected to open this year, the facility will reduce air emissions. When complete, it will be the world’s largest system of its type.

Richard Shelby School of Engineering, University of South Alabama

in it’s America’s Cities of the Future 2011/12 rankings. (April 2011)

11%

Largest Non-Manufacturing Employers

Alabama Power Co.

And in early 2011, Krispy Mixes announced it would locate company headquarters and a production facility in Mobile County. The multi-state distributor blends coatings and breadings and sells them to independent and commercial chain restaurants.

Largest Manufacturing Employers

Mobile County Public School System Education

7,700

Austal USA

Ship Repair

Infirmary Health System

Medical

5,300

ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC

Steel 1,800

University of South Alabama and USA Medical Facilities

Education/Medical 5,300

ST Aerospace Mobile

Aerospace

Wal-Mart

Retail

3,000

Goodrich

Aerospace

730

City of Mobile

Government

2,200

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

Paper Products

700

Providence Hospital

Medical

2,150

Evonik Degussa Corp.

Chemicals

644

Mobile County

Government

1,570

Springhill Medical Center

Medical

1,133

Press-Register

Newspaper Publishing 500

CPSI

Technology

1,000

C & G Boat Works

Ship Building 500

Regions Bank

Banking

SSAB Americas

Steel

700

BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards Ship Repair

1,891

1,200

500

475

What’s Being Said About Mobile

High-Profile Economic Development Activity

n Mobile was ranked No. 10 overall in the Small Cities category by fDi Magazine

Mobile Area Statistics

n IHS Global Insight projected employment will grow in Mobile by 2.07

n Ranked among the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas, Mobile

Alabama State Port Authority

City of Mobile Mobile County Baldwin County Mobile Bay Area

Population M edianAge 195,111 36 412,992 37 182,265 38 595,257 37

Source: 2010 Census

n The Economist featured Mobile’s optimism about its economic future.

The author also mentioned recent rankings by Moodys.com and Forbes.com as well as the city’s efforts to reconnect with Cuba. (July 2009)

n In 2009, Forbes.com listed Mobile as one of

the 10 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Recession Recovery. That spring, Mobile came in at No. 10 on Forbes.com Top 10 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Jobs. (April 2009)

12%

Mobile Manufacturing Profile

7% 15%

n Textiles n Food n Chemicals

28%

SSAB has a $287 million capital investment underway and plans to add 137 new positions with an average annual wage of $90,000.

n Other n Transportation Equip. n Lumber

27%

Richard Shelby School of Engineering, University of South Alabama

in it’s America’s Cities of the Future 2011/12 rankings. (April 2011)

11%

Largest Non-Manufacturing Employers

Alabama Power Co.

Largest Manufacturing Employers

Mobile County Public School System Education

7,700

Austal USA

Ship Repair

Infirmary Health System

Medical

5,300

ThyssenKrupp Steel USA LLC

Steel 1,800

University of South Alabama and USA Medical Facilities

Education/Medical 5,300

ST Aerospace Mobile

Aerospace

Wal-Mart

Retail

3,000

Goodrich

Aerospace

730

City of Mobile

Government

2,200

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

Paper Products

700

Providence Hospital

Medical

2,150

Evonik Degussa Corp.

Chemicals

644

Mobile County

Government

1,570

Springhill Medical Center

Medical

1,133

Press-Register

Newspaper Publishing 500

CPSI

Technology

1,000

C & G Boat Works

Ship Building 500

Regions Bank

Banking

SSAB Americas

Steel

700

BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards Ship Repair

1,891

1,200

500

475

Photos by Thigpen Photography

Mobile

on the Grow

Lagniappe Recent Announcements/ Expansions

F Mobile’s cost of

living is consistently one of the lowest out of the 80 largest U.S. metropolitan areas, according to an ACCRA survey.

F Mobile was

founded in 1702 and celebrated its Tricentennial in 2002.

F The Mobile Bay

F Mobile was named

area welcomes nearly 7.2 million visitors a year.

F Mobile is home to

F Regional golf is

among the nation’s finest, with more than 25 courses.

F Mobile has three

major universities – one public, University of South Alabama; one private Jesuit, Spring Hill College; and one private Southern Baptist institution, University of Mobile.

F Mobile Bay is the

hometown of baseball Hall of Famers Hank Aaron, Ozzie Smith and Satchel Paige.

F Mobile Bay is home to America’s Mardi Gras, instituted in 1704, 62 years before New Orleans adopted the celebration.

an All-American City by the National Civic League, one of the most coveted titles among U.S. cities.

the GoDaddy.com Bowl, Senior Bowl, Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, the Dauphin Island Regatta and the Distinguished Young Women (formerly America’s Junior Miss) scholarship program.

F Six different flags

have flown over Mobile: French, Spanish, British, Republic of Alabama, Confederacy and United States of America.

F The Mobile Tennis Center is the nation’s largest public facility with 50 hard courts.

F At least 31

international companies have current operations in Mobile.

Published by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, April 201 1

F Mobile is known

as the Azalea City thanks to Frise Langlois, who first brought the bright pink blossoms here from his father’s garden in Toulouse, France, in 1754. www.mobilechamber.com

Austal

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APRIL 2011

Envision Sustainability Forum: Connecting the E’s O ECON MY

CATION EDU

conomy, Education, Environment and Equity – these are the building blocks upon which Envision Coastal Alabama was founded, each relying on the other for regional success. Guided by this overarching framework, individuals of varied backgrounds, expertise, interests and passions gathered in February to consider how coastal Alabama can continue to work together.

More than 80 community stakeholders from both sides of Mobile Bay attended the annual Envision regional planning session. As a group, they explored the concept of sustainability as they identified projects and/or campaigns Envision volunteers could realistically accomplish over the next year. The forum led community leaders and volunteers in

VIRONMENT N E

EQ U I T Y

collaborative and creative discussions, identifying root causes to regional problems and potential opportunities to impact long-term community change. During the half-day meeting, community leaders and strategy partners from Baldwin and Mobile counties considered connections and links between Envision’s E-teams – Economy, Education, Environment and Equity. Divided into four work groups, each team identified three or four concrete ideas, prioritizing them for Envision’s 2011 action plan. The event was co-sponsored by Envision, the Alabama Coastal Foundation, Partners for Environmental Progress and the Mobile League of Women Voters. Bethany Kraft, Alabama Coastal Foundation executive director and former Envision environment team chair was the facilitator.

The following highlights each team’s findings and prioritizes the four critical areas Envision volunteers will tackle during the year.

