MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL J U LY / A U G 2 0 1 9
MBJ
PLUS:
MGM AIRPORT LANDS NEW EXEC DIRECTOR
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PLANTING PROSPERITY AGRICULTURE IS BIG BIZ
+
HOT NEW CROP: HEMP HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE HIRING TOP TALENT
Image courtesy of Alabama Farmers Federation.
11
CONTENTS JULY/AUG 2019
THIS ISSUE: 11
Growing Good: Agriculture Industry Overview
52 56 63
Fly MGM: Hitting New Heights Fresh Finds: EastChase Farmers Market News to Know: Higher Education Update
32 Powerhouse Q&A: Jimmy Pa r n e ll 35 Member Profiles: Ebony Evans, Bob Parker, Margaret Cornwell, Diana Gray 42 GiveBack: MACOA 46 #MyMGM: MMFA Ju n ior E xe cu t ive B oa rd 74 Small Business Briefcase: Hire Up
CHAMBER NEWS:
08 Events 76 Connect: Member FAQ 78 Connect: Past Events 80 Connect: Chamber News 86 Members on the Move 91 Members in the News 96 Business Buzz 105 Ribbon Cuttings 108 New Members 110 Intel
S
MBJ
THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Anna B. Buckalew DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Jina Miniard
exploreMedia PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn
MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay
ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy
DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird
CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Minnie Lamberth, Pam Mashburn, Savanna Pruitt, Melissa Warnke, Gregory E. Sellers, Frank Walburn, Polly Hardegree and Alexander H. Carothers, III PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Nick Drollette, Robert Fouts, Donna Wallace King, David Robertson Jr. ADVERTISING & COMMUNICATIONS Christina Bennett and Kristina Boddie / exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 Savanna Pruitt and Racheal Lunn MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Post Office Box 79, Montgomery, Alabama 36101 Telephone: 334-834-5200 • mbj@montgomerychamber.com © Copyright 2019 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The Montgomery Business Journal (USPS NO. 025553) is published bi-monthly by exploreMedia for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 11, Issue 4. MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT
Committed to exceptional service, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce works to improve the economic well-being of the business community and enhance the quality of life of the area through the creation and preservation of jobs. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.
CHAMBER NEWS
Events +
MA RK YO UR CALENDAR S FOR THE SE UP COMING C HAMB E R E V E NTS
Stay Connected.
Upcoming Workshops
People do business with people they know. These monthly networking events are the perfect place to exchange business cards and build
SAVE THE
DATE The MGM Chamber will hold
your customer base. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and meet potential customers!
and registration information on montgomerychamber.com/events.
WATCH FOR THESE EVENTS.
TRC 2019 Kick-Off September 10, 2019
Conversations: Roundtables for Professional Women
60 Minute Coffees & Business After Hours
7/25 Business After Hours Sponsor: Spectrum Reach Location: Alabama Shakespeare Festival
8/7
Diversity Dialogue
60 Minute Coffee Sponsor & Location: Montgomery Regional Airport
Economic Forum October/November Timeframe
Chamber orientation November 12, 2019
Economic Summit November 13, 2019
The 147th Annual Meeting December 17, 2019
Business 101: Start it Up! July 10, August 20, September 17, 2019 Sponsor: River Bank & Trust
for a GREATER Return July 18; August 1 from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm The MGM Chamber ROI (Return
These popular networking events are the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers.
October 23, 2019
October/November Timeframe
Resource Center
Chamber ROI: MAXIMIZE Your Investment
several of its key events in the fall, so be on the lookout for event
BUSINESS
8/22 Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: The Capital City Club
9/4
DON’T MISS THIS!
On Investment) Training Workshop will be an intense 50-minute training session that will offer valuable tips and tools (trained in business methodologies), and provide indepth insight into:
• How to navigate the MGM Chamber The Who and What of the Organization
• Chamber event netWORKing 101 • Key steps to obtaining insider intelligence regarding MGM Chamber Business Essentials for State Taxpayers Seminar July 25, 2019
+
Register Now!
All Chamber and BRC event details and a registration link are listed on montgomerychamber.com/events.
60 Minute Coffee Sponsor: River Region United Way Location: ASE Credit Union
CHAMBER MEMBER ORIENTATION
9/19
August 20, 2019 from 8 - 9 am at the Chamber’s BRC
Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: Holiday Inn Express & Suites
strategically set up to get you
These networking events are plugged in and connected to people and resources within the
BizTalk MGM:
local business community that can
BizTalk MGM - The Official Podcast for Small Business in MGM Every second Tuesday at 6 pm on WVAS 90.7 F.M, the Montgomery Chamber and host Tonya Scott Williams, talk with business experts on topics that are important to small business. Podcast Sponsor: MAX
8 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
help you increase your brand and grow your business. Sponsored by exploreMedia
9 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
10 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
A G R I C U LT U R E I N T H E R I V E R R E G I O N
Image courtesy of Alabama Farmers Federation.
FARMING’S FINANCIAL IMPACT
11 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
The overall yearly impact of agriculture in Alabama is more than
$70 BILLION
While the nature of farming has changed through the years, one thing has not:
Q&A
Agriculture has a massive annual economic impact
What is your advice when it comes to buying and/or selling rural land?
– the overall yearly impact in Alabama is more than $70 billion – and in every county in the state you can unearth some form of agriculture and agribusiness work being done. In the River Region, these operations are equally important. According to Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, in Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties, the economic impact of agriculture is more than $3.8 billion, proving that whether it’s by raising animals like cattle and poultry, planting and harvesting crops ranging from pine trees and soybeans to cotton and peanuts, or selling the myriad supplies and equipment needed to manage today’s modern ag operations, farming factors into the lives of many area residents. Doug Thiessen, CEO of Alabama Ag Credit, knows this well. He’s been with the bank for 12 years and has watched it provide the lending power farmers and others in agribusiness require to thrive, whether needs like operating expenses. “Just drive in any direction out of Montgomery, and you will see row crops, cattle grazing in pastures, hay fields, sod farms and nurseries,” he said. “And where you have enterprises like these, you tend to have the next level of processing entities like cotton gins, farm and large equipment dealers, livestock auction facilities, logging and trucking companies, and paper and lumber mills. Plus, you have organizations like Alabama Ag Credit who help finance them. All these entities take people to run and manage them, and that means jobs.”
Image courtesy of Alabama Farmers Federation.
it’s loans to buy land or funds to meet shorter-term
I am a partner with National Land Realty, a full-service real estate brokerage company specializing in farm, ranch, plantation, timber and recreational land across the country. One of our bigger land investing markets in the River Region is timber land investors who also want to capitalize on the recreational use of their property. Land investing is not a “get rich overnight” scheme, but it definitely represents a good solid way to diversify an investment portfolio. Making profitable land investments starts with the right property at the right price, a strategic plan and a good networking source to help achieve the client’s goals. I personally think one of the biggest returns on investing in land is enjoying the great outdoors. Corporations can print more stock certificates but they ain’t making any more land!
12 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Jerry Joe Ingram, Partner, National Land Realty
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
“Just drive in any direction out of Montgomery, and you will see row crops, cattle grazing in pastures, hay fields, sod farms and nurseries. And where you have enterprises like these, you tend to have the next level of processing entities. All these entities take people to run and manage them, and that means jobs.” - Doug Thiessen, CEO of Alabama Ag Credit
13 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
Q&A Why, in your opinion, are farming and related agribusiness important to our area and our state? Agribusiness is the No. 1 industry in Alabama by gross receipts and is a huge part of the local and state economy. As farmers and ranchers, we only make up around 1 percent of the population, but we punch above our weight class in gross revenue. Our world population is growing rapidly, and in order to keep up with the growing protein demands of that growing population, we use stateof-the-art technology and implement the most sustainable management practices possible to do more with less. Finally, the Montgomery area is deeply rooted in agriculture, and that into the community. Farming is crucial to the success of any society at any population level, and I am proud to be a part of it.
- Bradfield Evans, CK Cattle in Hope Hull
Image courtesy of Alabama Farmers Federation.
agricultural heritage is woven well
14 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
BY THE NUMBERS AGRICULTURE’S ECONOMIC IMPACTS (2010) Source: Alabama Farmers Federation
$2.6 BILLION TOTAL IMPACTS
REVENUE GENERATED THROUGH AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY PRODUCTION SECTOR:
24,575
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
JOBS PROVIDED
$106.8 MILLION
Tradition of Excellence
The industry’s numbers are impressive, yet the significance of agriculture and agribusiness rises far above facts and figures; there’s something truly special about our rural areas, as Jimmy Parnell,
$915 MILLION TOTAL IMPACTS
AUTAUGA COUNTY
$41.6 MILLION
7,328
JOBS PROVIDED
President and CEO of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance, expressed. “They’re such beautiful places, and farming is our history and our heritage,” he said. “Plus, it’s something we still do
$319.5 MILLION TOTAL IMPACTS
ELMORE COUNTY
$78.1 MILLION
extremely well.”
4,857
JOBS PROVIDED
The Farmers Federation is a key part of this heritage, founded by concerned farmers in 1921. They formed the organization to give themselves a unified voice, and today, representing the interests of those in agriculture and agribusiness is still a vital piece of Alfa’s and the Farmers Federation’s missions. “Agriculture is the parent of this entire company,” Parnell said. “We would not be here, would not have this insurance company without agriculture, and the way the Federation is set up, the member farmers are actually our bosses. Everything the Farmers Federation does is driven by the farmers at the local level; that keeps us grounded in our roots.” Those roots run deep beneath the pastoral landscapes, where corn stalks wave in the wind and cows graze under shade trees. But these bucolic scenes paint more than a pretty picture: They’re evidence of how closely agriculture is tied to our daily lives, a message our Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate preaches like the gospel. “Without agriculture we would not survive. We all typically eat three meals a day, and that food comes from a farm one way or another,” he said. “So, if indeed we all need to eat to survive, I’d say agriculture is vital to our state and the River Region.” Thiessen echoed Pate. “The benefits of agriculture to the River Region start with the basic needs of life. The industry provides the very food, fiber and shelter every human being needs to survive,” he said.
15 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
People Power
Agriculture does not start and stop at the farm gate, and the countless “off-the-farm” aspects of agribusiness are built on the state’s robust agriculture
THE FUTURE OF FARMING
activities, as Pate stressed. “There is a tremendous amount of research and planning that happens way before a crop is planted or livestock breeding takes place,” he said. “Once a
Today, advances in technology are
of line to see 200 to 300 bushels of
crop is harvested or livestock
making agriculture operations more
corn per acre, thanks to advanced
leaves the farm, there are many
efficient and providing farmers and
methods reliant on technology,” Parnell
hands that contribute to finishing
other producers with more information,
said. “My granddad used to aspire to
the product that ends up on your
leading to enhanced growing methods
25 bushels per acre.”
dinner table.”
and larger distribution networks.
And the many people working in
It’s a fact that flies in the face of the
Modern technology has immensely
stereotypical image of farmers.
altered agriculture processes in ways
agriculture and the agribusiness
that are beneficial for farmers, but
industry are our friends and
“The agriculture/agribusiness industry
the connection between man and
neighbors and are often found
has embraced technology as much or
land that farming creates remains.
out of their fields and offices
more than any industry even though
And technology is strengthening that
and engaged in the surrounding
unfortunately, most folks think of a
bond, making it easier than ever to
community. “I can’t speak
farmer as some old white-headed
implement sustainable practices that
for the entire industry, but
granddaddy out in field,” said Jimmy
are also good for the land, air and
Alabama Ag Credit and our
Parnell, President and CEO of the
water. “Science-based research is
team members are involved
Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa
allowing farmers to have a smaller
in all of our local communities
Insurance. “It may be a granddad,
carbon footprint, since we have
in many ways,” Thiessen said.
but they’re out there using a laptop
developed technologies that limit
“Our employees are members
with their crops, using technology to
soil erosion and improve disease
of or support local organizations
do all kinds of things in ways that my
resistance, so fewer and fewer
like FFA, 4-H, Alabama Wildlife,
granddaddy could never have even
pesticides need to be applied,” said
Alabama Farmers Federation
imagined.”
Alabama Commissioner of
and multiple trade associations.
Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate.
One example here in the River
Drones are delivering precision data,
“Advancements in livestock breeding
Region area is our sponsorship
showing exactly what’s happening
and animal disease prevention
of Pintlala Elementary, where
in acres of fields and when. Smart
significantly improve the quality and
we donate supplies, equipment
irrigation and GPS mapping of land
health of animals.”
and volunteer our time as
allows for a higher level of accuracy
needed. Additionally, each year
for soil testing and fertilizing. Research
And new discoveries and
our association chooses an
delivering better plant breeds allows
advancements are being made all
organization to be the recipient
for higher plant populations. All of
the time. “It will be interesting to see
of our annual giving campaign.”
these things are giving farmers a
where the next 20 years take us as
better understanding of tried and true
research in agriculture continues to
techniques, bridging the old ways with
make major breakthroughs that will
the new and resulting in bigger yields
improve food production for all,” Pate
and more stability. “Today, it’s not out
said.
Continued on page 18
16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
I ND U ST RY Leader | Agriculture
Alabama Ag Credit When was your company founded? We have been
of directors chosen by the customers we support. When you borrow
serving rural communities and agriculture for more than 100 years.
from Alabama Ag Credit, you become a stockholder and part owner in the cooperative, entitling you to a portion of the earnings when the
How many employees do you have? We have a total
association does well financially. In March of this year, we returned $9.1
of 79 employees across the 40-county territory we cover in central
million back to our customers, which is nearly half of our profits for 2018.
and south Alabama. Here in the River Region at our two Montgomery
No other type of lender offers you such an advantage.
offices, we have 38 employees. Another advantage of doing business with Alabama Ag Credit is that we
What are your primary products and services?
know the cyclical nature of agriculture. And with that in mind, we want
Alabama Ag Credit supports rural communities and agriculture with
our customers to succeed, and we will help by playing our role. We are
reliable, consistent credit and financial services. We offer a variety of
there for our rural communities in the good times and in the bad.
flexible financing for agriculture, land and rural homes and homesites. Our agriculture loans are tailored to meet the specific needs and production cycles of agricultural operations and agribusiness. We also finance the equipment that keeps these businesses humming. Whether someone is buying, refinancing or improving land where they can farm, enjoy the great outdoors or build a home, we can help. Best of all, you don’t need to be a farmer to get home financing from us.
What sets your company apart? Alabama Ag Credit
Montgomery Branch 7602 Halcyon Summit Drive Montgomery, AL 36117
is a customer-owned cooperative, and we are governed by a board
17 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Administrative Office 2660 Eastchase Lane, #401 Montgomery, AL 36117
AlabamaAgCredit.com
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
SMOKIN’ HOT TREND: HEMP
“Today, it’s not out of line to see 200 to 300 bushels of corn per acre, thanks to advanced methods reliant on technology. My granddad used to aspire to 25 bushels per acre.” - Jimmy Parnell, President and CEO of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance
Challenges
With a long tradition and centuries of progress, the agribusiness industry is old and strong in the River Region, but it is not without challenges. Farmers particularly face multiple obstacles. Weather has been and will always be a threat, and one that’s uncontrollable. The hurricanes that devastated parts of the Gulf Coast last year wiped out entire crops and countless acres of timber. “Many cotton producers in Alabama believed their 2018 crop was going to be one of the best in years
When Alabama legalized the growing
and labor-intensive crop, and there
of industrial hemp in March 2018, it
are legal considerations related to the
garnered a lot of headlines, with some
purity of seed and crop management,”
proclaiming the agricultural product
he said. “Like many new crops, there’s
the state’s next “major cash crop.”
a lot of interest, and some will try to
Alabama Agricultural Commissioner
profit from the excitement. We would
Rick Pate weighed in. “Industrial hemp
advise farmers to thoroughly study
is a new crop in Alabama to be on
the crop and potential markets before
the lookout for. The department is in
making a large investment.”
the process of administering the pilot production program for farmers to
Doug Thiessen, CEO of Alabama Ag
grow industrial hemp,” he said. “After
Credit, also stressed the “unknowns”
this first growing season is complete,
surrounding the industrial hemp.
data will be collected from program
“Hemp production has a lot of risks
participants. More research will need
and unanswered questions today, but
to be done since there are no current
many farmers are hoping hemp will be
feasibility studies for industrial hemp
another crop option for
production here.”
them to grow,” he said. “Again, a lot
Jimmy Parnell, President and CEO
of unanswered
of the Alabama Farmers Federation
questions
and Alfa Insurance, agreed with Pate,
remain though.”
underscoring the Commissioner’s thoughts on the need for additional information. “Industrial hemp has the potential to be another option for farmers looking to diversify, but research and education is still needed. It has been a profitable crop in other states, but farmers need to understand the costs and risks associated with
“The fiber made from industrial hemp has multiple uses; you can even make concrete blocks with it.” - Dr. Raymon Shange, Tuskegee University
industrial hemp. It can be an expensive
until Hurricane Michael hit,” Thiessen said. But farmers have learned to take these struggles in stride. Other “manmade” issues are begging for solutions. Parnell pointed to a few of the most pressing. “We are not where I would like us to be in terms of
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has currently licensed
152 GROWERS, 59 PROCESSORS and FIVE UNIVERSITIES to grow, cultivate, process and research industrial hemp in 2019.
young people getting into agriculture,” he said. “The average age of our Alabama farmers is retirement age.” It’s essential for our area, our
18 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
state and our country that we increase the number of farmers coming up to fill that gap. “The industry has to grow in order to Dr. Raymon Shange, Assistant
COMMON HEMP USES:
Professor of Environmental
meet demand and allow the United States to remain a country that can feed and clothe itself,” Thiessen added.
Science in Tuskegee University’s Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences,
Parnell believes a falling profit potential is
sees a bright future for hemp in
part of the problem. As commodity prices
Alabama. The university is one
decline but the costs to run a farm go up,
of the five in the state that have
the opportunities to make a decent living as
been granted licenses to grow
a farmer – or in other agribusiness ventures
industrial hemp and just started
– are fewer and more elusive. “Prices have
this summer. “We’ll conduct
dropped, but I think as we see profit potential
research trials to determine the
return, we will see more farmers,” Parnell
best management practices and
said. “There are young people out there
explore the technology needed for
interested, and more profit potential will bring
extracting oils from hemp,” he said.
the next generation into the industry.”
Some of the university’s alumni and its current students were also
But how does that get done? According to
granted licenses to grow hemp
Parnell, international trade deals play a major
and will be doing smaller trials.
role. “Trump renegotiating trade treaties with
“That’s great because we will be
product that’s dominating the
able to walk with them and give
news. “The market is focused on
them information they need to be
CBD oils, but that’s only the tip of
successful,” he said.
iceberg,” he said. “The fiber made from industrial hemp has multiple
Shange believes the addition of
uses; you can even make concrete
hemp to the state’s agricultural line-
blocks with it. We are very excited
up will be a boon for Alabama. “I
because the university’s material
think it will revolutionize agriculture
sciences program will be working
in Alabama,” he said. And not only
hand-in-hand with us on this.”
other countries is a vital for agriculture and agribusiness,” he said. “What we’ve done with Mexico and Canada is a big step in the right direction.” China and other Asian countries take a lot of America’s agriculture production, and Parnell says a good trade agreement with them is “crucial.” “China is a huge market for our crops and meat,” he said. “It is such a large population, and that demand is growing.”
because of CBD oil, the “miracle” The right trade deals put agriculture – in the
“I think it will revolutionize agriculture in Alabama. The market is focused on CBD oils, but that’s only the tip of iceberg.” - Dr. Raymon Shange, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science in Tuskegee University’s Department of Agriculture and Environmental Science
River Region and around the country – in a better position for the future. But while these larger policies are debated and decided, here at home, those in agribusiness industry keep moving through each season, their efforts often unnoticed by others. It’s a paradox Thiessen ponders often. “There are people who believe that food simply comes from a grocery store or restaurant with very little understanding of how the food got there or what all it takes to grow it,” he said. “And yet, the industry continues to provide for our needs.”
19 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
ON THE MOVE: EQUIPMENT TRENDS
Q&A How do agriculture/agribusiness associations like the Cattlemen’s Association benefit their members?
Coblentz Equipment & Parts Co., Inc. serves homeowners and those
Trade organizations like the ACA represent specific interests and for us, that is the cattle producer and the beef industry. Our role is multifaceted, but membership provides cattlemen with a lobbyist specifically concerned with cattle issues both in Montgomery and in Washington, D.C. We stay involved in issues such as environmental regulations, tax and property rights, animal welfare and the overall climate of the cattle industry. Our voice represents more than 10,000 members across the state and has a large footprint in the policy arena.
demand for small tractors. “There’s been a dramatic increase in
involved in light agriculture, selling Massey Ferguson and Mahindra tractors and other labor-saving equipment like chain saws, mowers and more. According to owner Craig Coblentz, there’s now big the popularity of small tractors (under 60 horsepower) as more and more people move to the country,” he said. “It takes equipment to maintain multiple acres even if the only farming is a garden. It seems a lot of people just want their own space and working with their tractor almost becomes a form of recreation.” The manufacturers have stepped up, offering a wide variety of small tractors that are a far cry from the vehicles used only a few decades ago. “They’re making them comfortable and easy to operate. Some have air-conditioned cabs with stereo available,” Coblentz said. These bells and whistles are a natural side-effect of more
- Erin Beasley, Executive Vice President, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association
technology in every aspect of our lives and work, but Coblentz points out that more technology is not always a positive. In addition
20 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
to ag equipment, Coblentz also sells tractors and rightof-way maintenance equipment (tractor-mounted boom mowers, pot-hole patchers, etc.) to most of the 67 counties as well as the state. “A notable trend that is building steam is the self -propelled multi-purpose boom mowers with the ability to add all kinds of combinations of tools for the same carrier,” he said.
Read more about the Coblentz family business.
“One of the reasons tool carriers are becoming more popular is that it is becoming more difficult to mount things to today’s tractors. There are so many emission control devices surrounding the engine, that there is no room. The mechanical parts of today’s tractors are better than ever, but the increasing demands of the
Family Matters
Agriculture is often a family affair. The same is true in one local
EPA are, in our opinion, becoming counterproductive.
agribusiness company, Coblentz Equipment & Parts Co., Inc. The
Technology can be great, but it also needs to make
Coblentz family has been in the tractor, truck and equipment business
sense and be achievable.”
for almost 100 years, although not in the same location. “In 1921 Herbert and Arthur Coblentz opened Coblentz and Son in a small town in the northern Indiana,” current owner and fourth generation of the family Some farming equipment now even boasts airconditioning.
Craig Coblentz said. In 1967, his dad Max purchased the GMC truck dealership in Montgomery. The truck dealership was sold in 1999, and in 2000 Craig purchased Equipment & Parts Specialty Co., Inc. In 2010, Craig’s son Matthew joined the company. In 2012, they purchased Helms Tractor Co. and moved the business to its current location.
