MBJ: September 2022 by Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 MONTGOMERYBUSINESSJOURNAL M B J + 2022 BIG GIVE SECTION SPOTLIGHTS AREA’S GROWING GOOD FORCES:JOININGWORKTHECOLLECTIVEALABAMA CHANGEMAKERS MONTGOMERY’S NONPROFITS ARE LEADING THE WAY TO A BETTER TOMORROW. MEET OUR CITY’S MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CONTENTS SEPT/OCT 2022 NEWS:CHAMBER Connect: Chamber News 74 Connect: Past Events 76 Connect: Team Report External Affairs 78 Members on the Move 81 Members in the News 84 Business Buzz Ribbon Cuttings New & Rejoined Members Intel THIS ISSUE: The A{dvice} List: Small Business Support for Success The Big Give 2022: Nonprofits Leading the Way The LAB on Dexter: Group Effort64312811 22 Investor Profile: Caryn Hughes 24 Member Profile: Michelle Browder 26 Military Profile: Major General Jerry Martin 929070 31 94 We have your Business covered. Infrastructure and Cloud Services Disaster Recovery - Business Resilience Focused Information Technology Security Network Design and Support Email and Team Collaboration Server Management Desktop and Mobile Management Telecom and Datacom Vendor Expense Management Managed Lifecycle and Procurement Dedicated Project Support Call (334) 356-3461 to set up your free consultation today. The superior option for managing your Technology Infrastructure! SERVICES MOATESAUBRIEBYPHOTOGRAPHY

CONTENTS

M B J THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO Anna B. Buckalew COMMUNICATION AND ENGAGEMENT Chief Officer - Lara Wilson Director - Jina Miniard EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Minnie Lamberth, Jeri Groce, Dean Peevy, Larry Ransburgh PHOTOGRAPHERS Aubrie Moates, Grace O’Connor ON THE COVER Photography by Aubrie Moates ADVERTISING Christina Bennett, Angie Jordin and Christy Cruse exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 COMMUNICATIONS Kinsey de Torres MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Post Office Box 79, Montgomery, Alabama 36101 Telephone: 334-834-5200 • communicatons@montgomerychamber.com © Copyright 2022 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, 600 South Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 14, Issue 5. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 600 S. Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104, or email communicatons@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: communicatons@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. CONTRIBUTORSexploreMedia MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce unites business, community and elected leaders to grow the economy and enhance the quality of life for all citizens and guests. PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay DESIGN Heather Cooper, Jessica Bargainer TAKING THE CHORE OUT OF GOING TO THE CLEANERS Jim Massey’s LockerZone is now open 24-hours for your convenience. Drop off and pick up on your schedule. Safe & Secure with Cameras on MPD Star Watch! Available for New & Existing Customers. • FAST • CONVENIENT • Sturbridge Shopping Center, 7928 Vaughn Road, 36116 Shops at Pike Road, 9543 Vaughn Road, 36064

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Small businesses in the United States are responsible for two thirds of the new jobs available annually; they deliver 43.5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product. They create. They innovate. And without the products and services small businesses make and provide, daily life would grind to a halt.

Even the biggest of the big corporations would be in trouble; they rely on small businesses too.

ehemoths like Ford and Nike may grab headlines, but it’s the local bakery, pest control service, public relations consultant and dress shop that drive the wheels of our economy round and round.

So, we asked local experts, including some who work for or own small businesses themselves, to share their insight and advice on common and current small business trends, issues and topics.

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B EXPERTS OFFER

From hair salons and home-décor stores to dentists to dog groomers, all types of small businesses are crucial pieces of our economic puzzle. But this diverse group is also tied together by shared challenges.

SAGE ADVICE (10+ TOPICS) FOR SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS. The A[dvice] List BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY

There are directions to local education and training resources and templates for business plans. It marks pitstops for business fuel, aka financing, and offers advice on location selection. Near the end of the trip, it provides all the forms and necessary paperwork required by the City to begin a business. Find it all at montgomery.al.gov.com under the Work tab.

With its “How to Start a Business Roadmap,” the City of Montgomery has streamlined the process of creating a new small business here. The map guides entrepreneurs to all the vital waypoints on their journey.

Andrea Rogers Mosley

Mosley shared key tips for overcoming these barriers:Havea sound business plan: A business plan is an important strategic tool that helps entrepreneurs to develop and map out focused steps to make sound decisions before the

HERESTART

Theresaid. are significant challenges. “Most financial institutions require a minimum of two years of financial statements before considering loaning money,” she said. “Many startup entrepreneurs lack the years in business or established credit history these financial institutions may require. This has a huge impact on the successful launch or growth of small businesses.”

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Andrea Rogers Mosley, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at ASU, is an expert on the importance of adequate funding for small businesses and noted the financial hurdles many of them face. “Accessing capital is vital to the survival of businesses, especially small businesses. Without it, small businesses, especially microbusinesses, struggle with the potential to grow or create jobs. Most entrepreneurs cannot start new businesses or grow their existing companies without capital,” Mosley

02 HOW TO: CAPITALACCESS

Alabama recently put special emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, forming the Alabama establishedCorporation,Innovationapublic-privatepartnershipbytheAlabamaLegislature.TheChambersupportedthisinitiativeaswellasthepassageofabillthatincreasesaccesstoventurecapitalforsmallandminoritybusinesses. launch of a business. The business plan helps to create short and long-term objectives through research that helps business owners succeed.

The Small Business Administration (sba.gov). The Small Business banking experts at Wells Fargo. Graul also listed these tips for successfully securing capital:

CHAMBERYOURATWORK

• Establish checking and savings accounts specifically for your business and separate from your personal accounts.

There are many options for small business owners,” he said. He pointed to these specific resources:

Small Business Resource Center (hop.hosting.wellsfargo.com/3bp2) is a Wells Fargo site that offers articles, videos and information on a variety of small business topics like credit and financing, cash flow and financial management, business planning and operations.

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• Build relationships with three critical partners: an attorney, a CPA and a banker.

SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES: Small Business Resource Navigator (bizresourcenavigator.com) is an online portal helping connect small business owners to potential financing options and technical assistance through Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) across the country.

• Having good relationships with these partners will help ensure they understand your business, your industry and your goals, and that they can help you navigate business life cycle changes as your business grows.

Include real numbers: A solid plan should include research that identifies needed funds to support an entrepreneur’s vision of starting and growing a business, as well as a minimum of three financial projections of annual revenue and use of “Myfunds.business conversation with an entrepreneur always begins with personal wealth, credit and financial matters because an entrepreneur’s success starts with their initial skin in the game,” she said. She also pointed to additional available resources. “SBA [Small Business Administration] has two great programs, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program that provide seed money up to $750,000 for small business technology start-ups.”

Entrepreneurs can learn more at SBIR.gov.

• It’s also important to connect with other business owners; create an advisory board to help you think through your business plan, the industry and pitfalls.

• Start by creating a sound business plan.

• Be able to demonstrate a consistent flow of funds over time, creating a record that shows long-term stability.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFULLY SECURING BUSINESS CAPITAL: Mitch Graul

And Mitch Graul, Small Business Leader at Wells Fargo, offered this advice. “One barrier is a lack of awareness about where to go.

• Ensure you create sound financial footing.

NEED KNOW:TO INSURANCEBUSINESSSMALL

Lyvonnia S. Poppell, CPA Principal and tax line of business leader at Jackson Thornton highlighted recent changes in tax law that affect small businesses. In 2021, the Alabama Electing Pass-Through Entity Tax Act became law, which, beginning with the 2021 tax year, allows Alabama S-Corporations and Subchapter K entities to elect to pay Alabama income tax at the entity level. Most owners will see a tax savings of 1 to 2 percent of the entity’s income. Caution: This is not an automatic decision for the entity. The tax situations of the owners will play an important role in whether or not the election should be made. There were not significant Federal tax law changes for 2022, but here are a couple of reminders and upcoming changes to consider: Through the pandemic and now continuing, many employers have allowed employees to continue to work remotely in other locations. Employers could have income tax and payroll tax filing requirements in those locations.

MY!OHLEGAL,ANDINSURANCETAXES, KNOW:TO TAXES

NEED

There is still time to consider the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), which provides employers up to $7,000 per employee per quarter in refundable tax relief for the first three quarters of 2021 (and a reduced benefit for 2020). There are two ways you can qualify for the ERC: 1) if there was a reduction in revenues; and, 2) if your business/charity has had a more than nominal disruption due to federal, state, local government or regulatory COVID orders.

Business Auto covers damages to others in a vehicle used for the business. Comprehensive and Collision Automobile Insurance covers repair costs for a vehicle if there is a collision or weather damage. If a company has employees using their vehicles for business purposes, ensure “nonowned and hired” coverage is in place to protect the organization. Workers’ Compensation provides for medical expenses and lost wages for an employee if they were injured on the job. The department of industrial relations requires Workers’ Comp for five or more employees, and company owners count as employees.

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Lyvonnia S. Poppell Todd Johnson, Vice President of Palomar Insurance Corporation, listed the insurance coverage that most small businesses need today.

General Liability protects an organization if an accident occurs at the premises of a business, such as trips and falls and covers bodily injury or property damage of others, not the business owner or employees.

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Local attorney Sandra Lewis shared a few legal topics small business owners should stay on top of. And for a really small business (read, individuals) ready to grow, Davis Smith, Partner at Bradley, explained what to consider when deciding if and when to move from sole proprietor to an LLC or S-Corp. Davis Smith Always keep business financial records separate from personal financial records. Report income and pay taxes to the IRS in a timely manner. Always maintain and protect the privacy of your clientele.

LLCs also have tax benefits: You are only taxed once on the income you earn through that LLC. This income flows through to your personal tax return.”

Todd Johnson

My personal preference for a small business is LLC because it provides the most flexibility for an owner in how it can be set up, particularly if you are a business that looks to grow in the future.

Inland Marine Coverage. If the business has any property that leaves the premises, it needs to be scheduled on an inland marine policy to provide coverage while off-premises. Although some call these items “business personal property,” each item should be scheduled to provide coverage for physical damage while offsite.

Property Insurance covers physical damage to buildings or business personal property and should be reviewed every renewal to consider any property appreciation. Flood is excluded, so businesses should consider a flood policy if applicable. Any business that relies on its location to do business, such as a restaurant, should also consider business income coverage. This coverage would provide income to the business while the property is being repaired.

NEED KNOW:TO LEGAL LEGALFROMADVICELOCALPROS:

“If you operate as sole proprietor, that means creditors can come after not just your business assets but personal assets. This includes someone who has won a lawsuit against you. But if you operate your business inside an LLC or corporation, the only recourse creditors usually have are the assets inside that business entity. That’s why I think it is always a good idea to be an LLC or corporation for the protection it offers. Once you decide to go this route, you choose between forming an LLC or incorporating.

Sandra Lewis

Marcel McElroy, President of Top Talent Recruiter, outlined some necessary steps for grabbing talent and holding on to it. “You’ve got to understand today’s market, and many don’t,” he said. It’s no longer business as usual. Demand is extremely high, and good talent is hard to find. “If you see someone you like, you need to make a fast decision, or you’ll miss out,” he said. McElroy currently has a paralegal interviewing with five firms and thinks she’ll get four offers, so she can take her pick.

Social Commerce. Selling goods and services directly from social media is growing to beat out traditional e-commerce and is completely trouncing regular ole “walk into the store” shopping. But to do it well, your business must build trust with consumers. Many are accomplishing this by harnessing the power of social media influencers, who already have the trust of a large audience, and getting them to promote their product or service.

06 HOW TO: HIRE & EMPLOYEESRETAIN MARKETING NEED

The power of digital marketing was proven in the pandemic, and it’s likely here to stay: Loyalty Marketing. This method (offering consumers discounts and other offers based on their past purchasing habits) has been around, but now technology and specific data are fine-tuning it.

Personal Branding. Don’t hide behind your business. People connect with other people. By identifying and sharing your unique story, you can achieve emotional engagement and build that all-important consumer trust you need for social commerce. KNOW:TO Marcel McElroy ON RETENTION:

07 ON HIRING:

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This has an obvious consequence: It drives up what employers have to pay. But it’s not only about salary. “Expanded benefits and increased flexibly—like remote work options and flex hours—are important to potential hires too. Other perks, like an in-house gym or paid membership to a gym are becoming the norm,” McElroy said. “I’ve not seen pet insurance as a benefit on an offer yet, but I’ve heard of it. In fact, the pandemic really made these things a priority for a lot of people.”

Position titles are changing too. Now, an executive assistant might be called a project manager. A sales rep may now be a client service rep. “This can get confusing if you can’t tell what they are or what the job does, but for some, the title matters,” he said. “It makes them feel good about the role they’re playing in the business. So, for those who care about that, the right title can be another way to set yourself apart from the competition. Employers willing to get creative with everything they offer will have a better time finding the right people.” The higher wages, the perks, the flexibility bring people in but can also help you keep people. “I tell employers to look at what you offer your employees and ask yourself, ‘What would I think about this if I was an employee?’” McElroy said. “If it’s not enough to keep you, it’s not enough to keep your good employees either.”

GET STARTED:

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For a wide range of small businesses, government contracts can prove a lucrative revenue source. Yet the complex process of even trying for them is daunting. Eric Sloan, President of 1Sync Technologies, offered a road map with turn-by-turn directions to put small biz owners on the right path.

ARE THERE ANY LOCAL AGENCIES THAT CAN HELP WALK A SMALL BUSINESS THROUGH THE PROCESS? Yes. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC), located at The Alabama State University and Troy’s SBDC in Troy provide great resources for starting or growing a small company. We also have SCORE, a network of mentors who are helpful guides, and the Alabama Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) provides education programs that can assist when acquiring government contracts.

WHAT’S THE VALUE OF THESE CERTIFICATIONS? The federal government has set aside contracts to be awarded to those businesses that hold specific certifications to meet their socioeconomic goals. These designations make you more desirable in the market, giving you access for better partnership opportunities with firms, increasing access to funding opportunities and grants, as well as distinguishing you from your competitors who may lack the same credentials.