3. Establish an education

Top Four Critical Areas:

4. Strengthen family well-being and

1. Create an education campaign utilizing existing resources and to provide ways to positively impact air quality. 2. Improve communication with

elected/appointed officials to create broader citizen understanding, trust, participation, responsibility and commitment in resolving critical community issues.

subcommittee to regularly meet with stakeholders and become better informed on current regional educational successes.

community cohesion to promote a safe and healthy living environment. Throughout the year, Envision volunteers will meet to develop and implement projects relating to each priority issue. To join any of these teams, contact Shayla Jones Beaco at 431-8628 or sbeaco@mobilechamber.com.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

Envision Coastal Alabama

Get Involved with Envision Coastal Alabama By Dr. Phillip E. Norris Envision Coastal Alabama is leading our region in building a Norris cooperative environment, strong economy and an enhanced quality of life through visioning and goal setting. This organization is one of many global initiatives focused on developing social capital to strengthen the region. Envision brings individuals from public, private and nonprofit sectors in our coastal counties together to create a vision of what we want our area to be, develop a strategic plan to get there, resolve conflicts that can be roadblocks to a quality future, and build consensus to move the vision along.

When we look closely at the economic development projects of the past five years from ThyssenKrupp to Airbus to Ecovery LLC, we see the output of the philosophy of Envision – to build a strong region through cooperation. This is also the case in the development of the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council and regional transportation options including bus service from the Eastern Shore to downtown Mobile. Envision Coastal Alabama needs visionary volunteers who believe in collaboration, voluntary agreement among citizen stakeholders and building trust between communities. We need to build the same kind of regional leadership that created the Research Triangle in North Carolina and Silicon Valley in California. More than just high-technology of manufacturing centers, regional visionaries

have also developed regional eco-tourism in Florida and visual and performing arts regions like Charleston and Savannah. The future we want will not happen without a regional and cooperative vision for Baldwin and Mobile counties. It will not happen unless individuals join together to vision, plan, resolve conflicts and move forward together. Get involved with Envision Coastal Alabama and be part of the process of building a better tomorrow. Dr. Phillip Norris is a former Envision Coastal Alabama co-chair for Baldwin County and former director of the University of South Alabama’s Baldwin County campus. He can be reached at pnorris@ usouthal.edu.

If you are interested in volunteering with Envision, visit www.envisioncoastalalabama.org and click on “Get Involved.” For more information contact Amanda Selph, Baldwin County coordinator, at 947-5721, aselph@baldwineda.com, or Shayla Jones Beaco, Mobile County director, at 431-8628, sbeaco@mobilechamber.com.

Buddy Up for Reading One mentor, plus one child, plus one book, equals a chance for success in school. That’s the formula used by Envision strategy partner Mobile Area Education Foundation (MAEF). Its Reading Buddies program, designed to improve literacy rates in Mobile County Public Schools, was rolled out as a pilot program in 12 elementary schools last fall. It relies on community volunteers to offer one-on-one reading support for students in first through third grades. “Studies show children learn to read through the third grade, and from fourth grade on they are reading to learn,” said Mary Ann Napper, MAEF’s partnership involvement director. “Students who don’t learn to read by fourth grade are less likely to graduate from high school.” MAEF patterned the initiative after similar programs around the country, including those in the Atlanta area. School principals identify those students believed to be at-risk for poor reading skills and Reading Buddies spend one hour weekly,

during school hours, listening to their assigned buddy read books. Volunteers undergo one hour of training by MAEF and must submit to a background check before working in area schools. According to Napper, the program is as much about mentoring as it is about literacy. “These are children who often have a lot of disappointment in their lives, and so many of them need a caring adult,” she said. The program is currently ongoing at Brazier, Dickson, Dixon, Dodge, Hall, Hamilton, Hollinger’s Island, Meadowlake, Morningside, Old Shell Road, Semmes and John Will Elementary schools. Mark Berte, MAEF’s community engagement director, said the organization plans to expand to all Mobile County elementary schools beginning with the next school year, but first must recruit and train more volunteers this summer. He is hopeful members of the business community and civic organizations will step up and fill the need. Berte says MAEF offers onsite

18 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Volunteers are needed in the public schools to build reading skills. Pictured here: Mobile Area Chamber Regional Affairs Director Patty Howell reads with Jaylin Hawkins at Old Shell Road Elementary School. Howell is part of Reading Buddies, a program of the Mobile Area Education Foundation, and spends an hour a week during her lunch hour to help Jaylin become a stonger reader.

training to companies with several interested individuals, and locates volunteers in schools closest to their workplace. To volunteer or for more information visit www.maef.net or contact Napper at 470-5204 or mnapper@maef.net.

Envision Coastal Alabama

Co-Chairs Share Regional Vision

t could be fitting for Envision Coastal Alabama co-chairs Shirley Sessions and Ray Moore to quote Charles Dickens’ opening line in A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” The best of times because Sessions and Moore say they are positive coastal Alabama is uniquely positioned for success, despite what some see as the worst of times – a double hit from the oil spill and a sluggish national and state economy.

The pair enters a two-year term as Envision’s leaders, taking over from Donna Watts and Mike Hofto, whose terms expired in 2010. Capable leaders, both Sessions and Moore are no strangers to the hard work it takes to continue

Envision’s forward momentum. Sessions, formerly Envision’s Equity team co-chair, is Regions Bank vice president/community affairs manager for south Alabama and northwest Florida. Most recently Envision’s Economy team co-chair, Moore is a professional land surveyor and vice president of Hutchinson, Moore & Rauch LLC in charge of the firm’s Mobile office. From their work in both the business and nonprofit sectors, Moore and Sessions see the recent influx of jobs to the area by companies such as Austal, ThyssenKrupp and Airbus positioning the region for growth. “I am optimistic Mobile and Baldwin counties will not follow the national norm,” Sessions said. She and Moore agree growth must be supported by improving schools, increasing technical

job training and providing affordable housing – Envision priorities for their term. “People are moving here,” said Moore. “We need to think about getting our kids educated and for those who aren’t college oriented, we need to start talking about teaching trades and skills.” Moore said he believes the biggest challenge facing Envision continues to be convincing political and community leaders to think regionally about issues facing south Alabama. “Let’s bring our collective ideas into a group and let’s work on the bigger picture,” he said. The co-chairs concur work can’t be done without recruiting new volunteers to Envision – something they plan to promote during their leadership term. Ray Moore and Shirley Sessions

Envision Coastal Alabama 2011 Team Chairs Envision co-chairs and team chairs are selected for two-year terms from Baldwin and Mobile counties to lead each of the program’s four E-teams – Economy, Education, Environment and Equity. As active leaders in both counties, these

Education

individuals volunteer their time, professional expertise and individual passions to strengthen the overall quality of life in coastal Alabama. The following are Envision’s 2011 team chairs.

Economy

The education team works to collaboratively align efforts that strengthen education so every child is prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century workplace and global economy.

Terry Burkle Education Team Chair, Baldwin County Burkle is vice president of the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting education enrichment and leadership development in south Baldwin County schools. Amanda Carr Outlaw Education Team Chair, Mobile County Outlaw is an urban regional extension agent with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

The economy team works to sustain strong economic development growth with a competitive workforce by marketing available resources in coastal Alabama.