21 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
T I M B E R TA X AT I O N A F T E R T H E TA X R E F O R M A C T O F 2 0 1 7
With the most significant changes to the tax
capital gain rates (0 percent, 15 percent, 20
law in over 30 years, the Tax Reform Act of
percent) if the timber and land are owned for
2017 has led to several questions, including
more than a year. However, to get the benefit
how to tax timber. Some investors and
of timber management expenses, a timber
business owners ask if tax rates on timber
owner will need to substantiate their holdings
sales increased. Others think they are no
as a timber business.
longer allowed to deduct expenses associated with the timber. While much of the tax law is
Thanks to a couple of Internal Revenue Code
still up in the air, each taxpayer’s facts and
elections, (631(a) and 631(b)), timber businesses
circumstances will dictate their classification of
can also benefit from the long-term capital
timber operations and the resulting taxation.
gain rates. To accomplish this, the tax preparer needs to be aware of the requirements under
WHEN IT COMES TO TIMBER TAXATION, THERE ARE THREE OWNERSHIP CLASSIFICATIONS:
these code sections and the proper forms on
PERSONAL PROPERTY: used for personal or
The new tax law has eliminated the
recreational enjoyment with no intent to make
miscellaneous itemized deduction category
a profit
where most casual timber investors were
INVESTMENT PROPERTY: acquired and
allowed deductions for timber investment
managed with intent to generate a profit from the sale of timber and/or land
BUSINESS PROPERTY: a profit is generated with frequent and regular activity
HOW DO YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THESE CLASSIFICATIONS? PLANS AND DOCUMENTATION. When it
which they report the timber activities.
management expenses and casualty losses. Still, with the right planning, documentation of profit motive and hands-on activity, many timberland owners can continue to receive meaningful tax benefits.
MEET THE EXPERT
comes to IRS substantiation, you can never document too much. A written and updated forest management plan is the first step in supporting the profit motive. A detailed timber inventory is not only a requirement to substantiate the basis, but it is also more support for the profit motive. Bookkeeping records and travel logs differentiate business property from personal property. These documents alone do not make the timber ownership a business, but they support the
Gregory E. Sellers, CPA, AEP® is a member in
facts and circumstances needed for a profit
Warren Averett’s Tax Division and is a leader
motive and favorable tax treatment.
of the Estate and Trust Service Area. He has more than three decades of experience in public
The casual investor in timberland for personal
accounting. Reach him at 334-260-2350 or
use will qualify for the favorable long-term
greg.sellers@warrenaverett.com.
23 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W
BY G R E G O RY E . S E L L E R S , C PA , A E P ®
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
MEET THE COMMISSIONER
BIG DEAL:
Rick Pate was elected Alabama’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries in 2018. MBJ asked him why he sought the position and how he and his team are working to better agriculture and agribusiness.
Port Proportions Earlier this year, Governor Ivey signed a bill to raise
MBJ: What motivated you to seek the position of Commissioner of
In college, I studied ornamental
Agriculture and Industries?
degree from Auburn University’s
RP: Both of my parents taught me the
College of Agriculture in 1978. I started
value of leadership. My father, being a
of the port of Mobile — will
my own business, Pate Landscape
cattleman, served as the president of
directly and positively
Co., Inc., more than 36 years ago.
the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association
affect agribusiness, as
Even though I spent most of my
and the Southeastern Livestock
Jimmy Parnell, President
career operating Pate Landscape,
Exposition. He also served on the
and CEO of the Alabama
I maintained a purebred Charolais
American-International Charolais
Farmers Federation and
cattle herd in Lowndes County. When
Board. My mom served as president
my dad passed away in 2012, I took
of the Alabama Cattlewomen’s
“The gas tax will pay for
over the family cattle operation, Pate
Association, at the time called the
the state’s portion of a
Charolais Ranch, and still operate it
CowBelles, and went on to serve
today.
the state’s gas tax to fund multiple needed infrastructure projects. One of these — the expansion
Alfa Insurance, explained.
horticulture and received a bachelor’s
package that will allow us
as permanent treasurer of the
to deepen and widen the
organization.
What is the purpose of the Department of Agriculture and
channel and get larger I learned from them that you should
Industries?
Mobile,” he said. “We will
give back to the profession you’re
Our agency could easily be named
be first in the Gulf to have
involved in. I have served in many
the “Department of Consumer and
this kind of capacity, and
leadership positions throughout my
Agriculture Protection.” The services
career, and once several farmers
we provide touch every citizen in
ship agricultural products
approached me about running for Ag
some way each day. It can be the
(and many other products)
Commissioner, I felt it was the right
eggs, milk, cereal or grits a consumer
to other countries via sea-
time. I saw this as an opportunity to
has for breakfast that has been tested
going vessels. Currently,
use the experience I’ve gained over
by our Food Safety Lab or the gas
some ships that require
the years as a farmer, agribusiness
pumped in their car on the way to
deeper water bypass Mobile
owner and community leader to
work that was verified for accuracy by
for Charleston or Savannah.
contribute to the agricultural industry
the Weights and Measures division.
in the state.
There are so many practical ways this
vessels into the port of
that’s important because we
The proposed expansion would stop that and make
department protects the quality of
Mobile’s port larger than
Do you have a farming/agriculture
life for Alabama citizens without them
the one in New Orleans.
background?
even knowing it.
“That puts Alabama on the
I grew up working on my family’s cattle
forefront of shipping out of
and poultry operations in Lowndes
We also have a responsibility to
the Gulf,” Parnell said.
County, where I learned the value
work with farmers and all agriculture
of hard work and perseverance.
stakeholder groups for the common
24 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
AG IN EDUCATION “The services we provide touch every citizen in some way each day.“
good of agriculture, while continuously implementing disease prevention programs in our plant and animal industries. Each farm, commodity and industry is significant to our state. Our department is here to serve and support the livelihoods of farmers and consumers.
What’s the future of farming and agribusiness in the state and the River Region? With ongoing research, I expect there to be solutions to many issues farmers face. These solutions have the potential to improve soil quality and yields; increase disease resistance for plants and livestock; and improve the overall health of crops and livestock. The quality of the soil, water and air is critical in feeding the world now and in the future, therefore, all citizens share a common goal of making sure the land remains productive for years to come. Farmers have a vested
In Pike Road, agriculture has
science-based learning. “There
long been an important sector.
will be chances to learn things
“Historically, the livelihoods of many
like how drones can be
in our area depend on agriculture,
used in the industry,
and we see many opportunities
how other forms
for economic development in
of tech are used
agriculture and agribusiness,” said
to manage land
Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone.
and to explore
“So, as we look forward to our future
the scientific
job creation, we think an ag-based
advancements
recruiting effort is very appropriate
behind hybrid seeds
for our area, and that means we
and more,” Stone said.
also want to put an emphasis on agriculture and agribusiness in our
Tuskegee University is also
education.”
arming its students for today’s and tomorrow’s agribusiness careers.
To ensure the Pike Road School
“The field of agriculture is changing,”
system students understand the
said Dr. Raymon Shange, Assistant
opportunities available in the
Professor of Environmental Science
industry, the schools are working
in Tuskegee University’s Department
closely with FFA (Future Farmers
of Agriculture and Environmental
of America), 4-H and the Alabama
Sciences. “It’s not the same old
Extension Service. “The industry is
sweaty, outdoor work.”
changing every day, and we want our kids to have all the information they
Mirroring every other sector of our
need about what’s available in the
economy, the culture of agriculture
natural resources and agribusiness
is becoming increasingly digital. “A
sectors,” Stone said.
lot of our students are interested in the satellite and sensor technology
Pike Road is also soon to break
aspects of our agriculture program
ground on its new agriculture,
now,” he said. And they’ll need
recreation and performing arts
that training. “The USDA and other
center, a facility that will be a base
agencies are pushing students to
for the Extension Service, will host
have a background in geographical
livestock events and will be used
information systems and other tech-
for agriculture technology and
driven systems.”
interest in preserving the productivity of the land because it is their primary
“The industry is changing every day, and we want our kids to have all the information they need about what’s available in the natural resources and agribusiness sectors,”
resource for creating their product, whatever it may be. It is important as we move forward that farmers and consumers work together for effective solutions that benefit all, so we can feed an ever-growing population.
- Gordon Stone, Mayor, Pike Road
25 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
STRAIGHT FROM THE SOURCE Farmers markets and farm stands have
(Naturally Rad, Handey’s Farm, Hornsby
been around for years, but recently, their
Farms, Urban Hives and more) in old
numbers have surged in response to
Southern recipes.
new interest. According to The Alabama
Tim explained their
Farmers Market Authority, in 1999, there
commitment to
were 17 farmers markets in the state. In
supporting area
2018, there were more than 170, with almost
farms. “Our family
1,000 farmers selling in those markets. “As
always maintained
consumers have an increasing desire to
a large garden
know where their food comes from, farmers
where we grew
markets or locally sourced produce have
up picking peas
seen an increase in demand,” Thiessen
with our dad or
said. “We have borrowers who have started
shucking corn with
a farm after retiring with this very much in
our grandparents,” he
mind.” Agritourism [farm tours, expanded
said. “I think it was during those summers
farm stands with farm animal petting zoos,
sitting around with buckets of produce in
etc.] is growing too, giving farmers an
our laps that the seeds of sustainability
additional revenue stream.
were sown. Not only did we learn the
Tim Essary, Cahawba House
Q&A
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW How does the large agriculture/ agribusiness industry in the River Region benefit the area? Agriculture/agribusiness plays a critical role in the entire life of the economy. Agriculture is the backbone of the economic system. In addition to providing food and raw material, agriculture also provides employment opportunities to very large percentage of the population.
importance of where our food came from, And people who care about where the food
but also the amount of labor and love that
they cook in their kitchens comes from carry
goes into every dining experience.”
that same philosophy to the restaurants they choose to patronize, leading to an
While Tim and Tara know that fresh food
explosion of eateries with an emphasis on
tastes better, they get more than superior
“farm-to-table” cuisine. In Montgomery,
flavor. “We’ve gained so much knowledge
Cahawba House is one such spot. Opened
about seasonal produce and when certain
in 2016 downtown by brother-sister team
vegetables hit their peak of availability by
Tim and Tara Essary, the restaurant uses
building a relationship with farmers,” he
fresh ingredients sourced from local farms
said.
LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS & FARM MARKETS Keep your food dollars in your local economy
and get access to fresher, better-tasting food by shopping at local farmers markets.
- Don Wambles, Director, AG Promotions, F2S, FMA, Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries
EAT UP! Find your favorite farmer.
EastChase Farmer’s Market
Kendrick Farms
Montgomery
Prattville
Montgomery Curb Market
Ingram’s Farmers
Montgomery
Market & Garden Center Millbrook
State Farmer’s Market Montgomery
Oakview Farms Wetumpka
SweetCreek Farm Market Montgomery
Prattville Farmers’ Market Prattville
Wright’s Produce Montgomery
Slapout Produce Holtville
26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
IN D USTRY Leader | Agriculture
I ND U ST RY Leader | Agriculture
National Land Realty When was the company founded? National Land
Milestones/awards/accomplishments: NLR was
was founded in 2007 and started the Alabama branch in 2014.
named one of America’s Best Brokerages in 2018 for the seventh consecutive year. The Land Report’s exclusive America’s Best
How many employees do you have?
Brokerages list recognizes 100 best-in-class real estate firms across
11 in the River Region
the country that specialize in timberland, productive farmland, income-producing properties and recreational retreats. NLR was
What are your primary services? NLR is a full-
also named to the 2018 Inc Magazine’s 5000 list for the second
service real estate brokerage company specializing in farm, ranch,
consecutive year, ranking No. 1 in the land brokerage sector.
timber and recreational land sales.
What sets your company apart? First, we take care of our customers. Without them as the backbone of NLR, we have nothing. Second, TEAM WORK. We have a great sales force that goes out of its way to help each other. Finally, NLR continually invests in technology that aids each land professional in selling and marketing property. Our combination of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and our state-of-the-art Targeted Acquisition Platform (TAP) program allows our land professionals to immediately connect buyers and sellers
27 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
10270 Highway 80 East 334-300-4273 NationalLand.com
28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
M EM BER Spotlight
ALABAMA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION For 75 years, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (ACA) has worked to enhance the business climate of the state’s beef cattle industry through promotion and education. Today, its leadership and thousands of members are still living out that mission.
WHEN AND WHY WAS THE CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION FOUNDED? The ACA was founded on January 4, 1944, in Demopolis with the intention to create a working Cattlemen’s Association for the benefit and protection of all cattlemen in Alabama. NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 9 HOW MANY MEMBERS DOES THE ACA HAVE? 10,000-plus on an annual basis. The ACA is proud to maintain one of the top three memberships among Cattlemen’s Associations across the nation. HOW DOES THE ACA BENEFIT ITS MEMBERSHIP? The association serves as a watchdog in policy matters such as animal well-being, tax and property rights, environmental regulation and government overreach. The association has a foundation that awards more than $65,000 in scholarships each year through the sale of the Cowboy vanity car tag and several, generous endowment families. Members of the association have access to 15 member benefits, ranging from equipment to hotel and restaurant discounts. Members also receive the Alabama Cattleman magazine each month and have access to a resourceful staff in Montgomery committed to serving as a one-stop shop for your cattle and beef questions through the website, on social media or on a quick phone call. WHAT’S THE PURPOSE OF THE MOOSEUM AND WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL? Since opening its doors in 1995, The MOOseum has been the premier venue for children and adults alike to learn more about Alabama’s beef cattle industry. The MOOseum is designed to offer those of all ages a pasture-to-plate experience in order to understand how beef cattle are raised and how beef is part of a nutritious lifestyle. The MOOseum also strives to display the unique role that the cattle industry has played throughout Alabama history and how beef cattle affect the lives of all, not only in the pasture or on the plate, but through their many, unique by-products. We are excited that 2019 will introduce a major renovation project to update the sights, sounds and features of The MOOseum in order to bring a new and exciting experience to those visiting this free spot. It is also important to note that the ACA is the only Cattlemen’s Association across the nation that is home to a children’s educational facility about beef cattle. 201 S BAINBRIDGE STREET / 334-265-1867 / WWW.BAMABEEF.ORG 29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
While the commentary accurately reflects the opinions of the author, it does not necessarily reflect those of Regions Bank. This presentation is solely for information and educational purposes and nothing contained in this presentation constitutes an offer or solicitation to purchase any security, the recommendation of any particular security or strategy or a complete analysis of any security, company or industry or constitutes tax, accounting or legal advice. Commentary and opinions provided in this presentation reflect the judgment of the author as of the date of this presentation and are subject to change without notice.
BY F R A N K WA L B U R N
WHEN IT COMES TO FAMILY LAND
BEFORE WORKING WITH A LAND
The Jones family has owned several
MANAGER, CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS:
thousand acres of land in Central Alabama for
• Recognize that you need
decades. Their property has timber, farming
professional advice. The opinions of
and potentially sand and gravel deposits.
friends and family are important, but
Additionally, it has excellent hunting areas.
when you are planning your family’s
Some parcels adjoin residential and light
legacy, professional advice can limit
industrial development. The property is currently managed by Mr. Jones, who farms, harvests some timber, leases some of the land to hunting clubs and uses some land for family recreation. No mineral development plan exists, and the
the impact of emotions.
• Research your options on land management firms in your area.
• Develop objectives for the property
family is not interested in developing the land
before working with a land manager.
for other uses, even though companies have
You may also need estate planning
approached them to discuss selling.
assistance, tax advice or other forms of financial consultation.
The Joneses have two grown children who live elsewhere, and while they are not able
Many land management decisions are
to assume direct management of these
long-term in nature, often having an impact
assets, the property is a very important part
for generations to come. Finding an advisor
of this family’s legacy. Mr. and Mrs. Jones
who can help meet your immediate needs –
do not have a will but fully intend to leave
with an eye toward the future as well – can
these assets to their children. The Joneses
help you protect, preserve and maintain this
are looking for advice, guidance and a
remarkable asset and this significant portion
management plan that incorporates their
of your family’s legacy.
objectives for the property they love, but they aren’t sure where to turn. Part of the answer may be an experienced and reputable land
MEET THE EXPERT
manager. Land management firms have expertise in several types of property, and land managers leverage that experience to help families make decisions. Regions Bank manages 1,000,000 acres of timberland, 3,000,000 acres of minerals, 200,000 acres of farmland and more than 3,000 parcels of real estate. Frank Walburn is Senior Vice President, Natural Resources and Real Estate at Regions Bank. Contact him at frank.walburn@regions.com.
31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW
BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL LAND MANAGEMENT
VESTOR IN
PR
OFIL
PO WERHOUSE
Q&A
E
JIMMY PARNELL Jimmy Parnell’s ties to Alabama agriculture are strong; his family has been working the land in Chilton County – first growing cotton and corn and now raising cattle and growing timber – for generations. Today, as President and CEO of Alfa companies, encompassing the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance, he plays dual roles: using his farming knowledge on behalf of farmers across the state and providing forward-thinking leadership for the insurance company millions of other Alabamians trust with their security. Question? Answer. Explain how Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation intersect.
people have a problem, they call us. When our farmers have
In 1921, the company was formed as an organization to
people, and I think I am doing that every day here. But it’s not
represent the political interests of Alabama farmers. Twenty-
just me, it’s the entire team we have here. It’s very rewarding to
five-years later, those same farmers were struggling to find
see what we together can accomplish. I’d get up and come to
insurance; nobody was providing it for rural homeowners.
work for nothing more than that.
a problem, they call us. It’s a great position to be in to help
They pooled their money and petitioned the state insurance called the Alabama Farm Bureau. The name was later changed
What is your impression of Montgomery’s current direction?
to Alfa. That’s the history of the insurance company, but we
We’re in pretty good shape today, though we do have a lot of
still also function as a farmers’ organization, now the Alabama
challenges as community. We need more jobs, and we need
Farmers Federation. It is made up of local Farmers Federation
more engagement from the community into the job market,
chapters in each of the state’s 67 counties.
and part of that is our need for better education. But there are
commissioner to insure themselves. At that time, we were
a lot of positives, like the great group of leaders we have here.
What does your job entail?
They are attacking these challenges and working on solutions.
I do some of everything. I tell people I really have three jobs.
I would give Mayor Todd Strange an A+ on the job he’s done
One, I represent farmers and do that in some way every day. I
to keep folks together. And that’s key. We have so many good
may be talking to someone interested in doing business with
people here.
area farmers or be representing them on political issues. Two, from serving as a “coach” for a candidate who might want
Why support the Chamber the way you and your company do?
to run to to helping candidates we endorse and working
We believe the Chamber is vital; it is the bridge between the
against candidates we do not endorse. Finally, as leader of the
business community and the city and county governments. And
insurance company, I’m very engaged in everything that goes
our Chamber leaders do a good job of getting the right people
on. We have revolutionized this insurance company. When we
in the room to discuss issues and find solutions. The great
came in, our systems, both our computers and our process,
Chamber leadership we enjoy is a large part of Montgomery’s
had gotten badly out of date. We have modernized the system
success.
I’m looking out for agriculture interests by doing anything
results we’ve gotten from embracing the digital age. We’ve
What are your interests outside of work?
also changed our culture, and gotten our people working more
I’m a workaholic. I love my family, so time I’m not working
together as a team, and that’s been extremely successful too.
is time I spend with them. I’m my happiest at home, getting
We have a real focus on leadership development, and we’ll
outside on my farm. Working with and managing our cattle
keep that to ensure that Alfa has a bright future.
is my relaxation. That’s my real interest. And my kids are into farming too. My son is back on the farm now, and my daughter
What do you love about what you do?
is studying animal science at Oklahoma State University. Some
The purpose of Alfa, both the insurance company and the
families do sports together; our family does livestock shows.
Federation, is to help people, and that is very fulfilling. When
32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS
with state-of-the-art technology, and I am very proud of the
Leading Alabama Today, Alfa Insurance is the No. 1 life insurance company in terms of market value in the state. It is No. 2 in both auto and property insurance. And the company’s recent transformation of its technology systems was, at the time, one of the largest IT projects in the world.
“
“I’m my happiest at home, getting outside on my farm. Working with and managing our cattle is my relaxation.”
33 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
M EM BER profile
EBONY EVANS Director of Marketing and Development at Health Services Inc., Ebony Evans works to make sure everyone knows about the patient-centered care the company offers, a task that thrills the Chicago native. She’s lived in Montgomery for eight years, and she’s committed to giving back to her current home.
What are Health Services, Inc’s primary services? Health Services, Inc. is a community health center offering patients who are insured, under-insured and uninsured the opportunity to receive a wide range of care.
Who are the company’s primary clients? Any resident of the River Region looking for a primary medical provider, dentist, optometrist or membership to one of our wellness centers. We give those in the community access to quality care, regardless of the status of their insurance or their ability or inability to pay for services.
What does your job entail? I have the wonderful task of going out in the community and spreading the word about Health Services, Inc. and highlighting all that we have to offer at our 10 health center locations in our area.
Any recent news? HSI is currently in the application process to be recognized by the National Association of Community Health Centers as an Advocacy Center of Excellence (ACE). Out of 15 other community health centers in Alabama, HSI will be the first to have this recognition.
What’s your favorite thing about your work? I love working for HSI because we offer many patients who would not otherwise have access to a doctor the opportunity to be seen by a medical provider. The mission of HSI really tugged on my heart strings, and I am proud to carry that message everywhere I go.
What are your interests outside of work? Because I am not from Montgomery, I do enjoy learning about the history and the culture. I have joined the PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
Montgomery Sunrise Rotary Club, and I am a Montgomery Chamber Ambassador. This and the Rotary Club have afforded me the opportunity to build relationships with people I would not have had the chance to meet. We are all working together to build a greater Montgomery.
A Long Legacy “In 2018, Health Services, Inc. celebrated ‘50 Amazing Years of Services’ in the River Region. We are not new in the community. HSI’s corporate office was located on Adams Avenue as the Lister Hill Health Center. Many people are familiar with that center and have memories of being patients and their family members being patients there.”
healthservicesinc.org
35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M EM BE R profile
BOB PARKER A heaven-sent sauce recipe was an answer to prayer 60 years ago, and for Bob Parker, owner of Montgomery’s Dreamland Bar-B-Que, that blessing is still flowing.
Are you from Montgomery? No. I was born in Okinawa, Japan, at Kadena U.S. Air Force base. After seven years in Pensacola, my family moved to Coosada (my dad was from Montgomery). I moved back to the area after 10 years in Birmingham.
When and why did you open Dreamland BBQ in Montgomery? On April 9, 2009. I had managed the Dreamland location in Birmingham and wanted to open one in Montgomery. When I heard that the Atlanta Highway location was closing, I called Dreamland and asked if we could move it downtown. I am very grateful to Betsy McAtee, CEO of Dreamland Holdings, for saying yes.