The best place to obtain that information is from the Small SBAAdministrationBusinesssba.gov. Thewillwalkyouthroughthe process of obtaining these certifications; however, it is the responsibility of the business entity to market their business and find the opportunities.

WHAT IS THE FIRST STEP A SMALL BUSINESS NEEDS TO TAKE TO GET ACCESS TO GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS? Get an employer identification number (EIN). The next step is to register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) at SAM.gov. This site will guide you through registration.

WHAT’S YOUR NO. 1 PIECE OF ADVICE WHEN IT COMES TO SMALL BUSINESSES AND GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS? I wouldn’t just provide one piece of advice because there are so many variables to government contracting. However, I would encourage those seeking access to network, network and network. Next, invest in the resources that can assist in educating you and your businesses team and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Lastly, operate with integrity in all of your business affairs while building and maintaining relationships. GET

HOW CAN A SMALL BUSINESS CERTIFIED?MINORITY/WOMEN-OWNED/VETERANGET

CONTRACTSGOVERNMENT

08 HOW TO:

Eric Sloan

Get an employer identification number (EIN). Register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) at SAM.Gov. Visit Small Business Administration sba.gov to be certified as a minority business. Check out The Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) located at Alabama State University and Troy University.

MBJ: HOW IS THE WORK-AT-HOME TREND

According to Gene Cody, Associate Broker at Moore Company Realty, in some businesses, open floorplans are replacing closed doors and cubicles, allowing for more collaboration and the free flow of ideas. “These ‘we-work’ spaces are big with younger generation leadership, and landlords should take note,” he says. “When renting to these guys, construction may be part of the deal as these CEOs and owners want to tear out walls to open things up.” In addition to the other aspects recruiter Marcel McElroy mentioned, the vibe of your business’ workplace can play a major part in attracting and keeping employees. Adding these elements can help create an inclusive, positive culture at your office: Encouraging volunteerism and service. Maintaining accountability that’s consistently applied from the top leadership down. Promoting and assisting in employee wellness. Providing (and paying for) opportunities for connection and fun, a.k.a. office parties and get-togethers.

CODY: When negotiating new leases, small businesses, like everyone else, are seeing rental rates increasing along with every other cost due to inflation. Annual increases were averaging about 2 percent a year; in today’s environment, you could argue it should be 8 percent, based on inflation. But that’s not happening. Landlords are not asking tenants for that much more. Most are trying to get 3 percent annual increases at a minimum. At the end of the day, if I was coaching a small business in a real estate deal, I’d tell them they have to pass that cost to their customers and consumers. As is true with every kind of real estate, the location, location, location of your office can have an impact on morale, productivity and the perception of potential clients or customers. But the interior set up is equally important.

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CODY: We were already seeing a small shift to work-from-home pre-pandemic, but when COVID hit, it really accelerated the idea of remote work, and that trend absolutely impacted office leasing activity. That has changed. People are going back to the office. Businesses are leasing new spaces. Right now, we are getting pretty close to prepandemic levels. There are some companies continuing to allow a lot of work from home that are just now getting to the time where they would renew leases, and they won’t be renewing. I see another little dip coming when that happens. But overall, I’m optimistic.

Gene Cody

OFFICE CULTURE NEED KNOW:TO OFFICE SPACE EYES ON:09

MBJ: ARE THERE OTHER NOTABLE TRENDS IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AFFECTING SMALL BUSINESSES RIGHT NOW?

Gene Cody, Associate Broker at Moore Company Realty, offered his take on the state of commercial real estate.

IMPACTING COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE?

OFFICE SET-UP NEED KNOW:TO

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When did you start with Valley Bank? I started with Aliant Bank in 2009, and then through acquisitions, that became Valley Bank. So, I’ve been with this bank for almost 13 years.

I’m very passionate about the Montgomery Area Food Bank and the good work it does. I served on its board for a long time, and as a bank we remain very supportive of that organization. I love dogs. I have two standard poodles who are both big spoiledrotten babies. I also love spending time with my grandkids; I have three right here in Montgomery. And I enjoy spending time at the beach. I’m an avid saltwater angler. I go fishing as often as possible. I once caught an award-winning trigger fish.

What’s on the horizon for the banking industry?

Where are you originally from? I was born and raised in Huntsville and moved to Montgomery in 1996. I’ve lived here so long now, I feel like a native.

Overall for banking, we are talking about technology all the time; it is changing so fast. We have to stay on top of it and offer all the products, services and conveniences our customers want and need to stay competitive. We want them to have the best possible digital experience, and that can be a challenge because with every advancement and move in technology comes the risk of fraud. Security issues for us, and for any bank, are a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week issue that never goes away. It is our duty to protect our clients from that danger. And of course, we’re always watching interest rates. As they move in any direction, they can push people to rethink projects.

What first got you interested in banking?

During summers in college, I worked for a bank in Huntsville, in the credit department. I was majoring in finance, and I went straight into banking. At that time, I actually thought I wanted to become an accountant, so I went back to school, got an accounting degree and my CPA. But, when I was done with all of that, my banking career was really taking off, and I was enjoying it, so I decided to stay on that path.

Why are you and the bank so involved with and supportive of The Chamber? It goes back to what I was just talking about: the teamwork. I am on the Exec Committee for the Chamber, and that has been very rewarding because I have learned so much more about this city. It has really put a spotlight on the many ways the Chamber, the business community and the city work together toward common goals. I love seeing that, and I don’t think it is like this in many other places. I’m also so impressed with the Chamber staff. They work so hard across so many different areas. I tell our customers all the time that the Chamber is out there working for us, for them and for what is in the best interests of all our businesses.

What is your impression of Montgomery’s current business climate? I feel very good about Montgomery’s business climate and our local business community. We have a really strong support system thanks to the Chamber. I think we can make it through whatever we face because we face it and work through it together.

Caryn Hughes has a positive outlook on her career, her company and the capital city. The Senior Vice President; Alabama Commercial Lending Executive of Valley Bank shared her thoughts on banking, the impact she believes her work has, the local business climate and her sunny forecast for Montgomery.

CARYN HUGHES

POWERHOUSE Q&A

What are your interests outside of work?

I am the Alabama Market Executive and more specifically, I manage the commercial lending for the bank. We have commercial lenders throughout our footprint in the state: Montgomery, Birmingham, Alex City and Auburn. We serve all sizes of business, including small business. We have a commercial real estate division too, and I work closely with them.

What is the most rewarding part of your work? That’s easy: the community impact work we do. One of the main things I love about Valley Bank is the emphasis we put on being truly engaged in our communities. Our CEO stresses the importance of this, and he doesn’t want us just donating money. He wants us to give our time too, to volunteer. We are all encouraged to find our passion and to give back to that, to get involved.

What are your primary duties?

O’CONNORGRACEBYPHOTOGRAPHY INVESTORPROFILE

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LeadingLady

“I was recently honored by the Girl Scouts. I was given the organization’s Leading Lady Award. I am so behind the work they do, mentoring young girls into leadership, so that recognition meant a lot, probably more than any award I’ve ever received.”

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With her More Than Tours, a social enterprise that provides educational and interactive tours of the capital city, and the new More Up Campus, artist Michelle Browder is using Montgomery’s rich past to help local students and others have a richer future.

What’s on the horizon? We’re doing programs at the More Than a Horse Farm, 17 acres on the Selma to Montgomery Trail that is home to rescue horses, dogs, cats and rabbits. Here too, we use art and history with the addition of horseback riding, to heal both children and mature riders with an emphasis on providing a space for underserved communities of morethantours.uscolor.

MEMBER PROFILE AN INTERVIEW WITH A CHAMBER MEMBER

MICHELLEBROWDER

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When and why did you start More Than Tours? I started I Am More Than in 2012 to expose students to Montgomery’s story and motivate them to be “More Than” a statistic, generalization or stereotype. We needed funding for on-going projects for 52 students. I’m not a grant writer; I am however, a creative and entrepreneur, so I started More Than Tours in September 2016. I didn’t see a tour company in Montgomery delving deeper into this history and offering more than a watered-down version of King’s dream and Rosa’s aching feet. I thought it was important to explore more of Montgomery’s rich history and speak truth to the civil rights struggle. What is the More Up Campus? In 2012, I decided to leave Montgomery. But then the students let me know they wanted more exposure and more information on how they can be productive citizens. Students wanted to be successful business owners, artists and more. I listened, and my path took a sharp turn to the needs of these students; I decided to stay in Montgomery and create The More Up Campus.

As part of Michelle Browder’s honest look at area history, she created the Mothers of Gynecology sculpture monument on the More Up Campus. This moving exhibit of three women rendered in metal was erected to honor the sacrifice of Anarcha, Lucy and Betsey, the three enslaved women who were used as subjects in experiments conducted by the so-called “father of gynecology,” Dr. J. Marion Sims. MEET

BRANCHING OUT

MAJOR GENERAL JERRY MARTIN

MILITARY PROFILE AN INTERVIEW

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I joined in 1979 as an enlisted soldier. After eight years, I did commissioning through the Alabama Military Academy, and graduated in 1987. I joined to be of service. And I have a military background in my family; my father was a Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard. Many members of my wife’s family also served. How long have you been Deputy Adjuntant General? Since February 2021. Before that, I was in a position in Birmingham as Commander of the 135th Sustainment Command. Then COVID hit, and Major General Sheryl E. Gordon asked me to come work for her. I was appointed the senior military advisor to the Alabama Department of Public health during the pandemic, and I stayed in that role until December 2021. What are your primary duties and responsibilities in this role?

Major General Jerry Martin’s dad served in the Air Force, yet when he chose to join up, he picked the Army. “We had an armory right in Alex City, where I’m from and where I already had a job I liked, and the recruiter, who was Army, painted an appealing picture. I talked it over with my dad, and he was fine with it, so I went that route,” he said. “It was the right move. I’ve had such strong mentors through my entire military career who coached and guided me. I could not have asked for more.”

When and why did you join the Alabama National Guard?

I am the voice for Major General Gordon; she stays busy focusing on efforts at a strategic level, so I am the connection within the Air Force and Army colonel commands that we have across the state to ensure we have the readiness in terms of training and personnel to support the governor’s intent in the event of a natural disaster and to meet our other goals and objectives. We also have a federal mission, so we must make sure we have a ready force to answer when we are called on to fight and win our nation’s wars.

The Alabama National Guard’s Assistant Adjuntant General Jerry Martin is committed to creating the conditions that set Alabama’s soldiers and airmen up for success and calls his decades of dedicated service “the biggest honor of his life.”

O’CONNORGRACEBYPHOTOGRAPHY WITH A MILITARY MEMBER

What’s one thing about the AL National Guard you think people should know (that they probably don’t)? We offer so much opportunity for service but also for education, advancement and personal growth in so many career fields. The Guard is just a tremendous opportunity. What are your interests outside of work? My family. My wife Donna has been with me for the long haul and has been a rock. I used to play golf and hunt and fish, but now, I’m just enjoying being with loved ones at every opportunity. I have daughter in Auburn, a son in Northport, and I have a grandson.

What’s your civilian job? I am now retired, and I retired from Russell Corp in Alex City, where I was the operations manager in the team sports division. It was a tremendous career that helped me with and complemented my military service. It was rewarding to mentor and develop our staff and to be a team player and see how that contributed to the company and to our community. In both my civilian and military careers, I tried to lead by example and lead from front. I never asked anyone to do anything I would not do.

What’s your favorite aspect of your work?

Shaping the future. God only knows what that future holds, but as it relates to training and readiness of our soldiers, the most enjoyable part of my job is being able to get out and mentor our commanders in the field and make sure we provide every opportunity for our soldiers and airmen to be successful. We are committed to that.

Maxwell.af.mil We offer so much opportunity for service but also for education, advancement and personal growth in so many career fields. The Guard is just a tremendous opportunity. “

SUPPORTSUCCESSFOR

“We’ve made some great connections and networked with some phenomenal people,” she said. “The goal is to stay in The Lab for at least two years and then just start looking for real estate to buy an office space downtown,” Shepherd added.

By Minnie Lamberth B Grace bgrace.mediaMedia

28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL Diversity & Inclusion

Dr. Diana Gray moved her DSG Business Consulting Services into The Lab on Dexter in December 2021 as a location for clients to meet with her for training and other startup support. Her mission, she said, is to “be a role model to other business owners or those who aspire to be business owners, especially Behind the Benefits Co-working space is just one of the offerings available to women-owned businesses at The Lab. Meet the ladies currently making use of its multiple resources and learn more about what they do. check out more here:

There are several impressive women business owners and professionals who are taking advantage of the Lab’s education and business development programs as well as other resources, and The Lab welcomes the opportunity to provide support for their work. “If you look at the statistics and data of business owners who started businesses during COVID, women were the leading force in those entrepreneurship efforts,” Thompson said. “We want to make sure we provide support for women leaders.”

The Lab on Dexter opened on August 30, 2021, at 150 Dexter Avenue as a collaborative learning environment for entrepreneurs, tech and innovation professionals and others who simply wish to work in an innovative environment. “We’re at the intersection of tech and entrepreneurship,” explained Executive Director Dr. Nichole Thompson. “We’ve had a full menu of offerings over the past year. As we gear up to celebrate our oneyear anniversary, we are developing more offerings to meet the needs of our community. Those programs will be for an early-starter entrepreneur and some programs will be for those who are already in business but may just need some support to close education gaps or scale their business.”

Supporting and strengthening female entrepreneurs in the capital city is a core element of The Lab on Dexter’s mission.

Chasiti Shepherd is president of B Grace Media, a public relations and marketing agency founded in Birmingham in 2012 that expanded to Montgomery in 2022. “We like to say that we’re transcultural story tellers, and we connect brands with people and get them talking,” Shepherd said. “We have all types of clients,” she added. “We work with organizations from pediatricians to politicians, and anybody in between.” This past January, the agency opened its second location with a move into office space at The Lab on Dexter. With different types of businesses already at The Lab, Shepherd said, “It sounded like a prime opportunity for us to have office space and also network.” Her team has since been establishing itself in the community, making connections with the Chamber as well as local government and schools.