Donna Givens Economy Team Chair, Baldwin County Givens is senior governmental and community services administrator for the Baldwin Electric Membership Corp. Frederick Rendfrey Economy Team Chair, Mobile County

Environment

Equity

The environment team encourages decision makers to examine and act upon key issues and problems from the perspective of sustainability to balance the social, economic and environmental needs of present and future generations.

Dr. Thomas J. Ward Jr. Environment Team Chair, Baldwin County Ward is a professor of history at Spring Hill College and serves on the board of directors for the Alabama Coastal Foundation.

The equity team works to promote partnerships and collaboration between community service agencies in both Mobile and Baldwin counties to bring greater awareness to available community resources designed to positively impact the lives of individuals from all walks of life.

Brooks Chew Equity Team Chair, Mobile County Chew is constituent services representative and service academy liaison for the office of U.S. Congressman Jo Bonner.

Jennifer Denson Environment Team Chair, Mobile County Denson is executive director for Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP), a nonprofit organization of business owners seeking to create a better environment.

Rebecca D. Byrne Equity Team Chair, Baldwin County

Byrne is United Way of Baldwin County’s executive director.

Rendfrey is Downtown Mobile Alliance’s director of economic development.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

Envision Coastal Alabama

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

P.O. Box 2187 Mobile, AL 36652-2187

Want to share Envision’s latest news? This report can be found at www.envisioncoastalalabama.org

Orange Beach and Smart Coast Step Up for Safe Streets

Calling it one of the few carry-over sports from childhood, 79-year-old Wayne Cockrell logs 100 to 150 miles a week on his bicycle. The retired physician and Orange Beach resident rides for recreation as well as active transportation, that is, trips to the library or grocery store. At Cockrell’s urging, the city of Orange Beach, with guidance from Envision Coastal Alabama strategy partner Smart Coast – a nonprofit group promoting a healthy coastal region – is making strides toward becoming more bicycleand pedestrian-friendly.

Last fall, city planners met with Walkable Communities Inc. Founder and Executive Director Dan Burden, an internationally recognized authority on bicycle and pedestrian facilities and programs. Burden suggested ideas such as roundabouts, bike lanes, sidewalks and medians to make city streets safer. In January, officials convened a citizen advisory committee of business owners, developers and residents to build community support for a master bike and pedestrian plan. “We have an ideal place,” said Cockrell. “We already have a great start with roads that have wide shoulders and the city fathers had a good idea when they put a bike path through the state park,”

20 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

he said, referring to the nationally recognized Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, 10 miles of paved trail and an extensive network of sidewalks According to Griffin Powell, the Orange Beach engineering and environmental services planner heading up the process, demand for safer streets is high. A cycling enthusiast who often rides to work, Powell said tourists and winter visitors frequently arrive with bikes in tow. And he noted, “In the summer we have many service industry workers whose main mode of transportation is biking and walking.” Once a master plan is in place, Griffin said the Orange Beach group hopes to become south Alabama’s first Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC), a national designation by the League of American

Bicyclists for communities actively supporting bicycling. Currently, the city of Auburn carries Alabama’s only BFC designation. Smart Coast co-founder Charlene Lee said a master bike and pedestrian plan, along with a BFC designation, will provide a wider community awareness of bicycling and walking, bringing the potential for improved quality of life for families, higher property values, business growth and increased tourism. “Ultimately, we hope this will be a model for other coastal cities that want to provide connectivity and safety for people seeking an active transportation choice.”

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CEO profile

Brian Harold Company: APM Terminals (Mobile Container Terminal LLC) Title: Director Hometown: Wheeling, W. Va. Education: Harold earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from West Virginia University (WVU). First job: Working as a financial analyst for WVU’s finance department. Previous experience: Harold has nearly 10 years experience in the shipping industry. He formerly worked for Maersk’s Intermodal Facility in Prague, Czech Republic, and later took a position with APM Terminals at the Port of New York and New Jersey. He most recently served as director of terminal operations for APM Terminals in Port Elizabeth, N.J. Career-changing moment: “ When I accepted the position with Maersk to live and work in the Czech Republic,” Harold said. Accomplishments: According to Harold, APM Terminals recently hired a consultant to teach local management staff ways to measure and improve the quality of services offered to the trucking industry. Harold said the training resulted in changes benefiting terminal customers. Secret to success: “Keep a mindset of continuous learning and continuous improvement.” Family: Harold and his wife Lori are newlyweds. Brief company description: APM Terminals is an international container terminal operating company, where cargo containers are transferred between different vehicles such as ships and trucks, for onward transportation. The terminal also provides storage facilities for both loaded and empty containers. APM Terminals operates a global port and terminal network of 50 facilities and employs 22,000 in 34 countries.

APRIL 2011 | The Business View

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The Business View | APRIL 2011

investor

focus

Photo by Thigpen Photography

Holcim (US) Inc.

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.

Officers: Bernard Terver, president and chief executive officer; Jim Addams, chief operating officer; Rick Reinhart, senior vice president and chief financial officer; Jeff Ouhl, vice president, East region; Russell Wiles, senior vice president, human resources; Jay Tangney, senior vice president, secretary and general counsel; Robin DeCarlo, vice president, corporate communications; David Loomes, vice president, commercial services; Filiberto Ruiz, senior vice president, sales & marketing, South region; Randall Carson, senior vice president, sales and marketing, North region Years in Business: 64 years in Mobile (formerly Ideal Cement) Brief Company Description:

Holcim is a global supplier of cement, aggregates (crushed stone, gravel and sand) as well as ready-mix concrete and asphalt including related services. Founded in 1912 in Holderbank,

24 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Switzerland, the company operates in more than 74 countries and employs a workforce of approximately 90,000 employees. Holcim’s Theodore plant employs 150 people, has the capacity to produce 1.8 million tons of Portland and masonry cements a year and is ISO-9001 certified to assure high quality. Why are you located in Mobile?

According to Quentin McGahey, Holcim’s Theodore plant manager, Mobile offers a deepwater location serving a target market from Houston to Tampa. “Theodore was selected because of its physical characteristics, including the Theodore Ship Channel and the amount of acreage available for such an ambitious undertaking,” he said, explaining when the plant opened in 1981, it was the largest cement plant ever built in one stage in the U.S.

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

“The Chamber is vital to the growth of the Mobile area,” said McGahey. “It provides networking opportunities with other area businesses and governmental officials as well as provides us with information on the ‘pulse’ of the area including new business opportunities, skilled labor availability, and the state of the economy among other things.” What do you see as Mobile’s greatest potential?