What’s special about Dreamland barbecue? The legacy of John “Big Daddy” Bishop and his family. They started Dreamland in 1958 after “Big Daddy” asked God for a better way than being a brick mason to support his family. He had a dream, and God gave him the BBQ sauce recipe; the rest is history.
What makes the Montgomery location special? The amazing people that work there. We have made it a goal to create an environment where people can be themselves, hold each other accountable and be treated with dignity. And we brew Railyard beer.
What’s your favorite thing about your job? The people I work with and the guests we serve. The
Still Smokin’ Dreamland just celebrated its 10-year anniversary downtown. “I’m so proud of the employees for making the transition Parker said, “and I’m proud of the fact that we have more than 220 years of Dreamland experience at our store and that so many amazing people have trusted me with their time and energy so they can provide for their families.”
some banana pudding every day, but the people make the difference. We know that what we do isn’t serious, but we are very serious about what we do.
What are your interests outside of work? Spending time with my family. Cooking, listening to music and relaxing on my back porch with a Railyard Alabama Pale Ale. We attend St James UMC, which provides lots of opportunities to serve others. I really enjoy meeting new people, especially those who are passionate about what they are doing. Dreamlandbbq.com
36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
to our location at 12 West Jefferson,” Bob
food is delicious, and I try to eat at least one rib and
The Elms of Coosada You’re part of the family.
• Private venue with Old South elegance • Fully restored historic plantation home • Events, Private Dinners, Board Meetings • Tables, linens, and chairs provided • Outside catering welcome • Full service event management 360 Lindsey Road - Coosada, AL 36020 | 334-285-3567 | info@elmsevents.com | www.elmsevents.com 37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
M EM BER profile
MARGARET CORNWELL Margaret Cornwell, Owner and Education Director of Montgomery’s Abrakadoodle, paints a rosy picture of her chosen career, saying she’s so grateful she gets to combine her love of art and education in her work.
What are Abrakadoodle’s primary services? We do it all: after-school art classes, in-school field trips, class parties, holiday and summer camps, Arty pARTies, Art Splash paint nights for adults and professional face-painting.
Who are Abrakadoodle’s primary customers? Artists and curious creatives of all ages and levels. Programs start at 18 months for Mommy/Daddy & Me, and we have offerings for preschool 3-5, elementary and teen classes, adult painting parties for corporate events and professional development, senior adult programs and special needs classes.
What’s your favorite part of your work? The look of joy and pride on a student’s face when they create something. It’s priceless to know you are a part of broadening someone’s confidence, creativity and perspective.
What makes Abrakadoodle’s classes, camps and other offerings special? My team and I are very passionate about art education. We are also a mobile program, so we are able to make our classes more accessible. We bring everything schools and community sites need to offer an exceptional art experience.
What are your interests outside of work? I love to travel and explore artwork around the world. I also enjoy volunteering as a member of the Junior League of Montgomery. The organization’s work betters the lives of families in our community and supports women in leadership, which resonates with my mission.
Please name an accomplishment that you are particularly proud of. We opened our first PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
Drawing Attention
Pop-Up Abrakadoodle Art Studio last summer to have an educational and convenient enrichment location for summer
Abrakadoodle was awarded an
camps and classes. It was so much fun! Folks can watch our
IFA scholarship award in Washington D.C.
Facebook page (facebook.com/abrakadoodleart) to find
to allow it to continue its 2018 art education
details on the 2019 summer camp locations.
program at Brantwood Children’s Home.
abrakadoodle.com/AL01
MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 39
POWER OF MAGA ZINES
When more than 1,400 U.S. advertisers were asked which medium offers the highest ROI, which was on top?
What % of U.S. adults said they’ve read magazine media in the last 6 months?
90%
MAGAZINES WITH
$3.94 RETURN FOR EVERY $1 SPENT
THE HIGHEST OF ALL TIME This includes 93% of those under 35 and 95% of those under 25.
50% higher than the $2.63 ROI from digital display and more than double the $1.52 from digital video
(GfK MRI, Fall 2015)
(Nielsen Catalina Solutions, Multi-Media Sales Effect Studies from 2004 - 2015.)
CATALOGUES RADIO
76% 71%
OUTDOOR SEARCH
69%
20-25 MINUTES
61%
POP UPS 25% (Marketing Sherpa, 2017)
(Digital First Content Marketing: the Return of Print - CMO by Adobe, 2016)
9
7
Number of times medium ranks #1 among affluent influential consumers across 60 product categories (GfK MRI, Spring 2017)
PR I NT I S M E M OR A BLE . Print creates an emotional connection. Print builds relationships. Physical material is more “real” to the brain, involves more emotional processing, and is better connected to memory, with greater internalization of ads—all important for brand associations. (FORBES)
For advertising information, call Christina Bennett at 334-221-4619 or email christina@exploremedia.org 40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
4 TV
80%
18
RADIO
82%
TV
in reaching influential consumers. 22
NEWSPAPER
T H E AV E R AG E T I M E S PE N T R E A D I N G A M AG A Z I N E I S
MAGA ZINES LE AD
INTERNET
PRINT.
The average time spent on a website is 2 minutes.
PRINT MAGAZINES
Of all media, which do U.S. internet users say they TRUST THE MOST?
M EM BER profile
DIANA GRAY After years of feeling under-utilized as school music and choral teacher, Diana Gray found a way to more effectively share the gift of music; she opened her own music school, Montgomery Arts Academy.
When and why did you open Montgomery Arts Academy? I opened Montgomery Arts Academy in August 2016. To have a music academy has always been my dream. As a former public school choral/music teacher, I was never granted the opportunity to perform at my highest potential. I knew that God had something better.
What are Montgomery Arts Academy’s primary offerings? Montgomery Arts Academy primary services are: music instructions all ages in piano, voice, guitar, drums as well as brass and woodwind instruments; Kidz Rock Band for ages 4-7; kids’ music camps; and tutorial programs and programs for homeschool families.
What do you love about music? Music is a universal language that speaks to the inner being of every living creature.
What’s your favorite thing about your work? Having the freedom to perform at my highest potential on any given day; to be creative in serving the community; and to meet and collaborate with new people.
Recent milestones and awards? I am a graduate of Montgomery Leadership’s Torchbearers Class X, and I was awarded “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Beta Nu Omega of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
What are your interests outside of Montgomery Music Academy? I love serving the community as a volunteer through Junior League of Montgomery and Beta Nu Omega PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I am also a PassionPreneur Coach and speaker, teaching women
A New Title
how to build a business based on their passions with a
“I am proud of being on the pathway to becoming
growing bottom line. I am also an inspirational speaker.
Dr. Diana S. Gray. I’m currently in the dissertation
montgomeryartsacademy.com
phase of receiving a doctorate degree in Education, specializing in Global Training and Development.”
41 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
GiveBack
A COMMUNITY OF CARE
/ by MELISSA WARNKE
For decades The Montgomery Area Council on Aging has been offering practical
IMAGE COURTESY OF MAX.
assistance combined with compassion to our area’s elderly.
MAX employees serving at MACOA’s Meal Makers program.
The Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) is on the
value of $3 million — to implement MACOA’s programs. They
heels of a milestone year. In 2018, the organization delivered
prepared meals for 1,084 people and drove more than 51,000
its four-millionth meal since it began in 1972. In addition, a
miles to deliver those meals.
new volunteer opportunity and an expanded kitchen have allowed MACOA to better serve the needs of the aging population in the River Region. Executive Director Donna Marietta will soon celebrate her seventh year with MACOA. The organization’s momentum and growth are a point of pride, but her greatest measure
Giving Time “Our programs are volunteerdriven. We couldn’t do it without our volunteers, donors and board members.” - Donna Marietta, Executive Director
of success is the community support
Delivering Independence Meals On Wheels, the flagship program of the organization, provides a hot, nutritious meal to homebound seniors. The visit, however, is about so much more. “The client knows a familiar face will be at their home around noon. It’s often the only contact they have for the day. If someone has fallen, for example, and can’t answer the door, the volunteer is there to contact someone
they receive. “The partnerships we have developed with
for them,” explained Marietta.
individuals, businesses, churches and other organizations have been a real blessing,” Marietta said. “Our programs are
The goal is to allow their clients to remain in their own home
volunteer-driven. We couldn’t do it without our volunteers,
as long as possible. For what it costs to hospitalize a senior for
donors and board members.”
one day, MACOA can feed that person for an entire year. All the meals are prepared in MACOA’s newly expanded
Last year alone, 1,200 volunteers worked 172,000 hours — a
Caddell Kitchen. Before, MACOA purchased meals from
42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Care That Counts In 2018, 1,200 MACOA volunteers worked 172,00 hours (a value of $3 million). They prepared meals for 1,084 people and drove more than 51,000 miles to deliver those meals. Walmart and MPD volunteers work together to prepare meals for MACOA meal deliveries. IMAGE COURTESY OF MACOA.
local providers but found them to be too
the Corporate Route Partners, allows all
inconsistent for their needs.
employees to deliver meals. Bank leaders say it lets them serve in the city in which
“Now, we can provide each person with the
they live and work and remind them what
same quality meal. It has been a big help,
it means to be a part of a community. “Our
but to do that, we needed more volunteers,”
employees constantly share the same
said Marietta.
feelings I experience when delivering meals and helping our seniors—they are so
In response, MACOA launched Meal Makers
appreciative,” said Pete Knight, Renasant
with help from the Montgomery Lion’s Club.
Bank City President. “The old saying,
Each morning, Monday through Friday,
‘It is better to give than receive,’ is so
volunteers come in from 7:30 to 9:30 to
true. Employees volunteering to run meal
plate, seal and prepare the food for delivery.
routes help us to promote teamwork, trust,
Route drivers typically arrive around 10:30 to
generosity, happiness, and it is a constant
collect their meals.
reminder of how blessed we are!”
“Meal Makers has been a huge success.
The Chamber, Montgomery Police
In one year, more than 100 groups and
Department, Montgomery County District
some individuals have volunteered with
Attorney’s Office, Beasley Allen Law Firm
us,” said Marietta. “We have found that it is
and MAX are among the organizations and
a great way to develop teamwork among
businesses also committed to delivering
businesses. It is a very tangible way for them
meals, in addition to supporting MACOA’s
to make a difference in just a few hours.”
various fundraisers like the annual Culinary
Creating Better Communities
Caper and Swinging Fore Seniors Golf Classic. “It’s important for MAX to give
Another way a business can get involved
back to the mission of MACOA as they are
is by serving as a Corporate Route Partner.
meeting a significant need in our community,
Currently, there are 49 groups that deliver
fighting senior hunger,” said Brooke Foster,
meals once a week or every other week,
MAX Communications Specialist.
and many more who deliver less regularly. Montgomery’s Renasant Bank, one of 43 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
More Than Meals While MACOA is best known for Meals On Wheels, it’s only one of many programs. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) matches seniors with volunteer opportunities based on their experience and talents. MACOA also hosts daily activities, like quilting, exercise sessions and educational luncheons in the attached Archibald Senior Center, which is available to rent as an event venue. While MACOA continues to expand its reach, the demand is growing even faster. “Seniors have a great deal of needs, depending on their personal situation, and they’re only going to grow as our population ages,” said Marietta. The challenges ahead inspire the work of MACOA’s staff and volunteers, and they’re already planning for future growth with the purchase of a lot adjacent to their downtown Montgomery office. “Working for MACOA has been a marvelous experience,” said Marietta. “There is more work to be done, but what we have done in the 47 years it’s been in Montgomery, it’s invaluable.”
GiveBack Local Restaurant Helps Feed Needy Bibb Street Pizza is giving back to the
GIVEBACK
BRIEFS
its diners to “pay pizza forward.” Diners can
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama Donates To Tornado Relief
purchase a sticky note, which equals a pre-
In response to the deadly tornado that devastated Lee County, Alabama, on Sunday,
paid meal for anyone who comes in hungry but
March 3, 2019, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMMA) donated $50,000
can’t afford food. The notes are also inscribed
to the American Red Cross for tornado relief efforts. “We are grateful to our partners like
with sentiments that let those in need know
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, who allow us to provide help and hope to those
they’re not alone. The notes hang behind the
who need us most,” said Mark Beddingfield, Regional Executive Officer, American Red
counter at the eatery. The campaign began
Cross, Alabama Region. HMMA employs more than 2,500 team members who reside in
with Patrick Aitken, who works for the Mid-
the River Region and throughout the state of Alabama, including Lee County.
community by allowing (and encouraging)
Alabama Coalition for the Homeless. He had heard of similar things being done in other places and was moved to do it after a lunch at the pizza place, so he explained his plan, pre-
Whole Foods Market Community Giving Day Benefits MACOA Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) announced that it received 5 percent of
purchased two slices of pizza and put notes on
April 18’s net sales from Montgomery’s Whole Foods Market as part of the company’s
the backs of two of his business cards. Owner
annual Community Giving Days. All funds raised will support MACOA and MACOA’s
Ian Walters loved the idea, and now others
Meals on Wheels program serving homebound seniors. The April Community Giving Day
have followed Aitken’s lead. In early May, there
initiative was Community Food Systems, and was focused on organizations, partnerships,
were 200 notes taped to the restaurant’s wall
projects and events that leverage food to strengthen communities through economic
waiting to feed someone’s need.
growth, sustainable sourcing, environmental stewardship and powerful collaborations.
44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
GiveBack MAX4KIDS AWARDS Scholarships The accomplishments of nine high school seniors were recognized by the MAX4Kids Foundation at a scholarship reception that took place on May 2 in MAX’s Eastdale Community Room. “MAX4Kids is proud to celebrate nine outstanding high school seniors,” said Kenneth Hill, MAX4Kids Foundation President. “We are excited to see how the foundation’s investment in their future will help make Central and East Alabama an even better place.” The seniors from Montgomery, Autauga and Elmore counties were selected from 78 applicants representing 31 different schools. MAX4Kids is awarding $45,000 in scholarships this year.
The Chamber wants to share the good news of businesses doing good. Please send story ideas to jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.
45 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
MyMGM
GENERATION NEXT
/ by MELISSA WARNKE
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) created its Junior Executive Board in 2011. Since its inception, the young professional group has succeeded in engaging a new generation of art enthusiasts and patrons.
Join In Learn more about all of the exhibits, events and
Capturing A New Generation MMFA is the state’s oldest fine arts museum. Founded in 1930
programming MMFA
inside an abandoned high school
offers and find details on
building in Montgomery, it moved
how you can support it at mmfa.org.
several times before making its home at Blount Cultural Park.
While Montgomery’s cultural landscape has changed over the years, MMFA’s original mission still exists today — to exhibit and teach art. MMFA leaders believe the JEB’s influence is helping to build a bridge for the future by connecting new audiences to the
After Hours, a Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts event hosted by the Junior Executive Board. IMAGES COURTESY OF MMFA.
“We have expanded the definition of what it
between the ages of 25 and 40. Its mission
means to be an arts patron,” said Cassandra
is two-fold: to promote membership
Cavness, the current president of The
and build awareness of MMFA to young
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts’ Junior
professionals. In addition, the group also
museum. “JEB members are introducing
Executive Board. “Most imagine it in only
plans and promotes a significant annual
a whole new generation of museum
a financial capacity. However, the Junior
fundraising event called Art in Concert.
guests and supporters to what we offer,”
Executive Board is showing that supporting
Money raised goes to support major
said Cynthia Milledge, MMFA’s Director of
the arts can come in many forms. For us, it’s
exhibitions and the education department of
Marketing and Public Relations. “More than
helping to attract new audiences by lending
the MMFA. Another JEB coordinated event,
that, we look to this group for guidance.
our efforts, talents and endorsements, not
Last Call, is an arts-focused after-hours
Our longtime supporters and patrons feel
just our financial support,” added Cavness.
party that gives attendees the final chance
energized by the fact that one day, they’ll
to experience a museum exhibit before it
pass the baton to these dynamic, young
leaves MMFA.
leaders,” said Milledge.
The Junior Executive Board, or JEB for short, is made up of about 30 young professionals
In fact, MMFA’s current board of trustees
46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
thought so highly of JEB members,
board members are so passionate
they asked several of them to sit
about the work, they continue to
in on the interview process for the
serve year after year. “Since joining
museum’s new director. Milledge
the board, I have experienced what
says the perspective of the younger
a rich and vibrant arts community
generation was important to them.
Montgomery has,” said Kate Bartlett,
As soon as the new Director Angie
a board member since 2013. “We are
Dodson came on board, she was
so lucky to have the wonderful and
immediately impressed by what
free exhibits, events and programs
she saw. “I found myself struck by
at MMFA.”
their capacity and commitment as arts patrons and by the ways that
Bartlett and Cavness both say their
their varied life experiences mirror
time with the JEB has afforded them
those of the public who put their trust in us,” said Dodson. “These qualities position us to deliver on the
the opportunity to get involved Members of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Junior Executive Board. IMAGES COURTESY OF MMFA.
promises of the museum’s mission of service to our community now and for the decades to come as these young professionals continue to spread their roots and wings.”
with other arts organizations in the city, inspiring their commitment to MMFA and Montgomery as a whole.
Shaping The Future Of Arts In MGM Each year, the JEB invites new members to join through a competitive application process. Terms are one year, but many
47 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
“We have come to recognize the important role the arts play in helping to shape our city,” said Cavness. “It’s an honor to be a part of it.”
48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S QUESTIONS FROM LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW
U N D E R S TA N D I N G B U S I N E S S I N T E R R U P T I O N I N S U R A N C E BY A L E X A N D E R H . C A R OT H E R S I I I , C I C
Business interruption coverage is one of
sales, recurring expenses and the trends from
the most overlooked and underappreciated
year to year, as well as an estimation of the
coverages in commercial insurance. However,
potential downtime your business might face
this coverage can be one of the most utilized
depending on the type of claim.
in a business owner’s time of need. Business interruption insurance, a form of time element insurance claim that sets a business back or
W H AT I F M Y B U S I N E S S I S D E P E N D E N T O N OT H E R O P E R AT I O N S O R V E N D O R S ?
spurs the business on to thrive in a time of
Many businesses are reliant on their suppliers,
upheaval. Below are some frequently asked
a significant customer or in the case of a
questions of time element coverage:
retail establishment, an anchor store. In
insurance, can be the bridge between an
these situations, it is highly possible for
W H AT E X AC T LY I S B U S I N E S S INTERRUPTION INSURANCE?
your business to sustain no “direct physical
Business interruption insurance, also called
income claim due to a supplier, customer or
business income insurance, is meant to
dependent property being down. Contingent
ensure your business’ loss of income—
business Interruption insurance can provide
specifically, the loss of income resulting from
protection from such losses.
damage” but experience a major loss of
a covered cause of loss due to direct physical damage to a covered property. A claim can
While we hope that your business never has
also be triggered in the event of denied
to utilize this coverage, don’t let the threat
access to your business by civil authority, such
of a business interruption be a hindrance to
as hurricane damage to surrounding areas.
your business’s progress. Use it for the unique security that it can provide you in the face of
W H AT I S E X T R A E X P E N S E C OV E R AG E ? In the event of a covered claim, businesses often sustain losses that go far beyond lost sales or lost rental income.
challenges.
MEET THE EXPERT
For example, expenses such as the rental of a temporary location, the overtime and bonuses quickly. These are extra expenses that your business would not have normally incurred but now has to pay in order to support normal day-to-day operations. So, check your business income coverage form for this important coverage for extra expenses.
H OW M U C H B U S I N E S S I N T E R R U P T I O N C OV E R AG E D O I N E E D ? While there is no perfect science,
Alexander H. Carothers, III, CIC has worked
business income worksheets can be a great
2009. He would like to hear from you, so reach
tool for both you and your insurer. These
out at 334-517-1821 or
worksheets analyze your business’s gross
acarothers@hdbinsurance.com.
with corporate insurance products for the past 15 years and became a shareholder of HDB in
49 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Q&A WITH AN EXPERT
paid to get your business back up and running
50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Investment and insurance products and services are offered through INFINEX INVESTMENTS Member FINRA/SIPC. River Financial Services is a trademark name of the bank. Infinex and the bank are not affiliated. Products and services made available through Infinex are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations of nor guaranteed or insured by any bank or bank affiliate. These products are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of value.
Today’s customers expect their bank to be a single resource for all their financial needs,
WILL YOUR ADVISORS SELL ME SOMETHING I DON’T UNDERSTAND?
which is why River Bank & Trust offers access
We understand that financial planning can be
to investment services through our River
daunting. That’s why we work hard to ensure
Financial Services division in addition to
that all of your questions are answered and
traditional banking products and services. As
that you completely understand all fees, goals,
a community-focused bank, it is important to
terms and potential risks involved in the use
us that we approach planning for retirement,
of our products and services. Our goal is
college and long-term financial goals with
to educate our clients and ensure they are
the same culture of personal service and
comfortable with financial decisions, no matter
hospitality that we bring to our traditional bank
how long the process may take.
services.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE QUESTIONS WE ARE MOST C O M M O N LY AS K E D :
ARE THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OFFERED GUARANTEED BY THE BANK OR FDIC INSURED? The products and
services offered by River Financial Services through INFINEX are similar to products
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM YOUR ADVISORS?
offered through any financial broker or dealer
Our advisors understand that members of
agency of the United States.
and are not insured by the FDIC or any other
our community are concerned with safety and seek sound planning for their future. Our
At River Bank & Trust, we value our community
advisors spend a great deal of time getting to
and work hard to ensure that every customer is
know their customers, becoming acquainted
positioned for success – knowing that success
with their family, short- and long-term goals,
means something different for each person.
time horizon, risk tolerance and many other
For additional questions, visit
personal factors to ensure that any plan they
riverbankandtrust.com/financial-services/.
recommend is suited to their customers’ unique needs.
MEET THE EXPERT
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SOLUTIONS YOU OFFER INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES AND BUSINESS OWNERS?
We provide access through INFINEX Investments for investment advisory as well as the following products and programs:
401(K) ROLLOVERS and IRA’S 529 PLANS and COVERDELL STOCKS and BONDS MUTUAL FUNDS REITS, UITS and ETFS ANNUITIES LIFE INSURANCE LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE
Polly Hardegree has been in the banking industry since 1973. She is currently Executive Vice President of Wealth Management and Retail Banking. Reach her at 334.290.2673 or phardegree@river.bank.com.
51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW
U N D E R S TA N D I N G R I V E R B A N K & T R U S T ’ S F I N A N C I A L S E R V I C E S BY P O L LY H A R D E G R E E
An interview with Montgomery Airport Authority‘s new Executive Director Marshall J. Taggart, Jr.