Terika Thompson classifies Clintac Clinical Consulting as “a very niche business.” Thompson provides project management and operational management on clinical trials for pharmaceutical and biotech companies. She’s been in this field for about 15 years, having gotten her start running clinical trials at a gynecology practice in Montgomery. “Then I went to work for a biotech company directly monitoring their clinical trials or doing quality management for their clinical trials, and it was just a natural progression from there.” Along with her work experience, she earned bachelor’s in biology and master’s in chemistry. Since February 2022, Thompson has been able to accomplish this work from co-working space at The Lab on Dexter. “It gives me a break from working in my home office, gives me a new environment to work in, and the opportunity to break the silence in my home and talk to other people who are working remotely.” Even if they’re not in the same industry, they may be facing the same struggle of working remotely, she noted. Along with Wi-Fi, chair, desk and printing resources, she said, “There are meeting rooms available. I do deal with very sensitive information.”

“If you look at the

Dr. Nichole Thompson

check out more here: DSG dianasgray.comServices,ConsultingBusiness check out more here: community.com Clintac ConsultingClinicalcheck out more here:

The LAB on Dexter Executive Director

29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM those who are trying to transition from their 9-5 job like I did,” she said. “I brand myself as a ‘Passionpreneur.’ I believe in monetizing your passion,” Gray added. Gray, who began her consulting work in 2016, has a long track record of following her passions. In 2006, she launched Arts in Motion, now known as Montgomery Arts Academy, which provides music instruction for preschoolers through adults. Currently housed at its West Third Street location, Gray said that it started as an afterschool music program. “When I transitioned from full-time teaching in Montgomery, I made it a full-time shop for myself.” Gray is a graduate of Huntingdon College and has earned additional degrees from Auburn, Jacksonville State, Liberty University and Northcentral University of Phoenix.

“The most foundational piece of my career was working at Raytheon in the Boston area,” McKinney said. She was there for nine years, which included time for her to get her master’s at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. After her career in Boston, she decided to come back home.

duringownersofstatisticsanddatabusinesswhostartedbusinessesCOVID,womenweretheleadingforceinthoseefforts.”-

McKinneyJacqueline works for a start-up company based in Santa Monica, California, called Community. com. “Community provides leaders—we call our clients leaders—direct access to their fans,” McKinney said. That leader could be a musician, actor, politician or even a company—as long as they have fans or followers who opt to keep in touch through text messaging. McKinney is a software engineer. “I build out the features and software that run the platform,” she explained. She accomplishes these duties in Montgomery, operating out of coworking space at The Lab on Dexter, which provides her with a touch of her own community for her virtual work. A graduate of Lee High School, McKinney earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Tuskegee University, where she was also in the ROTC. After a brief military career, she started her professional career in Ohio, then moved to Boston.

30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM nonprofits leading the way montgomery 2022 our city’swithorganizationsheart SERVE • GUIDE • GIVE SPECIAL SECTION THE BIG GIVE photography by aubrie moates

32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL Montgomery’s nonprofits are leading the way to a better tomorrow. Jeff Parker service dogs alabama nelson smith Renascence, Inc. Jenny Savage alabama institute for deaf and blind Carol gunter cancer wellness foundation SETTING THE PACE

33 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM Monica Vandiver sickle cell foundation Patrick Wood jackson hospital billy irvin faith radio Debbie Lynn Easterseals of alabama Ghandi Daniels the wellness coalition

34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL Gerald Jones brantwood children’s home Tay Knight family sunshine center Thomas Rains the judge frank m. johnson, Jr. institute Charity Alpert court appointed special advocates

Alabama Sheriff’s Youth Ranches, Inc. 334-213-0213alabamasheriffsyouthranches.org

Central Alabama Crime Stoppers, Inc. 334-215-7867215stop.com

Central Alabama Aging Consortium 334-240-4680centralalabamaaging.org Central CommunityAlabamaFoundation 334-264-6223cacfinfo.org

21 Dreams Arts & Culture 334-721-512121dreamsmgm.org A+ Education Partnership 334-279-1886aplusala.org

American Heart Association 334-233-3674montgomeryheart.org/en/affiliates/alabama/

35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

AGAPE 334-272-9466agapeforchildren.org

Alabama Cattlemen’s Association 334-265-1867bamabeef.org

Alabama Federation,WildlifeInc. 334-285-4550alabamawildlife.org

American Red Cross of Central East Alabama 334-201-1620redcross.org

Bridge Builders Alabama 334-202-0391bridgebuildersalabama.org

Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama 334-264-2112alabamachambers.org Child Protect, Inc. 334-262-1220childprotect.org

Montgomery’s multiple nonprofits continue to do good in our community, so we wanted to spotlight their leaders in a place that’s also adding some goodness to the city: Ravello. This new restaurant downtown, with chef Eric Rivera at the helm, is dishing up authentic coastal Italian cuisine that’s pleasing palates, as proven by its always-packed dining spaces. It’s serving more than good food though. The ambiance is equally enticing thanks to the thoughtful renovation of the 1920s bank building Ravello occupies. Vintage Hospitality Group owns the restaurant and took great care to preserve and refurbish its significant architectural details while bringing back a touch of the “golden age” glamour the roaring twenties were famous for.

A-KEEP Partnership)Education(Alabama-KoreaandEconomic 334-625-8515akeep.org

A SPOT FOR GOOD

American Cancer Society 334-462-7934cancer.org

Catholic Social Services of Montgomery 334-288-8890cssalabama.org

Alabama Association for Justice 334-262-4974alabamajustice.org

CASA of Montgomery County 334-329-8584casaofmontgomerycounty.org

Alabama Institute for Deaf & Blind 334-262-0824aidb.org

Alabama Military Support Foundation 334-657-9322foundation.comalabamamilitarysupport

Brantwood Children’s Home 334-265-0784brantwoodchildrenshome.org

Baptist Health Care Foundation 334-273-4564baptistfirst.org

Alabama Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc. 334-546-5257alabamacacs.org

Business Council of Alabama 334-834-6000bcatoday.org

Alzheimer’s Association 205-379-8065alz.org

Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama 334-273-2279cancerwellnessfoundation.org

montgomery chamber noNproit members

• •

Alabama Association of Nonprofits 205-726-4712alabamanonprofits.org

36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL Vic Wilson council for leaders in alabama schools Jada Shaffer american heart association John Bowman Hope inspired ministries Blake Horne embrace alabama kids Ashley Tarrant medical advocacy and outreach

Goodwill Industries of Central Alabama 334-263-4633algoodwill.org Health Services, Inc. 334-420-5001healthservicesinc.org

Dexter Avenue King Memorial Legacy Center 334-239-9382legacy-centerdexterkingmemorial.org/about/

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Inc. 334-272-9164girlscoutssa.org

Hope Inspired Ministries, Inc. 334-649-4330hopeinspiredministries.org

Gift of Life Foundation 334-272-1820golfound.org

Coosa-Alabama River Improvement Association, Inc. 334-235-1718caria.org

Children First 334-604-1043alabamachildrenfirst.com

Gathering of Eagles Foundation 661-221-2396goefoundation.org

DISMAS Charities, Inc. 334-281-0322dismas.com

Dream Court 334-414-1980facebook.com/jessiweyllc Easterseals Alabama, Inc. 334-395-4489easterseals.com Easterseals Central Alabama 334-288-0240eastersealsca.org

37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM Grant Writing 101 & 102 September 27 & 29 @ the Montgomery Chamber Registration: montgomerychamber. com/events

Faith Radio/WLBF 334-271-8900faithradio.org

Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools 334-265-3610clasleaders.org Council on Substance Abuse 334-262-1629cosancadd.org

Father Purcell Memorial Exceptional Children’s Center 334-834-5590fpchildrenshospital.org

Junior League of Montgomery 334-288-8816juniorleaguemontgomery.org Kiwanis Club of Montgomery 334-260-7996kiwanisone.org Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery 334-240-4500landmarksfoundation.com

Leading Ladies of Legacy, Inc. 404-889-8626leadingladiesoflegacy.org Medical Advocacy & Outreach 334-280-3349maoi.org

tametria conner dantzler d.a.t.s. m.o.m. joy blondheim joy to life foundation kristin byrd child protect nonprofit leaders• • Regina E. Coley Leading Ladies of Legacy Inc. montgomery chamber nonproit members • • Event for Nonprofits: check this out katie jeter alabama children first Dr. nichole Thompson bridge builders alabama

Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move 334-669-6590datsmom.org Disabled American Veterans 334-271-5077dav.org

Jackson Hospital Foundation 334-293-6940jackson.org Joy To Life Foundation 334-284-5433joytolife.org

Hospice of Montgomery 334-279-6677hospiceofmontgomery.org

Family Guidance Center of Alabama 334-270-4100familyguidancecenter.org Family Sunshine Center 334-206-2100familysunshine.org

Montgomery Area Business Committee for the Arts 334-263-2224mabca.org

Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation 334-834-5200montgomerychamber.com

38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL tommy mckinnon baptist health foundation Graham Champion tuckabatchee area boy scouts Jannah Bailey river region uniteD way Gilbert Darrington health services inc. Donna Marietta montgomery area council on aging

The Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute 334-954-3695thejohnsoninstitute.org

The Baptist Foundation of Alabama 334-394-2006tbfa.org

United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama 334-271-2280ucpcentralalabama.org

The Marlon and Marcus Foundation 334-531-1811marlonandmarcusfoundation.org

39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM Montgomery Area Council on Aging, Inc. 334-263-0532macoa.org Montgomery Area Food Bank 334-263-3784montgomeryareafoodbank.org Montgomery Baptist Association 334-271-6227mgmbaptists.org Montgomery Bicycle Club 334-322-0639mgmbikeclub.org Montgomery Capital Rotary Club, Inc. 334-233-9086montgomerycapitalrotary.org Montgomery Community Action Agency 334-263-3474mcaccdcinc.org Montgomery Education Foundation 334-647-1700montgomeryed.org Montgomery Humane Society 334-409-0622montgomeryhumane.com Montgomery Job Corps Center 334-262-8883montgomery.jobcorps.govExt163 Montgomery Rotary Club 334-260-4021montgomeryrotaryclub.com National Association of Social Workers - Alabama Chapter 334-356-6841naswal.org Our Children’s Academy, LLC 334-647-1113 Pens Up Guns Down 334-590-0267pensupgunsdown.org Pounds of Care/ MOCA Family Services 334-834-1146 Renascence, Inc. 334-832-1402halfway-home.net Resurrection Catholic Missions 334-263-4221rcmsouth.org River Region United Way 334-264-7318riverregionunitedway.org

Service Dogs Alabama 334-676-3733servicedogsalabama.org

The Wellness Coalition 334-293-6502thewellnesscoalition.org Triumph Services, Inc. 205-581-1000triumphservices.org

MORE THAN 100 NONPROFIT CHAMBER MEMBERS serve COMMUNITIES HERE AT HOME AND AROUND THE STATE. montgomery chamber nonproit members • •

The Arc of Alabama, Inc. 334-262-7688thearcofal.org

That’s My Child 334-239-7434thatsmychildmgm.org

Tukabatchee Area Council/Boy Scouts of America, Inc. 334-262-2697tukabatcheebsa.org Unique Restoration Ministry 334-235-9387

The Dannon Project 205-202-4072dannonproject.org

Sickle Cell Foundation of Greater Montgomery, Inc. 334-286-9122riverregionsicklecell.com

The House of Serenity 334-655-4175

The Arts Council of Montgomery 334-625-2787artscouncilmontgomery.org

The Ivy Foundation of Montgomery, Inc. 334-544-0796ivyfoundationmontgomery.org

The King’s Canvas 334-657-7049thekingscanvas.org

The Learning Tree, Inc 334-252-0025learning-tree.org

The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc 334-262-7787tsccenter.org

United Methodist Children’s Home 334-386-5354umch.net Ext 240 Women of Refined Gold, Inc. 334-877-7013womenofrefinedgold.org YMCA of Greater Montgomery 334-269-4362ymcamontgomery.org

Salvation Army 334-265-0281salvationarmyalm.org/montgomery Serquest 205-566-7257serquest.com

Southern Poverty Law Center 334-SPLCenter.org956-8351 Strong Foundation 251-377-9537strongfoundationmgm.com

THE BAPTIST HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION

BACKGROUND: Since 1972, the Baptist Health Care Foundation has been the recipient of gifts that have assisted Baptist Health in providing benevolencecare,includinglivesreceivedofhealthcarecomprehensiveforthecitizensCentralAlabama.Giftshavealsotouchedinothermeaningfulways,scholarships,hospiceemployeeemergencyandmore.

DONATE TODAY AT BaptistFoundation.org

This state-of-the-art mobile unit will perform mammography screenings, outreach, prevention and education, in addition to patient navigation services that manage treatment plans and foster a caring environment. The Driving HOPE Mobile Mammography Unit will also be available for more than 150 annual Baptist Health community events.

40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MISSION: To develop resources that support Baptist Health’s ministry in providing the best quality healthcare services and programs to the people of Central Alabama.

BRAG LINES: Following the $400,000 fundraising success for a mobile cancer screening and education unit to be launched within the year, Montgomery Cancer Center and Baptist Health now plan to bring mobile mammography screenings where they’re needed most with the Montgomery Cancer Center’s Driving HOPE Mobile Mammography Cancer Screening Unit. Addressing the healthcare needs of residents in 12 mostly rural counties, this new 37-foot mobile unit will provide cancercommunitiesunderservedwithlife-savingscreeningservices.

WISHLIST: It is easy to donate to the annual campaign on our website. There are also many volunteer opportunities available.

BRAG LINES: We have a new President/CEO, Jannah Bailey. In the almost 100-year history of the River Region United Way, Bailey is the first female to serve in this role.