“The people of Mobile are very engaged in the community and are open to new growth. The ease of access to deep water, tourism, shipbuilding, revitalization of the downtown area, and industrial development are all important for the growth of Mobile,” said McGahey. Length of Chamber Membership: Since 1989

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When it comes to running a small business, it’s easy to apply the adage “the only thing that is constant is change.” Sales may be strong one month and down the next. Likewise, competitor offers may tempt your customers to try something new, or operational and organizational changes may require you to build relationships with new associates from scratch. While there are different approaches to these challenges, all share the same fundamental elements – good selling habits.

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It’s easy to get grumpy or cynical if sales go south. But that’s when a good attitude becomes most important. Don’t be afraid to take a risk or try out a new approach, such as a new marketing pitch or advertising channel. When operating a business in today’s competitive world, the greater risk is in thinking that the status quo will suffice.

Today’s customers have higher expectations than ever before.

It’s important for a business to approach selling with a positive, service-minded attitude focusing on customer’s needs, desires and expectations. Gain insight on customer needs the easy way – by asking the source. Many people like to talk about their businesses, thus providing the information necessary to adjust your sales and service tactics accordingly.

Listen

Train Yourself and Your Employees to Smile

Take time to listen and ask questions. Customers want a problem solver and will start to think of you and your business as a valued resource, rather than a selling machine. You can easily show you are willing to help a customer by anticipating his needs and having answers to potential objections.

Meet Customers’ Needs

Today’s customers have higher expectations than ever before. You can’t accommodate everybody’s needs, but automatically declining an unusual request will get you nowhere. By adopting a positive, can-do attitude, you will be alert to ways of doing things that once might have seemed unreasonable – ensuring your customers return and, just as importantly, recommend you to others.

To learn more about sales and marketing issues facing your small business or for a free and confidential one-on-one counseling session, contact the Mobile SCORE chapter, housed at the Mobile Area Chamber, at 431-8614.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

26 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Chamber Names

James Geiger

BOARD OF

Advisors

featured profiles

Technology Support Specialist

Faison

When it comes to tech support at the Mobile Area Chamber, the go-to guy is James Geiger. Recently named the Chamber’s technology support specialist, Geiger replaces Judy Winfield, who retired in March after 32 years with the organization. Geiger will be responsible for maintaining the Chamber’s file servers, web servers, database, hardware systems and more than eight web sites – including www.mobilechamber.com and www.mobilebayregion.com. A Mobile native, Geiger earned a bachelor’s degree in computer and information sciences from the University of South Alabama and an associate’s degree in computer information sciences from Southeast College of Technology in Mobile. Following graduation, he moved to California to pursue his dream job as a video programmer and producer. Geiger worked for Electronic Arts (EA) Pandemic Studios as an international developer, marketer, publisher and distributor of video games. During his six years with EA, he worked his way up from an entry-level position to management and earned numerous awards, including an EA Ownership Award for quality innovation. Geiger returned to Mobile in 2009 where he most recently worked for Rayco Supply Inc. as the director of information services and technology. To contact Geiger, call 431-8626 or e-mail him at jgeiger@mobilechamber.com.

Greg Faison is president and chief executive officer of Bay Bank. He earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Georgia State University and is a graduate of Stonier Graduate School of Banking. Faison began his banking career in 1970 in Columbus, Ga., with Columbus Bank & Trust Co. He moved to Eufaula, Ala., in 1982 where he served as president, chief executive officer and director of Commerce South, a holding company that owned Southern Bank of Commerce in Alabama and First American Bank in Florida. Faison served as director and chairman of the loan committee for BankTrust in Mobile until 2007. Bay Bank is a Partners for Growth Investor.

Morrissette

Stimpson

Harris V. Morrissette is president for China Doll Rice & Beans Inc./ Dixie Lily Foods, and chairman for Azalea Aviation Inc. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from The University of Alabama. In 2005, Morrissette was chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber board of directors and currently serves on the boards of BancTrust Financial Group, International Shipholding Corp., Williamsburg Investment Trust (Cincinnati, Ohio), White-Spunner Construction, UMS-Wright Preparatory School, The University of Alabama College of Commerce board of visitors (past chairman), Business Council of Alabama, Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation board. In addition, Morrissette served on Energy South’s board prior to that company’s sale to Sempra in 2008. China Doll Rice & Beans Inc./Dixie Lily Foods is a Partners for Growth Investor.

Maxime Ellen Maxime is vice president of property management with Delaney Development Inc., a family-owned and operated real estate firm. With more than 24 years in property management, Maxime oversees the operation of 2,200 apartment homes. She is a licensed real estate agent in the state of Alabama and holds professional designations and certifications including National Apartment Leasing Professional and Certified Apartment Manager. Maxime is regional vice president of the National Apartment Association, and is a member of the Mobile Association of Realtors, as well as numerous other professional and civic organizations. She is a member of the 2011 Leadership Mobile class. Delaney Development Inc. is a Partners for Growth Investor.

Shields Rev. William Bry Shields Jr. is president of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. He was ordained into the priesthood in December 1984, and served St. Ignatius Church, St. Mary Church and St. Pius X, where he is currently pastor. Shields received a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a master’s of divinity degree from Yale University and a master’s of education degree from the University of South Alabama. Shields is past president of Mobile Rotary Club.

Sandy Stimpson is executive vice president for Scotch & Gulf Lumber LLC. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The University of Alabama. Stimpson is a director for Wachovia Bank, and holds leadership positions with the Alabama Alliance of Business and Industry, Alabama Policy Institute, UMS Wright Preparatory School and Foundation board, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Alabama, and The University of Alabama President’s Cabinet. He holds membership in numerous conservation and wildlife organizations and is a graduate of Leadership Alabama. Stimpson served as chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber board of directors in 2009. Scotch & Gulf Lumber is a Partners for Growth Investor.

The Mobile Area Chamber is proud to salute members of the board of advisors. These business leaders represent companies whose significant dues investment lead the way in funding the Chamber’s programs and initiatives. For more information contact Katrina Dewrell at 431-8611 or kdewrell@mobilechamber.com.

The Business View | APRIL 2011

Rainforest Exhibit

Comparative

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

Coming to the

Exploreum

Featuring more than 20 endangered or exotic animal species including Bengal Tigers, a Capuchin Monkey and a Ringtail Lemur, the Rainforest Experience will be at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center April 16 - 23. Trainers Robert and Christy Mullen will perform this unique animal show where conservation and environmental awareness take center stage at Mardi Gras Park, located at the intersection of Government and Royal streets in downtown Mobile, with three shows daily. The Rainforest Experience coincides with the ongoing Giant Insects exhibit at the Exploreum, and two IMAX films showing in the J.L. Bedsole IMAX Dome Theatre. Bugs: A Rainforest Adventure and Lost Worlds: Life in the Balance are films with breathtaking scenery from exotic locales. Tickets can only be purchased through the Exploreum box office. For more BXS_ViewMagazine_Jan2011.pdf information, visit www.exploreum.com.