FLY MGM: HITTING NEW HEIGHTS The Montgomery Regional Airport has been on
What motivated you to come onboard as
a steady upward trajectory recently, raising the
Executive Director of the Montgomery Regional
standard of service and increasing offerings for the last few years. Now, the Montgomery Airport Authority has landed a new Executive Director, Marshall J. Taggart Jr., and he’s ready to push progress higher. MBJ asked him to share how he plans to help the area’s economic development efforts truly take off and why he’s the man to put those plans into action. What is your background and experience in airports and the aviation industry? Since 2000, I have held roles and been exposed to every aspect of airport management including, but not limited to, operations, maintenance and security; commercial development (concessions, real estate, and parking); planning and development, noise abatement and environmental services; finance and administration; intergovernmental affairs; marketing and communications; and many others throughout my career. My airport assignments have been based throughout the country, including major hubs like Chicago O’Hare and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airports, medium hubs like Chicago Midway International Airport and small hubs like Tallahassee International Airport, as well as general aviation at DeKalb Peachtree Airport.
Airport (MGM)? The challenge of working for a high-flying enterprise that is poised to continue to soar to new heights in the next five years. MGM is entering into a new era marked by service, and I think I am uniquely qualified based on my successes in turning airports from regional to international enterprises.
What are your plans and goals for the Montgomery Regional Airport? MGM is committed to providing an exceptional airport experience that enhances the region; connects with the community; and establishes customer satisfaction as its top priorities. This robust vision looks forward to reaffirming the airport’s position as a regional leader. To this end, in 2019, we will relentlessly develop and finalize our mission, vision, goals and objectives to drive, develop and deliver the next generation of service.
How is our airport important to business in Montgomery and the surrounding area? It is very obvious. Transportation is the key to moving goods and services in order to operate a business. These two items are fundamental building blocks of why a business succeeds. In our business, air transport is a key utility that ensures people connect in order to build relationships to foster business.
What are your interests outside of work and how do you plan to “plug-in” to the Montgomery
Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). My education background includes earning a bachelor’s in accounting and a master’s in public administration in urban and public finance management. I’ve got “all but the dissertation” for a Ph.D. in political science with emphasis in urban politics, U.S. politics, political methodology and public administration, and anticipate
community? My interests include HBCU marching bands, golf, African American and Civil War history, mentoring black youth and of course, aviation. I’m looking forward to attending concerts and local sporting events, joining boards, visiting neighborhood associations, engaging in economic development through the Chamber and partnering with and mentoring students in Montgomery Public Schools.
finishing that degree in spring 2021.
52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS
I also am a Certified Airport Manager by the American
“
is committed “ MGMto providing an exceptional airport experience that enhances the region and connects with the community.
“
53 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
DESTINATION: VISION 2025 Check out these key points of the Montgomery Regional Airport’s plan for the future.
Enhancing the Airport & the Region Air service development remains a priority for the airport. Our goal is to increase select routes to preferred destinations and provide ground amenities for vacation and business travelers alike. In short, we want to offer “more routes and more travel rewards” for passengers who choose MGM. With modern and welcoming environments on the air and land sides of the airport, MGM offers a comfortable and convenient terminal for passengers and guests. As the airport plans for its future, covered parking, an expanded cell phone lot, new concessions, digital advertising and an observation deck are among the proposed enhancements.
Connecting With the Community MGM’s continued success is linked to the vitality and growth of its local and regional communities. As partners in the development of the region, the airport and local communities collaborate to maximize the area’s rich business, educational, military and cultural resources. Tourism partnerships will emerge as a primary outreach goal, regularly bringing citizens and visitors to the airport for unique experiences and events (Runway Run, Air Show, and the Airport Open House and Educational Fair). Our airport seeks to drive innovation and explore the next frontier of the aviation industry. Perfectly positioned in a region with several institutions of higher education, MGM will establish relationships with colleges and universities to foster four research and development initiatives (renewable energy; engineering; arts and entertainment; and sustainability), capable of changing the face of our field.
Exceeding Customer Expectations As a “high-performance organization,” our airport team will operate an efficient and well-run facility that anticipates the needs of customers and delivers an unparalleled level of service. MGM will harness the limitless power of technology and artificial intelligence to transform the customer experience. From the “roadway to the runway,” we will work to understand our travelers and anticipate what they want and need, from the moment they leave their homes until takeoff. Service upgrades, including airport parking and baggage claim, will be central to this effort.
55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
D
IN
AT EASTCHASE T FARMERS MARKE
Get your fill of local produce plus River-Region-made goods while keeping dollars in the area’s economy at The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market. The Shoppes at EastChase is one of the capital city’s most diverse destinations for retail therapy, packed with major national names like DSW and Ann Taylor. But on summer Saturdays, things get a little more local. Beginning bright and early (at 7 am), the crowds start to wander among rows of pop-up tents lining one section of the parking lot, and they come to fill up on wholesome, farm-fresh fruits and veggies, dairy delights and more at The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market. According to Marketing Manager at The Shoppes at EastChase Suzanna Wasserman, the market started in 2004 to fill a void. “There was a need to get locally sourced produce and other products on the east side of town,” she said. Since that first Saturday 15 years ago, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. “An average of 3,000 people attend the market each Saturday, and we are in the top five markets in the state of Alabama,” Wasserman said. The market allows River Region residents a one-stop shopping experience where they can find honey, peaches, squash, corn, Wagyu beef, ice cream, baked goods, jams and more from the 40-plus vendors at the market. They also get the opportunity to support local businesses. “Our Farmers Market has become a Saturday tradition for families,” said Wasserman. “We love the opportunity to connect Alabama farmers and makers with the Montgomery community.” It’s also benefitting area farmers, giving them an additional outlet for their goods, as Wasserman explained. “Many of our farmers are multi-generation family farms, and our market gives them an opportunity to provide for their families as well as raise awareness about why people should support local farms,” she said. “Many of our makers started out at our market and have since gained massive followings.”
VERIFIED VEGGIES
The EastChase Farmers Market is a certified Alabama Farmers Market and only allows the sale of produce that is grown within the state of Alabama.
Photography by Bryan Carter 57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
An average of 3,000 people attend the EastChase Farmers Market each Saturday,
w
KNy oOu
MAK
KNy oOu A
w M
SLOCOMB JOHN APLIN, APLIN FARMS GROWING: More than 200 varieties of fruits and veggies, including tomatoes (which Slocomb is famous for), peaches, corn, peas and more.
FARMING SINCE: 1952 AT FARMERS MARKET SINCE: 2004 HIS TAKE: “It’s a very good, successful market, one of the better markets in state that we go to, and we go to 12. It has lots of good vendors and good customers. About 25 percent of all of our sales come from the markets, so they are an important piece of our business.”
MONTGOMERY KAREN PREUSS, FENNEL + FIGS MAKING: Jams and preserves, spices, granola and baked goods (cookies, muffins, scones and more)
MAKING SINCE: 2017 AT FARMERS MARKET SINCE: 2018 HER TAKE: “Being at the market has grown my business [which is a side business; Her day job is Assistant Director for Montgomery City/ County Public Library System} in an unbelievable way. Both the shoppers and other vendors are fabulous. Last year, I would say the market represented 50 percent of my gross sales. That’s huge.”
58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
KNy oOu A
w M
TALLASSEE LEONARDO VASQUEZ, LEO’S PRODUCE GROWING: A little of everything, including strawberries, greens, tomatoes, peppers and sunflowers
FARMING SINCE: 2009 AT FARMERS MARKET SINCE: 2013 HIS TAKE: “I love being face-to-face with our customers and selling direct. I know they are getting our freshest items to take home and enjoy. And I really like the atmosphere at the market.”
“We love the opportunity to connect Alabama farmers and makers with the Montgomery community.”
# supportlocal Supporting Alabama farmers and makers is an extra perk for visiting famers markets this season. Watch @theshoppesateastchase on Instagram for more information and vendor highlights each week.
BUSINESS MATTERS:
BOOST YOUR BOTTOM LINE WITH SMOKING CESSATION LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ADDITIONAL HIGH COSTS OF AN UNHEALTHY HABIT.
We all know that smoking can take a high toll from individuals, but did you know how much smoking can cost your business?
GET HELP The Alabama Department of Public
It’s a little here and a little there, but
Health can help businesses comply
the total really adds up.
with the Affordable Care Act and help employees quit through a tobacco
Check out these cold, hard facts and
quitline service accessed
then consider using the tools and
at 1-800-QUITNOW or
resources available from The Alabama
quitnowalabama.com. This service
Department of Public Health to help
is provided
your smoking employees quit.
at no cost to the employee
ADPH CAN HELP BUSINESSES COMPLY WITH THE
• According to the Centers for Disease
or employer.
Control, companies lose $3,856 per
The service
smoker per year in direct medical costs
provides interactive counseling
and lost productivity.
and, for those medically eligible,
AFFORDABLE CARE ACT.
nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
• On average, smokers miss 2.3
Counseling can be scheduled for
more days of work per year than
days and times that are convenient
non-smokers.
for the employee. And NRT is mailed directly to the home of the employee.
DID YOU KNOW? According to the Centers for Disease Control, companies lose $3,856 per smoker per year in direct medical costs and lost productivity.
• Additionally, four 10-minute
People using Alabama’s Quitline
smoking breaks per day equates to a
service have a success rate of 42
loss of 1 month of work per year.
percent. Additionally, comprehensive smoke-free policies help to support
• Businesses pay an average of $2,289
employee cessation efforts.
in worker’s comp cost per smoker compared to $176 per non-smoker.
• Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires tobacco cessation services be provided as
For more information on 1-800-QUITNOW or smoke-free workplaces, contact Jennifer Harris at 334-206-5667.
a preventive service.
BIG BENEFIT If you’ve got more than 50 employees, the Affordable Care Act requires you to offer smoking cessation services to your employees. The ADPH “quit smoking” services, including the nicotine replacement therapy, are totally free; they’re offered at no cost to the employer or the employee. Thanks to this FREE ADPH program, small businesses (who are not required to offer it) still can, meaning they can offer this great additional benefit to their employees.
60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE
HI
ER GH
E D U C AT
IO
N
ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY: ADVANCING “COMMUNIVERSITY” When Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., returned to his alma mater as its 15th President in 2017, he launched an initiative centered on the term, “CommUniversity.” “This is a term that we have embraced at
NEWS TO KNOW
ASU as one of our mantras,” said Ross. “CommUniversity signifies that Alabama State University is focused on being an impactful and committed partner with the local community, as well as those ‘communities’ with which we connect nationally and globally.
GET THE LATEST NEWS FROM
Our partnerships with Montgomery and the River Region are
OUR AREA’S MULTIPLE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING.
longstanding, and my goal is to strengthen and advance those relationships.” During Ross’s tenure, Alabama State University has launched or
Thanks to its multiple public and private schools providing a wide array of degree offerings, career paths and specialties, Montgomery brings a lot to the table for students who come from both near and far. (And
expanded several key initiatives that highlight a strong commitment to CommUniversity. One of the university’s first major community partnerships was ASU’s connection to the Montgomery Internet Exchange (MGMix), the first internet exchange point in Alabama and one of only four in the Southeast.
the surrounding areas bring even more to the higher
ASU is also actively involved in Envision Montgomery 2040, the
education equation.)
visionary undertaking to develop a new comprehensive plan for the capital city. University faculty and staff are part of the diverse
But these institutions also have an economic impact
committee that is leading the effort that, according to the Envision Montgomery website, “will enable the community to help shape the
worthy of cum laude honors, thanks to the thousands of
vision and make recommendations that will guide decision-making
jobs they create, the training programs they administer
for years to come.” In October 2018, ASU hosted the Community
(that help us draw and keep business here) and the talent they attract in terms of students and faculty.
Summit that brought nearly 500 people to the Dunn-Oliver Acadome to share ideas and discuss topics ranging from education to maximizing opportunities and improving the city as a whole.
63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE In addition, ASU injects thousands of volunteer hours into various projects throughout the city. One of its most prominent volunteer initiatives is the annual Read and Rise program, a partnership with the Montgomery Public School system. Read and Rise 2019 was the most successful campaign in the program’s six-year history. ASU connects with the community through events too, including a variety of camps for children and teenagers throughout the year, many of which are STEM-focused. ASU recently partnered with the Chamber to announce that the university will be the site of the BEST Robotics Competition in October, bringing more than 1,000 of the region’s top STEM students to campus for the multiday event. “Events such as the Robotics Competition allow students to showcase their talents and be recognized for their achievements. It is a prime example of the benefit of CommUniversity,” said Ross. Finally, ASU has entered an agreement with Montgomery’s Community Action Agency to operate a Head Start Center in the University’s Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center. The collaboration will allow young scholars to benefit from the wealth of educational resources provided by ASU. “We are excited about the
“I think about Booker T. Washington a lot. I think about what he accomplished with hardly any of the resources that I have now, and I tell myself that I have to keep moving to make
potential of this partnership to impact hundreds of young people
Tuskegee even greater and grander than
in the Montgomery area. Not only will the Head Start students be
he imagined.” - Dr. Lily D. McNair,
taught by experienced staff at the Early Childhood Center, they
Tuskegee University President
also will have the added benefit of engaging with professors and advanced students in the College of Education,” said Ross.
McNair outlined her personal aspirations for Tuskegee during her March 15, 2019, inaugural address —through which she
TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY:
introduced her inaugural theme of “A New Era of Leadership and
NEW PRESIDENT STRESSES LEADERSHIP & EXCELLENCE
Excellence.” “My commitment to our students, faculty and the entire Tuskegee community is rooted in my belief that Tuskegee offers an unparalleled education with a unique perspective — one connected to our historical value and virtues,” she said.
Dr. Lily D. McNair was appointed Tuskegee University’s eighth president in July 2018, and she also has the distinction of being
Her focus on leadership and excellence included a three-
the university’s first female president. A year later, she continues
part symposium highlighting the career contributions and
to embrace that moniker and the inspiration it provides for future
accomplishments of fellow female African-American role models
generations of female leaders.
in higher education, business and faith. She paid homage to many of her own personal mentors by including them as symposium
According to the American Council of Education’s 2017 American
panelists. Inaugural events also included a fundraising gala held at
College President Survey, only 30 percent of the nation’s college
the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa — a springboard for
presidencies at the time were held by women, and women of color
her $1 million “Campaign for Leadership and Excellence” benefiting
represented only 5 percent of sitting presidents. Through her
student scholarships.
own presidency and example, McNair hopes to pave the way for tomorrow’s female executives in higher education and other sectors.
Although her inauguration centered on ushering in a “new era” at
“I know that I am a role model for women — young girls and older
Tuskegee, McNair is mindful of the legacy of leadership of which
— to dream big, to be curious and optimistic, and to think boldly,”
she is now a part — one that dates back to the appointment of
McNair said. “I’ve had young women tell me already that I’ve helped
Booker T. Washington as the institution’s founding principal in 1881.
them realize that they can aspire to be a college president. I’m really
It’s on that foundation of leadership that she plans to continue
proud about that.”
building. “I think about Booker T. Washington a lot. The more I learn 65 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE
about him, the more I appreciate him being such a visionary. He set
early April. The win came hot off the heels of other recent MBA case
a standard that I work very hard to uphold,” she said. “I think about
team successes. Those include first at IDEAcorps Case Competition
what he accomplished with hardly any of the resources that I have
in New Orleans, third at Race & Case in Denver, and second at the
now, and I tell myself that I have to keep moving to make Tuskegee
Katz Invitational Case Competition in Pittsburgh.
even greater and grander than he imagined.” Executives from FedEx Corporation presented SEC teams with a challenge currently facing the company on Friday morning. The
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA’S CULVERHOUSE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS:
four-person teams were randomly drawn into four divisions, had
MBA PROGRAM HONORED
considered each presentation and the top four teams advanced to
approximately 24 hours to outline an approach to the challenge and to organize a related presentation. A panel of judges from FedEx the finals. In addition to the team title, Alabama’s Rivera Burrows also received the Best Q&A Award for Division C, as determined by the judges. Culverhouse has additional news too. Just recently, The EDGE, a 26,000 square-foot business incubator and innovation space for entrepreneurs, officially opened its doors in a ribbon-cutting ceremony in February. Located in the heart of Tuscaloosa, The EDGE is the result of a partnership between The University of Alabama, via the Culverhouse College of Business’ Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute, the City of Tuscaloosa and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. The EDGE is both a workspace and a catalyst for business networking that will host regular workshops, forums and informal gatherings. The $11.7 million facility includes 20 offices, 100 workstations and several conference rooms, all offered to
The MBA program at The University of Alabama’s Culverhouse College of Business was recently recognized as among the best in the country. The Manderson Graduate School of Business located within Culverhouse manages the MBA program, and U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best Graduate Schools list ranks Manderson as 50th in the Best Business Schools category, moving up from 63rd in last year’s rankings. The rank places Manderson at 26th among
entrepreneurs, people seeking to build their businesses and individuals who need working and networking space. Besides providing a place to work and meet for the Tuscaloosa entrepreneur and freelancer community and entrepreneurialminded students, The EDGE also will host special events that further drive area business and job growth, including pitch events and hackathons.
public institutions and 5th in the Southeastern Conference. “This ranking is the result of our faculty offering a top-notch academic program at Manderson as well as our success in attracting high quality students and in excellent job placements of our graduates,”
FAULKNER UNIVERSITY:
said Sharif Melouk, Associate Dean of the Manderson Graduate
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES EXPANDS
School of Business.
More than 30 students signed up in the fall of 2018 to be a part of In addition, the teams of Manderson MBA students participating
Faulkner’s new Department of Speech and Language Pathology
in case competitions, which are high-pressure problem-solving
under the new College of Health Sciences. Their clinical work
exercises often using real-world business situations, are finding
will take place at the Faulkner SLP Clinic located on Woodmere
success across the country. A team represented by Everette
Boulevard. The fully funded diagnostic and treatment clinic is well
Dawkins, Samuel Greene, John Clary and Bryonna Rivera Burrows
equipped and staffed to offer services to all ages, infants through
won first place in the 7th annual SEC MBA Case Competition held
the elderly.
at the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee in
66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE In 2017, Faulkner President Mike Williams announced that the university plans to establish an autism center on campus by the end of 2019. The comprehensive, interdisciplinary center will combine resources from the College of Education and the College of Heath Sciences. The university has hired three new directors to develop the next three programs; the physician assistant (PA) program is scheduled to begin in 2020, physical therapy (PT) in 2021 and occupational therapy (OT) in 2022, pending accreditation. “Expanding into the health sciences is going to elevate Faulkner’s academic programs and its standings academically,” said Dave Rampersad, Ph.D., the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
TROY UNIVERSITY: NEW ACCOUNTING ACCREDITATION & NATIONAL RECOGNITION Troy University’s Sorrell College of Business now stands as just one of 189 colleges of business worldwide to hold dual accreditation from AACSB International. In November, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, accredited the Sorrell College, noting the university’s commitment as a reflection of its dedication to students, network of alumni and the greater business community. In January, the Sorrell College received supplemental AACSB accreditation of its School of Accountancy. To realize accounting accreditation, an institution must first earn or maintain AACSB Business Accreditation. Then, in addition to developing and implementing a mission-driven plan to satisfy the business accreditation quality standards, accounting accreditation requires the satisfaction of an additional set of accreditation standards that are
68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
specific to the discipline and profession of accounting. In addition to a full range of business degree programs offered at the university’s Troy Campus, the Sorrell College also offers undergraduate and graduate programs at the Montgomery Campus for those seeking careers or advancement in career fields such as global business with a concentration in accounting and finance, marketing, management and human resource management. “The Sorrell College now holds AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting, which is synonymous with ‘the highest
The Princeton Review recognized TROY as being among the best colleges and universities in the southeastern United States for the 14th consecutive year.
standards of excellence’ for the academic programs we offer our students,” said Dr. Judson Edwards, Dean of the Sorrell College of Business. “We have laid a great foundation for the future through the attainment of dual
69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Image courtesy of AUM / Frank WIlliams
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE
AACSB accreditation, joining a select group of business schools representing the best universities in the world.” TROY’s accolades during the 2018-2019 academic year didn’t stop with the Sorrell College. The Princeton Review recognized TROY as
AUBURN UNIVERSITY AT MONTGOMERY: WORKING CAPITAL
being among the best colleges and universities in the southeastern United States for the 14th consecutive year, and Military Times ranked the university as the top university in Alabama in its 2019 Best for Vets college rankings.
Montgomery is evolving to meet its changing needs. With half a century of growing and developing Montgomery and the River
“Troy University takes very seriously our service to those men and women in uniform, and those who support them,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., Chancellor. “We know that freedom is not free, and at TROY, we take great pride in serving and supporting those who sacrifice daily to protect our way of life. Since the 1950s, Troy University has set the standard of service, and these external rankings and recognition validate our efforts.”
Region’s highly qualified workforce to its credit, AUM continues to strengthen business and government by developing “working capital.” Ranked among the South’s top universities by U.S. News and World Report and named one of the best colleges in the Southeast by The Princeton Review, AUM continues to be chosen as a top university in the River Region. Designated as a Military Friendly university,
Troy University has also demonstrated its commitment to helping agencies throughout Alabama, thanks to the Center for Public Service, located on the Montgomery Campus. The center operates as a hub connecting government agencies and nonprofits throughout Alabama to TROY experts who can help them in areas of need. The center not only provides opportunities for TROY faculty and staff to share their expertise, but also provides students with opportunities to gain valuable experience.
Alabama’s capital city is evolving, and Auburn University at
there are 90-plus degree programs and certifications, along with 24 degrees completely online, including the Master of Business Administration. Montgomery and the River Region continue to have a robust healthcare industry. In response, AUM recently added a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Doctor of Nursing Practice to its roster of degree programs.
70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Montgomery’s emergence as a technology base in the state creates
hours each week to the program. The participants will be taught
increased demand for talent equipped to lead in a “knowledge
marketable skills and training that when complete, will lead to
economy.” AUM launched its Master of Management Information
industry-recognized credentials, national certifications and in some
Systems to leverage the power of world-class computer science
instances, credits toward a degree. The program offers other
and business faculty to attract and develop homegrown technology
benefits too; its participants will have access to tutoring, academic
leaders who are connected to and invested in the community.
advising and soft skills training.
As the business landscape in Montgomery evolves, AUM has strengthened its response. AUM’s Master of Applied Economics provides a stream of professionals with the skills for constant and real-time analysis of economic data from their integrated roles in business and government. The city and region also require, now more than ever, nimble but thoughtful decision-making: AUM’s master’s and doctoral programs in Public Policy and Public Administration prepare graduates to navigate the inevitable change that accompanies growth. A cutting-edge learning experience was also introduced. The Virtual Avatar Laboratory, the first facility of its kind in the state, combines human and artificial intelligence for a simulation experience that is unparalleled in training leaders to manage workplace challenges and engage in critical conversations. While AUM continues to grow and evolve in the students it attracts and the programs it offers, it continues to be a partner, steward and champion for Montgomery and the River Region.