BACKGROUND: Nearly 100 years ago, The River Region United Way started as The Community Chest and The Community Council. These two organizations combined with one goal in mind: to create a consolidated campaign to raise funds for the social service agencies in Montgomery. Many organizations in the River Region can trace their origin to the original Community Council, including Montgomery Association for Retarded Children (MARC), Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) and Chemical Addictions Program (CAP).

RIVER REGION UNITED WAY

UPCOMING EVENTS: Annual fundraising campaign happening now In the River Region United Way will celebrate 100 years of service and will be celebrating all year with focus on the community that supports the mission of the United Way, the partner agencies, and most importantly those who are served.

MISSION: To improve lives and strengthen our communities by identifying needs needagenciesand supporting our partnerwithresourcestheytoservethoseneeds.

41 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

River Region United Way now covers five counties; Lowndes, Macon, Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery, with the goal of “Making Life Better for Everyone in the River Region.” River Region United Way’s signature event is its annual fundraising campaign that runs from August through December. It is a communitywide fundraising effort and provides funds to the 40-plus agencies currently members of the River Region United Way. These agencies provide services ranging from prenatal care to hospice care and address the health of the human condition. Through all of this, we work together to “Live United.”

42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 MISSION: To provide throughoutassistanceeducationalsupportive,servicesandtocancerpatientscentralAlabama. BACKGROUND: Receiving a cancer diagnosis is devastating for anyone, but what if your fear amplified by having to decide between paying for fuel to get to the cancer center or paying your water bill. What if you had to decide between buying your medications or paying your mortgage? This was the reality for many patients in our area. So, 25 years ago, three local oncologists who recognized this started the foundation. BRAG LINES: In 2021, the foundation provided: •$23,306,634.58 in total assistance with medications through our Patient Advocacy program •$141,545.09 Retail value of Well-Card Program •$1,247,160.00 Co-Pay assistance from various foundations •$21,917,929.49 Free drug program through manufacturers •Transportation assistance (ambulatory and nonambulatory) for 545 patients and 6,540 (unique) rides for patients who don’t have their own transportation to the Cancer Center • $132,184.26 in transportation assistance, including gas vouchers • 1,500+ Comfort Bags • 7,488bottles of Boost to patients at risk of malnutrition • 78 compressionLymphedemaproducts for breast cancer patients • Free wigs via the foundation’s Wig Gig to more than ONE DOZEN cancer patients WISHLIST: Chemo Comfort Care Bags to give to all new patients. These bags are filled with items including: thermometers, pill boxes, blankets, fuzzy socks, chapstick, lotion, puzzle books and hard candy. CANCER WELLNESS FOUNDATION OF CENTRAL ALABAMA UPCOMING EVENTS: Tickled Pink at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl September 24 Beat the Odds Drawdown and Casino Night at Wynlakes Country Club October 20 Holidays of Hope November & December CONTACT US: cancerwellnessfoundation.org334-273-2279

43 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

WISHLIST: Financial donations of any size help Child Protect with the day-to-day operations extra that a child(ren) may

and

BACKGROUND: Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center, was incorporated in November 1989 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit agency. Former Madison County prosecutor, Alabama Congressman Bud Cramer, had the concept of the advocacy centers in the early 1980s. He established the first center in Huntsville, creating a child-friendly environment, where children can come and tell their story one time to a trained professional, thus lessening the trauma on the child and their families. Child Protect serves Montgomery County, the 15th Judicial Circuit.

items

BRAG LINES: Child Protect has continued to see its counseling sessions increase, and the community has continued to support us so that we can continue to serve the children that come through our doors. Also, this year, Child Protect hired a new Executive Director, Kristin Byrd, and during the transition, Child Protect’s staff has worked hard to steady the ship, allowing the organization to not miss a beat.

Additionalneed. needs: • Walmart, Sam’s, Costco, Target and gas cards • Copy paper • Toilet paper • Paper towels • Individually packaged snacks • Bottled water • Box drinks • 5 pack crayons & coloring books • Journals CHILD PROTECT CONTACT US: childprotect.org334-262-1220 UPCOMING EVENTS: Shindig presented by Child Protect’s Junior Executive Board September 18 Swingin’ Fore Kids, Child Protect’s annual golf tournament October 28

MISSION: To interview, counsel and be an advocate for children when there are allegations of abuse.

BACKGROUND: Since 1969, the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) has focused on Alabama’s students by helping build leadership capacity in Alabama’s schools. By providing high-quality professional learning and networking opportunities, Alabama’s school administrators have access to a host of tools to improve their leadership skills. As Alabama’s premier school leader organization, CLAS represents more than 4,100 members. We work every day to help improve K-12 public education by providing exemplary services for administrators. CLAS serves 12 different affiliate organizations representing each type of administrator in Alabama’s public schools and school systems: WISHLIST: Join our Corporate Partnership program to show your support to the education community through participation in our events, programs.designedopportunitiesnetworkingandspeciallysponsorship

COUNCIL FOR LEADERS IN ALABAMA SCHOOLS CONTACT

• CLAS is the only Alabama association founded by administrators for administrators. • We provide professional learning, legal thanrecognitionnetworkingcommunications,services,advocacy,andawards/programsformore4,100membersstatewide.

UPCOMING EVENTS: New Principals Institute, Prattville September 12-13, 2022 Monthly Lunch & Learn Webinars September 2022 – May 2023 Monthly Leadership Institutes September 2022 – April 2023 A full list of events is available at clasleaders.org/events

BRAG LINES:

• CLAS is the premier professional organization for school leaders in Alabama.

44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MISSION: To coordinate and facilitate the resources of all members for the advancement of public education.

• With 12 affiliates, CLAS offers a professional organization for every type of school administrator. US: clasleaders.org334-265-3610800-239-3616

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

CONTACT US: yourethecure.org334-233-3674 Text CURE to 46839 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Join our Alabama State Advocacy Committee Join our You’re the Cure Action Network Attend our Alabama Legislative Advocacy Day, coming in 2023

spring

BACKGROUND: For close to 40 years, You’re the Cure—the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s grassroots network—has been speaking out for public policies that build healthier lives. We’re working to advocate for heart-healthy and stroke-smart communities through legislative and regulatory policies in our cities, states and across the country, and we hope you’ll join us! The American Heart Association, along with You’re the Cure advocates, is working to: Close the coverage gap. To make our families healthier and our economy stronger, we remain committed to urging Alabama lawmakers to allow adults earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level to have access to affordable health care through Medicaid. Seek funding for the healthy food incentive program, Double Up Your Bucks, which provides a full or partial financial match of SNAP benefits spent on purchasing eligible fruits and vegetables. Protect residents from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Everyone has the right to breathe clean, healthy, smoke-free air at work and while visiting public places like restaurants and bars. Nearly 900 Alabamians die from secondhand smoke each year.

45 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MISSION: To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

BACKGROUND: In 1890, the Alabama Methodist Orphanage was founded in Summerfield, Alabama. Today, as Embrace Alabama Kids, we are proud of our rich history spanning more than 130 years. We provide children and youth who have suffered from abuse and neglect with a safe home. They receive warm beds, nutritious meals, a spiritual foundation and an education — everything they need to heal physically, emotionally and mentally. We also work to help families in crisis overcome challenges, such as homelessness or job loss that all too often lead to the neglect and abuse of children. Through our Montgomery-based ministry, Mary Ellen’s Hearth, we provide housing and support for women and children experiencing Throughhomelessness.thisprogram, up to 10 families are offered stability through housing, education and one-on-one care. Our goal is to help these mothers and their children transition to independent and safe environments where they can live successful, purpose-filled lives.

• Our Montgomery-based ministry, Mary Ellen’s Hearth, served 22FAMILIES experiencing homelessness in 2021, consisting of 61 women and children.

• Throughout all our homes and ministry programs, we served 20%MORE vulnerable children and families in 2021 than in 2020.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Christmas Campaign Fall 2022

BRAG LINES:

MISSION: In response to God’s Word, we embrace and nurture vulnerable children and families by providing homes, healing and hope.

• Embrace Alabama/Florida Kids saw an 83%INCREASE in the number of individuals we served in 2021 through our six residential homes and a 40%INCREASE in the number of days that we provided care in those homes.

46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 EMBRACE ALABAMA KIDS

• Developed a COVID street team to go door-to-door to educate residents and dispel myths about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.

BRAG LINES:

• Providing our CDC-recognized wellness program to employees as a benefit. Diabetes imposes a significant economic burden on employers, particularly when including productivity costs.

MISSION: To provide health and wellness programs to businesses and residents in Montgomery, Macon, Lowndes, Elmore and Autauga counties.

47 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 THE WELLNESS COALITION

BACKGROUND: The Wellness Coalition was established when a group of healthcare providers came together to work on improving healthcare for persons with chronic diseases and little or no health insurance. Our Board Member Organizations include the major “safety net” healthcare providers— those serving underserved persons in five counties of Alabama’s River Region.

WISHLIST: The Wellness Coalition is looking for businesses in Montgomery, Macon, Lowndes, Autauga and Elmore counties who are interested in:

• Established the River Region’s first CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program, “Change Your Lifestyle. Change Your Life” (CYL2), in partnership with the Black Women’s Health Imperative, and helped 70 percent of program participants meet or exceed the program goal of losing 5-7 percent of their body weight.

• Spearheaded AstraZeneca HealthCare HealthConnectionsFoundation’sforCardiovascularSMHeartLinkprogram.

• Assistance and guidance in creating lactation breaks and spaces for your employees.

• Assistance implementing smokefree policies at worksites and apartment communities.

LINES:

WISH LIST: Volunteers to: • Provide a class lunch • Conduct mock interviews • Lead morning devotion • Mentor a student HOPE INSPIRED MINISTRIES CONTACT US: hopeinspiredministries.orgTo334-649-4330donate,goto

BRAG The many testimonies of listeners whose lives have been tremendously touched and their faith in Jesus Christ strengthened through our commercial-free programming. Helping unite our community and churches to pray together for city, state, and country. have blessed many lonely, grieving and hurting people during this most extraordinary year.

MISSION: To serve those who are chronically unemployed by preparing and equipping them to obtain, maintain and excel at employment.

WISHLIST: • Financial gifts to support our Christ-centered broadcasts • Special monetary donations to help update our technology FAITH RADIO WLBF CONTACT US: faithradio.org334-271-8900

BRAG Hope Inspired Ministries won the 2022 Governor’s Work Based Learning Award Seal in the nonprofit category. The competition was statewide.

MISSION: Faith Radio’s mission is to serve the Christian community and strengthen the local church and family unit as we provide spiritual encouragement and a personal challenge with a Christ-centered focus through Biblical teaching, relevant information and uplifting music to the Glory of God.

our

48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MONTGOMERY

BRAG LINES: Since its founding, the Johnson Institute has helped arrange and host visits to “America’s Courtroom” for guests from all over the world. The Institute’s ongoing Oral History Project collects stories from people who knew Judge Johnson or were affected by his rulings and will soon launch online and be accessible to those studying the events that took place here and changed the world.

AREA COUNCIL ON AGING

THE JOHNSON INSTITUTE

• MACOA provides service and support to seniors in Central Alabama to keep them healthy, happy and living with dignity in their own home.

WISHLIST: MACOA relies on volunteers to deliver services to seniors in Central Alabama. Our 1,000+ active volunteers ensure seniors in the community are fed and cared for. There are many ways you can join us in our mission, one of which is delivering meals to seniors in the community. If you are able, please contact MACOA today to learn more about delivering Meals on Wheels and other volunteer opportunities.

BRAG LINES: • MACOA celebrates 50 years of service with the delivery of over 4,500,000 meals to seniors since 1972.

49 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

BACKGROUND: The Johnson Institute was founded in 2019 and is the premier nonprofit dedicated to cultivating an appreciation for and teaching the U.S. Constitution along with Montgomery’s remarkable place in history. Our current programming is designed to inspire and educate teachers and students, from middle to graduate-school level.

MISSION: The Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute is a nonpartisan voice that shares the stories of our Constitution and our Judiciary through programs that illuminate issues and perspectives, foster thoughtful and civil discourse, and inspire our national community in our nation’s never-ending pursuit of a more perfect union.

MISSION: To assist senior citizens of Central Alabama by providing services to promote independent living, offering opportunities to enhance their quality of life and by increasing community awareness of senior issues.

CONTACT

MISSION: To promote the conservation of Alabama’s wildlife and related natural resources, as a basis for the social and economic prosperity of present and future generations, through wise use and responsible stewardship of our wildlife, forests, fish, soils, water and air.

BACKGROUND: The Alabama Alabama.conservationoldestFederation (AWF)WildlifeistheandlargestnonprofitorganizationinItwasestablished by sportsmen in 1935 to promote the conservation and wise use of our wildlife and natural resources and to ensure a high quality of life for future generations of Alabamians. VOLUNTEER: Occasional volunteers needed. Go toandbecome-a-volunteer/alabamawildlife.org/tofillouttheformjoinourteam!

MISSION: To support the overall health and wellbeing of individuals needing our services, including those living with HIV and substance use disorders, by delivering comprehensive healthcare through medical treatment, behavioral health services, social services, and health and civic education. It is the vision of MAO that every individual we serve will live a full and healthy life filled with dignity and respect.

WISHLIST • Donations are greatly appreciated and can be made online. • Volunteer support is welcomed in the Food Pantry and for special events. US: info@maoi.orgmaoi.org800-510-4704 US: alabamawildlife.org334-285-4550

50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MEDICAL ADVOCACY & OUTREACH CONTACT

THE ALABAMA WILDLIFE FEDERATION

BACKGROUND: MAO was founded in Montgomery. Over time, MAO has transformed into the largest specialized organization of its kind in South Alabama, now serving 28 counties. As the pioneer of using telemedicine in direct practice in Alabama, MAO’s full-service locations extend access to those in need by way of a network of e-Healthtechnology-supportedadditionalAlabamasatelliteclinics.

51 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

MISSION: To provide education, screening, counseling and outreach services to individuals with sickle cell disease, trait and other abnormal hemoglobins.