January 2011 vs January 2010 Employed Mobile/Baldwin counties

211 2011

225,416 2010

222 2010

Unemployment Rates

Air Passengers From Mobile Area

12.2% 2010

Average Selling Price Mobile County $123,470 2011 $129,360 2010

Building Permits City of Mobile

28 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

5:00:39 PM

8.5” x 5.375”

City of Mobile

241,813 2011

10.1% 2011

1/26/11

Business Licenses

189 2011 226 2010

21,213 2011 20,920 2010

Homes Sold⌦ Mobile County

202 2011 182 2010

Value of Building Permits $10,190,191 2011 $27,230,441 2010

New Alabama Ethics Law A Look at Its Effect on Businesses

Alabama companies and business organizations should be particularly aware of a new law passed by the Alabama Legislature during its recent special session on ethics. The Act is effective March 16, 2011. Often overlooked in the news coverage and public debate, Act 2010-764 contains a significant change to the Alabama Code of Ethics and prohibits any “person” from providing “anything” to a public official or public employee for the purpose of influencing official action. A public official is defined as anyone elected or appointed to a position at the state, county or municipal level of government or their instrumentalities, including government corporations. A public employee is defined as any person employed by any of those entities. Person is defined in the Act as a “business, individual, corporation, partnership, union, association, firm, committee, club, or other organization or group of persons.” The amendment to Section 36-25-7, Code of Alabama 1975, reads as follows: “No person shall offer or give to a

public official or public employee or a member of the household of a public employee or a member of the household of the public official and none of the aforementioned shall solicit or receive anything for the purpose of influencing official action, regardless of whether or not the thing solicited or received is a thing of value.” As of press time, the new provision to Alabama law contains no definition of “influencing official action” and there is no case law or any opinion of the Ethics Commission or Attorney General to guide citizens in determining what specific conduct constitutes “influencing official action.” Yet, a violation can result in criminal sanctions. Logically, influencing official action would include many situations, where a person or group might want to meet with a public official or employee and provide hospitality. As an example, the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee invites a legislator to its regular lunch meeting to

deadline

Tight? we can help www.gwins.cc

Guest columnist, Beth Marietta Lyons is a partner at Lyons & Crane Attorneys and a contract lobbyist for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at 690-9111 or bethmlyons@ bellsouth.net.

be requested. The prudent course of action would be to do so well in advance of any such interaction or event. Counsel can advise the extent of the protection provided by the requested opinion. This new Act also contains provisions limiting the amount of expenditures on public officials or public employees by lobbyists and principals, and contains a list of allowable expenses on public officials or public employees such as economic development functions, work sessions and widely attended events. However, with the prohibition contained in Section 36-25-7, even these ostensibly allowable expenditures, with the limitations, are prohibited when the interaction or event is for the purpose of influencing official action.

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discuss the legislative session and issues of importance to the business community. Can the Chamber provide his or her lunch? It would appear to be prohibited by this section of the new law if support of the Chamber’s position on certain legislation or issues was requested or shared with the legislator. As another example, a company invites county officials and others to a meeting and luncheon to view a new initiative and project and announces it will be applying for a federal grant or contract. Company representatives say they would like the county officials to lend their support to their cause. Again, the hospitality offered appears to be prohibited. And there are many examples of this type of activity where community members gather in a social setting to discuss projects, initiatives and other areas of common interest. Unless and until there is sufficient clarification by the Legislature, Attorney General or the Ethics Commission, Alabama companies, business organizations and individuals should carefully reevaluate personal and company policies, with advice of counsel, regarding interactions with a public official or public employee and events planned that may involve the extending of hospitality or any expenditure of any kind. Pre-certification or pre-clearance of a function or activity may be requested of the Alabama Ethics Commission’s executive director or an opinion of the Alabama Ethics Commission or state’s attorney general can

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The Business View | APRIL 2011

Chamber@work

Media Kits Updated – New Discounts Offered New for 2011 is an updated advertising media kit, which includes every print and online advertising option for Chamber members. This packet also includes sales information for a coffee table book being produced in celebration of the Chamber’s 175th anniversary. Businesses interested in being included in this book should contact Rene Eiland at 510-4175 or reiland@mobilechamber.com.

Marketing Billboards Appear Around Mobile

Garrett Wolf and Saty Putcha Named Diplomats of the Month

Wolf

Putcha

Photos by Jeff Tesney

Contacts and Contracts Gaining Popularity Alice M. Gordon, manager of supplier relations and diversity for Alabama Power, was the keynote speaker for February’s Contacts and Contracts. The quarterly business development networking event (formerly Diversity Business Network) gives small- and minority-owned businesses an opportunity to promote their companies and network with representatives from large corporations and government agencies. More than 30 people attended this session.

Garrett Wolf, director of group sales for the Mobile BayBears and Saty Putcha, co-owner of Padgett Business Services, were named the Mobile Area Chamber’s Diplomats of the Month. To learn more about the diplomat program, contact Kim Dale at kdale@mobile chamber.com at 431-8649.

Thanks to a generous donation by Lamar Advertising, the Mobile Area Chamber’s 2011 marketing campaign will begin appearing on outdoor billboards around the Mobile Bay area. This year there will also be an emphasis on the Chamber’s 175th anniversary.

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

30 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

Photo by Colonial Photography

Chamber Communications Changes Beginning this month, the Mobile Area Chamber’s communications department will undergo a name change and two of the department’s staff members will take on new duties. To reflect the organization’s emphasis on marketing the Chamber within the Mobile Bay region and the region to an international audience, the department’s official new name will be Communications and Marketing. Ashley Horn has been named the department’s director of digital media and design, and will shift her focus to the Chamber’s eight Horn web sites, social media and internal graphic design. Horn has been with the Chamber for more than 10 years, and was most recently the director of communications. Susan Rak-Blanchard is now the department’s director of communications and marketing. She will be returning to a full-time position at the Chamber, having worked partRak-Blanchard time for 13 years. Rak-Blanchard is now responsible for the

Chamber’s local, regional and national public relations and marketing effort, and is editor of The Business View Weekly. To assist with The Business View, the Chamber retained Jennifer Jenkins, APR, owner of JJPR, to serve as the magazine’s managing Jenkins editor and Michelle Roberts Matthews with Just Write as the magazine’s copy editor. Both Jenkins and Matthews have extensive knowledge of the magazine, Matthews having worked on it in various capacities since 2004. “The changes we’re implementing in the communications and marketing department are a reflection on how our members want to receive information and share it,” said Leigh Perry-Herndon, vice president of communications and marketing. “The skills Susan and Ashley bring to the table are a perfect fit for what the Chamber will be doing to communicate both to internal and external audiences moving forward.”

Chamber@work Leroy Hill Coffee Co. is Named Business Spotlight of the Month

Leroy Hill Coffee is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Business Spotlight of the Month. The company blends, roasts, grinds and packages coffee and has its own special blend of tea. Pictured here from left to right are: Dan Buckley, vice president of operations; Greg King, vice president of sales; and Debbie Hill, company owner. Spotlight is selected at random from a business card drawing at the Chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event.