STRAYER UNIVERSITY MONTGOMERY: NEW UNIVERSITY BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO MGM
TRENHOLM STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE:
In 2018, Strayer University opened the doors to its Montgomery campus, where students can choose from a range of academic
GRANT GIVES ACCESS TO JOBS TRAINING Beginning in the fall of 2019, Trenholm State Community College will help 120 people gain occupational skills training in high-demand fields including welding, certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technology, machine tool and commercial truck driving. The Alabama Department of Commerce awarded the college a grant of nearly $420,000 to create the training program, which will serve adults and dislocated workers in Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon and Montgomery counties. The grant money will pay for tuition, fees and supplies.
programs – from IT to business and beyond – and pursue associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees and even master’s degrees. In addition to its multiple offerings, Strayer’s flexibility and affordability help students succeed. It offers scholarships and participates in select federal financial aid programs, plus the Strayer Graduation Fund helps bachelor’s degree students stay within their budget and increase rates of completion. Other tools include helping students stay engaged by incorporating attention-grabbing, binge-worthy academic video content into its
Each field has its own specific requirements, but in general, participants will spend 26 weeks in training at both the Trenholm campus and the college’s Patterson site in addition to other facilities, and they should be prepared to dedicate up to 30
curriculum produced by Strayer Studios; designing the Montgomery campus to offer more space for students to collaborate with their peers and faculty, network, study and unwind; and providing its Foundations of Success course on-site at the Montgomery campus. This class is considered a steppingstone for those undergraduates
71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
NEWS TO KNOW: HIGHER EDUCATION UPDATE
who are coming back to college after a prolonged absence. It prepares undergraduate students to successfully go back to school by teaching time management, critical reading and thinking skills, research strategies and more. Strayer is proud to help support the growth and development of downtown Montgomery and hopes to serve the business community as a trusted partner and friend. University leaders welcome anyone interested to stop in and see what Strayer is all about. SOUTH UNIVERSITY CELEBRATING 120 YEARS
SOUTH UNIVERSITY: CELEBRATING A MILESTONE
therapist assisting and medical assisting; bachelor South University is celebrating its 120-year anniversary
degrees in criminal justice, business administration,
this year. Established in 1899, the private, nonprofit institution
healthcare management, information technology, psychology,
is celebrating its long history of driving student success. On
public health, nursing, and RN to BSN; master’s degrees
its Montgomery campus, students receive a sound academic
in criminal justice, business administration, healthcare
education that is personal and practical. South University is
administration, information systems, leadership, family nurse
regionally accredited to award associate degrees in physical
practitioner and a doctorate in ministry.
72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
YEAR FOUNDED
CURRENT ENROLLMENT
# OF DEGREES OFFERED
Alabama State University alasu.edu
1867
4,760
60
Amridge University amridgeuniversity.edu
1967
675
27
Auburn University at Montgomery aum.edu
1967
4,894
63
Central AL Community College cacc.edu
1989
1,835
29
Columbia Southern University columbiasouthern.edu
1993
20,818
50
Faulkner University faulkner.edu
1942
3,350
76
Fortis College, Atlanta Highway fortis.edu
2008
311
5
Fortis College, Eastdale fortis.edu
2008
207
2
Huntingdon College huntingdon.edu
1854
1,002
38
South University southuniverity.edu
1899
453
24
Strayer University strayer.edu
1892
51,479
35
Trenholm State Community College trenholmstate.edu
1963
1,845
39
Troy University troy.edu
1887
17,521
90
Troy University Montgomery troy.edu
1887
3,023
48
Tuskegee University tuskegee.edu
1881
3,289
71
University of Alabama ua.edu
1831
38,563
203
CHAMBER MEMBERS
73 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Source: nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS & PROGRAMS
Small Business Briefcase +
PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS
HIRE UP Finding the best employees for your small business / BY PAM MASHBURN Your competition can copy your product, your processes and even your business model, but they can’t replicate your people. This makes them some of your most valuable assets and, when you’ve got great people, the keys to your success. But how can you find and hire great people?
4
GET THE BEST ON BOARD not qualify them in any way before sending you a
STEP 1: RECRUIT RIGHT
candidate resume.
Your staff wants people who work as hard as they
service to help your community and help
do, and everyone likes to work with people they
a disadvantaged 16-24 year old who is
like.
receiving training and mentoring through the program.
STAY AWAY FROM FAMILY OF EMPLOYEES.
MORE GOOD TIPS:
• Chamber of Commerce website – Using this
go, you might lose two employees.
source is a member benefit, and the site is a good source of serious local candidates.
SEND YOUR POSTING TO YOUR NETWORK. Friends, vendors and business colleagues will
• Professional Associations’ websites – This
understand your standards and may know of a
allows you to reach fellow business colleagues and
good candidate.
leverage your existing network, which is smart since they probably have a good understanding of your
CONSIDER THESE RECRUITING SITES AND
business needs and philosophy.
RESOURCES:
• LinkedIn Recruiter– This service is great for
STEP 2: HOW TO HIRE
entry level all the way up to experienced
professional hires. Costs $50-plus depending on the length of your posting, but it targets and presents the job to specific qualified candidates.
review. An enticing job posting is not enough if a candidate needs a certain schedule for salary to leave their current job. A detailed job posting will save you and your team time and money.
BE DETAILED AND SPECIFIC, especially about areas that are a minimum requirement to apply.
BE UPFRONT.
As local business owner Bob Parker says, “Fire
If you’re not offering
fast, hire slow.” It’s no guarantee, but the more
healthcare, this will be a
thorough the vetting process in the beginning, the
no-go for many.
better your chances are of hiring a rock star. The
• Facebook Jobs – Using this social media add-on
word “proficient” means different things to different
works well if you’re offering part-time and clerical
positions. It’s free but contains no targeting or filters. prepared to receive resumes via messenger.
number of resumes to
childcare or a minimum
If they don’t make the cut, or you have to let them
You must have a company Facebook page and be
PRO TIPS
Save time by limiting the
• Montgomery Job Corp – Check out this
ASK YOUR CURRENT EMPLOYEES.
JOB POSTING
applicants. The key to find out who knows what and at what level and to determine if someone is a true fit is to test and measure. Consider these tips to ensure your new hire meets your standards.
• Indeed – This site is a terrific fit for finding part-
MEASURE INTEREST: Require a three-process
time and full-time technician and clerical hires. It’s
interview such as a phone interview, in-office
free for your first posting. This service reaches a
interview and separate in-office interviews with
large number of potential candidates but does
your team.
74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
GIVE A $$ RANGE. Titles don’t always convey salary accurately.
GIVE THE PERKS. Mention all the positives. Things like a flexible work schedule have real value to many.
MEASURE CULTURE COMPATIBILITY: Your team should ask questions like, “Give an example of how you handled a difficult co-worker.” Or, “Describe the perfect team member you would want to work with.”
MEASURE RESUME ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Ask process questions about their job that give real insight into proficiency.
TEST SKILLS: Most HR recruiting firms vet a candidate with background checks and skills testing. A small business can design its own series of tests. Some simple ideas are to have them: Write a collections letter. Alphabetize contracts or invoices. Problem-solve a software glitch. Test Excel proficiency by asking them to create charts using some of your office data.
SEE THE GOOD “Look for non-traditional hires, like someone who’s had a job for a while in one field and is looking, for many possible reasons, to make a career change. We’ve had a lot of success with folks outside of the restaurant industry. Also, hire for attitude over aptitude. Good attitude wins every time. And it’s the owner/ president/GM’s most important job to make sure the company hires and then trains great people. A good culture can be ruined by a few bad hires.” – Bob Parker, owner of Dreamland BBQ in Montgomery
CHECK BACKGROUND: While there are several online services for checking criminal records, most small businesses need to be focused and intentional on checking references. If a reference understands the position and has hesitation about the candidate, make note. If a person is currently working, make the offer contingent on positive referrals.
TEST PERSONALITY: There are several lowcost programs that will test the candidate’s affinity for the position and the organizational culture. This is especially helpful for sales positions. Several of these tests include the Myers-Briggs, DISC profile and a fairly new method called the Enneagram (RHETI). Getting great hires takes time. If you need help and want to outsource this, talk to one of the staffing agency Chamber members.
No matter your sphere of influence— No matter sphere influence— in your family,your school, work orof church—when in your family, school, work or church—when you commit to grow your leadership, everyone you commit to grow your leadership, everyone around you wins–businesses work for good, around you wins–businesses good, communities are transformedwork and for churches communities are transformed and churches thrive! The Global Leadership Summit is thrive! The Global Leadership Summit is simulcast LIVE in HD to more than 500 Premier simulcast LIVE in HD to more than 500 Premier Host Site locations in North America. You are Host Sitetolocations in North America. You invited join 405,000+ participants in are 135+ invited to join 405,000+ participants in of 135+ countries around the world for two days countries around the world for two days of world-class training. world-class training.
Craig Craig Groeschel Groeschel
Bozoma Bozoma Saint John Saint John
Bear Bear Grylls Grylls
Jo Jo Saxton Saxton
Jason Jason Dorsey Dorsey
Danielle Danielle Strickland Strickland
Patrick Patrick Lencioni Lencioni
Aja Aja Brown Brown
Liz Liz Bohannon Bohannon
Dr. Krish Dr. Krish Kandiah Kandiah
Todd Todd Henry Henry
Jia Jia Jiang Jiang
Chris Chris Voss Voss
DeVon DeVon Franklin Franklin
Register today Register today
GlobalLeadership.org/Summit GlobalLeadership.org/Summit
Montgomery Area Site: Frazer Church frazer.church/summit
*Faculty lineup subject to change *Faculty lineup subject to change
75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
@GLNsummit @GLNsummit
CHAMBER NEWS Member FAQs D ISCOV ER W H AT YO U R C H AMBER CAN DO FOR YOU AN D YOUR BUS IN ESS .
ONE OF THE MAJOR BENEFITS OF YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP is the opportunity to network at Chamber functions like the monthly 60 Minute Coffees and Business After Hours. But you can take even better advantage of the connection power found at these events by going beyond attending them. Consider hosting them. Want to know why and how? Read on.
GET READY!
THE BIG KAHUNA If the idea of hosting a coffee or BAH sounds appealing, make sure you tune in when the 2019 TOTAL RESOURCE
CAMPAIGN kicks off. Each year, TRC offers multiple ways for you to get involved and engage the community, existing customers and
HOSTING AN EVENT:
potential partners and clients by aligning your brand with the Chamber’s multiple impactful
Q: How do I host a 60 Minute
initiatives, while also raising money to help fund
Coffee or Business After Hours?
the Chamber’s work.
A:
More than 25 volunteers, who work
These popular networking events
at Chamber-member businesses and
are sold through the Chamber’s Total
organizations, contact
Resource Campaign, which is held
other member
every year between September and
businesses and offer
November. Outside of the campaign,
them unique ways
Lynn Norton, Senior Manager, Member
to market and grow
& Investor Relations, keeps a running list of interested businesses and forwards it to a volunteer once the campaign starts.
Business After Hours: Host one of these popular after-work events to promote your brand to 200 prospective
Q: Why should I consider
customers. For two hours, you’ll be
hosting one of these events?
members and showcase your business
A:
able to connect face-to-face with local to potential clients. Chamber, business,
Because both can grow your
and community leaders attend these
brand and increase your business. Learn
exclusive Chamber events every month.
more about each event to see which is
Note: The monthly sponsor provides the
the best fit for your company.
venue and food. The event will be held
60 Minute Coffee: These allow you to reach an average of 200 potential clients and members before the
from 4 pm-6 pm on the designated date,
their business through Chamber events, programs and communications. By investing in the Chamber’s TRC,
GET INTO IT Are you interested in getting involved and volunteering for the program, or looking for unique, creative ways to build your business and your brand? Contact Lynn Norton,Senior Manager, Member & Investor Relations.
member businesses connect to the vital resources they need to thrive. Sponsorships not only impact the Chamber, they also fuel economic growth for Montgomery and the entire River Region.
and the location must accommodate at least 200 people and provide ample parking.
workday even begins. For one hour, your company will have an opportunity to gain exposure and market to a captive audience. Chamber, business and community leaders attend these private events every month.
Note: The monthly sponsor provides the
YOUR CONTACT:
venue and refreshments, and the location must accommodate at least 200 people
Lynn Norton, Senior Manager, Member & Investor Relations 334-240-9431 lnorton@montgomerychamber.com
and provide ample parking.
76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LO O K B AC K AT T H E FACES AN D PLACES OF RECEN T CHAMBER EVEN TS
EGGS & ISSUES WITH SENATOR
MEMBER EVENTS:
RICHARD SHELBY – MARCH 11, 2019
at the RSA Activity Center Presenting Sponsor: Guardian Credit Union
Senator Richard Shelby, Alabama’s longest running senator, spoke to standing room only crowd during the Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast event. His update included: A status report on the F-35 project, which is on track and on time, thanks to him; He recognized Hyundai and Maxwell as major economic drivers for Montgomery; He
APR 03
60 Minute Coffee at Brewbaker KIA Sponsor: Brewbaker KIA
APR Business After Hours 18
at Regions Bank, Downtown Sponsor: Regions Bank, Downtown
also stressed the strong partnership with Montgomery and the role he plays with regard to funding the many missions and initiatives that are Air Force focused.
WOMEN IN BUSINESS MEET UP - MARCH 12 at the EATSouth
Downtown Farm Presenting Sponsor: Alabama AG Credit
These professional women in business meet-ups are unique events that connect women from different industries to network, learn, grow and uncover new opportunities and
MAY 01
60 Minute Coffee at Capitol Hyundai
Sponsor: Capitol Hyundai
MAY Business After Hours 16
collaborations.
at Montgomery Regional Airport
Sponsor: Montgomery Regional Airport
See you there! Twice a month, join fellow Chamber members at monthly networking events. They are the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. Visit montgomerychamber.com/events for a schedule of upcoming events.
at the RSA Activity Center Presenting Sponsor Beasley Allen Law Firm
It was standing room only for the Annual State of the State business
JUN 60 Minute Coffee at Brantwood 05
STATE OF THE STATE - APRIL 10, 2019
breakfast with Alabama Governor
Children’s Home
Kay Ivey. Her update included:
Sponsor: Brantwood Children’s Home
78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LO O K B AC K AT T H E FACES AN D PLACES OF RECEN T CHAMBER EVEN TS
Acknowledging and thanking city and
Services Committee, he also urged that the
county officials and the business community
creation of a United States Space Force
at large for supporting the Rebuild
is “going to happen” to be a critical tool in
Alabama Infrastructure Bill; Continuing
fighting wars and conducting commerce.
her commitment to support education through: funding for pre-k classes, a push for career coaches for every high school,
The Chamber celebrated Small Business Week in May with an action-packed week full of events, webinars, virtual educational opportunities and surprise member visits.
and on-the-job training/apprenticeships for high school juniors and seniors; Building a robust workforce pipeline for the future that focuses on retraining dislocated workers; Continued support of local Military initiatives and missions.
TECHMGM FORUM & DBA TECH TOWN
CONVERSATIONS: ROUNDTABLES FOR
HALL - MAY 7, 2019 MGMWERX
PROFESSIONAL WOMEN - APRIL 16, 2019
Presenting Sponsor: Commerce Consulting
at the Wynlakes Golf & Country Club Grand Presenting Sponsor: Valley Bank
CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC – MAY 9, 2019
This engaging and impactful speaker series
at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
features professional women from around
Presenting Sponsor:
the region. Barbara Larson was the speaker
Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
for April and spoke on Shifting Leadership
More than 180 golfers attended the annual
Skills in a Millennial World.
Chamber Golf Classic this year, the River Region’s premier business golf tournament.
CHAMBER MEMBER ORIENTATION –
The Chamber partnered with the DBA and MGMWERX, to hold its Spring TechMGM Forum in conjunction with a Downtown Business Association (DBA) Tech Town Hall. Community and business leaders were in attendance for a discussion on how Montgomery is embracing its tech talent, public-private projects focused on IT/Communications infrastructure, and
APRIL 23, 2019 at the Chamber’s BRC
its strong culture of innovation to fuel its
Sponsored by: exploreMedia
emergence as a Smart Community and a
This informal orientation is the perfect
destination for new investment and tourism.
event for members to connect and engage with each other, give a brief overview of
WOMEN IN BUSINESS MEET UP:
their business or service and hear from the
PICTURE YOUR PROSPERITY -
Chamber President, Anna B. Buckalew,
MAY 7, 2019 at the Capitol City Club
and staff, on the Chamber’s top goals and
These professional women in business
initiatives that fuel and impact the local business climate.
meet-ups connect women from different
EGGS & ISSUES WITH CONGRESSMAN
uncover new opportunities. In May, the
industries to network, learn, grow and
MIKE ROGERS - MAY 7, 2019
DIVERSITY DIALOGUE - JUNE 6, 2019
author of Picture Your Prosperity spoke to
at the Rosa Parks Museum Auditorium
the group and offered some tips on how
Gold Sponsor: Balch & Bingham LLP
Presenting Sponsor:
to make smart money decisions and turn
The May Eggs and Issues event featured
Balch & Bingham LLP
dreams into reality.
Congressman Mike Roger, who provided a
The Diversity Dialogue is a series
Sponsored by Morgan Stanley
Washington Update of issues that impact
provided by the Montgomery Chamber.
our state from a national perspective. He
Conversations by business owners and
stressed the importance of participation
professionals brought insight on how
in the upcoming 2020 Census, as it will
valuing diversity in the workplace is
directly affect the state’s funding and
a powerful aid in the success of their
number of Congressional seats. Serving
businesses and the workforce, overall.
at the RSA Activity Center
as a senior member of the House Armed
79 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
SIDE HUSTLE WORK|SHOP- MAY 8, 2019
at work|SHOP
Local entrepreneur, Julian Petty, facilitated a discussion on how he took his creative ideas and created two “side hustle” businesses while keeping his day job.
CHAMBER NEWS
Connect +
T H E L AT EST HEADLIN ES , UPDATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER
THE LATEST TECH NEWS: passionate about assisting the government in making its technology work better for all residents. “We’re essentially replicating a structure that has proven successful in the commercial sector and applying it to the Air Force and building upon the foundation set by our peers at Kessel Run. What previously worked just isn’t cutting it anymore – we’ve got to be faster and more efficient,” said Richard Aldridge, Program Executive Officer Business and Enterprise Systems. “Launching BESPIN has reimagined our view on software acquisition and the way we solve problems. We’re confident that the brightest minds in the creation of business software and mobile solutions will be attracted to serving our country by solving some of the most pressing
EXPANDED COLLABORATION WITH AIR FORCE
issues that the Air Force faces today.”
In May, TechMGM, the Chamber’s initiative
The Chamber partnered with BES to provide
Not only will BESPIN have significant
to connect and leverage Montgomery’s
an initial off-base space at their facility, where
implications for the Air Force, the connection
unique technology assets, announced a
work is already underway to create mobile
with TechMGM and Fearless will strengthen
partnership with the Air Force Business and
applications for BES, with the first focus
the community in several ways. Technology
Enterprise Systems Directorate Program
being logistics systems used on the flight
and innovation are important to the
Executive Office to host a new Air Force
line, including those at Maxwell Air Force
Chamber’s economic development strategy,
software development project that will
Base and the Alabama Air National Guard.
and initiatives like BESPIN that partner with
offer private sector collaboration called
TechMGM and other key area resources
BESPIN. Signifying a shift in the way the Air
Through BESPIN, previously slow and costly
within the Montgomery’s unique tech
Force approaches software development
products can now be met with flexible
ecosystem, support, strengthen and grow
and acquisition, BESPIN, an acronym for
solutions that allow developers to adapt on
the city’s infrastructure to eventually lead to
Business and Enterprise Systems Product
the fly – and deliver real results more quickly.
lasting change in the region.
Innovation, pairs in-house developers with
By training and encouraging in-house talent
private sector developers and uses an agile
to develop software using agile practices, the
“Montgomery prioritizes military missions,
development methodology in a collaborative
Air Force is starting to attract top IT talent.
so we are honored to host this project for
and innovative environment to turn projects
the Air Force to advance their efforts in
into new solutions to support the Department
In April of 2019, BES awarded a contract
creating solutions for our nation,” said Willie
of Defense.
to Fearless, the company responsible for
Durham, Chairman of the Chamber. “The
redesigning the SBA.gov site, modernizing
Chamber supports any type of partnership
The Business and Enterprise Systems
Medicare beneficiary API products for
that advances the military because it is not
Directorate based at Maxwell-Gunter Air
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
only good for our country, but also for our
Force Base was charged by the Secretary of
(CMS), and building software for other
community. Initiatives like BESPIN allow our
the Air Force for Acquisition to stand-up an
federal, nonprofit, city and healthcare clients.
region to attract and retain talent, spark new
agile software factory focusing on Business
It is also a founding member of the national
businesses and create a cycle of economic
and Enterprise Systems (BES) applications.
Digital Services Coalition, and its leaders are
development that will have lasting effects.”
80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L INES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER
THE LATEST TECH NEWS:
MGM EARNS ANOTHER TECH AWARD Montgomery continues to rack up accolades,
Montgomery’s application provided an
including yet another recent technology
overview of up-and-running projects, like the
honor: winning the Smart Cities Readiness
Smart City Living Lab, Star Watch, Rubicon
Challenge competition hosted by the Smart
and Open Data Montgomery, as well as future
Cities Council. Thanks to the collective
plans to use technology to impact residents
efforts of the City, County, Montgomery
– including providing free Wi-Fi access
Public Schools, the Chamber, Alabama Power
to all Montgomery students by upgrading
Company and members of the defense
infrastructure at local community centers.
community at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base
and the 187th Alabama Air National Guard,
“This award underscores recent technology
Montgomery came out on top of more than
and data-driven initiatives advancing
100 major cities, as large and geographically
Montgomery as a major player in the Smart
diverse as Dallas, Texas and Jersey City, New
City movement,” City IT Manager and Smart
Jersey.
City Committee Coordinator Savio Dias said.
“It also builds on our current momentum in
“This is another special moment – a
the Smart City space, carrying it forward into
watershed day – for our community,
the future through strategic planning.”
signifying our success in capitalizing on
the opportunities for growth and economic
Montgomery impressed the Council
development that come through the
by demonstrating a concise vision for
advancement of technology across our city,”
incorporating innovative data-driven
Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange said. “But
approaches in multiple projects, as well as
what’s even more important is our resolve to
shoring up efforts to enhance communication
adopt practical high-tech solutions that better
and collaboration with its team of regional
serve residents, add to our quality of life and
stakeholders and community partners.
expand access to the tools and technology
Along with four other winners including
needed for future success. We are grateful to
Baltimore, Maryland; Edmonton, Canada;
our partners who raised their hands to join us
Racine, Wisconsin and Cleantech San Diego,
in this venture.”