THE SICKLE CELL FOUNDATION OF GREATER MONTGOMERY

BACKGROUND: Born out of a humanitarian concern for sickle cell disease in the Greater Montgomery area, the Sickle Cell Foundation of Greater Montgomery, Inc. (SCFGM, Inc.) was established as a community-based nonprofit organization on December 9, 1981, and was incorporated on January 26, 1982. The founders of SCFGM, Inc. believed that an organization armed with dedication, perseverance of goals and a high degree of professionalism could enlist community support towards eliminating sickle cell disease.

MISSION: To prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

TUKABATCHEE AREA COUNCIL

WISHLIST: • We want to hear from River Region Scouting alumni. • Special event sponsors, contributions for operations and for capital needs at our camps are always welcomed.

LEADERSHIP: Eddie McKinney, II Chairperson; James Belton, President; Evelyn CorineVice-Chairperson;Jackson,Dunaway,Secretary/Treasurer

BACKGROUND: Headquartered in Montgomery, Tukabatchee Area Council serves young men and women in 14 central Alabama counties. Cub Scouts serves youth grades K-5, Scouts BSA serves youth in grades 6-12, Venturing (co-educational) serves youth from age 14 to 20, and Career Exploring (co-educational) is a workplace-based program serving high-school aged youth.

lifelong

services for people

FAMILY SUNSHINE CENTER CONTACT US:

superior staff, facilities,

MISSION: To prepare individuals to reach their limitless potential providing training Regional Centers offer a continuum of with hearing and vision

52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 CONTACT US: 334-301-8374 alabamachildrenfirst.com

MISSION: The Family Sunshine Center is dedicated to ending family violence, sexual assault and human trafficking through comprehensive services and community-based outreach and prevention education. We provide no-cost services the River Region and beyond. 334-676-3733

CHILDREN FIRST CONTACT US: (334) 262-0824 aidb.org

Dogs. SERVICE DOGS ALABAMA

loss. AIDB MONTGOMERY REGIONAL CENTER CONTACT US: 334-206-2100 familysunshine.org

MISSION: Children First is a nonprofit, non-partisan diverse group of statewide leaders who serve as the driving force to shape public policy and enhance the quality of life for the children and families of Alabama through advocacy, awareness and accountability.

children,

and programs. AIDB’s

MISSION: To provide medical and psychiatric Service to veterans and first responders with disabilities, as well as Intervention

Facility

servicedogsalabama.org

Dogs

53 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 MISSION: Our mission is serving youth through a caring, therapeutic environment where hurts are healed; hope is nurtured. CONTACT US: 334-265-0784 BRANTWOOD CHILDREN’S HOME CONTACT US: 334-288-0240 eastersealsca.org MISSION: To change the way the world defines and views disability by making profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day. EASTERSEALS CENTRAL ALABAMA CONTACT US: 334-832-1402 Halfway-home.net MISSION: To restore men released on probation or parole by assisting them to successfully reintegrate into our community. RENASCENCE CONTACT US: 404-889-8626 leadingladiesoflegacy.org MISSION: To produce young women who have strong academic backgrounds, understand and build resilience, fight and overcome poverty, exude self-worth and confidence, give back to the community and display leadership. LEADING LADIES OF LEGACY

54 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022 MISSION: To be the voice for children who have been victims of abuse and/or neglect. BACKGROUND: CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Montgomery County is a part of the National CASA organization and was founded in 2020. We train community volunteers to speak up for children who have been removed from their home due to abuse/ neglect. These children are placed with relatives or in foster care, and we advocate for them in court and all areas of life, as needed. We have trained more than 60 CASA volunteers and are advocating for 75 children. UPCOMING EVENTS: 2nd Annual CASA Superhero 5K & Fun Run November 5 Riverwalk Stadium Every child needs a Hero! Dress up as your favorite superhero or make up one of your own and show us your super speed! There will be a Finish Line Festival with inflatables, food vendors and activities for everyone, including visits from real superheroes. Sign up now: runmgm.itsyourrace.comcasasuperhero COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES CONTACT US: volunteercasaofmontgomerycounty.org/334-329-8584 MISSION: To improve the quality of life for children and families in the River Region through education, advocacy and employment WISHLIST: • Sponsors for our Autauga Creek Christmas Tree Trail (businesses, individuals, groups, churches and families) • Monetary donations • Donations of snack items for clients at our seven locations in Autauga and Elmore counties • Volunteers (proficient in secondary math and teaching basic literary skills) to help with Adult Education classes UPCOMING EVENTS: Autauga Creek Christmas Tree Trail December 1-January 2 FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER CONTACT US: 113334-361-4703WMainStreet, Prattville acfsc.org

MISSION: To serve as an instrument to assist, advance and strengthen Jackson Hospital in its ministry of healing; in its service as a health center for the community; in its provision of the best education possible for students in the various health fields; and in all related health and humanitarian endeavors.

JACKSON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

24 October DecemberNovember291917 DISABILITY

MISSION: Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move, also known as D.A.T.S.M.O.M., serves families of children on the autism spectrum (or with related developmental disabilities). The goal is to help parents shift their children’s disability into an ability by equipping them with the knowledge, support and tools needed to be effective advocates. With a focus on training, culturally relevant support, breaking down educational and access barriers, free family services and programs, we help families progressively navigate their unique journey.

WISHLIST: • Volunteers and donations for Rapid Respite Care Program

BRAG LINES: The Jackson Hospital Foundation proudly supports The Vascular Center at Jackson Hospital. Our team believes in offering their patients the highest level of personalized care possible, and treating each patient with respect, dignity and expertise. Our providers, Justin Parden, MD; William Veale, MD; Irwin White-Gittens, MD; and Billy Saliski, CRNP work together to provide the best possible outcomes for all patients. The Blasting Through P.A.D. Clay Shoot, October 28, helps raise funds for the The Vascular Center to provide expanded services for patients in need.

• Donations to continue to develop and provide free family programs, training and inclusive services • Corporate partners (businesses, organizations)churches, UPCOMING EVENTS: Monthly Rapid Respite Relief Program Provides free childcare services and fun activities for children on the spectrum at Eastdale Baptist SeptemberChurch. AS AN ABILITY TOWARD SUCCESS: MOMS ON THE MOVE

55 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

BRAG LINES:

• Since 2001, the Joy to Life Foundation (JTL) has raised more than $7 million to fight breast cancer and provided more than 100,000 mammograms in partnership with Alabama Department of Public Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (ABCCEDP).

• Last year, the Susan G. Komen Foundation closed its affiliate in Alabama. Without hesitation, the Joy to Life Foundation assumed their responsibilities in the northern part of the state, making it more important than ever for the foundation’s funding to remain strong. Lives have been saved! Joy to Life has made a difference and will continue to do so if we have the support of committed businesses and corporations in the Alabama. UPCOMING EVENTS: 21st Annual Walk of Life October 15, 2022

MISSION: To develop among high school students a group of future leaders who will lay aside individual, social, economic, and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all.

BACKGROUND: Serving five counties in the River Region, Bridge Builders Alabama provides two one-year leadership programs for high school students from public, private, parochial, and home schools. Our purpose is to help ordinary youth find their voice, experience their power and build positive relationships to do the extraordinary. Bridge Builders Alabama is designed to promote understandingcommunication,andtrust among these developing leaders. Community projects, discussions, adventure education and first-hand experiences with community leaders are the training tools

MISSION: The Joy to Life Foundation has a simple mission: provide free mammograms and other breast cancer educationoverallallbreastneeded;provideunderservednecessaryscreenings whentomedicallywomeninAlabamalimitedgrantswhenbuildandsupportcancerawarenessamongAlabamians;andpromotehealth,well-beingandthroughoutthestate.

CONTACT

joytolife.org334-284-5433

56 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL the big give 2022

JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

WISHLIST: Monetary donations to our “send a student to summer camp” fund. Choose to donate $50, $100, $250 or more!

UPCOMING EVENTS: Bridge Builders Alabama “Win A Wine Cellar” annual fundraiser Date to be announced

BRIDGE BUILDERS ALABAMA

59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

While individual missions may vary, the River Region is home to many wonderful nonprofits that serve an important role in the success of our

• Does the investment advisor have adequate staff resources to serve clients? Such an advisor can (and should) help develop key policy statements that govern investments, spending, gift acceptance and conflicts of interest. These guidelines need to be developed as part of a comprehensive assessment of the organization’s objectives and Anotherresources. consideration in choosing an advisor is whether the institution will be a resource to help communicate with current and prospective donors. For instance, some financial institutions may conduct seminars or small meetings with donors to explore topics such as planned giving or complex gifts. Quarterly presentations are standard for touching base and ensuring an investment strategy is on track. Make sure the prospective investment advisor is doing more than delivering a quarterly performance statement. An advisor should help the organization achieve its mission. At Regions, our solutions-based approach guides nonprofits through the dynamics of stewarding an endowment fund by providing guidance on investment policies and portfolio construction, as well as offering best practices to improve administrative elements for the organization.

Serving people. Meeting needs. Moving communities forward.

Manycommunity.nonprofit leaders have strong support from current and prospective donors, and they are fortunate to have grown a pool of funds to invest for the long-term support of the nonprofit’s mission. Now the real work begins. How do you select an investment advisor who will carry out the fiduciary duty of administering the funds and developing an investment strategy that will further the nonprofit’s longterm goals? There’s a wide range of choices, and it is important to find an investment advisor who is the best fit for your organization. Here are some considerations to help guide your decision.

Ask Well-InformedAdvisors

Larry Ransburgh, Senior Vice President, Institutional Services Strategist at Regions Bank. Contact him Larry.Ransburgh@Regions.comat Bank, RANSBURGH Questions:

member FDIC BY LARRY

• Is the investment advisor an expert in industry best practices?

• Is the investment advisor conversant in IRS rules governing nonprofits?

• Does the investment advisor have a depth of experience working with nonprofit organizations, or, better yet, specialize in nonprofits?

SELECTING THE RIGHT INVESTMENT ADVISOR FOR YOUR NONPROFIT EXPERTISEBUSINESSANDANSWERSTOCOMMON BUSINESS QUESTIONS FROM LOCALS IN THE MEETKNOW THE EXPERT Regions

Some organizations are subject to their first Single Audit, which accompanies a financial statement audit and ensures the organization is in compliance with the Uniform Guidance and specific grant Therequirements.singleaudit process can be complex and overwhelming. To help avoid findings or missed deadlines that could affect your funding, consider these suggestions:

Over the past two years, organizations have received new or additional federal funding in response to the pandemic.

Experienced Auditor: Single Audits can be complicated. CPAs who perform them are required to have additional training each year. Auditors with extensive Single Audit experience can provide advice as you prepare and go through the audit.

Jeri Groce is a Senior Manager in the Firm’s Audit Division and is a part of the Firm’s Public Sector Industry Group. She specializes in planning and conducting audits for nonprofit, higher education and governmental entities and has extensive experience in single audits. She can be reached at 334.260.2324 or Jeri.Groce@ warrenaverett.com. BY JERI GROCE, CPA

GETTING READY FOR A SINGLE AUDIT

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Documentation: Documentation with a Single Audit is imperative. You must be able to substantiate all payments, contracts, payroll, etc. funded with federal dollars. Your auditor must have a “paper trail” to follow, and it is your responsibility to prove these costs were necessary, reasonable, allowable and allocable. Be sure you document when you perform control procedures. Your auditor will test these controls to validate the procedures were performed.

ACCOUNTING EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO COMMON BUSINESS QUESTIONS FROM LOCALS IN THETHEKNOWMEETEXPERT

Subrecipient: Often there is confusion when federal funds flow down from a federal agency to a local government or other organization. You must determine the source of your funding and if it is considered federal pass-through money. A subcontractor may provide goods or services to carry out the program but are not considered federal awards. Subrecipients carry out part of the program and are subject to all compliance requirements. If you pass a portion of your funding to another organization, creating a subrecipient relationship, then you are the pass-through entity and take on a hefty monitoring responsibility. You are responsible for compliance and do not get to “pass through” those requirements.

Funding Requirements: There are two layers of requirements. The first comes directly from the federal awarding agency. The second is communicated by the OMB in the annual Compliance Supplement. This document applies to all federal awards.

Internal Controls: Organizations are required to establish and maintain internal controls over financial reporting and over compliance with federal statutes, regulations and terms and conditions of the federal awards. Your auditor is required to understand and test the effectiveness for each compliance requirement applicable to your award. Be proactive and assess your controls to ensure they are designed to address the requirements of your award.

62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL © 2022 Valley National Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. All Rights Reserved. VLY5986 Supporting community growth is about providing financial solutions and guidance to people and businesses that you can trust. That’s what Valley is all about. LET GOALS!YOURREACHHELPUSYOU For your commercial needs contact: Dean Peevy | Commercial Lending Team Leader 334.270.3003 | dpeevy@valley.com 2740 Zelda Road | Montgomery

Valley National Bank is a Member of the FDIC and Equal Opportunity Lender.

Communicate efficiently. Different situations warrant different mediums of communication. Some situations can get bogged down in backand-forth emails, while a phone call can settle the issue more efficiently. I have said it time and time again, pick up your phone and talk through issues! You can always memorialize the conversation with a subsequent email to clarify and confirm.

Connect more frequently. Stay in front of your clients by bringing your communication A-game. From quickly responding to calls and emails, to sharing proactive ideas, now is the time to show your clients that they are top of mind and that you are ready to help them.

Since the start of the pandemic, disruptions in the economy have gone from an unpredictable occurrence to an everyday reality. Various issues across industries, ranging from the displacement of workers to pain points with the supply chain have created an environment of uncertainty.

Take that extra step. Frequently, the success of one of your company’s services will depend in part on other people, so be ready to go outside your own responsibilities and help someone else if needed. For example, if our closing team or credit team are busy and need help to address a certain challenge, I offer to jump in. This approach ensures things keep moving forward and builds a strong and effective team.