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The Business View | APRIL 2011

April Calendar of Events 8 12

Member Appreciation Day See page 10 for more details.

Find out how employee health affects your bottom line at the Business and Workforce Health Summit on Tuesday, April 12, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. National experts will discuss the effects of lost productivity on your business and how to identify and address employee well-being. Topics include: healthcare reimbursement procedures, workers compensation and occupational management, hiring the “physical fit,” and quantifying and managing behaviors contributing to losttime costs. Space is limited and reservations are required by Friday, April 8. Register by April 1 and save $10. Early registration cost is $59 for Chamber members and $69 for potential members. After April 1 the cost is $69 for Chamber members and $79 for potential members. Register online at www.mobilechamber.com or contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@ mobilechamber.com.

Women’s Roundtable *Members Only

The Mobile Area Chamber’s Women’s Roundtable is a bimonthly forum exclusively for Chamber member women business owners and managers to meet, share ideas and gain information vital to women-run businesses. Women’s Roundtable will meet Tuesday, April 12, from 8 to 9 a.m. in the Chamber’s Tricentennial Room, 451 Government St. Rev. Sherrie Quander with Conscious Mile Center for Spiritual Living will discuss “The First Step of Empowerment: Who are You Now and What are You Thinking.” There is no charge to attend, but seating is limited. For reservations, contact Missy Hartley at mhartley@ mobilechamber.com or 431-8638.

Pork & Politics in the Park

On Tuesday, April 12, don’t miss Pork & Politics in the Park, the Chamber’s annual political rally. Network with local, state and federal officials and find out where they stand on critical legislative and community issues. The barbeque event will be held at the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy. from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person. For reservations, contact Ailey Shirazi at ashirazi@ mobilechamber.com or 431-8621.

Business and Workforce Health Summit

Coffee with the Chamber *Members Only

Enjoy coffee with Chamber members at this early morning event, Wednesday, April 13, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Panera Bread, 750 Schillinger Rd. A light breakfast and beverages will be provided while you network with other business professionals. Reservations are not necessary and there is no charge to attend. Be sure to bring business cards. For more information contact Missy Hartley at mhartley@mobile chamber.com or 431-8638.

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

Executive Roundtable *Members Only Executive Roundtable, a monthly forum exclusively for Chamber member small business owners and managers, will meet Tuesday, April 19, from 8 to 9 a.m. in the Mobile Area Chamber’s Board Room, 451 Government St. Patricia Vanderpool, licensed professional counselor and owner of EAP Lifestyle Management LLC, will discuss “Workplace Violence – Early Detection to Lead to Prevention,” tips to help businesses even when there’s not an obvious problem. Employers will learn how to recognize warning signs of violence in employees, diffuse a potentially violent situation and how to ensure a safe workplace. There is no charge to attend, but seating is limited. For reservations contact Brenda Rembert at 431-8607 or brembert@mobile chamber.com.

Chamber on the web

facebook.com/ MobileChamber

Group - Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce linkedin.com

32 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

mobilechamber.com/ chamberblog.asp

Small business owners will have the opportunity to meet representatives from the area’s largest companies and governmental agencies and learn about their supplier needs and bidding procedures at the Chamber’s Contacts and Contracts. This quarterly event is set for Thursday, April 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Mobile Area Chamber. Shirley Bowie-Dean, case manager, Commerce Connect, a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce, will discuss how her agency can help businesses connect to the right resources. There is no charge to attend, however, reservations are requested. For more information, contact Brenda Rembert at brembert@ mobilechamber.com or 431-8607.

GCTC Lunch

The Gulf Coast Technology Council will host its bi-monthly luncheon on Wednesday, April 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Buffalo Wild Wings, 6341 Airport Blvd. The cost to attend is $15 for Chamber members, $20 for potential members and $5 for students and includes lunch. Reservations are required, and cancellations after April 11 will not be reimbursed to cover the cost of lunch. For more information, contact Laura Smith at 431-8636 or lsmith@mobilechamber.com.

CONNECT with the

Contacts and Contracts

twitter.com/ MobileChamber

youtube.com/ MobileChamber

Business After Hours

Join Chamber members and diplomats Thursday, April 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for Business After Hours at Dr. Chris Corsentino & Associates Chiropractors, 3501 Montlimar Plaza Dr. This is one of the Chamber’s most popular networking events, offering a business venue to introduce your company, network with existing clients and make new contacts. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for potential members. Reservations are not necessary. For more information contact Missy Hartley at 431-8638 or mhartley@ mobilechamber.com. Dr. Chris Corsentino & Associates, Chiropractor

Member News Business Endeavors

Who’s New Beth Calametti joined International Assurance Inc. as a senior account executive. She brings more than 17 years experience in Calametti employee benefits and sales/marketing. Calametti previously worked for Blue Cross /Blue Shield of Alabama and is a certified health consultant. X

Bethune

Grimsley

Thornburg

Tice

Nichols

Deem

Clark Bononcini

Leung

England

Hickman

BaySide Café, 5212 Cottage Hill Rd., is now open Saturdays for lunch and Sundays for brunch and is offering home delivery for $5 a meal. X White-Spunner Construction Inc. recently completed a new full-service Hyundai dealership in Daphne at 29736 Frederick Blvd. X Infirmary Health System launched three new web sites including the corporate site, www.infirmaryhealth.org, Mobile Infirmary’s new site www.mobile infirmary.org and Thomas Hospital’s new site, www.thomashospital.org. The sites feature a new design, tools and in-depth information on hospital services. X RBC Bank announced a bank-wide upgrade of new and improved automated teller machines (ATMs) that will debut this summer. The ATMs will feature a voice guidance capability option and the addition of French as a language option.

Ecovery LLC, electronics recycling company, received the Recycling Industry Operating Standard (RIOS) certification. RIOS is a system designed to help recycling companies manage the quality, environmental, and health & safety (QEH&S) issues of operations. X True Restaurant now offers catering services. For more information, call 344-3334.

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.

McNair

Roberts Brothers welcomed agents Tyronnda Bethune, Shelli Clark, Chandler Grimsley and Cambri McNair to its west Mobile office. X Hargrove Engineers + Constructors hired Richard (Rick) Reckart as project director. Reckart holds a master’s degree in Reckart civil engineering from Auburn University. He has more than 25 years experience leading multi-discipline teams on projects along the Gulf Coast. X BankTrust announced Henry F. O’Connor III joined the holding company as executive vice president, corporate strategy director. O’Connor O’Connor is a graduate of Dartmouth College and earned a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. He previously worked in the private equity and legal arenas handling investment opportunities.