Montgomery’s submission will bring new 81 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
resources to help further Montgomery’s hightech ambitions. Montgomery will host a Smart Cities Readiness Workshop, which will bring likeminded municipal leaders and private sector innovators to the capital city to share ideas and solutions in building the future of cities. The City will also gain free access to the Project Activator Tool, an online platform that lowers risks associated with new technology investments by offering guidelines, reviews and best practices on similar projects. Intangible benefits include higher visibility and credibility as a leader among smart cities. Officials see this as essential to attracting potential job creators and expanding our high-tech workforce. “Montgomery is maximizing and refining the region’s existing infrastructure and physical and intellectual resources to establish innovation strategies that continue to drive demand for the city as a longterm sustainable location for investment,” Executive Director of TechMGM Charisse Stokes said. “Receiving this honor reinforces our strategy to make Montgomery a smarter place to live and work.”
CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L I NES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER
THE LATEST TECH NEWS: MGMWERX PITCH NIGHT GETS $1.5M COMMITMENT Maj. Alexander Criss, a student
system. Through his proposed
at the U.S. Air Force’s Air
solution, BETTY – Better
University School of Advanced
Effectiveness Through Tracking
Air and Space Studies earned
Yourself, U.S. Air Force air
first place in academic research
crews would be armed with a
for 2019 during the inaugural
monitoring device serviced by
Top Flight Pitch Night hosted by
the right tools to identify and
MGMWERX on May 21.
combat fatigue. Their leaders,
MITS SHOWCASES MGM’S MIGHTY IT SECTOR Nearly 1,000 IT professionals gathered in Montgomery for the 26th annual Montgomery Information Technology Summit (MITS) on May 21 and 22. These program managers, engineers, software developers, business development professionals, senior executives and field users from internationally known companies like Dell, Amazon and AT&T, as well as local vendors, represent a significant sector of Montgomery’s economy. A growing sector, as a recent
in turn, would have the tools In addition to the distinction,
necessary to make accurate and
Criss’ pitch for “Tired of Flying:
informed real-time risk-
The Unmitigated Risk of Aircrew
based decisions.
Milken Institute report demonstrates, naming the city No. 1 in the nation for hi-tech DGP growth from 2016-17. At the conference, MaxwellGunter’s Business and Enterprise
Fatigue,” caught the attention of
Winner, Winner
one judge, David Shahady, the
The judges’ panel of
Director of the Air Force Small
four military and industry
On May 23, the Montgomery
Business Innovation Research
experts including Cotton,
Young AFCEA Advisory
(SBIR) and Small Business
Shahady, Paavo Hanninen
Council (YAAC) and TechMGM
Technology Transfer Program,
from Alabama Small
who in a stunning move, teamed
Business Development
with Air University President and
Center Network at the
judge, Lt. Gen. Anthony Cotton,
University of Alabama,
to commit funds for a future
and Likia Hawkins, the
SBIR Phase II topic to address
President and Chief
Criss’ idea.
Executive Officer Steel
Officer Richard Aldridge
hosted their first e-sports competition, Gump Goes Gaming, which hosted 30
concurred on the winner
commitment for a direct to
and were encouraged
Phase II SBIR topic expected in
by the broader commercial
the next Department of Defense
application for this idea.
broad agency announcement for SBIR/STTR. The topic allows an
MGMWERX was created under
industry partner the opportunity
a Partnership Intermediary
to develop a solution for the
Agreement to align with
challenges identified in Criss’
the education initiatives of
student research.
Air University. MGMWERX augments ongoing Air University
Criss’ work focused on how
programs, through events
the Mobility Air Forces are
like Pitch Night, to enhance
unwittingly accepting and
production of high-quality,
executing routine and low-
innovative research and ideas
priority missions with high
that span issues of importance
levels of unidentified fatigue
to the Air Force.
risks because of an inadequate and outdated risk management
announced the launch of BESPIN, a new agile software development program that will allow the Air Force to rapidly develop software solutions
students from across the city
through partnering with private
and Maxwell-Gunter Annex
sector companies, offering
airmen at the MGMWERX
unprecedented opportunities
facility for a night of video
for companies to do business
games and tech networking.
Point Solutions, LLC, Shahady offered a $1.5 million
Systems Program Executive
with the Air Force, right outside of the gates of the base in Montgomery. Aldridge also
announced the first contract related to this effort with the Baltimore-based firm Fearless. “What really intrigued us was the focus on the community in Montgomery. The socioeconomic, social justice and tech ecosystem needs closely parallel what we encounter in Baltimore,” Fearless’ founder Delali Dzirasa said in a statement. MITS is organized by the Montgomery Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), which is one of the strongest chapters globally, thanks to the vibrant community of contractors, academia and government personnel in the area that have supported the DoD missions of Maxwell-Gunter for more than 50 years. The preservation and expansion of such missions is a key priority for the Chamber.
82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L INES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER
NEWS & UPDATES: HYUNDAI MOTOR MANUFACTURING ALABAMA OPENS NEW CYLINDER HEAD MACHINING PLANT Choi said when plans for the new engine plant were announced in 2018. “Hyundai is continuing its track record of investing in new manufacturing technologies to ensure the long-term success of our U.S. assembly plant.” HMMA’s engine plants will now produce two all-new 4-cylinder engines for the all-new 2020 Sonata sedan: the Smartstream 2.5L Gasoline Direct Injection 4-cylinder engine, and the Smartstream 1.6L Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection 4-cylinder engine. These engines will offer Hyundai customers worldclass fuel efficiency and reliability. They will be built using enhanced technology for highprecision machining and manufacturing. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and other
to manufacturing engine cylinder heads
elected officials joined Hyundai Motor
and also to enhance existing operations to
Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMMA), in a
support the production of new Sonata and
celebration of the grand opening of HMMA’s
Elantra sedan models. This investment also
cylinder head machining plant in mid-May.
created 50 new jobs.
The new plant is the third facility at HMMA
“With our latest expansion, HMMA continues
to support production of more than
to show its strong commitment to the people
650,000 engines per year. The plant
of Montgomery and the people of Alabama,”
represents a $388 million total investment
Hyundai President and CEO Dong Ryeol
The new, 260,000-square-foot building was constructed using advanced techniques, such as the inclusion of isolation pads for machining equipment which will lead to more precise machining. The building required more than 7,000 cubic yards of concrete and the movement of 150 football fields worth of dirt.
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS & CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEET AT EJI MEMORIAL On Thursday, May 23, the Chamber’s
resulting boost to the area’s tourism
Board of Directors and Chairman’s
industry has been significant, but
Circle held a joint board meeting at
equally important are the polish the
the Equal Justice Initiative’s National
memorial and its corresponding
Memorial for Peace and Justice.
museum have put on the city’s
At the meeting, attendees heard
image, and the powerful message
from Bryan Stevenson, attorney,
they share. Telling compelling stories
social justice activist and EJI’s
of racial injustices that have been
founder and Executive Director.
carried out all over the world, the
Since the new EJI attractions
museum and memorial show the
opened in 2018, Montgomery has
world a better way forward and
been in the national spotlight, and
encourage hope in a brighter future,
attendance to both attractions has
in Montgomery, in Alabama and
exceeded 1 million visitors. The
beyond.
83 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L I NES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER
THE LATEST BUZZ: MPS ACCOLADES & UPDATES each student and who make no excuses in
MAKING THE GRADE When U.S. News and World Report recently released its annual report 2019 Best High Schools, which lists the best performing
lieu of excellence.” Trinity Ross, recently graduated BTW student, shared how BTW has set her up for success.
high schools across the country, three of
“Booker T. Washington Magnet
Montgomery’s magnet
High School has the power to
schools made the cut. Loveless Academic Magnet
“WE EXCEL
Program (LAMP) ranked 13th
BECAUSE OF
best high school and 7th best
SUPPORTIVE
magnet school nationally
PEOPLE WHO
and is the No. 1 high school
BELIEVE IN THE
in Alabama. Brewbaker Tech Magnet ranked 17th best
POTENTIAL AND
high school in Alabama, and Booker T. Washington Magnet ranked 28th best high school
TALENTS OF EACH STUDENT.”
in Alabama. “I attribute Booker T. Washington (BTW) Magnet High School’s overall success to educators, support staff, families and community stakeholders who work collaboratively to make our school one of the best schools in the nation,” said Dr. Quesha Starks, BTW’s Principal. “We excel because of supportive people who believe in the
shape its students into young adults who are prepared not only for college but also for life,” she said. “Because of BTW, I have been able to achieve success in the arts and excel in academics.” Matthew Monson, Principal at LAMP, echoed Starks, expressing his appreciation for the many who work together to
make the school what it is. “I want to thank LAMP’s faculty, parents, and students for continually putting in the effort to support LAMP, and I am so proud of the work that we have continued at LAMP,” he said. “We want to keep serving Montgomery Public School students and help them earn scholarships to attend college, both in-state and out-of-state.”
potential and the unique gifts and talents of
MPS 2019 GRADUATES BRING IN RECORDSETTING SCHOLARSHIPS Students from Montgomery Public Schools’ eight high schools have received just shy of $74 million dollars in scholarship offers this year —surpassing last year’s record of $71 million. This year’s total includes five students from LAMP who received offers in excess of $1 million each. MPS Superintendent Ann Roy Moore sees this as an indication of hard work by administrators, faculty, counselors, parents and students. “The scholarship totals continue to rise,” said Moore. “We believe we are working to prepare our students to realize their dreams of success in college and in their careers. This certainly indicates that colleges and universities from around the nation recognize the hard work of our students and the value of our MPS graduates.”
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA DONATES $250,000 TO MPS In late May, Hyundai Motor America showed its continuing commitment to education through expanding its signature Hyundai ST Math Initiative with the MIND Research Institute. Hyundai will donate $250,000 to the Montgomery Public School (MPS) system for the program. The Hyundai ST Math Initiative in Montgomery will benefit more than 3,000 students from five public elementary schools in the MPS system, including Catoma, T.S. Morris, Morningview, Seth Johnson and Brewbaker Elementary. “Hyundai is committed to helping communities thrive, and one of our core priorities is investing in education,” says Zafar Brooks, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Diversity & Inclusion, Hyundai Motor America. “The Hyundai ST Math program is a longstanding partnership with the MIND Research Institute, which provides foundational instruction in math development skills and STEM education for kids. We believe this initiative can help unlock young minds to help solve tomorrow’s problems and help build the next generation of innovators.”
84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
M EM BER Spotlight
CARR, RIGGS & INGRAM, LLC Experiencing steady growth over two decades, today, Carr, Riggs & Ingram is the 20th largest accounting firm in the nation. Despite its expansion and a multitude of changes in the industry, the firm still bases every action on its original founding principles: tailored client service, respect for all and unyielding integrity.
WHEN WAS CARR, RIGGS & INGRAM, LCC FOUNDED? The firm was formed in 1997 as a merger between two prominent firms from Alabama and the Florida Panhandle who recognized the changes that the accounting industry was undergoing and decided to classify these changes as opportunities instead of hurdles. Just two years after this strategic alliance was formed, Carr, Riggs & Ingram cracked into the Top 100 accounting firms in the United States, thus cementing their legacy as a major player in the accounting industry. From left to right: Willis Teel, Jonathan Knight, Phyllis Ingram,
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 38 locally; 1,900-plus professionals with 300-plus partners firm-wide WHAT ARE CARR, RIGGS & INGRAM, LLC’S PRIMARY SERVICES? Accounting and auditing; advisory; business support and transactions; business tax; employee benefit plans; governance, risk and assurance; individual tax and planning; and IT audits and assurance. We also have industry expertise in the following: captive insurance; construction; financial institutions; governments; healthcare; institutional real estate; insurance; manufacturing and distribution; and nonprofits. WHAT IS THE FIRM’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? We pride ourselves on being responsive to our clients and focusing on more than just the compliance work we do for them. We aim to dig deep and gain a full understanding of their business so at the end of the day our clients feel like we are their business partners and not just someone else handing over a bill or a tax return. WHAT SETS CARR, RIGGS & INGRAM, LLC AND ITS SERVICES APART FROM OTHER CPAS AND ADVISERS? Our strength is built upon the breadth and depth of knowledge from our thousands of professionals with a variety of specialty designations—many of whom have experience with national CPA firms, as well as private businesses across many industries. By combining this expertise with our understanding of entities of all sizes, we are able to scale our services to fit your needs. WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR THE FIRM? Carr, Riggs & Ingram is proud to announce the addition of CRI Advanced Analytics and
Steve Williams, Robert Miller and Chad Singletary.
CRI TPA Services to its family of companies. CRI Advanced Analytics’ software products deliver data-driven predictive analytics to help forecast and manage critical aspects of your business by packaging deep data science algorithms into user-friendly interactive visualizations and dashboards. RECENT HONORS: Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC was named a Top 20 accounting firm by Accounting Today for 2019 and is the No. 1 accounting firm in the Gulf Coast region. Phyllis Ingram was recently awarded the 2019 Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants Life Member Award, which recognizes extraordinary service to the industry and membership.
7550 HALCYON SUMMIT DRIVE / 334-271-6678 / CRICPA.COM 85 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
Trustmark Names Vicki Griffin Commercial Portfolio Manager
firm’s Montgomery office. Cristy
Trustmark announced that
Member of Warren Averett CPAs and
Vicki Griffin has been named
Andrews, CPA has been named a new Advisors. She is a leader within the
Commercial Portfolio Manager
Firm’s Real Estate Client Practice Group
at its Montgomery office. Griffin
and serves in the Firm’s Tax Division.
joined Trustmark in 2004 and has
Cristy primarily focuses on real estate,
more than 24 years of banking
construction and manufacturing and
experience. She attended Troy
distribution industries.
University, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in finance
Brenda Hellums, CSA, PDMM has
and master’s degree in business administration. Griffin serves as a member of the Urban Young Life Advisory Board, Bank on River Region Alabama Steering Committee and the United Way Loaned Executive Program.
been named a Principal of Warren Averett and the Service Area Leader for the Firm’s Daily Money Management Services. She assists families of private wealth, high net
Davis Smith Joins Bradley’s Montgomery Office Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announced that Davis H. Smith has joined the firm’s
worth individuals, busy or retired executives by creating customized financial budgets and comprehensive service plans to ensure their financial
Montgomery office as a partner
goals are met.
in the Corporate and Securities and Tax practice groups. “We are
Anna Wilson has been named a
thrilled to have Davis join Bradley
Principal in Warren Averett’s Tax
as a highly regarded practitioner
Division. She has more than 15 years
in tax and business strategies,”
of public accounting experience and
said Bradley Montgomery Office
focuses on managing tax engagements
Managing Partner Robert Emmett Poundstone IV. “He brings nearly two decades of experience, including a particular focus and a track record of success in the captive insurance industry.”
for a variety of closely held companies. Donna Conte, CPA has been named a Principal in Warren Averett’s Finance Team Support Division and the Service Area Leader for the Firm’s Accounting Services Division. Conte
Stephanie Peavy Joins River Bank & Trust Chief Executive Officer Jimmy Stubbs announced that Stephanie Peavy has joined River
has more than 20 years of public accounting experience. She is an expert in small business advisory, taxation and outsourced services.
Bank & Trust. She will serve as a Vice President and Treasury Sales
In addition to these four, the Montgomery office also
Manager. Throughout her 25-year
announced the following promotions: Elizabeth Finley,
banking career, clients across the
Supervisor; Sara Kersey, Lead Technology Services
River Region have relied on Peavy
Administrator; Matthew Pearce, Associate Technology
to help them run their businesses
Engineer; Zack Chanthongphio, Associate Technology
more smoothly and efficiently.
Engineer; Curtis Smith, Senior Technology Consultant; Katherine Gray, Administrative Specialist III; Alfred Espinosa, Cloud Services Manager; Randell Bunn, Technical Services Manager; Dawoon (Chris) Lee, Senior Associate; Donghyun
Warren Averett Announces Promotions Warren Averett announced the following promotions in the
(Daniel) Lee, Supervisor; Henry Lee, Supervisor; and Sooyeon (Sue) Han, Supervisor.
86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
VOICES for Alabama’s Children New Exec Director
Marcia Johnson Promoted at River Bank & Trust
The Board of Directors of VOICES for Alabama’s Children
Chief Executive Officer Jimmy
(VFAC) announced the appointment of Stephen Woerner
Stubbs announced that Assistant
as Executive Director. Woerner
Vice President Marcia Johnson
succeeds Melanie Bridgeforth,
has been promoted to Marketing
VFAC Executive Director
Director. Since Johnson joined the
since 2013, who moved to
team in 2010, she has excelled
The Women’s Fund of Greater
in all her roles, most recently as
Birmingham earlier this year.
Corporate Administrator and Social
Woerner joins VOICES for
Media Director. “Marcia has done an
Alabama’s Children from Troy
outstanding job in directing our social media presence for
University Montgomery, where
many years and has played an integral role in our story of
he served as an expert nonprofit organizational trainer and
success,” said Stubbs.
as a consultant with state agencies, regional hospitals and a variety of for-profit and nonprofit organizations since 2016.
Thomas Locklin Joins Palomar Insurance
Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood Announces New Board Member and Chairman Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood (GMC) announced Freddie
Palomar announced the
Lynn Jr., Senior Vice President of
addition of Thomas Locklin to
Architecture in Montgomery, as the
its expanding sales team as a
newest member of GMC’s board of
Vice President, specializing in
directors, and Chris Engel, Executive
the trucking and transportation
Vice President of Architecture, as
industries. Prior to joining
board chairman.
Palomar, Locklin served the
transportation industry for seven
Lynn has been with GMC since
years as an insurance underwriter
2003 and currently leads the
for a national carrier and transportation risk management
firm’s architecture department in
advisor.
Montgomery. He has more than 30 years of professional experience and
has gained significant recognition for
CodingSolutions Hires Community Director
exceptional design work, particularly
CodingSolutions announced
for K-12 and higher education,
Jasmine Dickerson will join
municipal and commercial projects.
the CodingSolutions team as
Community Director. Within
Engel was appointed to the board of directors in 2018. He
the role, Dickerson will recruit
has more than 25 years of professional experience and has
candidates and hiring partners
been with GMC since 2003. As Executive Vice President
for the program, facilitate
of Architecture, he manages the firm’s entire architectural
virtual classes, as well as
practice, which includes oversight of more than 100
work on the development of CodingSolutions’s future training programs. Dickerson comes to CodingSolutions with 12-plus years’ experience in experiential marketing and the training field. Most recently, Dickerson worked as the East Coast Regional Manager for the Fitbit.
employees in offices throughout the southeast. Other board members include Cedric Campbell, Engineering Project Manager; Steve Cawood, Executive Vice President of Water Resources; Kevin Laird, Regional Vice President of South Carolina; Galen Thackston, Chief Operating Officer; and Lee Walters, Regional Vice President of Mobile.
87 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
landscape of media, and desire to serve the Montgomery
W E LCOM E, M IKE ! Bahakel Communications, Ltd. Hires Mike Costa
community through our strong news presence. We are grateful to the Montgomery-Selma area for their support
Bahakel Communications, Ltd.
of our operations for many years and wish to enhance and
Chief Executive Officer Beverly
continue our service to the area.”
Bahakel announced that Mike Costa has been named Vice of its Montgomery TV operations
Britton J. Stutts Now Shareholder at Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc.
effective immediately.
Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc. announced that Britton Stutts,
President and General Manager
out of their Birmingham office, was recently promoted to A 30-year broadcast veteran,
shareholder of the agency. As a
Costa comes to Bahakel most recently from Sinclair
Commercial Property & Casualty
Broadcast Group in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he
Risk Advisor since 2007, Stutts
managed a multiple station group WTVC News Channel/
provides risk management and
WTVC.2 Fox Chattanooga/WFLI CW Chattanooga for 14
insurance services to clients
years. Mike Costa replaces Sherry Nelson, who will return to
in a variety of industries with
Greenwood, Mississippi, for other opportunities. In making
special expertise in areas such as
the announcement, Beverly Bahakel said, “We are delighted
healthcare, manufacturing, social
to have someone of Mike Costa’s broadcast experience
services, non-profits, contractors
who has a love of the industry, acumen for the changing
and entertainment centers.
www.gotscrap.com 334-272-0767 430 Air Base Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36108
Our recycling services include: ✓ Manufacturing Scrap Services ✓ Appliance Recycling ✓ Automobile Recycling ✓ Certified Destruction ✓ Demolition Scrap
88 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
ARC Realty Welcomes Five New Team Members ARC Realty recently welcomed five new members in the River Region: Larry Alford, Caroline Burkett, William Humphrey, Catrina McCovery and Shaundra McCullum. While these agents each have varying degrees of experience in real estate, they all bring a wealth of career experience and customer service talents to the table. They have each been enrolled in portions of ARC’s agent training that are appropriate to their specialties and schedules.
Pictured clockwise from top left: Larry Alford, Caroline Burkett,
Larry Alford has joined ARC Realty as an Associate Broker with several years of experience in real estate, in addition to
William Humphrey, Catrina McCovery and Shaundra McCullum
a long history of success in sales, sales management, sales training, officiating high school and college basketball. Caroline Burkett has been working in real estate for just over
Catrina McCovery has transitioned into real estate following
a year following a stint in accounting.
a 22-year career in the medical field.
William Humphrey is a newly licensed REALTORÂŽ and a
Shaundra McCullum is a military veteran of 20-plus years,
Master Sergeant in the Alabama Air National Guard, where
and she is dedicated to serving as an advocate for her clients
he has served for over 17 years, including five tours overseas.
before, during and after a real estate transaction.
89 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
Community
He regularly attends First United Methodist Church. He will attend Auburn University in the fall and will try out as a football
Mayor Strange Honored The Alabama Library Association (ALLA) recently announced that Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange won its 2019 Public Servant Award. Building on the mayor’s momentum, the Montgomery City Council and
walk-on. Isabelle Cochran is a senior at Montgomery Catholic High School and is a state champion track runner. She is a member at Holy Spirit Church, where she leads Vacation Bible School. She
Montgomery County Commission
has over $350,000 in scholarship offers and has a 4.34 GPA.
received ALLA’s Humanitarian Award.
She plans to attend Auburn University and major in Mechanical Engineering.
“This award is a testament to our entire community’s commitment to
The Jimmy Hitchcock Committee honors young athletes for
making our library branches beacons
Christian leadership. Students are nominated by their coaches
of hope, learning and discovery for
and administrators for setting a Christian example of moral
everyone in our city,” Mayor Strange
fitness in their athletic development.
said. “Thank you to the Montgomery City Council, County Commission, library board and dedicated staff – including Jaunita Owes and Karen Preuss – for
Kelly Suero Receives Troy University’s Ingalls Award
supporting our vision to build a brighter future in the Capital of Dreams.” Montgomery City-County Public Library Director Jaunita Owes nominated Mayor Strange for the award due to his leadership in transforming Montgomery’s downtown library. Last fall, Mayor Strange stood with members of the Montgomery City Council, Montgomery County Commission and private donors in funding a $3-million upgrade to Montgomery’s Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. Now dubbed Montgomery’s “Library of the Future,” the downtown library tripled its quantity of computers, unveiled a new research room, upgraded furniture and installed new infrastructure – including digital whiteboards and
Dr. Kelly Suero, Assistant Professor of Spanish, receives the 2019 Ingalls
interactive youth activities – among other additions.