Problems don’t go away no matter how much you might want them to. If there is an issue, address it quickly. Working through the challenges up front creates a mutual trust between you and your client or coworker as you move forward.

From the start of any business relationship, set realistic expectations, both with your team and your client. Don’t over-promise; instead, check with everyone involved to determine what is realistic and then hold everyone accountable. At Valley, we’re constantly communicating with our credit and closing teams about their workloads so we can set reasonable timeframes for us and our clients. A client recently requested to close a real estate transaction in a timeframe that was improbable, given the current environment. However, we were able to provide options for the transaction that satisfied our client. Tackle the tough stuff first.

In-person communication, meanwhile, continues to be the most effective way to drive value as all parties participate in both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Dean Peevy is a vice president and commercial banker for Valley Bank in Montgomery. Born and raised in Montgomery, he has been a banker for 20 years. He can be reached ordpeevy@valley.comat334-270-3003.

Manage expectations.

HOW TO ADD VALUE DURING PERIODS OF DISRUPTION BY DEAN PEEVY EXPERTISEBANKINGANDANSWERSTOCOMMONBUSINESS QUESTIONS FROM LOCALS IN THE THEKNOWMEETEXPERT

63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

That’s why it is more important than ever for businesses to add value at every turn, so they can continue to drive sales and retain business. And while we can’t control the overall economy, we can control what we Fromdo.working with business customers around Montgomery for 20 years, I’ve seen trends in what works for driving value. With that in mind, here are steps to consider:

THE ISCOLLECTIVEALABAMAEVENMORE.

THE YEAR-OLD ALABAMA COLLECTIVE IS UNITING TWO OF THE STATE’S PRIMARY CITIES IN PURSUIT OF GREATER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND PROSPERITY FOR GROUPALL. EFFORT

A GROUP. A GATHERING. Individuals joining together to create a whole, its sum much greater than its single parts. A collective is all of these things.

aunched last fall, The Alabama Collective is led by the Chamber’s TechMGM and TechBirmingham. The two organizations have joined forces to build on existing infrastructure while also developing the necessary ecosystem to accelerate growth in the region’s innovation, entrepreneurship and tech sectors, with a focus on elevating minority talent and entrepreneurs. And they’ve enlisted help. Other key partners include The City of Montgomery, The City of Birmingham, The Lab on Dexter, Montgomery TechLab, Ed Farm and Bronze Valley.

L 64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL THE LAB on Dexter

And that’s turning out to be the Collective’s superpower: its emphasis on collaboration. The two dynamos at the helm of TechMGM and TechBirmingham elaborated.

The Collective’s efforts are anchored by a series of community conversations designed to engage those considering entering a career in technology (or are already in one) or looking to make a mark as a startup. Often times hosted alongside popular and historic HBCU football activities like Alabama State’s Turkey Day Classic, these events spotlight numerous tech titans, other area business leaders and HBCU students, alumni and entrepreneurs who are doing meaningful work in the innovation economic development Heldspace. last February, the Collective’s black history conversation event titled “Transcendence” brought in mayors from Jackson, Mississippi; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Montgomery’s Mayor Steven L. Reed to discuss how city leadership can attract, retain and recruit minority talent and entrepreneurs to their communities.

65 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Waymond Jackson, CEO, Edfarm; Charisse Stokes, TechMGM; Dr. Nichole Thompson, Lab on Dexter; Mayor Steven L. Reed and wife Tamika Reed; Deon Gordon, TechBirmingham. SOONCOMING More is on the way from the Alabama Collective. Look for announcements and details on upcoming community conversations focused on topics like artificial intelligence, data science and machine learning thealabamacollective.com. at

Why is the Collective’s work important? The pandemic changed everything, but even before then, we began to understand how key it is for cities to lean into tech and innovation. Today, cities have to be a lot more sophisticated and a lot more aggressive in the approach they take toward this work. If we want to compete, we must work together. I hope other cities look at what we are doing and see us as a model to answer the question, “How do we not just survive the innovation economy, but how do we thrive in it?”. Why is your organization choosing to partner with TechMGM and other groups in the Collective? Alabama’s greatest strengths are our history and our diversity. We hear time and time again about the need for a more diverse workforce and talent pipeline, specifically within tech companies. So, it makes sense for both cities that played such major roles in the civil rights movement to be the same cities increasing the opportunities for black and brown populations, those who have traditionally been cut off from those resources. We have such a compelling narrative; I’d argue that our two cities are the only ones who can authentically tell that story. And from a strategic standpoint, merging the industry the two cities have makes sense; it puts us at the intersections of military, defense, healthcare and finance.

We are representing the interests of our city but also putting forward the idea that we are stronger together; that’s the real driving force. Birmingham and Montgomery have different tech and innovation strengths, so by combining our assets with Montgomery, we can do something much grander, greater than either of the cities could have individually. done

THE LAB on Dexter 66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

DEON TECHBIRMINGHAMGORDON BIRMINGHAM:

What Collective? roleTechBirmingham’sisinthe

$100M private investment into new , local energy infrastructure

A partnership bringing affordable, local, sustainable electricity to AMEA’s 11 Member municipal utilities.

67 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 130MWDC100MWAC capacity 173,252 metric tons of co 2 saved per year 20,000 alabama homes powered per year $5M property tax revenue for local county schools POWERSOLAR

The Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) is a publicly-owned, non-for-profit electric utility, providing low-cost, reliable power to 11 Member municipal utilities acrossLightsouceAlabama.bp is a global leader in utility-scale solar development and management that powers businesses and communities across the US with clean and affordable energy solutions.

FOR ALABAMA

In May 2019, AMEA and Lightsource bp announced that they signed a 20-year power purchase contract to supply clean, cost-effective, locally-sourced solar energy to AMEA’s 11 Member utilities across the state.

MBJ: How is The Alabama Collective elevating minority and tech talent in our area? The Alabama Collective has facilitated several events to educate and expose our local community to individuals, organizations and opportunities for tech talent and entrepreneurs to excel. We’ve hosted panel discussions, networking events and a black history program that highlighted government and industry leaders that are both influential and impactful for minorities in the community. How does this contribute to a strong regional tech ecosystem? These events provide resources, tools and touch points for individuals, industry and organizations to prosper in technical fields and in entrepreneurship. In addition, it allows us to leverage the strengths of each community, expand across the region and provide support to other areas. Our ability to collaborate with one another is significantly increased and it encourages greater innovation across the ecosystem.

The city of Montgomery can’t make forward progress alone; we need to collaborate with other organizations to ensure we are developing a competitive workforce and ecosystem that welcomes entrepreneurs and encourages innovation. Collective events that have already happened and the programming planned for the coming year will expose our community to the art of the possible and increase the density of tech talent and

Why is the work the Collective is doing important for the city and its future?

MONTGOMERY:entrepreneurs. CHARISSE STOKES TECHMGM theseConnectAlabamaWantWHO:WHO’StogetinontheCollective?withoneofpeople: CHARISSE STOKES, TECHMGM cstokes@montgomerychamber.com DR NICHOLE THOMPSON, LAB ON DEXTER nthompson@thelabondexter.com CHARLES MONTGOMERYJACKSON,TECHLAB charles@montgomerytechlab.com DEON TECHBIRMINGHAMGORDON, deon@techbirmingham.com HALEY BRONZEKENDRICK,VALLEY haley@gener8tor.com WAYMOND JACKSON, EDFARM waymond@edfarm.org 68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL Kohn.JonathonbyImage

69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

EXPANDS

FEDEX GROUND PACKAGE SYSTEMS,

FedEx continues its longstanding relationship with its development partner, The Westmoreland Company, as it relocates the existing FedEx Ground facility located at 7910 Bill Joseph Parkway to 120 Folmar Parkway. The new state-of-the-art facility will be situated on 46 acres and handle more than twice the package volume of the existing facility. The site is in the Montgomery Water and Sewer Boards’ Interstate Industrial Park and will also include a new access road that will connect Folmar Parkway to Wasden Road. County Commission Chair Doug Singleton said, “We are proud to welcome the expansion of FedEx’s distribution and logistics center in Montgomery County. The investment continues to build upon Montgomery’s reputation as the growing logistics hub of the MontgomerySoutheast.”Chamber Board Chair Cedric Campbell added, “FedEx’s expansion is a result of a continued and deepened partnership, and we are so thankful for this investment. Together, opportunities continue to abound for the River Region.” INC.

Scott Rizer joined the Chamber team effective July 18, in a new role as Vice President, Military Affairs. Rizer will be responsible for “Scottcommunities.militarybetweenrelationshipimprovingandmaintainingcontinuallythetheandcivilianwillplayavital role as a communications link between our MaxwellGunter Air Force bases, our military community at-large and our state and federal legislators. We are thrilled to have Scott join our organization,” said Anna Buckalew, Chamber President and CEO. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a master’s degree from the University of South Dakota, Rizer began his military career at the Maxwell Airforce Base at the Squadron Officer School. He returned more than 10 years later as an Air War College student with courses focusing on warfighting, foundations of strategy, joint strategic leadership, national security decision making and global security.

When he had the opportunity to return to Montgomery for his final assignment with the Air Force, he readily accepted. He recently retired from Maxwell Air War College, where he served as Seminar Director and Department of Strategy Instructor. Rizer and his wife Kacy have lived many places in the United States and abroad; however, they consciously made the decision that Montgomery was the place they wanted to call “home.”

70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LOOK BACK AT THE FACES AND PLACES OF RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS NEWS & UPDATES

MONTGOMERY CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW VICE PRESIDENT, MILITARY AFFAIRS

On June 29, FedEx Ground Package Systems, Inc. celebrated the $52 million expansion of its 250,000-square-foot distribution and logistics center in Montgomery. Construction is underway with plans to open in 2023; the facility will employ approximately 150 people. Mayor Steven L. Reed said, “FedEx’s continued investment in Montgomery showcases our essential role in global logistics and solutions for major industries. We look forward to building on this longstanding partnership and creating new opportunities for growth, development and prosperity.”

71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LOOK BACK AT THE FACES AND PLACES OF RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS BEST HOMETOWN IN THE AIR FORCE HOSTED FAREWELL & CONGRATULATIONS RECEPTION FOR GENERAL HECKER

On June 30, the Chamber held a farewell and congratulations reception for General James Hecker, who will be departing Montgomery for his new command, U.S. Air Forces in Europe –Air Forces Africa, NATO Allied Air Command. General Hecker is leaving his role as Commander and President of Air University, where he was once an AU student. He took command of Air University in November 2019 and during his tenure furthered AU’s mission to “Educate and develop Air, Space, and Cyberspace warrior leaders ISO the National Defense Strategy.” The Chamber thanks him for his service and wishes him well in all his future endeavors.

NEWS & UPDATES

Construction is underway for the new 100,000-square-foot facility. Once open in 2023, the facility will employ approximately 180 people. Premier Tech is a global company, and through a broad portfolio of products, services and technologies, is active in many market sectors including horticulture, agriculture and home and garden, automation and efficiency enhancement of manufacturing facilities and water management, treatment and recycling.

Premier Tech is investing $32 million for the construction of a new facility in Montgomery for its Systems and Automation business group, specialized in the design and manufacturing of innovative end-of-line packaging and palletizing solutions that help increase capacity and optimize manufacturing facilities. Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed said, “We are grateful for a global company like Premier Tech that has committed to invest in Montgomery and deepen its roots with innovative endof-line packaging and the creation of new jobs for our community.”

“We are proud to welcome Premier Tech to its newest facility in Montgomery County. Its investment showcases that Montgomery is on the world stage for innovation and technology,” said County Commission Chair Doug Singleton.

NEWS & UPDATES

On July 26, in a joint private ceremony, Colonel Eries Mentzer, 42nd Air Base Wing Commander and the Chamber honored Catherine Romay Johnson Davis, member of the 6888th Battalion and recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal. The women of the 6888th or “Six Triple Eight,” deployed to Europe in 1945 to sort through the backlog of mail whose delayed delivery was hurting morale on the frontlines. Working through horrid conditions, the 855 women cut down the six-month backlog in just three months. Their work is credited with ensuring aid got to the frontlines and with comforting mothers and saving marriages. Recently, The House of Representatives passed legislation to award the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion the Congressional Gold Medal. Today, only six of the women are still alive. At 102, Catherine Romay Johnson Davis is the oldest.

PREMIER TECH EXPANDING IN MONTGOMERY

“We are so honored that Premier Tech has expanded since selecting Montgomery as one of its homes in 28 countries all over the world,” said Montgomery Chamber Chair Cedric Campbell. “Partnership and teamwork are key to this kind of economic growth, and we are grateful for the impact this kind of investment will have on the entire region.”

RECIPIENTGOLDCONGRESSIONALHONOREDCEREMONYMEDAL

72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Connect CONNECTING YOU TO THE MANY CHAMBER RESOURCES AND SERVICES AVAILABLE

74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL A LOOK BACK AT THE FACES AND PLACES OF RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS CHAMBER NEWS Connect EVENTSPAST 6.28 Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: WSFA 6.9 Chamber Golf Classic Sponsor & Location: Wynlakes Golf & Country Club 6.14-6.16 – Military Family Appreciation Day at the Zoo Presenting Sponsor: loanDepot 6.7 TechMGM Brown Bag Lunch Tech Series: Agile, Stakeholders and Value Presented by: Bryant Noel, Fearless 6.8 Young Professionals Mixer Sponsored by: Warren Averett 6.28 TechMGM Brown Bag Lunch Tech Series: Open Data Portal Presented by: City of Montgomery 7.12 TechMGM Brown Bag Lunch Tech Series: Software Development and Engineering Presented by: Business Enterprises Systems, Kendra Charbonneau 7.14 Strong Coffee Strong Women, a Program of the Catalyst Presented by: REACH Women’s Business Center 7.26 TechMGM Brown Bag Lunch Tech Series: Business SecurityManagementContinuityandSystemPlanning Presented by: RAVUS, Brooks Askew, CISM Be sure to stay engaged with The Lab on Dexter and check out their calendar of events: thelabondexter.com

75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

WHY

The Chamber’s External Affairs department oversees education and workforce development initiatives; military affairs; and governmental relations at all levels. Sheron Rose leads these efforts, and she shared the need-to-know info on what she and her team bring to the table and why its impact is important.

Sheron Rose / Executive Vice President • srose@montgomerychamber.com

68,000+

BY NUMBERS:THE

WHAT WE DO: HOW WE DO IT: IT MATTERS: LET’S CONNECT:

The department works to enhance governmental relations with the local, state and federal delegations and advocates for business issues locally and on a federal level. We maintain working relationships to further advance workforce development efforts by often functioning as a liaison between the business community and our education leaders, connecting them to implement initiatives that benefit the greater Montgomery area. We also forge and strengthen partnerships with the military to enhance those relations, so Montgomery can continue to be “The Best Hometown in the Air Force.”

Scott Rizer / Vice President, Military Affairs • srizer@montgomerychamber.com

Currently, we provide outreach and engagement programs for our elected officials; promote advocacy and business support through our state and federal legislative agendas; work hand-in-hand with education and workforce development partners to sustain a robust workforce pipeline; and we help the area sustain and expand relationships with our military presence.

The military in Montgomery employs people and generates a BILLION economic impact annually.

The community benefits from our ability to manage and maintain strong professional relationships with key business development organizations and leaders in the community. Our work fosters partnerships that will enhance the economic growth of our region. For example, our support of Montgomery Public Schools is helping create a stronger education system that can produce students prepared to go directly into the workforce, into additional educational training or enlist in the military. This means we can better meet industry/ business needs. It’s also essential for the retention of jobs and the recruitment of additional jobs. All of these factors lead to an increased quality of life here.

76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL TEAM EXTERNALREPORT:AFFAIRS DISCOVER WHAT YOUR CHAMBER CAN DO FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS CHAMBER NEWS Connect

Left to right: Sandra S. Kelley, Senior Manager, External Affairs; Sheron J. Rose, Executive Vice President; Scott Rizer, Vice President, Military Affairs; Brenda King, Senior Manager, Military Affairs.

$2.6

When it comes to managing the challenges facing your business, it’s critical to partner with a legal team that has a sophisticated understanding of your goals. As a full-service law firm with extensive experience in general litigation, product liability litigation, pharmaceutical litigation, class action, labor and employment law, government affairs, public finance, utilities law, and the representation of municipalities, our attorneys can address the unique needs of every client. At Bradley, we’re focused on providing you with innovative solutions, dependable responsiveness and a deep commitment to success.

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.

This work is essential. We’re home to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, the Alabama National Guard, the Air Force Reserve, DoD contractors, the government civilians that support these organizations, as well as tens of thousands of veterans and military retirees. They all make multiple positive contributions to the River Region, and the Chamber sees them as critical to our community’s success.” – Sheron Rose

IN ACTION: MILITARY MATTERS

77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Focused On You bradley.com

“Our military affairs work is focused on sustaining and growing all the military missions in the River Region, and we do that by creating an environment that more closely links all our military entities to the River Region community; coordinating and promoting innovative projects in Montgomery—with emphasis on TechMGM initiatives and growing Montgomery’s tech sector — and looking ahead to provide the workforce training, technology and infrastructure our area military needs.

Contact: Robert Emmett Poundstone IV, Esq., 334.956.7645, bpoundstone@bradley.com, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, RSA Dexter Avenue Building, 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 9075, Montgomery, AL 36104 © 2022

Dr. Christopher Clark Promoted at Huntingdon College Dr. Christopher Clark has been promoted to the position of Vice President for Risk Management and Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Huntingdon College. Dr. Clark also serves as in-house counsel and assistant professor of accounting. A 2007 Huntingdon graduate with a degree in accounting and a member of the inaugural Huntingdon Hawks football team, Dr. Clark completed his MBA at Auburn University; Master of Accountancy at Samford University; and Juris Doctorate and Master of Laws degrees at Cumberland School of Law. He has been a member of the Huntingdon staff since 2009, when he joined the College’s Staton Center for Learning Enrichment as a learning support specialist.

ACA Welcomes Back Tim Perry

Becky Haigler Joins New Waters Realty Realtor® Becky Haigler has joined the New Waters Realty Team. She is an award-winning leader with a career spanning 30 years in both specialty and big box retail. Haigler is using the skills retail services taught her to take care of her real estate clients and build longlasting relationships.

Vicki M. Griffin has been promoted to First Vice President at Trustmark in Montgomery, where she is a Commercial Portfolio Manager for Trustmark’s Central and North Alabama market. Griffin has been with Trustmark for 18 years and has 28 years of banking experience.

78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move KEEP UP WITH OUR MEMBERS WELCOMING NEW HIRES AND ACCEPTING NEW POSITIONS

Alabama Ag Credit, a customerowned financial cooperative, has announced the results of its recent director elections. The individuals elected were: Annie M. Dee, incumbent, fulfilling a three-year term in an At-Large position and Larry H. Gibson, Jr., incumbent, fulfilling a three-year term in Region 1 position. Dee is president and part-owner of Dee River Ranch and part-owner and manager of Dee Farm and Dee Farm Equipment. Gibson, current board chairman, is president and owner of Gibson Forest Management, Inc. and Gibson Timberlands, LLC. The Alabama Ag Credit Board has nine members that represent the diversity of South Alabama agriculture and forest products, six elected by customer stockholders and three appointed Directors.

Alabama Ag Credit Announces Board Election Results

Duke Hinds has recently joined Trustmark National Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Trustmark Corporation (NASDAQGS:TRMK) as Director of Commercial Banking and he will be responsible for Trustmark’s commercial products and sales strategy. He joins Trustmark with 26 years of banking experience.

Duke Hinds Joins Trustmark

Trustmark Promotes Vicki M. Griffin

Alabama Christian Academy announced the return of ACA legend Tim Perry. Perry has played a powerful part in ACA’s story in the last 35 years. He previously served as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach from 1985-1988 and then returned as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach again from 1991-2000. Perry rejoined the ACA team in July to lead ACA’s efforts in athletic advancement, coach mentoring, leveraging more than 40 years in coaching to achieve excellence in enhancing ACA’s community partnerships.

REMINDER: To be included in Members on the Move, submit news and announcements regarding staff, new hires and promotions along with a high-resolution headshot to Jina Miniard at jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.

• Communicate. Have multiple modes and styles. Develop sensitivity, empathy and open-mindedness.

TRAININGCUSTOMIZED TROY CE&O can customize training topics to your organization, and our diverse team of trainers will engage your team with innovative, highly effective in-person or live-virtual learning solutions.

Great leaders are defined less by enduring traits and more by their ability to recognize and adapt to the opportunities created by a particular moment. As a leader, how do you do that? What qualities does a leader need to possess in today’s unpredictable world?

• Think Big Picture.

80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL SPONSORED CONTENT

Continuing Education and Outreach

• Innovate Broadly.

• Adapt your Leadership Style. The nature of leadership is evolving. We are moving from authority to trust and from decision-making to Leadersinspiration.intoday’s world exist to inspire, create a vision and provide the conditions needed for their team to perform and be ready for anything.

We offer a wide range of online certiﬁcate programs aligned with industry recognized standards in accounting, human resource management, project management, technology and more.

• Get out of your comfort zone.

Laura ContinuingOutreachChamblissDirectorEducation and Outreach, Troy University

TROY CE&O training programs can assist your team with stress management and finding flexibility and rest at work. Contact us for more 334-983-0005troy.edu/ceinformation.

continuinged@troy.edu334-983-0005

Based on recent research, the TROY CE&O team believes these are some of the top traits a leader needs to be successful today:

Leading in a Changing World History repeats itself, and the business environment undergoes a shift every few decades. Smart leaders are prepared for these shifts. Leadership in 2022 demands a more human approach and new leadership strategies. Organizations will thrive when their leadership creates a workplace where people and the organization can flourish and succeed.

• Embrace Diversity. Different minds are better than more of the same. This means not just diversity of genders and nationalities, but thought diversity, diversity of experiences as well as age and generational diversity.

ONLINE PROGRAMSCERTIFICATE

VIRTUAL COACHING Ready to grow? Whether you need coaching in leadership, professionalism, performance management, personal branding or career enhancement, our executive coaches can assist. Coaching sessions can be conducted virtually, at a time that is convenient for your schedule. Contact us for your organizational needs!

Community

Alabama Power earned the award in part for its response to Winter Storm Landon that brought heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain across a 2,000-mile stretch between Texas, the Midwest and the Northeast in early February 2020. Alabama Power sent 173 company lineworkers, 245 contractors and 178 trucks to Plano, Texas, providing Oncor Electric Delivery assistance with downed lines in freezing temperatures with heavily iced roads and bridges. Alabama Power has earned the Emergency Response Award 31 times since its inception in 1998.

Highland Avenue Elementary Principal Heather Grayson recently received The Chiquita Marbury Technology Innovation Award. The award is sponsored by the Alabama Department of Education, and only one administrator in the state of Alabama is given this award each year. The award honors Chiquita Marbury’s invaluable years of service as a technology innovator in Alabama by recognizing educators who are exemplary models of technology teachers and leaders. The focus of the award is to spotlight K-12 educators, administrators and support personnel.

Montgomery Attorney Fred Gray Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom

81 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL A QUICK LOOK AT OUR MEMBERS’ MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS, AWARDS AND HONORS CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News

Alabama Power Receives Two Emergency Response Awards

Gene Crane Named River Region President at River Bank & Trust River Bank & Trust’s Chief Executive Officer Jimmy Stubbs announced Gene Crane’s promotion to River Region President. Crane joined the bank in 2011 and currently serves as the bank’s business banking manager and an executive vice president. His 35-year financial career was built in the River Region, making him one of the area’s most recognized banking leaders.

Crane graduated from the University of Alabama in 1987, majoring in corporate finance. He graduated with honors from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Delaware. A devoted community leader, Crane is a Kiwanis Club of Montgomery member, an Alabama Wildlife Federation board member and the YMCA of Montgomery board chairman. He has also served on the boards of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, Alabama Shakespeare Festival and River Region United Way. Achievements

Steven L. Reed commented on Gray receiving the Medal of Freedom. “Perhaps more now than ever, as our country grapples with its painful history of racial injustice and inequity, there would be no better testimony to our path forward than awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Civil Rights icon and national treasure, Attorney Fred Gray. Thank you to President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Representative Terri Sewell for choosing to bestow America’s highest honor upon an Alabamian—a Montgomerian—who began as the lawyer for the Movement, only to become the lawyer for all humankind.”

Highland Avenue Elementary Principal Wins Technology Innovation Award

Alabama Power is a recipient of two Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Emergency Response Awards. Presented to EEI member companies, the awards recognize recovery and assistance efforts following disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges following an international nomination process. The awards were presented during EEI 2022, the organization’s annual thought leadership forum.

President Biden named 17 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and Attorney Fred Gray was one of them. Gray received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor that is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors. Gray was one of the first black members of the Alabama State legislature since Reconstruction. As an attorney, he represented Rosa Parks, the NAACP and Martin Luther King, who called him “the chief counsel for the protest Montgomerymovement.”Mayor

Warren Averett’s Cody Daughtry Receives AICPA’s Technology Advisory Standing Ovation Award

CPA license and be an AICPA member in good standing. Daughtry was one of only 12 CPAs honored during ENGAGE.

Dr. Jevonnah Ellison Appointed Official Business Coach for Emerging Leaders Thrive Program

QUICK LOOK AT OUR MEMBERS’ MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS, AWARDS AND HONORS CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News

Dr. Jevonnah Ellison specializes in tailored business coaching for high achievers. She is an expert in executive coaching, consulting and professional development. Her company, The Entrepreneurial First Lady, LLC, has helped thousands of small businesses and entrepreneurs clarify their purpose, amplify their strengths and significantly increase their profit margins. She was named Small Business Person of the Year in 2020 by the Montgomery Chamber, and with nearly 18 years of coaching experience, she is committed to helping small business owners and entrepreneurs truly thrive. She will now serve as The Official Business Coach for the SBA Emerging Leaders Thrive Program— Montgomery/Mobile Cohort. The program is for established C-suite business owners who want to take their businesses to the next level. Faulkner Law’s John Craft Received Public Interest Attorney Award

John Craft, Clinical Associate Professor of Law at Faulkner Law, was awarded the 2022 Public Interest Attorney Award at the Alabama State Bar’s 145th Annual Meeting in June. Craft was presented the award by the Alabama State Bar Volunteer Awards

TheyachievementexemplaryCPAsprogram,theOvationTechnology2022Accountants’Management(CIMA)ENGAGEeventinLasVegas.TheAdvisoryStandingawardisapartofAICPA’sStandingOvationwhichrecognizesunder40whoexhibitprofessionalinspecialtyareas.mustalsomaintainanactive

Cody Daughtry, CPA, CITP, of Warren Averett’s Montgomery office recently received the Technology Advisory Standing Ovation award from the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA). This award was presented during the AICPA and Chartered Institute of

The Alabama State Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program has awarded Timothy J. F. Gallagher with the 2022 Albert Vreeland Pro Bono Award. Gallagher was presented with the award at the 145th Annual Meeting of the Alabama State Bar in June. Gallagher was celebrated for the many ways he has impacted his community and profession through his pro bono work. Gallagher was a 2007 graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law. He is a shareholder with Sasser, Sefton and Brown, P.C., in Montgomery.

Timothy Gallagher Honored with Albert Vreeland Pro Bono Award

The Montgomery Chamber is always looking to share good member news, so be sure to send all announcements, new hires, anniversaries, and expansions to Jina Miniard

Fred D. Clark Receives APPA Statesmanship Award

Fred D. Clark, Jr., President & CEO, Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), was recently awarded the 2022 Alan H. Richardson Statesmanship Award by the American Public Power Association (APPA). The award was presented on June 14 during the APPA National Conference in Nashville. Twenty-three individuals and eight utilities were recognized for service to APPA and the public power industry during the conference. The award honors public power leaders who work to achieve consensus on national issues important to public power utilities.

jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.at

Lawyers Program for his pro bono efforts in the area of elder law. Craft, who serves as the Elder Law Clinic Director at Faulkner Law, joined the law school faculty in 2010. He teaches and supervises the Elder Law Clinic and the Externship program, and teaches Interviewing, Counseling and Negotiation.

REMEMBER:

Alabama Power Foundation Awards Grant to Faulkner’s College of Health Sciences Alabama Power Foundation has awarded a grant to fund equipment for Faulkner University College of Health Sciences’ pediatric and adult therapy gyms at the Mike and Lisa Williams Center for Autism. The grant, which comes from non-ratepayer funds, will purchase equipment that will allow the center to provide physical therapy and occupational therapy, in addition to the speech therapy the center has provided for the last four years. The center also provides hands-on experience for College of Health Sciences students that are involved in speech language pathology, physician assistant, physical therapy and occupational therapy programs. It also serves the community with pro bono healthcare services. Alabama Power Foundation has provided 20,000 grants and scholarships to Alabama communities, educational institutions and nonprofits since 1989.

Faulkner’s Autism Center Named As members of Faulkner University’s Board of Trustees gathered in April to bid Mike and Lisa Williams a warm farewell, their parting gesture was a resolution to name the Autism Center in Faulkner University’s Center for Therapy and Research, the Mike and Lisa Williams Center for Autism. Chairman of the Board Dale Kirkland said Mike Williams’ challenging and hopeful vision to create an autism center in Montgomery was the “crowning jewel” of his endeavors as president. The mission of the center will be to prepare Christian professionals to boldly address the escalating tide of autism in the nation.

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum has opened a new snow leopard exhibit featuring Sierra. With this addition, the Montgomery Zoo’s collection will now feature four out of the five world’s largest feline species, often called “big cats.” The term “big cat” is used in reference to any of the five living members of the genus Panthera: tigers, lions, jaguars, leopards and snow leopards. Sierra, a three-year-old female, is a welcomed addition to the Zoo’s feline family and made her public debut on July 5, 2022. Also in July, The Montgomery Zoo debuted four male Nile Lechwe, the first of their species, in the African Forest exhibit. Nile Lechwe are antelope, and four at the zoo, named Zap, Sjambok, Rungu, and Kaskara, make up the bachelor herd. The Lechwe join the zoo’s Eastern Bongos, Red-Flanked Duiker and East African Crowned Crane in the African Forest display.

Jenna the giraffe has a new shoe. The 17-year-old reticulated giraffe born at the Montgomery Zoo experienced a traumatic injury 12 years ago that left her with a permanent musculoskeletal abnormality in her left rear leg. Her care team at the time of the injury managed her very well throughout the ordeal. They even developed a brace for her to wear, adding support to her leg. Recently ASU Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics students were at the forefront of the design and development of a new brace for Jenna, with Zoo veterinary and care staff providing insight and suggestions.

84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz COMMUNITY + COMMERCE NEWS

Montgomery Zoo Debuts New Additions

Montgomery Zoo and Alabama State University Collaboration

In August, The Montgomery Zoo announced the addition of a second Giant Anteater to its Maned Wolf and Giant Anteater exhibit. Barques, a 14-year-old male, joins female Giant Anteater Zoe, 14, and Maned Wolves, Paulo and Adrianna, at the exhibit. Barques transferred from Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, but was born in Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Organizational Name Change for Business and Enterprise Systems Directorate

“The yum is in puddin”the Alabama REALTORS® and ASU Partner to Provide Real Estate Microcredential

•Puddin

•Dessert

Heptagon IT is Awarded the FAA eFAST Contract

•Custom •CateringDessertsandEvents

86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz COMMUNITY + COMMERCE NEWS

Chamber members get $5 OFF every purchase www.bigonanapuddin.com334.303.2746

•Puddin

Heptagon IT is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) business and has been recently awarded the FAA eFAST contract. The Electronic Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Accelerated and Simplified Tasks (eFAST) is the FAA’s preferred contracting vehicle for small business contracts. eFAST streamlines the procurement process for all stakeholders using a web-based acquisition tool and automated workflows compliant with applicable FAA standards. Since fiscal year 2010, the eFAST program has awarded over $1.5 billion in contracts to small businesses.

The Business and Enterprise Systems (BES) Directorate, led by Program Executive Officer Richard Aldridge, has been approved by the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) to change its office symbol code from AFLCMC/ HI to AFLCMC/GB. The change from AFLCMC/HI to AFLCMC/GB is strictly an organization symbol change. No BES positions or personnel will move. No program will align elsewhere. The unit will continue to be called the Business & Enterprise Systems Directorate. This does not change the BES mission or vision statements. Jars by the Pan Cups

The Alabama Association of REALTORS® (AAR) and Alabama State University (ASU) have partnered to promote educational opportunities for ASU students through a microcredential in real estate. This partnership is the first of its kind in the nation between a state REALTOR® organization and a Historically Black College/University (HBCU). Alabama REALTORS® is providing a five-year financial commitment to aid in the development and implementation of the program. The curriculum will cover all facets of real estate, from lending and appraisal, to building and insurance. It will also include a homeownership education component and internship opportunities.

87 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Montgomery’s Store Room Fasteners Purchased Wisconsin-based Endries International has purchased Store Room Fasteners, a 38-year-old Montgomery business. Tim Wilsford started Store Room Fasteners out of a storage shed in 1984, and it grew to now include facilities in Montgomery, Opelika, Selma, LaGrange, Georgia, and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

Troy University Disrupts Higher Ed Pricing

River Bank & Trust Opens

In June, TROY signed a memorandum of understanding for concurrent enrollment with Southern Union State Community College and a memorandum of understanding for concurrent enrollment with Chattahoochee Valley Community College. The agreements will allow students at the two community colleges to enroll in TROY classes while they are taking community college courses.

88 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz COMMUNITY + COMMERCE NEWS

For four straight years, Troy University has kept prices level for students, reflecting the University’s commitment to providing an affordable, high-quality education. TROY’s position of maintaining low prices bucks the industry trend of raising the price tag in response to inflation. Troy University froze tuition rates in Fall 2019 and Fall 2020. In Fall 2021, the University established a new pricing structure, called the Clear Cost Plan, that created one tuition rate for all undergraduate students and eliminated a host of enrollment fees, meaning the total price of enrollment stayed the same for most students. For Fall 2022, University leaders have once again frozen tuition rates and are retaining the pricing structure which has done away with all mandatory enrollment fees.

Bob and Patricia Endries started Endries International in their basement in Brillion, Wisconsin. In 2004, their son Steve Endries took over as president, and the industrial supplier has grown steadily since, including a burst of growth and acquisitions during the pandemic. It now runs 11 domestic and international distribution centers from its Wisconsin headquarters.

NEW BUSINESS

Full-Service Branch in Birmingham Area Prattville-based River Bank & Trust has a new branch on the way for the Park South Plaza Shopping Center in Vestavia Hills. Plans are to make 12 hires for the new, approximately 6,000-square-foot location, which is expected to open later this year. Until then, the bank is meeting with customers as needed and handling paperwork through an existing office. River Bank & Trust will lease the space for its permanent branch office. Brian Ethridge will be Regional President for the new location and a member of River Bank & Trust’s executive management team, and the new branch will give River Bank & Trust 21 locations in Alabama.

TROY, American Village Agreement seeks to Bolster Knowledge of U.S. History Troy University and the American Village Citizenship Trust are teaming up to help Alabama youth increase their knowledge. A memorandum of understanding was signed by the two institutions in Montgomery this summer, creating a Young Leaders Program designed to educate students regarding the founding and history of the United States; the structure of federal, state and local government; and the elements of good citizenship and statesmanship. The program will target high school juniors and seniors and will be administered by TROY’s Institute for Civic and Global Leadership. Participants will receive three-hour credit for TROY’s Leadership 1100 course by passing a challenge examination.

TROY Signed Agreements with Two Community Colleges

90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CELEBRATING NEW & EXPANDED BUSINESSES CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings CENT’S WASH HOUSE 334-233-7118 • facebook.com/CentsWashHouse Jacenta Thompson, Owner / Cleaning Services RK PHOTOBOOTHS, LLC 334-544-1366 • RKpbs.com Roderick & Kreshay Caswell, Owners / Entertainment & Recreation PREFERRED HEARING SOLUTIONS, LLC 2066 Fairview Avenue, Prattville, AL 36066 334-213-9300 • facebook.com/Preferredhearingsolutions Kerri Cobb, Owner / Health Care Services HUGHSTON CLINIC ORTHOPAEDICS – LOMAC CAMPUS 4294 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36016 334-274-9000 • hughston.com Rachel Dye, Marketing Manager / Physicians-Orthopedic Surgery THE BEACON CENTER AT THE METROPOLITAN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3091 Gaston Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36105 334-263-0950 • metromgm.org Pastor Richard Williams, Senior Pastor / Churches/Ministries ANOTHER LEVEL OF EXCELLENCE 2596 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 866-553-2563 • aloeismyplace.com Will Parks, Owner / Event-Venue

91 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM Our recycling services include: ✓ Manufacturing Scrap Services ✓ Appliance Recycling ✓ Automobile Recycling ✓ Certified Destruction ✓ Demolition Scrap Montgomery,430334-272-0767www.gotscrap.comAirBaseBlvd.AL36108

92 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL CHAMBER NEWS New Members WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS SEPTEMBER 2022 NEW & MEMBERSREJOINED ADVERTISING Beers Pub-lishing Lisa 334-538-5178BeersASSOCIATIONS/NON-PROFIT Service Dogs Alabama Jeff 8365ParkerMobile Highway Hope Hull, AL 36043 servicedogsalabama.org334-676-3733BUSINESSSERVICES Hi.Ed Duwan Walker 1500 1st Avenue North, Suite D1 Birmingham, AL 35203 hiedgms.com251-327-6507CONSTRUCTION SERVICES T.H. Edwards Consulting, LLC Trent 703-597-1060EdwardsENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Another Level of Excellence Will 2596ParksEastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 aloeismyplace.com866-553-2563HEALTHCARESERVICES Revita Therapy & Wellness Candyce Anderson 2740 Central Parkway, Suite 2 Montgomery, AL 36106 revitatherapyandwellness.com334-676-1383 Sickle Cell Foundation of Greater Montgomery, Inc. Monica VanDiver 3180 U.S. Highway 80 West Montgomery, AL 36108 riverregionsicklecell.com334-286-9122HEALTH&NUTRITION Juice Plus & Tower Garden Lynn 404-409-7797HenryHOMECAREBUSINESS Your Choice Senior Care Mary Stoup 2740 Central Parkway, Suite #12 Montgomery, AL 36106 montgomery.yourchoiceseniorcare.com334-868-2227HOTELS/MOTELS-EXTENDEDSTAY stayAPT Suites Montgomery Adam Binder 5000 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 Stayapt.com334-329-6199INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FIRMS RAVUS Cyber, LLC Josh Ingalls 150 Dexter Avenue, Suite 207 Montgomery, AL 36104 ravuscyber.com334-618-3908 REAL ESTATE-AGENTS Brick & Board Real Estate Advisors Char Walker 7051 Fain Park Drive, Suite 211 Montgomery, AL 36117 brickandboard.co334-224-5215 The A-Team with Local Realty Michelle TheATeamLocalRealty.com334-828-3781Rawls MEMBER TESTIMONIALS ONANDMEMBERSHIPVALUE: “We like how closely they work with the City and County to make Montgomery a good place to live.”“MembershipNeptune is a great way to meet businessambassadorsinfluencers,forandthewho’swhoofMontgomery.”-Sip-N-CyclePedalCruise “

94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL $672,372,163CAPITALINVESTMENT ANNOUNCED1,095JOBS IntelEconomic Numbers reflect June 2022 over June 2021. HOMETOTALSALES597AVERAGESALEPRICE Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area DAYSAVERAGEONMARKET47$253,881•HOUSING NUMBERS • HOUSING • TOURISM UPDATES • SECTORSTOP Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area TRADE, WAREHOUSINGTRANSPORTATION,&UTILITIES 43,90031,10023,40019,900EDUCATION & HEALTH SERVICES PROFESSIONALGOVERNMENT AND BUSINESS SERVICES Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area CIVILIAN LABOR178,518FORCE EMPLOYED 172,199LABORFORCE UNEMPLOYMENTRATE3.5% EMPLOYMENT & LABOREMPLOYEES NEWS:BIG LODGINGTAX 1,217,875 JUNE 2022 OCCUPANCYRATE70% 12.7% SALEAVERAGEPRICE 42% YTD 13,750 NUMBER OF PASSENGERS + 42 NEW PROJECTS + 108 ACTIVE PROJECTS YTD (JAN-JUN) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT ACTIVITY:

Simple. THAT'S HOW WE FLY! T i m e i s m o n e y , w h y n o b o t h ? N o w m o r e t h a n " p l a n e " s e n s e t o f o r g e f l y l o c a l . A v o i d t h e t r a a n d t h e r i s i n g c o s t o f f F l y M G M ! DON'T TRAVEL BEFORE YOU TRAVEL!! Learn More!

96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL AUBURN UNIVERSITY AT MONTGOMERY: » Graduate Focus Scholarships » 12 Month Accelerated Opportunity » GRE/GMAT Waivers Available - ASK FOR DETAILS! » Military and Dependent Scholarships Available FIND OUT MORE AT AUM.EDU/GRAD Business Administration (MBA) Healthcare Administration (MHA) Applied Economics Public Administration (MPA) Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity FAST YOURFORWARDCAREER. Reduce tuition costs by $100 per credit hour for new students with the Graduate Focus Scholarship – a 25% savings. Focus on what’s next. AUM - A UNIVERSITY IN MOTION M B J

MBJ: September 2022

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Member Profile: Michelle Browder

Connect: Past Events

Investor Profile: Caryn Hughes

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