Red Square Agency added eight new employees for positions in its creative, media, public relations and accounting departments. Scott Thornburg is public relations coordinator, Andrew Tice was named runner, Janet Nichols is accounting assistant, Chrissy Deem and Brianna Bononcini are copywriters, Nelson Leung was named art director, Jarrod England is public relations manager and Christina Hickman is media assistant. X Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood promoted Lee Walters to run the firm’s newly created regional environmental department in Mobile. Walters Walters formerly was director of the company’s Montgomery environmental department. X Dauphin Realty welcomed Kim McGuire to its sales team in the company’s midtown office. McGuire The Business View | APRIL 2011

Well Done

Hughes

Blum

Dauphin Realty announced two agents were recognized by the Mobile Area Association of Realtors recently. Nancy Hughes received the Jamie Praytor Award for her contribution to the community and Butch Blum was installed as secretary for the association. X Frank Allen Brown of Zebra Marketing was honored by the Promotional Products Association International for his Brown work on a fundraising campaign celebrating the commissioning of the USS Independence.

Richlyn Smith Lynch was appointed to the Mobile Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau board of directors. She is currently the general manager, director of sales and front office manager for Admiral Semmes Hotel. X Eric Rodenhausen, a staff nurse in the neurological intensive care unit at Mobile Infirmary, earned his Certified Rodenhausen Neuroscience RN designation through the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing. The achievement recognizes specialty knowledge beyond basic nursing preparation. Thelma Jones, nurse educator at the Infirmary, was recognized by the Alabama Hospital Association as a “Hospital Hero” for Jones her contributions to healthcare excellence. Jones has 38 years in the nursing field.

Pork & Politics in the Park Tuesday, April 12

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

Steve McClure with Hargrove Engineers + Constructors earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental McClure Design accredited professional designation with specialties in building design and construction distinction. X The Mobile Section - Alabama Associated General Contractors of America Inc. (AGC) announced the 2011-2012 officers and directors: Jason Hillier, Ogden Construction, president; T. Vance McCown, Vance McCown Construction Co., vice president; and Alan Crow, Robert J. Baggett Inc., secretary/treasurer. Representing Mobile on the AGC statewide board are: John G. Walton, John G. Walton Construction Co., vice chairman; Michael Tew, S. J. & L. General Contractors Inc., secretary; and Jason Hillier and John E. Pate, J. F. Pate & Associates Contractors Inc. and Ben Radcliff Jr., Ben M. Radcliff Contractors Inc., directors. AGC Young Constructors Forum steering committee 2011 officers from the Mobile area are: Ian Claridge, Vance McCown Construction Co., vice chairman; Josh McElheney, John G. Walton Construction Co., secretary; and Brandon Miller, White-Spunner Construction Inc., treasurer. X Local businessman Mike Lapeyrouse, president and chief executive officer of The American Equity Underwriters Inc., recently participated in the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, fundraising program for childhood cancer research. Lapeyrouse, along with other executives, volunteered to shave his head at the company’s national conference, raising more than $258,000.

Commonwealth National Bank earned certification as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). The distinction qualifies Commonwealth National Bank for grants and awards from the CDFI Fund to continue promoting economic development and inclusion. X Holcim (US) Inc. announced for the third consecutive year, its Theodore plant earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s prestigious energy star designation for protecting the environment through superior energy performance.

Community News The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in partnership with HandsOn South Alabama and Goodwill Easter Seals is providing free state and federal electronic tax preparation services for taxpayers earning $49,000 or less annually. Call 2-1-1 or visit www.irs.gov. X The Junior League of Mobile (JLM) in partnership with the Center for Family & Community Development will build a community garden at DumasWesley Community Center as a “Good Friday Planting” project. The women of the Sybil H. Smith Family Village program and senior citizens participating in Dumas Wesley programs will tend and harvest the garden and the vegetables will be sold. 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.

It may not be an election year, but politicin’ is never out of season! Come meet your neighbors and elected officials while eatin’ lip smackin’ BBQ. Sponsored By Alabama Power Co., Austal USA, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors, International Shipholding Corp. and Mobile Gas Catering by The Shed BBQ & Blue Joint Music by Ron Reams - The Compact Disc Jockey Refreshments by Gulf Distributing Co. of Mobile Inc. and Buffalo Rock

Tickets are $15 RSVP to Ailey Shirazi at 431-8621 or ashirazi@mobilechamber.com Reservations and cancellation deadline is April 5

This event has been approved by the State of Alabama Ethics Commission for participation by elected officials and government employees.

34 APRIL 2011 | The Business View

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Advantage Payroll..................................6 Alabama Orthopaedic Clinic PC.........33 Bancorp South.................................... 28 BankTrust............................................21 Bellingrath Gardens and Home.........25 Burr & Forman..................................... 8 Coast Safe and Lock ...........................21 Community Bank................................31 DEX Imaging...................................... 23 Gwin’s Commercial Printing............. 29

Hand Arendall......................................16 Interstate Printing & Graphics Inc.....25 Logical Computer Solutions............... 26 Makeda Nichols, State Farm ............. 29 Premier Medical Management.......... 30 Pro 356 Consulting................................6 RBC Bank...............................................7 Sunbelt Business Brokers....................21 Wilkins Miller.......................................15 Wonderland Express............................21

Anniversaries Members Are Our Greatest Asset!

45 YEARS

Delchamps Printing Co. Inc. Manpower International Mobile Fixture, The Kitchen & Restaurant Store Mobile Paint Manufacturing Co. Inc. Mobile Rosin Oil Co. Inc. Morrison & Smith CPA LLP Pine Crest Funeral Home & Cemeteries Press-Register Rester & Coleman Engineers Inc. Roberts Brothers Inc. Smith, Dukes & Buckalew LLP Sterne, Agee & Leach Inc. Timbes & Yeager LLC U-J Chevrolet Co. Inc. UOP LLC, A Honeywell Co.

40 YEARS

BBVA Compass Bank

35 YEARS

The Community Foundation of South Alabama Melvin Pierce Painting Shell Chemical LP/ Shell Mobile Site

25 YEARS

Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa J & J Furniture Co. Inc. Mobile Arts & Sports Association/Senior Bowl Office Supplies Inc. (OSI) Quick Delivery Service Inc. Red Square Agency Universal Supply Co. Inc. West Bay Chiropractic Center PC

20 YEARS

Mobile Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau

15 YEARS

The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama

10 YEARS

Software Technology Inc. Watermark Design Group LLC Yance, Inge & Associates Inc.

5 YEARS

Clarke-Mobile Counties Gas District Computer Technology Solutions Inc. Constantine Human Resource Consulting LLC Hurricane Electronics Inc. Inchcape Shipping Services LEGALimaging LLC NoJa Petrie’s Terracon

Please show your support through the patronage of these businesses.

1-4 YEARS

Ace Hardware and Unfinished Furniture of Cottage Hill All American Self Storage Annie’s Beauty Salon Autism Avenue Inc. Ayres Composite Panels USA LLC Baker Corp. Bank of America Home Loans Barnhart Crane & Rigging Blue Haven Pools and Spas CertaPro Painters of Mobile and Baldwin Counties CH Fulfillment Services LLC Comfort Suites The Cooper-Lyon Group LLC The Creel Co. Dawes Stor-All Floor Trader - Mobile FMS Engineering LLC The Gates of Fowl River Genesis Career College Government Street Presbyterian Church Grand Slam Storage Gulf Coast Bio Clean Hanson Pipe and Precast Impresario Promotional Concepts LLC Meegie Wheat, Int’l Association of Administrative Professionals - Mobile Chapter Mark F. Bass, Int’l Longshoreman’s Association Local 1410 International Shipholding Corp. Irby Strategic Services Kangen Water Kiker Corp. Magnolia Self Storage Maynard, Cooper & Gale PC Mission of Hope Ministries Inc. Mobile County Personnel Board Mr. Electric New Generation Church Occupational Health Center Olde Oak Apartment Homes Omega Properties Inc. Oracle Real Estate Paul L. Jernigan CPA PC Professionals OnSite Phoenix Restoration Services Inc. Piping & Equipment Inc. PMOA Inc. PrimeLending Projection Presentation Technology Relocation Support Services International LLC Resolve US Gulf Facility Resources for Independence SouthData Inc. Spring Hill Comprehensive Dentistry PC Stiegler Shipping Co. Inc. Suncoast Vending Inc. Technigraphics Inc. TES Contracting Co. Inc. True Restaurant Group d/b/a True VIC Companies Virginia Station LLC Water and Waste Specialties LLC

New Members

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

Clip and add to your Membership Directory. Adams Produce Emily Rowell 194 Bohn St. Biloxi, MS 39530 251-644-3984 www.adamsproduce.com Food Service Distributors Alabama & Gulf Coast Railway Kirk Quinlivan 701 Telegraph Rd. Mobile, AL 36610 251-438-7508 www.railamerica.com Railroads Ascent Audiology & Hearing Dr. Joe Coskey 6601 Airport Blvd., Ste. A Mobile, AL 36695 251-639-3466 www.ascentaudiologymobile.com Hearing Aids Burk-Kleinpeter Inc. Milan Yancy 917 Western America Cir., Ste. 101 Mobile, AL 36609 251-342-3888 www.bkiusa.com Engineering – Professional – Environmental Chill Yogurt Café Bo Loyd 6167 Airport Blvd. Mobile, AL 36608 251-316-0045 www.chillyogurtcafe.com/mobile Yogurt City Church of Mobile Melissa Shephard 3750 Michael Blvd. Mobile, AL 36609 251-341-0360 www.citychurchofmobile.com Churches Crosby Catering Café 727 Bruce Crosby 1550 Hurtel St. Mobile, AL 36605 251-378-5350 www.crosbycatering.net Caterers Eagle Investigative Services Inc. Michael Engle 4354 Old Shell Rd., Ste. 11 Mobile, AL 36608 251-382-1773 www.eaglepiservices.com Detective Agencies Executive Shuttle Network Diane Cannova 529 Aspen Dr. Leeds, AL 35094 205-702-4566 Transportation Services FlourGirls LLC Sherrie Pickett 740 Hillcrest Rd. Mobile, AL 36695 251-634-2285 Bakers

Global Security International (GSI) Pete Jones 8757-B Rand Ave. Daphne, AL 36526 251-621-0770 www.gsii.net Security/Card Access/CCTV Law Office of Matt Green Matt Green 501 Government St., Ste. 1 Mobile, AL 36602 251-434-8500 Attorneys Hampton Inn I-10 West/ Bellingrath Gardens Ed Murphy 5478 Inn Rd. Mobile, AL 36619 251-660-9202 www.mobilebellingrath. hamptoninn.com Hotels HKA Enterprises Inc. Daniel Burgess 211 Maryland St. Mobile, AL 36603 800-825-5452 www.hkaa.com Business Service Ink Works Screen Printing & Embroidery Dennis Wombaugh 659 St. Francis St. Mobile, AL 36602 251-438-2103 www.4inkworks.com Screen Printing Knowles Development Group Kimberly Knowles 560 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36602 251-366-7720 Contractors-Design Builders March of Dimes Foundation Catherine North 205 Lambert Ave. Mobile, AL 36604 251-438-1360 www.marchofdimes.com\alabama Nonprofit Organization McKean & Meyer Rick McKean 932B Butler Dr. Mobile, AL 36693 251-661-4366 www.mckeanandmeyer.com Office Supplies Mobile Sports Authority Bud Ratliff 301 Government St., Ste. 204 Mobile, AL 36602 251-725-1794 www.mobilesportsauthority.com Sports & Family Entertainment

Nustar Energy LP Alan Brown 200 Viaduct Rd. Chickasaw, AL 36611 251-456-8491 Ext:230 www.nustarenergy.com Bulk Liquid Storage Service Office Depot, Store #2749 Daron Williamson 5300 U.S. 90 Service Rd. Mobile, AL 36619 251-662-3139 www.officedepot.com Office Supplies Percy Associates Inc. James Percy 812 Brighton Pl. Mobile, AL 36693 251-602-0007 Management Consultants Prudential Cooper & Co. Inc. - Mary Carpenter, Broker Mary Carpenter 900 Hillcrest Rd., Ste. B-1 Mobile, AL 36695 251-367-1318 www.marycarpenter.net Real Estate-Residential & Commercial Reality Business Solutions LLC Veronda Lee 700 Montlimar Park, Ste. 207 Mobile, AL 36693 251-518-8853 Graphic Designers Reynolds Enterprise Deveina Reynolds P.O. Box 963 Citronelle, AL 36522 251-866-7240 Cleaning Service - Commercial Roadmaps To Recovery Counseling Services Natasha Houston-Harris 702 Rice St. Mobile, AL 36607 800-401-2877 www.r2rcshelp.com Counselors-Licensed Tacky Jack’s George W. Skipper III 1175 Battleship Pkwy. Spanish Fort, AL 36527 251-621-8988 www.tackyjacks.com Restaurants Windham Marketing LLC Bill Hatter 332 Fairhope Ave. Fairhope, Al 36532 251-599-5331 Corporate Apparel As of 1/31/11

The Business View | APRIL 2011

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS ...lends a helping hand.

Sally Greene has a story to tell and a mission to share. She uses her contacts, made through the Chamber’s networking events and committees, to help raise awareness and support for Wilmer Hall. As one of 2,200 Chamber members, Sally has access to resources, exposure and networking to help the children entrusted to Wilmer Hall and make the organization thrive – and being a Chamber member practically makes it child’s play.

Sally Greene Wilmer Hall 14 Employees Founded in 1864

The Business of Mobile is our Business. joinmobilechamber.com 251.433.6951