Award for Excellence in Classroom Teaching, from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, and Dr. Lance Tatum (right), Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. (TROY UNIVERISTY PHOTO/Joey Meredith)
Jimmy Hitchcock Award Winners Announced The YMCA of Greater Montgomery announced that Daniel Levon “Trey” Lindsey III and Isabelle Cochran are recipients of the 2019 Jimmy Hitchcock Award. A total of 39 high school seniors were nominated at an awards banquet held at Frazer United Methodist Church. Glen Coffee was the featured speaker. Coffee is a former University of Alabama running back and played one season in the NFL before returning to work with Alabama football under Coach Nick Saban in 2017.
Dr. Kelly Suero, Assistant Professor of Spanish, is the recipient of Troy University’s 2019 Ingalls Award for Excellence in Classroom Teaching. Suero received the award during the university’s annual Honors Convocation held recently in the Claudia Crosby Theater on the Troy Campus. The Ingalls Award is given annually to the teacher on the Troy Campus who has “most diligently, effectively and cheerfully
Daniel Levon “Trey” Lindsey III is a senior at The Montgomery Academy whose primary sports are football and basketball. He also plays baseball. In addition to his rigorous sports schedule, he is taking many AP and honors classes and has a 3.9 GPA.
conducted his or her classes during the current academic year.” Students nominate faculty members for the award, and a committee of students and faculty advisors selects the recipient. The award consists of a statue of Socrates, a plaque and a check for $1,000.
91 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
“The Ingalls Award is given annually to the Troy University
is appropriate that we present the Sullivan Awards at Troy
teacher who has been identified by students to be diligent,
University because one of the planks of our mission is to
effective and cheerful in conducting his/her classes during
continue to develop students into leaders with well-defined
the academic year,” said Dr. Lance Tatum, Senior Vice
values. We think these values are more important today
Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “This year’s recipient, Dr.
than at any time in our history.”
Kelly Suero, demonstrates each of these qualities and we are pleased to honor her with this award.”
Local Black Law Students Association Is National Chapter of the Year
Three Honored with Sullivan Awards
The current BLSA executive board attend the BLSA Scholars Awards Dinner on Thursday, April 18, 2019 (l-r) Noelle Sillmon (Secretary), Donavon McGuire Troy University has honored two senior students and a faculty member with Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards. From left to right are: Brennan Garriques, Sandra Thomas, Mrs. Janice Hawkins, Troy University First Lady, Olivia Walleser, and Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. (TROY UNIVERSITY PHOTO/Joey Meredith)
Troy University has honored two students and a member of the university’s staff with the 2019 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards. Brennan Garriques, a senior social science major from Canton, Georgia; Olivia Walleser, a senior business administration major with a concentration in global business management from Sheboygan, Wisconsin; and Sandra Thomas, lecturer in the Department of Risk Management and Data Analytics, received the Sullivan Awards during a luncheon in their honor on the Troy Campus. The recipients were also honored during the University’s annual Honors Convocation on April 25.
(President), Kymberly Porter (Treasurer), and Shevon Thomas II (Vice President).
Faulkner University ‘s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law announced their Ernestine S. Sapp Chapter of Black Law Students Association (BLSA) was named as the National BLSA Medium Chapter of the Year. The BLSA at JSL was established to address the community and political concerns surrounding minority law students. BLSA is committed to the achievement of all law students and has developed a blueprint for law school success through an open academic enrichment program. In addition, members strive to create professional alliances between BLSA, faculty, other student organizations, and members of the legal communities in Alabama.
Achievements
The Sullivan Award, which is presented at select colleges and universities throughout the United States, recognizes recipients for their excellence of character, humanitarian service and spiritual qualities. The award has been presented annually to a male student, a female student and one non-student at TROY since 1981. Students, faculty and staff nominate candidates for the award.
Lowder New Homes Recognized Lowder New Homes has been recognized as a Foundation Builder in the 2018 Annual Builder Achievement Awards Program from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW). This program recognizes builders with a long-standing tradition of providing exceptional customer service and protection to their homebuyers, and is reserved for builders who
“We believe this is one of the highest awards given by our university,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “We feel it
have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving the housing industry. Jimmy Rutland, President of Lowder
92 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
New Homes, said, “We are honored to receive such a prestigious
Dean has coached a total of 17 years: two on the high school level,
recognition by 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, a giant in the home
nine on the community college level, and six on the four-year college
warranty industry. The recognition reflects the confidence in quality
level. He began his coaching career at Troy University in 1990 as a
construction and materials in our new homes that allows us to offer a
graduate assistant, where he earned his master’s degree in health
10-year structural warranty through 2-10 HBW as a part of the Lowder
and physical education and his K-12 teacher certification. During the
Home Warranty on all new sales of Lowder new homes.”
summers of 1994 and 1995, he managed the Hornell Dodgers of the
Barry Dean Elected to Alabama Community College Conference Hall of Fame Barry Dean, current President/Executive Director of the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association, was recently
NCAA-Sanctioned Upstate New York Collegiate Summer league. As Executive Director of the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association, Dean has greatly enjoyed his time serving the community college players and coaches by hosting the Community College Fall Classic
elected to the Alabama Community College
from 2005-2017.
Conference Hall of Fame for meritorious service.
“Barry has raised the awareness of baseball in Alabama. By being involved with our teams, he is able to get our student-athletes
Dean’s love of the Alabama Community
exposure and notoriety. Barry is about the student-athletes, and that
College system of athletics began when he
clearly shows,” said Dean Myrick, the ACCC Commissioner.
walked on to play baseball at Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC) in the fall
Bradley Attorneys Achieve High Rankings
of 1983. The pinnacle of his playing career
Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announced that 34 attorneys in
was when Dean was voted all-state tournament designated hitter at
the firm’s Birmingham office, two attorneys in the firm’s Huntsville
the 1986 state tournament.
office, and eight firm practice areas have been highly ranked
93 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
in Alabama in the 2019 edition of Chambers USA, the
The Travel Marketing Professional program focuses on
prestigious, independent legal industry referral guide.
various aspects of tourism marketing, including how to
Across all the firm’s offices, 94 attorneys and 27 practice
become a DMO (Destination Marketing Organization),
areas at Bradley have been highly ranked.
how tourism is an economic driver in the community and
Merrill Lynch Advisor Earns CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Designation Merrill Lynch recently announced
strategic marketing techniques for the tourism industry. A DMO (or CVB, Convention and Visitors Bureau) is an organization within a city or municipality dedicated to attracting visitors, meetings and conventions to their
that Teresa Bechard of Merrill Lynch’s
destination in order to increase the overall economic impact
Montgomery office has earned the
of their city.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards
Nim Frazer Elected to SIOR Board
(CFP Board), and are allowed to use
Nim Frazer, SIOR, Owner/
the CFP® certification mark as an
Manager at Industrial Partners in
educational credential.
Montgomery, was recently elected to serve on the The Society of
“The CFP® designation is a reflection of Teresa’s deep
Industrial and Office Realtors
knowledge of the industry, as well as her dedication to
(SIOR) Global Board of Directors.
working effectively with clients to help them reach their
Since earning his SIOR designation
financial goals,” said David Oberman, managing director.
in 1997, Frazer has served in many
“This recognition is well-deserved and a testament to
leadership roles and is honored
Teresa’s commitment to bringing personalized wealth
to serve on the Global Board of Directors. SIOR is the
management solutions to her clients.”
leading professional commercial and industrial real estate
Victoria Belton Earns Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) Designation Victoria Belton, Account Executive for Stamp Idea Group, recently graduated from a three-year program through Southeast Tourism Society (STS)’s
association. With more than 3,200 members in more than 686 cities in 36 countries, SIOR represents today’s most knowledgeable, experienced, and successful commercial real estate brokerage specialists.
Awards & Honors
Marketing College and in the
MAX CIO Scott Lindley Honored
process joined an elite group of only
Scott Lindley, CIO of MAX, was selected as a finalist for the
1,154 tourism professionals in the
Alabama CIO of the Year ORBIE Awards. The ORBIE Awards
Southeast. Belton, a graduate of The
honor chief information officers who have demonstrated
University of Alabama with a major in
excellence in technology leadership.
marketing and a minor in advertising, is now certified as a Travel Marketing Professional (TMP).
As a finalist, this recognizes the leadership and guidance
“Attending marketing college has impacted me both
MAX. Under his leadership, Lindley has developed a high
that Lindley has displayed during his eight years with
professionally and personally,” said Belton. “Professionally, each year I bring back many of the things I learned either in class or through networking with my tourism clients at Stamp. Personally, when I travel now, I make a point to consult the city’s DMO about their hidden gems and can’t-miss experiences. I’ve learned to not only appreciate the services they offer, but their role in shaping the visitor experience.”
performance team that is dedicated to providing MAX customers with cutting-edge technology, implementing customer self-service delivery channels that have allowed MAX to become an industry leader in digital banking. Lindley has also helped make Cyber Security top of mind for all associates through awareness training and creating a culture of reinforcement, vigilance, and learning. His industry leadership includes serving as the Treasurer for
94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
the Alabama Chapter of the Credit Union Executives Society
outstanding attitude, innovation and work ethic. The award
(CUES) for five years; EAT South Board of Directors for four
was established by the late John McKinley, former Texaco
years and Class Day Chairman volunteer for Leadership
CEO, in honor of his father, Vergil Parks McKinley, who was
Montgomery. Outside of MAX, Scott is actively involved in
a Troy University professor during the early 20th century
community events and encourages his team members to
and was key to the development of the University’s athletic
participate and serve the community.
program. Winners of this award receive an engraved clock
Nine Bradley Attorneys Named to Who’s Who Legal Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announce that nine of the firm’s partners have been named by Who’s Who Legal as among the world’s leading product liability defense practitioners. The Bradley attorneys listed in the Who’s Who Legal: Product Liability Defence 2019 are Lindsey C. Boney IV, W. Wayne Drinkwater, James W. Gewin, William F. Goodman III, Tripp Haston, Lela Hollabaugh, Kim Bessiere Martin, Charles A. “Chuck” Stewart and R. Thomas
and a $1,000 stipend.
Bradley Wins Chapter 11 Reorganization of the Year Honor Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announced that it has received the 2018 Chapter 11 Reorganization of the Year ($50 - $100 million) Award from M&A Advisor for the firm’s role in the Chapter 11 case of Vanguard Healthcare and its 17 subsidiaries.
Warburton.
Bradley was the debtor’s counsel in the case, which
“We congratulate our outstanding product liability defense
Turnaround Awards. Bradley partners William L. Norton
was among the winners of M&A Advisor’s 13th Annual
attorneys who have been singled out by Who’s Who Legal as among the top practitioners in the world,” said Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner Jonathan M. Skeeters. “We are very proud of our successes in this important practice area for our clients.
III and James Blake Bailey served as lead bankruptcy attorneys, firm partner Michael D. Brent served as lead corporate counsel, and Bradley partner Ty E. Howard served as lead litigation counsel in the case.
JMR+H Architecture Partner Awarded
Monica Stephens Wins Vergil Parks McKinley Award
Kevin Baughn, a partner at JMR+H Architecture, PC, was awarded the 2018 Alice Reynolds Public Servant Award for his volunteer work over the course of the past year. Baughn has provided design and technical consultation for several facility improvement projects for the Family Sunshine Center and Exodus Community.
SS&L Honored by AIA Seay, Seay and Litchfield Architects was honored by the Alabama Council of the American Institute of Architects this past February for the Kress on Dexter building renovation. Wes Osmer, principal of the firm, and Davis Campbell, project manager, accepted an Honorable Mention for the Monica Stephens, information technology assistant in the Sorrell College of Business, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award. Stephens, who has been a member of the TROY staff since 2002, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony at the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Sven Aelterman, IT director for Sorrell College.
project at the 2019 AIA Excellence in Design awards gala. All efforts were made to preserve the original historic context of the façade, as well as the delicately ornate interior plaster detailing. A new second-floor retail mezzanine inserted into the double-height main hall and two-story residential addition seek to further activate the property as well as maximize the project’s economic feasibility. Adjacent properties on each end of the building
The McKinley Award is the highest honor that Troy
were incorporated into the footprint, permitting egress
University gives to a non-faculty staff member. It is presented quarterly to an employee who has demonstrated
paths that avoid disturbing the fabric of the original Kress.
95 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Jones Law School Dean Publishes Book
M G M GE TS B I KE SHA R E
Allen Mendenhall, an associate dean at Faulkner University Thomas Goode Jones School of Law and the executive director of the Blackstone & Burke Center for Law & Liberty, has published a new book, “Writers on Writing.” This collection of writers discussing writing is an anthology of penetrating interviews with prominent and diverse authors who discuss arts, literature, books, culture, life and the writing process with Mendenhall. Readers will find authentic voices, frank exchanges and unique perspectives on a wide variety of matters.
Mayor Todd Strange announced that
station in the same system.
bike share will roll out this summer in
Backed by Ford Motors’
Montgomery. “Quality of life is key to
microtransit division,
building on our success in economic
Zagster currently
development, neighborhood stability and
operates more than
the booming tourism industry,” Strange said.
250 micro-mobility
“Bike share and micro-mobility systems
vehicle shares
are the future, and we fully embrace these
across 35 states.
tools as catalysts for continued growth and
The company will have
prosperity in the Capital of Dreams. Not
a local team with a local
was able to raise approximately
only will bike share boost overall vibrancy
office in Montgomery.
$120,000 that will go toward the design
M i c ro - mo b i l i t y ven d o r Za gs ter wi l l b eg i n o p era t i n g 1 0 Pa c e Pa r k i n g s t a t i o n s wi t h a f l eet o f a p p roxi ma tel y 5 0 Pa c e b i kes t h i s s u mmer.
Zoo Weekend Sets Record More than 10,000 visitors attended the 43rd Annual Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum Zoo Weekend on March 23-24. Through this annual fundraising event, the Montgomery Area Zoological Society
and construction of a new reptile facility.
and downtown foot traffic for businesses, but it further cements our status as one of
Last year, the City of Montgomery
the South’s Smartest Cities.”
collaborated with the Montgomery Bicycle
During this annual zoo fundraiser, the
Club and potential bike share vendors to
Montgomery Zoo was transformed into
Micro-mobility vendor Zagster will begin
craft an ordinance allowing for a bike-
a festive carnival with two stages of
operating 10 Pace Parking stations with a
share policy steeped in common-sense
entertainment, games, rides, bouncy
fleet of approximately 50 Pace bikes this
regulations prioritizing safety, best practices
houses, giant inflatable slides, pony
summer. The stations will span prominent
and the viability of vendors’ business
rides, petting zoo, animal encounters,
locations throughout Montgomery’s city-
models. The Montgomery City Council
local choirs, dance troops, Montgomery
center, including the Rosa Parks Museum,
approved the ordinance in June 2018.
Fire Department’s Smoke House, Montgomery Police Department
the Capitol, City Hall, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Riverwalk Stadium,
Bike shares are most successful when
K-9 Unit, live animal presentations,
Morgan Library, Kress and more. Initial
combined with proactive bicycle and
concessions, baked goodies and more.
sponsors include Baptist Health, Blue Cross
pedestrian planning. As one of only a few
Blue Shield of Alabama and Wind Creek
Alabama cities recognized by the League
Melanie Golson, Marketing and Public
Hospitality, but City officials invite additional
of American Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly
Relations Manager, explained that it
businesses and organizations to join.
America program, Montgomery’s planning
takes more than 200 volunteers per
The Pace Parking platform supports secure,
and engineering departments continue
day to make Zoo Weekend a success.
lock-to parking for all dockless mobility
implementing plans to develop bicycle and
“Without the help of our volunteers, we
vehicles including pedal bikes, e-bikes and
pedestrian-friendly facilities throughout the
would not have been able to provide the
electric scooters, enabling users to borrow
city.
amount of fun we did,” she said.
a bike from a dock and return it at another 96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
97 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Four Star Freightliner Breaks Ground on New Location
GR OW I NG N E WS Jason’s Deli Catering Business Climbing Catering sales have been rapidly climbing at Jason’s Deli, and the trend is continuing in 2019. There was a jump of 22 percent for the first two months of this year compared with (Left to Right) Scott Dixon (Four Star Operations Manager), Debra Riley (Chambers County Commissioner), Daniel Lindsey (Four Star attorney), Jerry Kocan (Four Star Owner/Dealer Principal), Leonard Riley (Mayor, City of Valley), Nancy Kocan (Four Star), Samantha Kocan (Four Star), Scott Coleson (Four Star
2018, and mid-March catering revenue rose 35 percent.
Controller), Bobby Williams (Chambers County Development Authority President)
Four Star Freightliner, Inc. broke ground on
Freightliner Dealer Principal Jerry Kocan
a new facility in Valley, Alabama, on May
said his business could not have asked
22, marking the start of new construction
for more supportive partners than the
of Four Star’s permanent home at 1051
City of Valley, especially Mayor Riley and
Four Star Drive, located on Exit 77, just off
Chris Busby with the Chambers County
I-85. This will be the seventh location for
Development Authority.
Four Star Freightliner, the third in Alabama. The new, permanent location is scheduled
The more than $4 million investment at
to be completed during the fourth quarter
the new Valley location will initially create
of 2019.
15 jobs and could allow for more in the future. Customers can expect the same
Representatives from Four Star
quality service and support they currently
Freightliner, Chambers County
receive from Four Star’s six other locations
Development Authority, City of Valley
because Four Star is moving experienced,
and the community participated in the
trained individuals to the Valley dealership.
groundbreaking ceremony. Four Star
Faulkner University Participates in HEAL Day Alabama
Jason’s Deli is one of a handful of fast-casual restaurants in the River Region with a breakfast catering menu. The eatery has always offered breakfast catering, according to managing partner Jason Snyder, but the restaurant retooled all aspects of it. One of the key changes last year was using fresh eggs and adding three additional egg offerings. “That really improved the quality of the breakfast and we revamped our pastries,” Snyder said. “We always had pastries, but now we have a wider selection.”
ARC Realty Launches New Training ARC Realty announced the official
Faulkner University students, staff and
kickoff of its new training initiative for
faculty joined Governor Kay Ivey and
newly licensed agents, combining
hundreds of children from around the
traditional classroom-style education
state for the first-ever HEAL Day (“Healthy
with self-paced online courses. While
Eating and Active Living”) at the Alabama
the ARC team has always been
State Capitol in May. It was a day of
composed of both new and seasoned
education and celebration of healthy living
agents, the company has narrowed
and literacy. HEAL Alabama is committed
its focus to include a more structured
to reversing the rise of diabetes and
program for helping newly licensed
chronic diseases related to unhealthy
agents kick start their success in the
lifestyle among youth throughout the state.
real estate profession. The program
Two years ago, Faulkner partnered with HEAL founder, Christy Swaid and HEAL Alabama to become a HEAL University by encouraging students to become
advocates of healthy living among their peers and encourage them to spread awareness to area youth.
98 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
has also proven successful for those looking to expand their service offerings or those returning to the field after time away.
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Family Fun Day at Carver High School A Westside Family Fun Day was
a child in the digital age; the
MGM Second Graders Achieve Super Citizen Status
held Saturday, March 9, at Carver
strong-willed child; and grand-
In May, Montgomery second graders at several schools
High School. The event was
parenting.
graduated from the 10-week Super Citizen Program. They learned civics, character, finance and career
produced by the Brighter Futures Task Force, which is chaired
There were more than 100
lessons and their important roles in America’s future. The
by the Samaritan Counseling
attendees, 30 volunteers from the
students gathered at Davis Theatre for Performing Arts
Center’s Executive Director Cary
Carver High School service clubs
to celebrate their accomplishments. Participating schools
Kuhlmann. The purpose was to
and 11 exhibitors in a resources
included Bear, Dunbar-Ramer, Fitzpatrick, Forest Avenue,
provide parents information on
expo. The Fun Day closed out
MacMillan, Pintlala, Southlawn, Wares Ferry, Garrett
the challenges of raising children:
with a performance by the Carver
Elementary, Blount, Chisholm, Crump, Highland Avenue
bullying and suicide; raising
High School Band.
and Johnson Elementary.
“Pact to A.C.T.” Program Helps MPS
MPS ERS VOLUNTE NEEDED
The Montgomery Clean City Commission (“MC3”) is looking for volunteers for school cleanup events this summer before students return for the new school year. The “Pact to A.C.T.” program, which stands for “All Cleaning Together,” connects groups of volunteers to schools across Montgomery to help beautify the exterior of the school before students arrive in early August. This could include things like spreading pine straw or mulch, trimming bushes and trees, or mowing the grass. To volunteer, call 334-625-2175
99 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Child Protect Fundraiser Successful
Capell & Howard Welcomes Summer Associates
Child Protect, Children’s
Capell & Howard recently announced that Caitlin
Advocacy Center hosted its
Cobb, William Thomas and Benton Hughes have
spring fundraising event, Barrel
joined the firm as summer associates. Cobb and
of Blues, on April 25 at the
Hughes have completed their first year of law
Ware-Farley-Hood House in
studies at The University of Alabama School of
Old Alabama Town. The event
Law, and Thomas has completed his second year
featured a bourbon tasting by
of law studies at the University of North Carolina
Whiskey Adventures, music
School of Law. Both Montgomery natives, Cobb
by blues band King Bee, food
and Hughes graduated from the University of
by Jennie Weller, and drinks
Alabama with degrees in political science, while
and a silent auction with items
Thomas received his degree in political science
contributed by local individuals
and history from the University of North Carolina at
and businesses. New this year
Chapel Hill.
was a raffle of 20 Year Pappy Van Winkle, given to the agency by an anonymous
Stephanie & Ken Peavy
donor, which alone raised $9,600.
Montgomery Zoo Announces the Birth of Two North American River Otters
Barrel of Blues was sponsored by ServisFirst Bank, Serquest, Kam & Patrick Sidhu, WSFA, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Beasley Allen, Stokes Stemle, Palomar Insurance, Jackson Thornton, The Vance Law Firm, Jim Wilson & Associates, Hill Hill Carter, Goodwyn Mills Cawood, Whitfield Foods, Kimbro Renovations, Southern Pipe & Supply, Borden Morris Garner, Railyard Brewing Company and Bob Parker. The event raised $40,000, in its second year.
Montgomery Student Wins Second Trojan Heart Challenge A Troy University student with a
“I’m overjoyed,” Denson said. “I
passion for giving won the second
didn’t expect this. I’m grateful for
annual TROY Trojan Heart award
the opportunity, grateful that I’m
during a ceremony in May at the
able to give and to represent TROY.”
At the end of May, the Montgomery Zoo and Mann
International Arts Center. Jasmine
In addition to her work at Tutwiler,
Wildlife Learning Museum introduced to the public
Denson, a senior sociology major at
Denson has also served as the
two North American River Otter pups born on
TROY’s Montgomery Campus, won the
assistant coordinator for the Troy
February 25, 2019. The pups, one male and one
award, which is given to the individual
University-Valiant Cross Academy
female, named Dipper (Dip for short) and Dot, were
who best embodies TROY’s motto:
School Garden, teaching gardening
born to Lisa (five years old) and Oliver (four years
“Educate the mind to think, the heart
and nutrition classes to middle school
old) who have called the Montgomery Zoo home
to feel and the body to act.”
students and installing a garden at the
for a number of years.
Montgomery Campus. She also serves Denson, who was selected from
as president of the Social Justice
“Dip and Dot have been spending time with mom
a field of 36 nominees, manages
Club, helping with a variety of drives
in the den bonding and learning all the things otter
a community garden at Tutwiler
designed to help those in need.
pups need to know,” said Shelli Dean, Assistant
Women’s Prison in Montgomery. She
Animal Care Manager.
works side-by-side with the inmates,
The Trojan Heart is a universitywide
teaching them about nutrition and
challenge for Trojans to nominate
“We are excited to add these new additions to our
horticulture through an outreach
students, faculty and staff members
Zoo family as it furthers the Zoo’s mission of animal
project led by Dr. Sharon Everhardt,
who deserve the award. TROY First
conservation, species protection and improving
the faculty member who nominated
Lady Janice Hawkins developed the
the future of wildlife,” Zoo Director Marcia Woodard
Denson.
concept to recognize the outstanding
said.
efforts Trojans make to help others. 100 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M M U N I T Y + CO M M ER C E NEWS
Valiant Cross Academy Hosts Breakfast With Scholars
Valiant Cross Academy hosted Bryan Stevenson, Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, as its keynote speaker to a sold-out crowd of 700 attendees. More than 55 corporate sponsors and five corporate grand investors stepped up to help the growing school continue its mission of transcending the challenges facing young, African American males in Montgomery County. Stevenson took the podium for approximately 30 minutes and gave an eloquent yet powerful message that left the room inspired to change the narrative, stay hopeful and get uncomfortable. Michael Galvin, President of The Montgomery Advertiser gave a special presentation to the school; a check for $25,000 to be used for the school’s scholarship fund. Founders Anthony and Frederick Brock thanked the community for their support and expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who helped make the vision of Valiant Cross Academy come to fruition. They ended by reminding everyone that much more work needs to be done, but this day was a true celebration for Valiant Cross Academy.
Carr, Riggs & Ingram Announcement Carr, Riggs & Ingram Capital Advisors, LLC announced that KOMAN Government Solutions, LLC (KGS), a wholly-owned 8(a) subsidiary of the Natives of Kodiak, an Alaska Native Corporation, recently completed an acquisition of Trinity Analysis & Development Corp. (TRINITY). This allows KGS and TRINITY to expand its client base while supporting growth in all areas of the environmental business sector. CRI Capital Advisors, LLC acted as the sole investment banking advisor to Trinity Analysis and Development Corp. CRI, LLC’s Niceville, Florida, office provided CPA, tax and related services to TRINITY throughout the process.
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Hampstead 2019 Tour of Homes Hampstead opened its private homes, three restaurants and a new gift shop for the 3rd Annual Hampstead Taste & Tour event. All proceeds went to support the Samaritan Counseling Center; the event raised $28,000.
AUM Nursing Students Visit Walter Reed Several Auburn University at Montgomery nursing students spent their recent spring break at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the nation’s largest joint military center, in Bethesda, Maryland. Known as “The Nation’s Medical Center,” with more than 7,000 staff members and 100 clinics and areas of specialization, Walter Reed represents the front line for treating American soldiers wounded in global conflicts.
understanding of the healthcare needs of
This year included 10 new homes
veterans.
on tour, including the Hampstead Showhouse 2019, which was open only
Their shared experience will certainly come
during this event. Guests toured lake-
in handy after graduation. Potential policy
view homes, garden courtyard homes,
changes that would allow the government
beautiful interiors and landscaping and
to pay for veterans to see private doctors
enjoyed an after party at the Tipping
without co-pays or deductibles could
Point, all while raising money for a great
flood the private healthcare system. Plus,
cause. It drew 170 attendees.
according to U.S. Census data, the 3.3 million American veterans who have served since
Auburn University at Montgomery is
September 11, 2001, have grown to half the
currently the only school in the nation to
size of the nation’s largest living military
participate in Project SERVE, an experiential
population – Vietnam veterans.
learning model designed to deepen student
Gogue Center Season & Series Subscriptions Available To General Public
WANT YOUR NEWS IN THE MBJ? Submit information for consideration to Jina Miniard at
The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts
include performances by surf-rock legends
Center at Auburn University has begun full
The Beach Boys; the Jazz at Lincoln
season and series subscriptions for its 2019-
Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis;
as a Word document or a PDF
20 inaugural season. Season subscriptions
star of stage and screen Sutton Foster;
(Word documents preferred), and
provide patrons access to each of the
banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck and the original
season’s 27 performances, and series
Flecktones lineup; soprano Renée Fleming;
least 300 dpi) photos with your press
subscription packages include tickets to
acclaimed choreographer Camille A. Brown;
release if possible.
three performances per series.
and hit Broadway musicals “RENT 20th Anniversary Tour” and “Waitress.”
The Gogue Center’s historic first year will
In addition to its robust season lineup, the
bring an eclectic mix of headlining acts to
Gogue Center will also present special
East Alabama, with performances spanning
events and performances throughout the
nine distinct series. Season highlights
year. 102 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
jminiard@montgomerychamber.com. Please attach press releases
please include high-resolution (at
SUBMISSION DEADLINES: SEPTEMBER ISSUE: JULY 26 NOVEMBER ISSUE: SEPT 30
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
MAX CEO and President H. Greg McClellan Retires After 34 years of service to the greater Central and East Alabama areas, MAX Credit Union President and CEO H. Greg McClellan retired on June 7. McClellan had been President and CEO since 2005. “I want to thank all of my colleagues and community partners for the outstanding job they have performed and the benefits I have learned from them,” said Mr. McClellan. “The greatest asset for me was the people I worked with and everyone I served.”
Dementia Friendly Hosts Alabama Golf Classic
“I retire with the great satisfaction of leaving MAX in great financial shape.
The 3rd Annual Dementia Friendly Alabama Golf Classic was a success thanks to sponsors,
Together we have broadened the
players and door prize contributors. Almost $6,000 was raised, and the organization hopes
MAX footprint while maintaining strong
to use the funds to purchase Virtual Reality Technology Headsets. This technology would
earnings,” McClellan continued. “I am
allow users to better understand Alzheimer’s and dementia by providing a three-dimensional,
excited about MAX’s future and the
360-degree picture with sound that lets them see into the world of dementia.
continued high-quality service to our customers and members.”
Faulkner University Welcomes New CS Advisory Board
MAX Board Chair Keivan Deravi
Faulkner University’s Department of
said, “Greg has been an outstanding
Computer Science recently welcomed six
leader and friend. MAX has grown
members of the department’s newly formed
and become a treasured community
Advisory Board: Andrea Long, development
partner, expanding into business lending,
lead for the Blue Prism team, Kevin Poliquin,
business leasing and insurance services
the Director of Automotive Manufacturing
during his time as CEO.” “On behalf of the
for Hyundai AutoEver America; Charisse
board, employees and our communities,
Stokes, the President of Tidal IT Solutions;
we wish Greg the best years ahead.”
Dr. Yu-Tueng (Y.T.) Tsai, founder of the first Chinese corporation in Alabama, Regitar
Four Star Freightliner Awards Scholarships
U.S.A.; Inc., David A. Umphress, Ph.D.,
(left to right, top to bottom) Dr. Yu-Tueng (Y.T.) Tsai, David
COLSA Professor of Cyber Security and
Hammond, Faulkner Computer Science Chair, Andrea Long,
Two high school seniors have been
Shirley Yera, computer science instructor, Charisse Stokes,
awarded scholarships in memory
Information Assurance in Auburn University’s Department of Computer Science and
A. Umphress, Kevin Poliquin, Kevin D. Vezertizis, Susan
Idongesit Mkpong-Ruffin, computer science professor.
of Four Star Freightliner employee
Software Engineering and Director of the
preparation of highly competent, socially
Zachary Sizemore. Each student will
Auburn Cyber Research Center; and Kevin
committed computer scientists, emphasizing
receive a one-time $1,000 award. The
D. Vezertzis, the Vice President, Strategic
integrity of character, the love of learning,
two recipients are children of Four Star
Systems and Digital Transformation at Alfa
the skill of problem solving, the spirit of
employees: Steven Allen Oliver Jr., son
Insurance.
critical inquiry, professional competence and
of Damita Oliver, Four Star Freightliner
leadership, excellence as the benchmark
Payroll Manager. Abbie Mathews,
The Computer Science Advisory Board’s
for everything conducted, and a culture
daughter of Cindy Mathews, Four Star
mission is to “glorify God through the
of service to society with concern for the
Freightliner Service Manager.
education of the whole person and the
common good.”
103 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Huntingdon College Introduces Major in Criminal Justice Huntingdon College provost Dr. Anna McEwan announced the addition of an undergraduate major in criminal justice beginning in fall 2019. “The need for professionals who are educated with a central concern for critical thinking and ethical reasoning fits well with Huntingdon’s mission. We believe that our criminal justice graduates will be poised to make a difference for their communities, including for victims, for those who are accused or convicted of crimes, and for the public at large,” she
HMR Joins GMC in South Alabama Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood (GMC) announced that it has completed the acquisition of Hutchinson, Moore & Rauch, LLC (HMR), an engineering, surveying and land planning firm in south Alabama. HMR has been providing engineering, surveying and land-planning services across Alabama, Mississippi and the Florida Gulf Coast for nearly two decades. The firm brings a highly capable staff of 25 employees located in offices in Daphne and Mobile. “GMC and HMR have collaborated on several projects over the years, and we are excited about our partnership moving forward,” GMC Regional Vice President Lee Walters said. HMR serves as an engineering consultant for numerous municipalities and utilities along the Gulf Coast, while also specializing in private development. Their project experience includes residential, commercial
and mixed-use development; municipal and utility projects, including schools, public buildings, public recreational facilities, police and fire service facilities, utility facilities, stormwater control and transportation facilities; survey and mapping; transportation;
said. The criminal justice major at Huntingdon will combine practice with theory. Study will include the causes of crime, an understanding of the interdependence
and more.
of the branches of the criminal
“The ability to offer our clients a multitude
and its application, moral and ethical
of additional professional services places us in an exceptional position among the firms along the Gulf Coast. We are also excited about the opportunities for professional growth this acquisition provides our staff,” said Scott Hutchinson, former HMR President and now GMC Vice President of Engineering
justice system, constitutional law perspectives of law and justice, criminal investigation and forensics.
Daisy’s Senior Moves & Transition Services Opens The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) has welcomed
in Daphne.
Daisy’s Senior Moves & Transition
The firms have been working on integration
of NASMM, I am pleased to welcome
plans to ensure a seamless transition for staff, clients and consultants, which will take place over the next several months.
Services, LLC as its member. “On behalf Daisy’s Senior Moves to NASMM’s family of premier Senior Move Management providers,” said Mary Kay Buysse, NASMM’s Executive Director. Daisy’s Senior Moves was founded in
Huntingdon College Earns Multiple Recognitions Huntingdon College has been named a top 6 regional Best Value and top 11 regional college in the South by U.S. News and World Report; among a list of Colleges that Change Lives by Washington Monthly; among the Best Colleges in Alabama and the Best Small Colleges in America by College Consensus; and among the Best Colleges: Region by Region (South) by the Princeton Review.
January 2018 in Millbrook and services the Montgomery Alabama River Region. Daisy’s Senior Moves offers full-service solutions to assist older adults and their families with the often-stressful transition that comes with relocating or can assist clients who would rather “age in place.”
104 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES
MAX
VINSON MARKET
11020 Chantilly Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-260-2600, www.mymax.com Mila Magda, Branch Manager / Banks, Credit Union
3025 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 334-462-2424 Lauren Vinson, Owner / Landscape Design
WORK SHOP, LLC
CAMP BOW WOW
5027 Mercer Street, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-440-6448, www.workorshop.com Julian Petty, Owner / Office Space/Co-Working Space
3712 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 678-896-1594, www.campbowwow.com Jeff & Lauren Gold, Owners / Pet Boarding/Grooming/Daycare
FASTSIGNS OF MONTGOMERY
YMCA, CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER
115 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-245-1135, www.fastsigns/2236-montgomery-al Chad Norman, Visual Communications/Owner / Signs
7917 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-280-1409, www.montgomerycardiovascular.com/fitness-center Wilson Scott, Director / Associations/Non-Profit
105 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT ING N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES
COOPERS’ MENTAL HEALTH CONSULTATIONS, LLC
EL TACO SHOP TAQUERIA
2421 Presidents Drive, Suite B-21, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-539-7017, www.coopersmentalhealth.org Aisha Cooper, Owner / Psychologists
3271 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-649-4202 Leidi Espinosa, Owner / Restaurants-Mexican
PHYSICIANS CHOICE DIALYSIS
IKARE PHARMACY
8149 Decker Lane, Montgomery, AL 36117 610-495-8900, www.phychoice.com James Kilcur, Project Manager / Dialysis-Clinics
7212 Halcyon Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-230-7436, www.ikarepharmacy.com Ashish Patel, Partner, Hetalben Patel, Partner, Iral Patel, Pharmacist Pharmacies
STONE MARTIN BUILDERS’ MELROSE MODEL HOME
ALABAMA PSYCHIATRY
8652 Melbourne Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-742-8050, www.stonemartinbuilders.com Mitchell Martin, Managing Member / Builders-Residential
7125 University Court, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-239-2622, www.alpsychiatry.com Dr. Shankar Chili, CEO/Owner / Psychiatrists
106 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES
AESTHETICA, LLC
JACKSON THORNTON
1310 Old Oak Place, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-247-1669, www.aestheticamontgomery.com Dr. Caroline Abolade, Owner & Physician Beauty Salons/Spas / Laser & Skincare
200 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-834-7660, www.jackstonthornton.com Ned Sheffield, President Accounting-Certified Public
Y.E.S. INC. YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
COLONIAL LIFE
164 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36105 334-357-9514 Cederick Williams, President/CEO / Associations/Non-Profit
7480 Halcyon Pointe Drive, Suite 102, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-472-9457, www.coloniallife.com Dhixie Duncan, Territory Executive Assistant / Insurance Companies
ANGELS FOR THE ELDERLY
STONECREEK DENTAL CARE
40 Angels Court, Montgomery, AL 36109 334-270-8050, www.angelsfortheelderly.com Kristie Watt, Marketing Director Nursing Homes/Assisted Living
4810 Woods Crossing Drive, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-277-2424, www.stonecreekdentalcare.com Ann Miller, Regional Manager / Dentists
107 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
C R E AT IV E D E S IG N , A DV E R T ISI N G AG E N C IE S
AI RCRAFT SALES
MTW Aerospace Inc Phil White 7050 Selma Highway Montgomery, AL 36108 (334) 301-0225 www.mtwaerospace.com
Handshake Union Steven Lambert One Court Square, Suite 310 Montgomery, AL 36104 (727) 798-3703 www.handshakeunion.com
ASSOC IATIONS/N ON -P R OF I T
C R E D IT R E PA IR
Amazing Grace Health Ministries, Inc. Cheryl Pettiway 339 West Seattle Lane Montgomery, AL 36117 (334)-425-1340 www.amazinggracehm.org Child Evangelism Fellowship of Central Alabama Naomi Kemp 4137 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106 (334)-213-7388 www.cefcentralalabama.org Pens Up Guns Down Sandra Edwards 510 Johnson Avenue Montgomery, AL 36110 (334) 590-0267 www.pensupgunsdown.org Seth Communities Beverly Brown 2321 Glendale Avenue Montgomery, AL 36107 (334) 544-2464
JULY 2019 NEW MEMBERS COL L E G E S & U N IV E R S IT IE S , ATTR AC T IO N S - A R TS & C U LT U R E , ATTR AC T IO N S - E N T E R TA IN M E N T
Gogue Performing Arts Center Jacque Holley 130 Village View Lane Auburn, AL 36849 (334) 844-8497 www.goguecenter.auburn.edu COM P U T E R S - S O F T WA R E /H A R DWA R E / CO N S U LT IN G
Booz Allen Hamilton Lizz Said 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 4050 Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 557-7252 www.boozallenhamilton.com CON SU LT IN G , CO N S U LT IN G S E RV I CE S
AU TOM OBILE R EPA I R S E RV I C E S
Chico’s Paint & Body Jeff Welch 3560 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 239-9510 www.chicospandb.com COLLEGES & UNIV E R S I TI E S
Tuskegee University-Office of Development Krystal Floyd P.O. Box 1304 Tuskegee Institute, AL 36087 (334) 727-8540 www.tuskegee.edu
Calloway Consulting, LLC Darryl Calloway 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 4050 Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 399-5371 www.callowayconsulting.org Gibraltar Solutions Rashim McKinney P.O. Box 1901 Montgomery, AL 36109
108 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Credit Miracles, LLC Lasundia Reese P.O. Box 1691 Montgomery, AL 36102-1691 (334) 398-8128 www.miraclesofcredit.com E M P LOYM E N T AG E N C IE S , E M P LOYM E N T S E RV IC E S
Crown Services, Inc. Joel Best 422 Coliseum Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 625-1690 www.crownservices.com E N T E R TA IN M E N T & R E C R E AT ION , AT T R AC T IO N S - E N T E R TA IN M EN T
Civil Axe Throwing-Montgomery Scott Brewster 39 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 245-4540 www.civilaxethrowing.com/montgomery Go Karting Montgomery Camtu Nguyen 9033 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 271-2020 www.gokartingmontgomery.com EVENT VENUE
Kick Back Ranch & Event Center, LLC Melinda Newell 414 Union Academy Ada Road Ramer, AL 36069 (334) 286-4140 www.kickbackranch.net
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
F I NANCIAL PLANNER/ ADVI SOR, FINANC IAL S E RVI C ES
TD Ameritrade Jason Batrez 8007 Vaughn Road, Suite B Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 694-6790 www.tdameritrade.com
I N S UR A N C E COM PAN IE S / S E RV I C E S
Farmers Insurance-The Brasch Agency John Brasch 847 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 271-4800 www.agents.farmers.com/al/ montgomery/john-brasch
F I NANCIAL SERVIC ES
AMFund Greg Cochran 535 Adams Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 386-8130 www.amfund.com F RE I GHT & HAULING
Timco Logistics Systems, Inc. Tim Balch 1180 Kershaw Street Montgomery, AL 36108 (334) 262-7990 www.gotimco.com H E ALTH & FIT NESS, H E ALTH C LUBS
HOTWORX Angela Burgess 7252 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 440-8111 www.hotworx.net/studio/ montgomery-peppertree H OS P ITALS/CLINICS
Our Med 9188 EastChase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 801-9100 www.ourmed.com
L E G A L S E RV I C E S ATTOR N E YS
Cook and Associates, Attorneys at Law LLC Amanda Cook 4142 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 356-7879 www.blackbeltlawyers.com M E D I C A L P R AC TI C E M A N AG E M E N T, P H YS I C I A N S OP H TH A L M OLOGY
Eye Center South Katie Woodham 262 Mitylene Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 (800) 467-1393 www.eyecentersouth.net M OV I N G TR A N S F E R & STOR AG E
McCorquodale Transfer, Inc. Lister Crosby 2650 East South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 414-8934 www.mtmoves.com M OV I N G TR A N S F E R & STOR AG E
Daisy’s Senior Moves & Transition Services, LLC Julia Maher P.O. Box 1635 Millbrook, Alabama 36054 (334) 322-4509 www.daisyseniormoves.com
P H A R M AC IE S
iKARE Pharmacy Ashish Patel 7212 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 230-7436 www.ikarepharmacy.com P LU M BIN G
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Kyrell Kendrick 261 Mendel Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 230-7357 www.enfranklinplumbing montgomeryal.com P R O P E R T Y M A N AG E M E N T, R E A L E STAT E -
Conrex Property Management Lee Thompson 150 Market Place Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 549-1664 www.con-rex.com S O U V E N IR S , AT T R AC T IO N S - H ISTO RY, CO F F E E H O U S E & T E A R O O M , G IF TS & S P E C IA LT Y- R E TA IL
College Care Club Kamry Selley 2321 Cortellia Street Plano, TX 75074 (313) 587-5852 www.collegecareclub.com Southern Art & Makers Collective Heather Parrish 1228 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL 36107 (334) 303-2558 www.SouthernArtMakers.com Tours of Montgomery Valerie Smedley 353 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 549-9322 www.toursofmontgomery.com
109 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
T R AV E L AG E N C IES/ S E RV IC E S
The Wanderlust Q SaQuane Milton 8930 Crosswind Circle, Apt 204 Montgomery, AL 36117 (310) 999-3043 www.saquanem.wixsite.com/ thewanderlustq T R U C K IN G S E RV I CES
NG Whatley Trucking, LLC Neal Whatley 175 West Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36108 (334) 676-1645 V E T E R IN A R IA N S
DRD Veterinary Services Dee Jones 481 Weatherby Trail Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 730-5714
Numbers reflect April 2019 over April 2018.
Economic Intel TOURISM THAT'S A
9.3%
INCREASE OVER APRIL 2018
75%
LODGING TAX
OCCUPANCY RATE
+ 8.9%
+ 9.3%
ROOM DEMAND
YEAR-TO-DATE INCREASE
YTD, 23,728 MORE HOTEL ROOMS HAVE BEEN SOLD IN 2019, COMPARED TO YTD 2018
HOUSING APRIL 2019
Source: Smith Travel Research Report, City of Montgomery
WINGS UP! UP 11.6% YTD FROM 2018
TOTAL HOME SALES
31,505
PASSENGERS
+ 13.9%
+ 4.9%
OVER APRIL 2018
+
+ 14.2%
AVERAGE SALE PRICE
BE DIRECT: DIRECT SERVICE T0 DCA
1,871 TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE
93
GOING FAST!
AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area
Source: MGM (Montgomery Regional Airport)
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR
+ 1.8% CIVILIAN
+ 1.9% EMPLOYED
LABOR FORCE
LABOR FORCE
175,719
169,869
3.3% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
SECTORS GOING UP
LABOR FORCE
PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES
+ 4.1%
FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
+ 2.7%
OTHER SERVICES
LEISURE & HOSPITALITY
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
110 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
+ 2.2% + 1.2%
MBJ
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101
112MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL