MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
MBJ
KEY COVID-19 TAKEAWAYS FOR SMALL BIZ MGM EDUCATION REPORT CARD
BLUEPRINT FOR A
BETTER MGM 2021 Chamber Chairman has promising plans for his hometown
10
CONTENTS JAN/FEB 2021
THIS ISSUE: 10 2021 Chairman:
Chamber Chairman John Yelverton
16 2021 Board of Directors 20 2020 Wrap Up:
Progress Report & 148th Annual Meeting Recap
38 Money Matters:
Wealth Management Industry Overview
62 Education in MGM: Report Card 2020 24 Investor Profile: Martin Head 27 Member Profiles: Jake Berkowitz, Tiffany Chaney and Heather Phillips 32 Military Profile: Col. Eries Mentzer 34 Giveback: Win-Win at Work 36 #myMGM: Cottage Hill’s Redevelopment 72 Small Business Briefcase: Hindsight is 2020
CHAMBER NEWS:
76 Connect: Chamber News 80 Connect: Past Events 86 Members on the Move 88 Members in the News 90 Business Buzz 92 New Members 95 Ribbon Cuttings 98 Intel
Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION
S
COVID cases are on the rise. And with the addition of flu season, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself and others by wearing a mask. It’s a simple step that can help curb the increase of COVID cases, and help us keep our community healthy.
BAPTISTFIRST.ORG
MBJ
THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO Anna B. Buckalew CHIEF ENGAGEMENT OFFICER Jina Miniard
exploreMedia PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn
MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay
ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy
DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird
CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Minnie Lamberth, Barry Prim, Anne Ferrell Dalton, Dean Peevy and Sharleen Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Nick Drollette, Robert Fouts, Donna Wallace King, Jonathon Kohn, Grace O’Connor, David Robertson Jr. ON THE COVER Chamber Chairman John Yelverton Photography by Jonathon Kohn ADVERTISING Christina Bennett and Angie Jordin, 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 • mbj@montgomerychamber.com © Copyright 2021 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT
The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce catalyzes business and community leadership to improve the economic prosperity and quality of place of Montgomery and the River Region. The Montgomery Business Journal (USPS NO. 025553) is published bi-monthly by exploreMedia for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 13, Issue 1. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.
CHAMBER NEWS
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“We have an obligation to care for and develop all Montgomerians. We have the resources to do it. Now, we’ve chosen to provide those resources. Montgomery will be successful when all Montgomerians are successful.” 10 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
ESH FOCUS 2021 CHAMBER CHAIRMAN
Meet 2021 Chamber Chairman John Yelverton. He’s ready to roll up his sleeves and get going on the business of building a better Montgomery for all.
Every year begins with such promise,
Blueprint for a Better MGM
full of almost infinite possibilities
What are your thoughts on where the
and opportunities, and 2021 is no different. This new year also brings a new Chamber Chairman. John
city is now? It’s changing, and in a good way. There is positive momentum following the passage of the MPS ad valorem tax referendum, and we’re definitely moving in
But it’s not just about that. On a personal level, I just believe it’s the right thing to do, and I came to the realization a few years ago that we needed to do more, that I needed to do more. There are 28,000 kids in MPS, and without getting a
the right direction on that front and others.
good education and good training, I don’t the American dream. And I’m not okay with
is combining his fresh perspective
We know you were heavily involved in the ad valorem referendum. Can you explain why you were so passionate about it?
with that of other new city leadership
I love Montgomery. We are fantastic city
provide those resources. Montgomery will
with so much greatness. That’s why I’m
be successful when all Montgomerians are
here. But Montgomery and its population
successful.
Yelverton, President of Dixie Electric, Plumbing and Air, is presiding over the Chamber’s Board of Directors and
to energize his hometown and help propel the capital city to its full potential. Here, Yelverton shares his thoughts on where MGM is and where it needs to go as well as his strategy for Montgomery’s continued progress, which is really the same people-first philosophy he puts in practice at his company.
By Jennifer S. Kornegay Photography by Jonathon Kohn
believe that they are getting a real shot at that. We have an obligation to care for and develop all Montgomerians. We have the resources to do it. Now, we’ve chosen to
have suffered from not having a strong public school system. It has gotten stagnant in terms of growth, and more
What do you think the referendum’s passage means for education in
people have been leaving. I don’t want to
Montgomery?
watch us lose residents, lose businesses
It is a real chance to turn this system
and lose opportunities because of
around and to provide an education for our
education. I want to see the opposite, and
children that we can be proud of.
to attract people to move to Montgomery and to recruit industry, we must have a strong public school option. It’s good for residents and for the business community. I want to help, and that’s why one reason I’m serving as Chamber Chairman.
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Outside of education, what are your hopes and goals for the city? Growth, both in population and in thoughts and ideas. Only by uniting and fighting together for our city can our city
be truly great. I see more unity and
BUILDING BETTER TOGETHER:
understanding already, and that’s a good predictor of success.
What is the No. 1 challenge Montgomery faces, and what are
THE CHAMBER'S STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR 2021
your thoughts on surmounting it? The perception that Montgomery is not a progressive city. If we fight to do the right thing for all the people of Montgomery, we will change this notion for the better.
Montgomery has new leadership, the Chamber has new leadership, you are bringing a fresh perspective to the Chairmanship this year. What are your thoughts on Montgomery’s new leadership and the direction of the city? As I said before, bringing all the various aspects and parts of our city together is crucial. We are one Montgomery, and this city will rise and fall based on how we ALL do. We have to understand how our fates are all connected and work with that always in mind, or we will not
John Yelverton and his wife Mary Lee with their daughters Lee and Jane.
“My grandfather instilled in all of our family that Montgomery was the reason for our success, and that we must give back to the community that had been so generous to us.”
prosper. The good news is, with new leadership and continued support and partnership of the City, County and state legislative delegation, there is a true, real opportunity for us to have increased unity. The Chamber is pushing for that. I really like the new energy I feel and believe it shows we are poised for real progress.
As you have become more involved in the Chamber, have you been surprised by anything, such as the breadth and depth of the mission and how the organization works behind the scenes on so
This year, the Chamber will build upon a more strategic, focused approach to economic development through a short list of priorities linked to each other by interconnecting strategies and action plans and driven by a simple vision: to drive economic prosperity and accelerate growth in Montgomery and the River Region.
Protect and diversify Montgomery's military and DoD assets: • sparking new growth opportunities for the local economy • supporting next generation defense capabilities protecting national security • solidifying Montgomery's position as a cornerstone of American competitiveness
Diversify the economy through: public education, recruiting industry. There are a lot of balls in the air every day. What they are doing is very
• entrepreneurial development • strategically targeted industry sector growth
impressive and makes it easy to want to get involved to help.
Why are you and your company so involved in and supportive of the Chamber? My grandfather instilled in all of our family that Montgomery was the reason for our success, and that we must give back to the community that
Transform Montgomery’s public school system: • building on the momentum of a community-wide coalition that rallied to increase funding for MPS and acting as a catalyst to bring partners around the table as we work with MPS leadership to chart a bold new course
had been so generous to us. He was
many fronts?
actually Chamber president in 1958.
I was amazed by the quality and
I’ve grown up with that mindset he
dedication of the Chamber team.
taught me, and I believe the Chamber
Anna Buckalew’s [Chamber CEO]
offers its members so many great
experience and leadership is very
ways to connect and engage, so for
inspiring. They are working on so
me, supporting the Chamber and now
many crucial issues – City, County,
serving in this role, is a great way to
State, Federal, Air Force, tourism,
live up to that.
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Create an intentional Montgomery visitor experience by: • connecting powerful tourism opportunities • capturing and leveraging Montgomery’s unique and powerful story to build our destination brand
A SURE BET New Chamber Chairman John Yelverton is a numbers guy, usually busy going over costs and other figures as a function of running his company, Dixie Electric, Plumbing and Air. But he believes there’s no formula for success that doesn’t include people; he’s learned from experience that investing in them guarantees a positive return. It’s why he and his business partner, his brother Noble, have continued and expanded the company culture they learned from their grandfather, a tenet that’s really an extension of the Golden Rule. “Noble and I get our attitude on this from our grandfather,” Yelverton said. “He ran this company for 60 years and was a true Southern gentleman, very involved in his community and committed to giving back.” When Yelverton started with the family company, he worked alongside his grandfather and took the example he set to heart. “Watching him interact with our guys, seeing him do the right things by them and by customers and earning their trust, taught Noble and me how to run a business right,” he said. Today, “running it right” starts with the environment in Dixie’s office. “The atmosphere is pretty light and casual,” Yelverton said. “I can tell how successful we will be by how much laughing I hear. Mean, grouchy people can’t provide good customer service.” But it’s not all fun and games. Dixie puts a premium on empowering its employees with access to resources and for both personal and professional growth. “We are always trying to put back into the individual and make them better workers, spouses, parents, friends and just better overall people so they can help others,” Yelverton said.
FAMILY TIES Dixie Electric, Plumbing and Air was founded in 1908 by John’s greatgrandfather, Peter Crump. Then, John’s grandfather Noble Crump ran the business for 60-plus years. John graduated from the University of Alabama in mechanical engineering in 1984 and came home to work with his grandfather, who retired a few years later. John has now worked for Dixie for 36 years, starting in the summers at age 15, doing, “basically everything that no one else wanted to do.” John’s brother Noble joined him in the company in 1989, and today, the family duo works in tandem to serve Dixie’s diverse array of customers. John oversees the company’s commercial services, construction department, industrial services and Dixie Warehouse Solutions, while Noble is in charge of all the residential electrical, plumbing and air services.
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PURE ENERGY Dixie Electric created its own personal workforce pipeline when it founded its in-house electrical apprenticeship program. It provides a major boost for the company but also improves the outcomes for its employees. And, it’s the largest electrical apprenticeship program in the state.
Once a week, Yelverton oversees an
really do care about helping not just the
off. “Everything we’re doing is contributing
informal leadership training session,
company succeed but about helping them
to happier employees, and why wouldn’t
sending an article or podcast to his team.
succeed too. That’s powerful.”
you want that? It spreads and has real
“It’s usually something focused on how
positive impact across the company,”
to be your best, how to hold yourself
Yelverton calls his company one “big
Yelverton said. “When you treat people
accountable,” he said. “Then we gather to
family,” and his actions speak as loudly
right, it comes back to you. We feel that
discuss it. I think our people get a lot out
as his words through company initiatives
better people provide superior service to
of that.”
like its participation in the Marketplace
our clients and that will encourage clients to
Chaplains Program, a national group that
call us again and again. This attitude overall
Dixie also created its own electrical
provides chaplains to workplaces. “For
has helped the company grow.”
apprenticeship program with a purpose
many reasons, fewer people are getting
that’s two-fold. First, in-house training
to churches on Sundays, so having these
And grow it has. When Yelverton went to
ensures the company always has the
chaplains right here gives our people
work at Dixie Electric with his grandfather,
workforce it needs. But the four-year
someone to talk to, a place to get some
the company had 15 electricians. It now has
program is not just protecting the
spiritual guidance,” Yelverton said, “and
175 employees. “We’ve quadrupled in the
company’s interests. It’s serving its
they develop really great relationships with
last five years,” Yelverton said.
employees too, giving them the chance to
our folks.”
advance in their careers, all at no cost to
Advancing his family company and
them. “It’s free for our people, and any of
He’s constantly forging relationships too by
sustaining its legacy is rewarding, but
them can get into it,” Yelverton said.
keeping the lines of communication always
the philosophy that drives Dixie brings
open. “Every time we hire a new employee,
Yelverton personal fulfillment too. “It’s really
Employees participating learn from the
they get my card with my cell number
exciting to me to watch these folks come
company’s in-house teacher one night a
circled on it,” he said. “I tell them to call
to work here and progress and gain new
week for four hours onsite at the office.
me any time they want to about anything,
skills and do new things,” he said. “I enjoy
“Some of these folks, they’ve maybe never
professional matters, family stuff, whatever.”
watching them grow as individuals and
had anyone put real resources into them,
know we were a part of that. That’s what it
and they get really excited about doing
This emphasis on treating people —
is all about, making a difference in people’s
this,” Yelverton said. “They see that we
employees and customers — right is paying
lives.”
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2021
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK DROLLETTE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2021 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Pictured from Left to Right: Willie Durham, State Farm Insurance, Vice Chairman; Anna B. Buckalew, CEO, Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce; Cedric Campbell, Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc., Chairman Elect; John D. Yelverton III, Dixie Electric Plumbing & Air, Chairman; LaBarron Boone, Beasley Allen Law Firm, Vice Chairman; Caryn Hughes, Valley Bank, Vice Chairman; Arthur DuCote, Immediate Past Chairman
MR. RICHARD T. ALDRIDGE Program Executive Officer Business & Enterprise Systems
MRS. ANITA L. ARCHIE President Trenholm State Community College
MR. JAKE F. ARONOV Chairman & CEO Aronov Realty Management, Inc.
MR. OWEN W. ARONOV President Aronov Realty Management, Inc.
MR. VLADIMIR V. AVERETT Owner & Manager Heritage Barber & Style Shop, LLC
MR. TERRY BARBER Owner & Manager Little Engine Broadcasting
MR. G. CARLTON BARKER President & CEO ServisFirst Bank
MR. CARL J. BARTLETT, JR. Executive Vice President Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC
MR. ROBERT BIRMINGHAM Market Executive Regions Bank
MR. JOSHUA O. BLADES Advisor, Governmental Affairs/ Econ Dev Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP
MR. JUDKINS D. BLOUNT, SR. President Vintage Hospitality Group, Inc.
MR. LABARRON BOONE Principal Beasley Allen Law Firm
MS. STEPHANIE A. BRYAN Tribal Chair Poarch Band of Creek Indians
MRS. ANNA B. BUCKALEW CEO Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
MR. JOSHWON BUSH President & CEO Up and Running
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MR. CEDRIC T. CAMPBELL Project Manager Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc.
MR. ORLANDO CANNON Owner Cannon Janitorial Services
MS. SANDRA J. COAKER Managing Member Warren Averett, LLC
MR. A. BRUCE CRAWFORD Montgomery CEO BBVA
MR. BRIAN L. DAVIS Regional Manager Spire
MR. TERRY G. DAVIS Managing Member Davis & Hatcher, LLC
THE HONORABLE ELTON N. DEAN, SR. Chairman Montgomery County Commission
MR. ARTHUR J. DUCOTE Immediate Past Chairman Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
MR. MIKE DUNN Managing Director Stifel Public Finance
MR. WILLIE DURHAM Agent State Farm Insurance
MR. LISTON EDDINS Chairman Industrial Development Board of the City of Montgomery
MR. TOD ETHEREDGE Montgomery President Trustmark Bank
MR. JOHN S. FENDLEY Principal Jackson Thornton
MR. KEARY L. FOSTER President & CEO Wealth Management Partners, LLC
MR. JOE FRIDAY President & CEO Whitfield Foods, Inc.
MR. RICHARD E. HANAN Board Chairman Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board
MR. BARRIE H. HARMON III Founder & CEO Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc.
MR. MARK HARRIS Resident Branch Manager Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC
LT. GENERAL JAMES HECKER Commander & President Air University - Maxwell AFB
MR. ANDRE F. HOWARD Owner & Manager Howard’s Hair Stylists & Designers
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2021
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MR. EUI SUNG KIM President & CEO Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama
MR. PETE R. KNIGHT, JR. Montgomery Market President Renasant Bank
MR. JIM MASSEY III President Jim Massey’s Cleaners
MR. TROY A. MAXWELL District Manager Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama
MR. JEROME T. MOORE III President Moore Company Realty
MS. MARGARET NEKIC President & CEO Inspirien
MS. CARYN C. HUGHES SVP, Alabama Commercial Lending Executive Valley Bank
MR. LANCE D. HUNTER CEO Hodges Warehouse + Logistics
MRS. ASHLEY BRANDLE JERNIGAN Owner JDB Hospitality, LLC
MR. JERRY C. KYSER CEO Jerry Kyser Builder, Inc.
MR. COLEMAN LARLEE General Manager SABIC Polymers
MR. JAMES K. LOWDER Chairman The Colonial Company
MR. JOHN B. MAZYCK Principal & Owner The Frazer Lanier Company
MR. THOMAS J. METHVIN Principal & Managing Attorney Beasley Allen Law Firm
MR. QUINCY P. MINOR President & COO Information Transport Solutions, Inc.
MR. JOE PERKINS President & CEO Matrix, LLC
MS. ESSENCE J. PHENIX President Smoothie King
MR. PAUL PINYAN Executive Director ALFA Farmers
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THE HONORABLE CHARLES PRICE Senior Advisor to the Mayor City of Montgomery
MS. STACIA ROBINSON Agency Principal The BeneChoice Companies
MR. ROBERT R. RAMSEY President & CEO AmeriFirst Bank
MRS. LESLIE L. SANDERS Vice President, Southern Division Alabama Power Company
THE HONORABLE STEVEN L. REED Mayor City of Montgomery
MR. ED REINHARDT Vice President Reinhardt Motors, Inc.
MR. JOE B. RILEY President & CEO Jackson Hospital & Clinic, Inc.
MS. PAULA SEALE Senior Media Consultant Montgomery Advertiser USA Today Network
MR. PATRICK SIDHU President & CEO Premier Kings, Inc.
MR. ERIC SLOAN Owner 1 Sync Technologies
MR. W. RUSSELL TYNER President & CEO Baptist Health
MR. JOHN E. STEINER Managing Director Welon Partners, LLC
MR. JAMES M. STUBBS President & CEO River Bank & Trust
MR. MARSHALL J. TAGGART, JR. Executive Airport Director & CEO Montgomery Airport Authority
MS. RUBY TUCK President & CEO Program Management and Technology Services, Inc.
MS. CLARE C. WEIL President Montgomery County Board of Education
MS. JESSICA WEYREUTER Founder & Director Dream Court
MR. RAY WHITE Vice Chancellor Troy University
MRS. VIRGINIA WHITFIELD Owner Whitfield Consulting
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MR. JOHN D. YELVERTON III President & COO, Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air
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VESTOR IN
PO WERHOUSE PR
OFIL
Q&A
E
MARTIN HEAD MAX Credit Union CEO Martin Head’s first steps on his career path were not particularly focused. Unsure what he wanted to do after college, he went to work for a bank, assuming his exposure to a variety of businesses would help him reach a decision. Instead, he realized he loved finding financial solutions for individuals and businesses and that the financial services industry was where he wanted to make his future. So, he did, working in banking for 20 years before joining the MAX Credit Union team just over a decade ago. How many employees does MAX Credit Union have in the River Region? Currently, MAX Credit
through from beginning to end that has a direct impact
Union has 15 locations in the River Region where we employ
community talking to customers and looking at projects we
just over 300 employees.
are financing.
What are MAX Credit Union’s primary services? I think most are familiar with MAX Credit Union’s
What is the main challenge facing your industry right now? Well, obviously the pandemic
great rates on car loans as well as other consumer loans,
is causing us to reevaluate our business model, which
along with our fantastic deposit products, which include
includes processes and service delivery. In addition, meeting
checking accounts, savings, money markets, certificates
the digital experience expectations of members is a big
and IRA’s. Over the last several years, MAX Credit Union
challenge.
on our members. I also still really enjoy getting out in the
has really ramped up our commercial area as well as our we can offer just about any business-related product or
What specific challenges has MAX Credit Union faced related to COVID-19? The pandemic
service any business in the River Region would need. On the
has certainly created challenges for us this year, but our team
residential mortgage side, we offer conventional, FHA, VA
at MAX Credit Union stepped up to make sure the member
and USDA mortgages, and we service all of the mortgages
experience has stayed safe, secure and dependable.
we originate, so if there is ever a problem you call MAX
Remote work and operating with closed branch lobbies for
Credit Union, not an out-of-town mortgage company.
several months was certainly an interesting twist. I think the
residential mortgage departments. On the commercial side,
most challenging and at the same time most rewarding, thing In addition, we now offer a full-service wealth management
has been working with members who lost their job through
service, MAX Credit Union Wealth Management, and MAX
no fault of their own get through the financial difficulties
Credit Union Insurance Services, which offers home, auto, life
caused by COVID-19.
and insurance products.
What is your impression of Montgomery’s current business climate? Montgomery has a tremendous opportunity for growth in the business
responsibility is developing the vision and strategy for
community. Our workforce development initiatives coupled
continued growth, while maintaining the strong sustainable
with Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and TechMGM providing
financial position that MAX Credit Union enjoys today. In
IT training offers Montgomery businesses a well-rounded
addition to that, I always look for ways to invest in our people
labor force. Obviously, our public education needs some
and our community to ensure our members are getting the
work, and it has to remain a priority. I know Mayor Reed
best products and services possible.
is working on his plans to help build and strengthen our community and economy for the 21st century. I am hopeful
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
his vision will equip Montgomery for the road ahead, and
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is to see a project
MAX Credit Union is here to help anyway we can.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS.
What are the duties and responsibilities of your position as President/CEO? My primary
“
“Growing up, my father was very involved with the Chamber, and he instilled in me the importance of having a strong Chamber to work with local businesses and to help bring in new business and industry, which builds a healthy economy and improves the lives in our communities. MAX Credit Union supports the Chamber because of the outstanding job they do in promoting economic development, tourism and being the voice for business.”
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M EM BER profile
JAKE BERKOWITZ Jake Berkowitz, Area Director for talent management firm Stratice, touts the talent of his team and claims it and an “amazing” company culture set his company apart.
What are Stratice’s primary services? We are a talent management firm dedicated to creating an a la carte plan best suited for the needs of your company. While we consider technology our bread and butter, our expertise is not limited to that industry.
Who are Stratice’s primary clients? Stratice has clients all over the country dealing in both the state and federal government space as well as dealing heavily in the private sector in a multitude of different industries.
What are your job’s primary duties? As Stratice’s Area Director for the company’s Corporate Headquarters in Montgomery, I oversee our recruitment team as well as our sales team. In addition, I deal heavily with our existing clients as well as developing new clients.
What advice would you give someone looking for a job? Reach out to companies like ours. Recruitment firms are a great way to get guidance and help and get directly in front of the hiring manager.
What’s your favorite thing about your job? I love building and growing a team, and in my position, along with our company’s four partners (Jordan and Scott Franklin and Robin and Chris Hampton), I am able to really help Stratice’s internal team members grow to their fullest potential. The company culture is like nothing I have ever seen before (a mix of Silicon Valley and Southern flair). Our partners bring such a wealth of knowledge to the business, and our staff’s dedication to Stratice is something that is truly unique.
What are your interests outside of work? I am PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS.
originally from Minnesota but ended up in Alaska where I raced sled dogs professionally, competing in five Iditarods
Still Going & Growing
and two Yukon Quests. We moved to Alabama to be closer to family. As a retired professional sled dog racer, I still
“We are incredibly proud to have been able to continue
have a lot of interest in the sport. I write for a multitude of
to grow our footprint even with all the challenges of
publications as an expert commentator. Additionally, I have done NBC’s live broadcast of the Iditarod the last few years as the on-air color commentator. mystratice.com
COVID-19. Stratice has continually been able to offer positions and grow our consultant base through these trying times, and the ability to help people get jobs is something we are very proud of.”
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M EM BE R profile
TIFFANY CHANEY As Chief Diversity Officer at Baptist Health, Tiffany Chaney ensures one of the region’s largest employers is a diverse, inclusive place to work and that the essential care it provides is equitable.
How long have you worked with Baptist Health? I began in 2006. In 2009, I discerned a call to ministry and moved to Philadelphia to attend seminary, then to Boston for my first pastoral call. I continued to work remotely with Baptist Health. In 2016, I returned to Montgomery and resumed on-site work with Baptist Health as System Director of Business Development before being promoted to Chief Diversity Officer in August 2020.
What are the main duties of your position? I lead strategic development, promotion and implementation of health system initiatives to ensure commitment and accountability across all spectrums of diversity. Some responsibilities include: Ensuring organizational plans reflect a lens towards diversity, equity and inclusion. Engaging efforts that will support equitable patient care for underrepresented segments of the service area. Working closely with internal departments to ensure a culture with equitable practices and inclusive environment for sourcing, hiring, compensating, supporting and developing diverse team members at every level. Educating team members in cultural sensitivity.
Why is diversity so important in today’s workplaces? When serving a diverse community, having
Top Marks Due in part to its commitment to diversity, Baptist Health was recently recognized by Forbes as No. 17 among top employers in Alabama. It was the only healthcare provider listed in the state. The honor was earned by the votes of Baptist Health team members. Chaney raised an important point. “The time to May 2020, covering the time before and after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, meaning even in the midst of what is quite possibly one of the most difficult times in their career, our team members recognized Baptist Health as an employer of choice,” she said.
like the company will better understand and be sensitive to their needs. Also, having a diverse team widens the perspective of voices and lived experiences at decisionmaking tables.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work? Engaging and collaborating with team members and with community members on ways to best address diversity, equity and inclusion at Baptist Health. This work so often requires vulnerability, next-level understanding and grace for self and others. I consider it a privilege that people trust me as a source for conversations about sensitive topics. baptistfirst.org
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR. PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK C. WILLIAMS
period for surveying was from October 2019
a team reflective of the community often helps people feel
Fueling us Forward “From managing our cash with competitive yields to following through with each and every promise, River Bank delivers. Their genuine interest in our business puts them miles ahead of other banking relationships.� Tom Russell, President & CEO, Russell Oil Company Billy Whigham, Vice President & Relationship Manager, River Bank & Trust NMLS 527191
R I V E R B A N K A N D T R U S T.C O M
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M E M B E R profile
HEATHER PHILLIPS Assistant Vice President and downtown Branch Manager for Trustmark National Bank Heather Phillips puts her networking skills to work not just in her career but on behalf of the Chamber too, serving as Chairman of its 2020 Ambassador program.
Club Level Heather Phillips was recently recognized in the 2019 Trustmark President’s Club. The President’s Club Award is given to the top 25 percent of staff who excel in branch income, deposits, loans, operations and customer service scores. This marked her third year receiving the award.
How long have you worked for Trustmark National Bank? Since August 2015
What’s your favorite aspect of your job? Business development and networking. I love getting out into the community, meeting business owners and learning about their business. Small business owners are passionate about what they do and have great stories to tell. It is my job and honor to help them with their financial needs.
How long have you been a Chamber Ambassador? This is my fifth year, and I am honored to serve as the 2020 Chamber Ambassador Chairman.
What do you hope to accomplish as Chamber Ambassador chair? To me a Chamber Ambassador is selected as a very important part of the Chamber to help accomplish the Chamber mission. I want my love and passion for Montgomery and the local business community to inspire the Ambassadors to represent and promote the Chamber. We do that by recruiting new Chamber members, spreading the word about new businesses to our network, and attending and working Chamber events.
What have you gotten out of being an Ambassador and why would you encourage others to participate in the program? I am not from Montgomery, so it was very important for me to get plugged into the community. The Chamber Ambassador program has helped me do that by meeting people at the Ribbon Cuttings, 60 Minute Coffees and Chamber friends through the Ambassador program.
What are your interests outside of work? I love running, spending time with family and friends, and watching my son play baseball and football. trustmark.com 30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
After Hours. I have made many business contacts and
Why the
Culverhouse College of Business is the right choice for a premier business education. What sets us apart? A Focus on the Student Experience Extensive Experiential Learning Opportunities An Intentional Approach Toward Student Professional Development Connections to the World’s Leading Firms Learn more and apply today: culverhouse.ua.edu/intro
31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M I L I TA RY profile
COL. ERIES L.G. MENTZER Col. Eries Mentzer, the new Commander of the 42nd Air Base Wing, has been only been in her position for four months, but she’s already homed her laser focus in on teamwork to ensure all on base are enhancing the Maxwell-Gunter experience.
Where are you originally from? I was born on a Naval Air Station. As a result of my father’s career, we lived on the East Coast, the West Coast, in the South and in the Midwest. My father retired when I was in college, where I was an AFROTC cadet. After college, I joined the Air Force, and I have been military connected my entire life.
How long have you been in the Air Force? I have served in the Air Force for 23 years. My husband is a 28-year Department of Defense civilian who works remotely for the Office of the Secretary of Defense. We met on my second assignment and welcomed our son during our Washington, D.C. tour. It has been an awesome journey and truly a joy that my husband and son can share this experience. We are thrilled to join the River Region and humbled by the incredible welcome from the base and community.
What is your focus as Commander? My command chief Chief Master Sgt. Michael Morgan and I are focused daily on “fighting through” COVID. We also remain focused on creating conditions for our 42,000 personnel, Air University and our 48 mission partners to rise to their best daily. We are privileged to lead the women and men of Team 42 in shaping the quality of life and mission for all who live, work, play and rely on Maxwell Air Force
Adventures in Alignment “My family and I love to be outdoors exploring in
Base and Gunter Annex. Our goal is to deliver installation support that maximizes the Maxwell-Gunter experience. We are doing this by fostering a fully inclusive environment and getting after barriers that
We’ve learned in our adventures that if you do
prevent Airmen and their families from rising to their
not get the trailer level, it can make for a very
best. We call this “Securing the Freedom to Serve.”
uncomfortable trip. The same applies for our life. If you are too high (ego) or too low (depleted energy), you are not performing at your best personally or professionally. Our travel trailer allows us to be closest as a family, to get outside,
We are building on the tremendous accomplishments of those who came before us and partnered with our amazing local civic and community leaders and mission partners to leave Maxwell-Gunter and Montgomery better for those who follow.
to enjoy new locations, to connect, to reset and relax, and ‘get level’ while exploring.”
MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL 32 32
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS
our travel trailer. We call it ‘getting level.’
What inspires you? When selected for this assignment, I read Mrs. Rosa Parks’ biography. I learned that she worked on Maxwell during WWII, and the integrated public spaces and trolley on our base inspired her. In her words, “You might just say Maxwell opened my eyes up. It was an alternative reality to the ugly policies of Jim Crow.” Following her service on Maxwell Field, she refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus and sparked a movement that changed our nation for the better. If Mrs. Rosa Parks, a seamstress with few resources or positional power, can change our nation for the better, I ask myself and my Airmen, “What can we do?” On the 65th anniversary of the day Mrs. Parks refused to give up her seat, we unveiled a sculpture in her honor on base. At the ceremony, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed announced a 382-day (number of days of the Montgomery Bus Boycott) partnership between the base and the city to focus on what we can do in the spirit of Mrs. Parks. Mr. Bryan Stevenson, Founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative is our Maxwell-Gunter inclusion adviser. We are excited to partner with him and Mayor Reed on our inclusion initiative.
Any recent milestones or achievements? Prior to Maxwell-Gunter, I led the transition team for the Air Force Change of Command Ceremony to retire the 21st Chief Of Staff of the United States Air Force and welcome the 22nd United States Air Force Chief Of Staff. We did this while navigating Hurricane Isaias and the COVID-19 global pandemic. With the guidance of amazing public health and planning teams and by embracing new technology to plan virtually, we developed safe, socially distanced transition events, culminating in the historic appointment of the Department of Defense’s first African-American service chief. As the Air Force Commander of Joint Base Anacostia-
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GiveBack
WIN-WIN AT WORK / by MINNIE LAMBERTH Helping those with developmental disabilities train for, find and thrive in a job is Triumph Services’ mission,
IMAGE BY STEPHEN POFF
but it turns out, the employers who work with Triumph’s participants benefit too.
Triumph Services connected John Faulkner (pictured) with Stamp Idea Group, and it’s proven a great match for both parties.
Triumph Services was established in Birmingham in 2007
Participants can come through private pay or by referral from
as a nonprofit organization providing programs to support
the ADRS. “They have to have a developmental disability to
people who have developmental disabilities and expanded
qualify for our services. We predominately focus on the autism
to Montgomery in 2016. “We saw there was a need in the
spectrum, but it could be any,” Zaiontz said. Skill sets vary, and in
community and decided to open an office there,” said Executive Director Beth Zaiontz. From the beginning, programs have sought to enhance skills at home, at work and in relationships to help participants thrive independently. “It’s always been a holistic approach,” Zaiontz said. The work component focuses on preparing for and providing competitive employment.
Everyone Counts “It’s important to remember that everybody you work with is different.” - David Allred
Zaiontz said the organization works through
some cases participants may have bachelor’s or master’s degrees or other professional training but need help adjusting to a work environment. To date, 17 employers in the River Region have been part of Triumph’s work-placement programs. Among them is Chappy’s Deli, which has a nearly 20-year track record of hiring individuals with developmental disabilities. “We just try to treat everybody the same,” said David Barranco, one of the owners of the
the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) as it
restaurant, which has four locations in the River Region and one
trains and places individuals, and their support extends through
in Auburn. “We know everybody needs a jumpstart sometime to
hiring and beyond. “We give them a lot of training prior to
keep going.”
taking on these jobs – hopefully setting them up for success.” In addition, she said, “We actually find the employment and support
In turn, Barranco said that the employees have been good for
them in that job.” That includes checking in with a supervisor to
the business. “They have been bright spots for us.” Noting the
see if the position continues to be a good fit or if any issues are
gratitude and appreciation they bring to the workplace, he
arising.
added, “It helps them, it helps us, and customers embrace them.” 34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Stamp Idea Group also welcomed a new
“We give them a lot of training prior to taking on these jobs—hopefully setting them up for success.We actually find the employment and support them in that job.”
work at Stamp. “The people are very nice.
specialist and presented a list of needs. “She
- Triumph Executive
a steady supply of snacks and drinks. “I’m
took a lot of notes,” Allred said. “It’s a lot like
Director Beth Zaiontz
employee with the assistance of Triumph Services. David Allred, agency principal and managing director, said that he had been invited to attend a breakfast where he heard from other businesses who had used Triumph Services. When the agency needed assistance taking care of their facilities, they met with a Triumph Services employment
working with a professional recruiter.” The
They always tell me if I need to take a break, I can.” Cleanliness is imperative in this time of COVID-19, and Faulkner said that some of his work is “wiping down door handles, thermostats—anything that’s high contact so no one gets infected.” He also maintains the kitchen areas, keeping in charge of restocking those, making sure there is enough of everything,” he said. “The
employment specialist knew the Triumph
Allred realized that Triumph was also
work isn’t too much. I still have plenty to do.
candidates who would be a good fit, and she
evaluating Stamp and whether the business
It’s not so much that I’m overwhelmed.”
arranged for interviews.
would be a good fit for their candidate. “I was just very impressed with that
“It’s been nice for us,” Allred said. “There
Allred said that when hiring people, he has
thoroughness,” he said. He also pointed out
are a lot of tasks that need to get done that
a standard set of questions he asks, and
that if any problem occurs, the employment
he fills in.” As Allred sees it, no two staff
he decided to ask John Faulkner, his future
specialist would mediate the issue. “That’s
members are alike, and the differences
employee, those same questions. “His
not something you get with your existing
one employee might have over another is
answers were very different than what we
employees. You have to do that yourself,”
common for any workplace. “It’s important to
usually get,” Allred said. “They were honest.
Allred said.
remember that everybody you work with is
His answers in some cases were funny. It was very refreshing.”
different,” he said. For his part, Faulkner said he enjoys his
35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
MyMGM
COTTAGE HILL’S REDEVELOPMENT RESTORES & REVIVES Rescuing and revitalizing the structures in Montgomery’s Cottage Hill area, one of the city’s most historic spots, should have positive effects on both MGM’s image and its economy.
/ by MINNIE LAMBERTH
The old fire station in Cottage Hill will soon be a hot spot: It’s currently being transformed into an event space, Airbnb lodging and a chocolate-production facility.
Cottage Hill, a once-vibrant residential
the city,” Neeley said. In an earlier time, fire
her mother, Anne Jordan-Reynolds, who
area, was an identifiable location during
stations started out as private companies,
purchased the structure in September
the earliest days of Montgomery. “There
and residents paid fees to keep them
2019 and are turning it into an event
were some really grand houses up and
running. “As cities grew, it became more
space, Airbnb lodging and a chocolate-
down Goldthwaite and up and down
efficient to put fire departments in city
production facility. A Montgomery native,
Clayton as well,” said Collier Neeley,
government,” Neeley added. “It shows
Reynolds first noticed the fire station as
Executive Director of The Landmarks
you the importance of that neighborhood
a student studying Civil Rights history. “I
Foundation.
because it did have a fire department.”
never dreamed at that time I would have
A roundabout at a well-traveled route
Not only were Cottage Hill and Five Points
Though she’d heard that a fire station
known as Five Points—where North and
pivotal to early city history, they also
had been at this location since the 1890s,
South Goldthwaite meet Clayton Street,
played a role in the Civil Rights Movement.
she added, “This structure dates to the
Mobile Street and Montgomery Street
During the Selma-to-Montgomery march in
1930s.” She also cited its place in Civil
—is part of the heritage. “Five Points is
1965, marchers came down Montgomery
Rights history as part of the value of its
the intersection of those major roads
Street as they headed to the state capitol.
preservation. “The location on the trail is
coming from the west into downtown,”
“It’s on the Civil Rights Trail,” Neeley said,
vitally important.”
Neeley said. The fire station located at
as he expressed appreciation for new
this roundabout, a nearly 90-year-old
investments in the Cottage Hill area.
an opportunity to be an owner,” she said.
structure, is a continuing reminder of the
The Airbnb lodging space first went up for rent in March 2020, and Reynolds is
neighborhood’s significance. “The fire
A redevelopment of the fire station is in
working out the occupancy licensing for
station was one of the first fire stations in
the hands of Stephanie Reynolds and
event space. The chocolate-production
36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
facility is a follow-through on a venture she and her mother shared in Haiti, where they started a production company to support the country’s economy. Reynolds lived in Haiti from 2016 to 2018, as they partnered with another company to expand the facility. Now back in Montgomery, they plan to continue chocolate production, and they’ll be sourcing vanilla beans and cacao through a vanilla and cacao cooperative in Northern Haiti. Across the street from the fire department is another historic structure with four connected storefronts. “The Eli Capilouto buildings were some of the earliest commercial buildings in that part of town,”
BACK TO LIFE “All of the renovation we’re doing is to restore them to their former glory. We’re excited to be part of the revitalization of that whole area.” -Andrew Szymanski.
Neeley said. Andrew Szymanski and Will O’Connor, partners in Hilltop Development Group, have taken on the task of
In addition to the real estate side of their
redeveloping this North Goldthwaite
efforts to rehab the property and secure
Street property.
tenants, Szymanski and O’Connor have also launched a small business side. In
Szymanski noted that neither he nor
light of economic disruptions related to
O’Connor are from this area but decided
COVID-19, he said, “We thought that the
that if they were going to stay in
market for potential tenants was pretty
Montgomery at this point in their careers,
minimal. We decided we would start our
they wanted to be invested in the city. “We
own small business.”
saw a great opportunity to do that with the buildings up in Cottage Hill,” he said.
Accordingly, they’ll open Hilltop Coffee
“The buildings were very raw. All but one
Co. in one of the spaces in early 2021.
of them had no power, no electrical, no
“Hopefully, we’ll be serving coffee for
plumbing. They were shells.”
people coming to the Memorial,” he business that will be announced later.
made the purchase, the space was being
In addition, Seville at Hilltop, a salon
used by a previous owner as storage.
previously on Fairview Avenue, opened,
The goal now is to bring the storefronts
and Lorraine’s Cookies Created for
back to their original look and feel while
Community is another new business in the
maintaining their interesting architectural
location.
features. “All of the renovation we’re doing is to restore them to their former
As the capital city moves full speed into
glory,” Szymanski said. The location is
the future, local efforts to preserve and
about a quarter mile from The National
re-energize pieces of its past continue
Memorial for Peace and Justice on
to inspire while also creating economic
Caroline Street. “We’re excited to be part
opportunities.
Images by Anna Gibbs.
said. They are also developing another At the time Hilltop Development Group
Whitfield Foods’ long history is reflected in a treasure trove of historic photos and artifacts recently rediscovered. Images courtesy of Whitfield Foods.
Andrew Szymanski and Will O’Connor (middle picture) of Hilltop Development Group
of the revitalization of that whole area,”
are bringing life back to some of the oldest
Szymanski said.
commercial buildings in the area.
37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
WEALTH MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
MONEY MATTER WHEN IT COMES TO WEALTH MANAGEMENT, MONEY MATTERS, BUT THE “MANAGEMENT” HALF OF THE PHRASE IS EQUALLY IMPORTANT AND RELIES ON RELATIONSHIPS.
BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY 38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
T
he key to creating, keeping and growing wealth is knowledge. When it comes to managing money, education is essential, and while the internet can be helpful, having a personal financial “professor” can prove profitable. Most in the wealth management industry consider educating their clients their core function. “For my clients, I always make sure they know and understand what we are doing, why we are doing it and how it will work for their longterm plan,” said Mitchell Dubina, Vice President, Investments at Stifel. He’s not alone in this approach. Amanda Overby, Financial Advisor with Raymond James, is committed to increasing her clients’ financial literacy level and pointed to the size and scope of the River Region’s wealth management industry as a major asset for residents. “With plentiful resources, everyone who wants to get help has access,” she said. “Our area wealth management professionals are a great resource for learning about various financial topics.” More financial advisors to pick from means more opportunities to find the right fit, and according to Dubina, this variety in choice is key. “For the citizens of the River Region, having many wealth management firms provides a myriad of options when it comes to personalized financial planning,” he said.
FEAR NOT
Choosing to work with a financial advisor is motivated by more than hopes of greater returns; the advisorclient relationship and the informed guidance it offers can also provide peace, an aspect that increases in value in a volatile economic climate. During COVID-19, area advisors have depended on these bonds of trust plus previously made financial
#NOWTRENDING
plans to combat clients’ fears. “The
“One trend that we see is a continued movement towards a passive investment approach. Even though the active approach is still more prevalent, industry statistics show that investors are moving away from an approach that involves market timing and stock selection toward a management style that captures market returns, lowers costs and avoids efforts to seek
challenges associated with COVID-19 have given financial advisors the opportunity to serve our clients by reassuring them of the financial plan we have in place and reducing the anxiety that comes with uncertainty,” Overby said. Bad news and the unpredictability it can cause are givens in today’s world, but the pandemic really shook financial markets and in turn, many investors’ resolve. “Negative events
out the next hot stock.”
are not unusual,” Barry Prim, Senior Client Consultant at Warren Averett Asset Management, said. “They happen fairly regularly. What was unusual this time was the scope of the event, and the government’s response to it. Right or wrong, shutting down the economy for any reason will create disruption and economic pain.” Prim says the “revaluation of risk” this brought on for clients is not necessarily a problem, and actually something he recommends doing
39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Adam Causey, Principal, Jackson Thornton Asset Management
Industry Overview: WEALTH MANAGEMENT
every year, no matter the circumstances. Shaw Pritchett, Principal at Jackson Thornton Asset Management, agreed and stressed that emotions are the enemy when it comes to successful wealth management strategies, calling the virus the “challenge of the moment,” but only one of many. “The news related to COVID-19 is scary and has created
ON THE ROAD
“If you were to go on a vacation, would you get in the car and drive until you found the perfect place? Most likely, you would put in some effort to plan ahead and design a trip that met your needs and wants, and you would create a roadmap to show you how you would get there. The same applies to wealth management. To have a successful experience, you need to plan ahead to make sure you create the roadmap required to meet your financial needs.”
anxiety in the minds of investors across the world. When we talk to clients, we remind them that when we opened their account, we agreed on an investment strategy that was appropriate for them at a time when they were not emotional,” he said. “There was reason for concern before COVID-19, and there will be a reason for concern after COVID-19. Acting out of emotion is never a good investment policy, so we continually remind clients that this uncertainty shall pass like all the others before.”
WORK THE PLAN
“
“WITH PLENTIFUL RESOURCES, EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO GET HELP HAS ACCESS. OUR AREA WEALTH MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS ARE A GREAT RESOURCE FOR LEARNING ABOUT VARIOUS FINANCIAL TOPICS.” - Amanda Overby, Financial Advisor with Raymond James you would put in some effort to plan
While this wisdom can help calm clients,
ahead and design a trip that met your
the real cure for client jitters is a well-
needs and wants, and you would create
researched, personalized financial plan,
a roadmap to show you how you would
as Dubina explained. “My mission is to
get there,” he said. “The same applies to
remind each client what their objectives
wealth management. To have a successful
for their wealth have been, are presently
experience, you need to plan ahead
and plan to be in the future,” he said.
to make sure you create the roadmap
“Unless these plans have changed, we
required to meet your financial needs.”
remain focused on their plans for the
Shaw Pritchett, Principal at Jackson Thornton Asset Management
future and stay the course.” Pritchett
Wild market swings and resulting
echoed Dubina. “The best plan is
questions also highlight the role a
to stay the course, as no one has
financial advisor plays in crafting and
consistently proven that they can time
executing a solid plan, which, thanks
the market. More fortunes have been lost
to multiple considerations, can be a
than made trying to prove that statement
complex undertaking. Prim outlined the
wrong.”
long list of considerations that form the foundation of any plan. “You want to be
Today’s turbulent times only underscore
consistent to who you are and think long
the purpose and importance of
term if you can. Of course, long term
these plans. Pritchett likened wealth
means something different based on each
management planning to preparing for
investor’s age, risk tolerance and unique
a trip. “If you were to go on a vacation,
situation, but market volatility like we have
would you get in the car and drive until
experienced this year can cause many to
you found the perfect place? Most likely,
shun investing in the equity markets.
40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
When the world changes, rely on us We can provide customized, comprehensive advice and guidance to help you stay on track and pursue your goals. Call us to talk it through. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 4001 Carmichael Road Suite 500 Montgomery, AL 36106 334.409.5800 • 800.937.0282
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:
Are Not FDIC Insured
Are Not Bank Guaranteed
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Industry Overview: WEALTH MANAGEMENT Or worse, to try and time the swings by coming in and out of the stock market,” he said. “Both ideas are usually incorrect and can negatively affect returns. A better path is to make a plan for where you want to be in a certain time, discover your risk tolerance, then implement a unique, diversified portfolio to get there. In the long run, statistics have proven that the consistent investor will have better results with a diversified approach that includes equity exposure.” Prim understands the long run as well as anyone. He’s been in the wealth management industry since 1990. During the last three decades, he’s seen multiple changes. “From the evolution of exchange traded funds and online trading platforms to the recent introduction of crypto currency, access to the markets has changed drastically over the years,” he said. “Investors can now buy and sell securities on their phone in an instant, which is a far cry from how it was done in 1990.” Still, according to Prim, there’s a constant. “What has not changed is the need for most investors to get help. It can be very overwhelming to make sense of this rapidly changing market,” he said. Overby has seen the recent economic uncertainty shake the confidence of DIY investors and bring people to or back to financial advisors as they seek answers and understanding. “When volatility strikes and economic uncertainty appears, investors become concerned and turn back to financial professionals for help,” she said.
REGULATORY REVIEWS Another facet of the wealth management industry always in flux is the regulatory environment. Financial advisors are some of the most heavily regulated professionals in our workforce and are subject to a high
Tough Times
What about 2020?
We asked our industry experts their thoughts on how COVID-19-induced economic issues are affecting 401(k) retirement plans.
Q:
How are 401(k) plans faring? Are some businesses not matching or not matching as much to cut costs and is this wise? Amanda Overby: Companies are doing what
Barry Prim:
they have to do to keep the
Surprisingly well. I believe
doors open. In some cases
that over the past two
that means suspending or
decades it has become
reducing a 401(k) match for
ingrained in participants
now. The retirement plans
minds that consistent saving
were developed with times
will produce better long
like this in mind to allow for
term results. This is a great
flexibility.
development. It is true
Adam Causey:
that in tough times many businesses have to scale
Our 401(k) clients have been
back on their matches or
faring well. It’s too early
profit sharing contributions,
to tell how the economic
but in my experience
conditions will impact plans
most do so as a last resort
in the long term, but our
because they understand
clients are making their
the value of the benefit to
contributions as scheduled.
the employee.
We may know more in the spring of 2021, when
Mitchell Dubina:
companies need to decide
401(k) plans that I oversee
whether or not to fund
have fared well so far in
discretionary contributions,
2020. All the plans have
but we don’t have any
continued to match and
indication that those will be
participant deferrals have
eliminated or scaled back.
remained constant, unlike the Great Recession of
level of scrutiny. It’s all for the benefit of
2008-2009.
the clients, and most recent additional regulations have been aimed at bumping up transparency in an attempt to protect clients.
42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Pritchett claims these rules have good intentions but are sometimes less effective in their implementation. “The industry as a whole wants to advocate for having advisors act in the client’s best interest. The problem is that stakeholders in the industry all have differing opinions as to what that looks like,” he said.
WEALTH MANAGEMENT:
What’s in a Name?
Wealth management is generally defined as a comprehensive approach to managing a client’s entire asset picture and often includes customized investment strategies, estate planning, tax services and more. While many view wealth management as a service only offered
“Several pieces of legislation have
to or needed by the ultra-affluent, our sources say, “not true.” You
been introduced and debated over
don’t you have to be “wealthy” to benefit from working with a financial
the last few years with the end result
advisor to create and enact a financial plan.
being watered-down regulations that don’t accomplish much. There is currently no end to this debate, and it will be something that the industry will continue to monitor.” The sheer volume of regulations can be cumbersome not just for those in the industry, but for those they serve too, according to Dubina. “Regulations have increased and have had both positive and negative effects on my role as a wealth advisor and for our clients,” he said. “Some of these regulations can at times be burdensome for them due to an influx of mailings.”
GOOD CITIZENS
“Wealth management is simply maximizing
“The term ‘wealth management’ is a bit of a misnomer. You do
whatever resources you
not have to be wealthy or have
have in a more efficient
wealth to start a plan. The key is
and productive way in order to meet certain goals. Most people don’t consider themselves to be wealthy, but almost all have long-term goals and dreams. Our job as advisors is to help them plan and reach those goals – and that includes those at the beginning of the process and those nearing the finish line!”
to start somewhere—even if it’s from scratch! Once you decide to begin saving and investing, as long as you stick to a plan and remain diligent, it does not take long to begin to see the fruits of your labor and sacrifice. In my 15 years as a Wealth Advisor, nothing has been more rewarding for me than to see clients start out with little or no wealth, and now be on their way to financial independence.
The effort River Region wealth
All because they took the
management professionals
initiative and partnered with
put into aiding their clients is
me to formulate the plan to get
matched by a commitment to
them there.”
community. “Members of the wealth management industry are good community stewards,” Pritchett said. “Advisors in our firm and our colleagues at other companies are heavily involved in charitable causes and community service projects in the area.”
Barry Prim, Senior Client Consultant at Warren Averett Asset Management
Prim shared similar thoughts. “Montgomery has been blessed to have a large, diverse set of wealth management offerings for decades. This has created many job
Mitchell Dubina, Vice President, Investments at Stifel
Industry Overview: WEALTH MANAGEMENT opportunities and impacted many
advancing the delivery of our
lives,” he said. “Go to any charitable
services, we are in need of young
event and take a look at the donor
people who want to help clients
list. It will be filled with numerous
reach their goals.”
“FROM THE EVOLUTION OF EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS AND
wealth management firms and individuals.”
ONLINE TRADING PLATFORMS TO THE
Dubina agreed, calling the smaller
RECENT INTRODUCTION OF CRYPTO
number of young people currently
HELP WANTED
years, one of his industry’s “biggest
Members of the wealth
challenges.” “The role of a wealth
management industry may be
advisor is, and always will be,
doing their part to improve the quality of life here, but the industry itself is facing its own challenges. A major hurdle is the shrinking size of available financial advisors. “Our industry always needs talent, and
HAS CHANGED DRASTICALLY OVER THE YEARS. WHAT HAS NOT CHANGED
important for folks in all walks of life,” he said. “Due to the lack of new, young professionals, I do worry about the financial literacy of the next generation without access to wealth advisors from their
now it is even more in demand,”
generation.”
Prim said. “With technology
Q:
CURRENCY, ACCESS TO THE MARKETS
entering the field in the next 10
FIND A PRO
IS THE NEED FOR MOST INVESTORS TO GET HELP. IT CAN BE VERY OVERWHELMING TO MAKE SENSE OF THIS RAPIDLY CHANGING MARKET.” - Barry Prim, Senior Client Consultant at Warren Averett Asset Management
that works for your needs
What is the most important thing to consider and/or look for when choosing a wealth management professional/financial advisor?
“The single most important factor
to your specific needs and goals.
in selecting a financial advisor is a
Lastly, there is an immense value in
relationship bound in trust. Integrity
finding an advisor you like and
is the bedrock of any professional
respect as a person.”
relationship, and that is especially true in the financial advice business.
Brianne Smith, Ph.D., PFS Independent Financial Advisor, RFG Advisory
You should be able to sleep at night
Consider working with a financial
knowing that regardless of how the
advisor who takes a holistic
market performs in a given day, that
approach to providing financial
your advisor is committed to putting
services. Rooted in financial
your interests ahead of their own,
planning, this approach entails
and that they’ve taken the time to
listening to your needs, goals and
truly understand your unique needs. It’s also important that your advisor can articulate—in plain language— an investment strategy that is both disciplined and thoughtfully tailored
Richard B. Austin, CRPS®, AIF®, Branch Manager and First Vice President, Investments, Raymond James
46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
dreams and charting a path towards them. Holistic advice takes the focus off of transactions and turns it towards the outcomes that are important to you.
It’s your future. Let’s plan for it together. Gregory B. Alford, CFP® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management
Rebecca H. Baker, CFP® First Vice President–Wealth Management
John David Barranco Vice President–Wealth Management
Brett C. Crawford Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Branch Manager
Daniel J. Dean, CFP® Associate Director Leah S. Dubberly, CFP®, CDFA® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Matthew B. Murphy, CFP® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management April B. Watson Senior Registered Client Associate Margaret A. Dauphin Wealth Management Associate Caroline D. Warren Wealth Management Associate
Christopher A. Dubberly, CPM® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Kevin N. Haynes, CFP®, CRPS® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Carl R. Watson First Vice President–Wealth Management Traci H. Segrest Registered Client Service Associate Amy A. Garrigan Wealth Management Associate Dustin G. Hatfield Wealth Strategy Associate
Montgomery, AL Branch Office UBS Financial Services Inc. 4001 Carmichael Road Suite 400 Montgomery, AL 36106 334-260-3900
ubs.com/branch/montgomeryl8
As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that clients understand the ways in which we conduct business, that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the PDF document at ubs.com/relationshipsummary. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and Certified finanCial PlannerTM in the US. For designation disclosures visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. CJ-UBS-973197046 Exp.: 12/31/2021
Industry Overview: WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Q:
FIND A PRO
that works for your needs
What is the most important thing to consider and/or look for when choosing a wealth management professional/financial advisor?
3 KEYS:
“Wealth management is about more than products; it’s about planning, strategy and financial coaching.
important when choosing a wealth
When searching
management team:
for a wealth
Trust, skill and fees.
management professional,
“When looking for any type of
you want to find
financial partner, we believe there
someone who
are three important points to
is experienced
consider.
and ready to walk with you through a
(1) First, are they experienced
complete financial picture. Someone
with the proper credentials for the
who works to build a connection and is
type of business you would like to
truly there to guide and serve on your
engage in?
way to meeting financial goals.”
(2) Second, are they a fiduciary?
Libby Bryan, Private Banker Guardian Wealth Management
“I believe three things are
(Meaning they put your interests above their own and have a binding legal obligation to do so.)
There are many aspects to consider
(3) And third, are they the kind of
when choosing to work with a financial
person you would spend time with
advisor (experience, licenses, etc.).
outside of business? If all criteria
One of the more important things to
are met, you should have a really
consider is how
positive outcome and long-lasting
comfortable do
partnership”
(1) You must trust the people you select to help manage your financial affairs. You must also trust that you can bring them any issue, financial or not, and that they will have your best interests at heart.
(2) The team you select must be able to deliver results and to do so, they must have a wide range of skills related to investments, planning, taxes, etc.
(3) Fees must be part of the discussion, and they should be transparent and competitive. There are not many things you can control when it comes to planning, but fees are one of them.”
you feel working with a particular advisor? Since this will be someone who will advise and manage assets for you, it is important to feel comfortable working with and communicating with a person that understands you and will partner with you in reaching your goals.
Ken Peavy, Vice President of Wealth Management, MAX Credit Union
Mark Snead, Market President, Synovus
48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Matthew Murphy, Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Longleaf Wealth Management UBS Financial Services, Inc
I N D USTRY Leader | Wealth Management
I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management
Guardian Credit Union When was your company founded? Guardian Credit
serve stretches farther than checking and savings accounts. When
Union was founded in 1958 to serve the Alabama National Guard
it comes to lending, we take a look at the full financial picture and
and their families. Guardian has since expanded into a community
work hard to help our members not only have their needs met but
charter serving 13 counties in Alabama as a full-service financial
guide them to living financially well. The communities we operate
institution for all.
in play such an important part in our mission to serve. Our teams actively look for and work to meet the needs of those around
How many employees do you have in the River Region? Guardian spans 13 counties in
us. Guardian is and will always be about creating meaningful connections through serving our members and community.
Alabama with a total of 225 employees, but 190-plus of our
Milestones & Awards: Guardian is a proud winner of the
employees serve within the River Region.
Montgomery Chamber’s 2019 Impact Maker Award.
What are your primary products and services? As a full-service financial institution, Guardian works to help members achieve all of their financial goals at any stage of life. Our Certified Financial Counselors are here to help with wealth management, credit counseling, financial planning/education and more.
What sets your company apart? Guardian’s heart to
418 Madison Avenue / Montgomery, AL 36104 334-244-9999 / myguardiancu.com
50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management
Front row, left to right: Sheree Luker, Branch Manager; Ben Walker, Financial Advisor; Kathy Schoudel, Registered Client Service Associate; Mitchell Dubina, Financial Advisor; Carol Harrison, Financial Advisor; Katye Delashaw, Financial Advisor; Donna McCord, Registered Client Service Associate; George Mardre, Financial Advisor; Morgan Brendle, Registered Client Service Associate; Jim Klingler, Financial Advisor; Chris Carter, Client Service Associate; Shon Lee, Financial Advisor. Back row, left to right: Johnny Dunn, Financial Advisor; Frank Shepard, Financial Advisor; Reid Smith, [Financial Advisor]; Marybeth Briscoe, Registered Client Service Associate; Brittany Flournoy, Operations Coordinator; Ben Easterling, Jr., Financial Advisor; David Evans, Financial Advisor; Wayne Gregory, Financial Advisor; Ed Klingler, Financial Advisor; Bob Seibels, Financial Advisor. Not Pictured – Richard “PeeWee” Kohn, Financial Advisor, Michael Luckett, Financial Advisor, Kimberly Cyr, Financial Advisor.
Stifel When was your company founded? Stifel was
ability necessary to address clients’ objectives.
founded in 1890, and its Montgomery office opened in 2010. Our
Milestones & Awards: This year, we celebrated our
Auburn office opened in 2014.
10-year anniversary for the Montgomery office. We are excited to
Number of employees in the River Region: 29
announce our new location!
What are your primary products and services? Stifel is a full-service wealth management and investment banking firm.
What sets your company apart? The firm’s philosophy on investing is grounded on a 130-year-old tradition of trust, understanding, and solid, studied advice. The firm’s success, however, is rooted in personal, professional, and peerless service to the client. A finely honed support system exists within the firm to fortify its associates with the insight and
New Location: 2660 Eastchase Lane, Lakeview Center, Suite 400 (334) 213-1600 │stifel.com Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, Member SIPC & NYSE
51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
I N D USTRY Leader | Wealth Management
I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management
CAPTRUST When was your company/business founded?
above our own. We were one of the first in our industry to take this
1997
approach and will continue to as a part of CAPTRUST.
How many employees do you have in the River Region? 12
Milestones & Awards: CAPTRUST has been ranked the
What are your primary products and services?
No. 1 registered investment advisory firm in the United States from 2016-2020, according to FA Magazine.
CAPTRUST offers investment advisory services focused on the needs of high-net-worth individuals and families, endowments, foundations, corporate and municipal retirement plans, and other institutional clients.
What sets your company apart? As Welch Hornsby, prior to joining CAPTRUST in March 2020, our priority was to serve our clients as a fiduciary. This means that we put their best interests
One Commerce Street, Suite 800, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-272-1192 https://www.captrust.com/locations/montgomery-al/
52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management
Pictured left to right: Carole Hutson, Private Wealth Support; Matt Anderson, Financial Advisor; Rex Huxford, Private Wealth Advisor; Dallas King, Family Office Specialist; Donna Stricklin, Private Wealth Advisor; George Kent, Family Office Relationship Manager.
Synovus Private Wealth When was your company/business founded?
of complexities and planning that change over time. We are always
1888
prepared for those changes with our team of experts under one roof. As well, being part of a larger, regional banking institution, we
How many employees do you have in the River Region? 41, with six dedicated exclusively to Private Wealth. What are your primary products and services?
have state-of-the-art resources at our fingertips.
Milestones & Awards: Synovus has received national recognition in the industry for our Family Wealth and Asset
Synovus Private Wealth offers banking services, retirement and
Management Services. These include the “Family Wealth Report
financial planning, investment management, trust and estate
Awards Shortlist for Responsible Investing” (2020) and “Family
planning, family office services, long-term care products, as well as
Wealth Counseling” (2020). Private Asset Management awards
mortgage services.
include “Best Trust and Estates Division” (2018 and 2019).
What sets your company apart? Each member of our Private Wealth team has their own specialty area of expertise; however, collectively, we offer our clients a comprehensive approach to managing their wealth and achieving their financial goals. We believe “wealth management” encompasses a multitude
4121 Carmichael Rd / Montgomery, AL 36106 334-274-6481 / synovus.com
53 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
I N D USTRY Leader | Wealth Management
I N D UST RY Leader | Weal th Managem ent
Brianne Smith, Ph.D., PFS,
Independent Financial Advisor, RFG Advisory When was your company founded? I affiliated with
with the financial knowledge and confidence towards financial
RFG Advisory as an independent financial advisor in October 2019.
independence. My goals-based approach to financial planning, coupled with a diverse background in tax, consulting and academia,
Number of employees: We have three employees in my
allows me to provide not only comprehensive, tax-efficient financial
office.
planning, but also the support to stay on track and education and coaching through various financial decisions.
What are your primary products and services? We provide holistic financial planning and investment management.
Milestones & Awards: I have 20 years of tax, accounting,
As a financial advisor, IÂ analyze financial statements, tax returns,
estate and trust experience coupled with a Ph.D. in Financial and
cash flow, risk profile and budget to define a clear path towards
Retirement Planning. I have won awards for both work in financial
goals. Using a holistic approach to financial planning, we consider
planning and teaching.
goals, objectives and values to build a customized, comprehensive financial and wealth-building plan. I’ll guide you through life transitions along the way.
What sets your company apart? We have a passion for empowering women of all ages and seasons of life
334-310-9520 rfgadvisorywealth.com/briannesmith
54 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management
UBS Financial Services - Longleaf Wealth Management When was your business founded? The Longleaf
Milestones & Awards: Our partner Rebecca Baker is a
Wealth Management team was formed in 2008.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Retirement Plan Consultant and a Certified Exit Planning
How many employees do you have in the River Region? UBS: 15; Longleaf Wealth Management: 4
Advisor (CEPA). Our partner Matthew Murphy is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) who has been listed as UBS Top 35 Under 35 (2018, 2019), Forbes Top Next Generation Wealth Advisor (2018, 2019,
What are your primary products and services?
2020) and Forbes Best in State, Alabama (2019, 2020).
Our primary services include personal wealth management for individuals, their families and their businesses. This includes investment management, tax and estate planning, business transition/succession planning, life insurance review/planning and debt management — really all things financial.
What sets your business apart? Our team approach allows us to deliver the best results possible. We take great pride in having strong, personal relationships with our clients. When you really know your clients and have empathy for whatever their situation may be, you will do a better job for them. We are not simply thinking about numbers and analytics but about what is best for that specific individual or family.
Longleaf Wealth Management 4001 Carmichael Road, Suite 400 / Montgomery, AL 36106 334-260-3877 / ubs.com/team/longleaf
55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M EM BER Spotlight
JACKSON THORNTON Jackson Thornton was founded in Montgomery in 1919 and is one of Alabama’s oldest certified public accounting firms. Over the years, the firm has expanded to include a variety of industry-specific consulting and strategic planning services as well as Jackson Thornton Asset Management (wealth management) and Jackson Thornton Technologies (IT/managed services and cybersecurity provider).
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 200-plus LOCATION(S): ALABAMA: Montgomery, Prattville, Wetumpka, Dothan, Opelika. TENNESSEE: Franklin WHAT ARE JACKSON THORNTON’S PRIMARY SERVICES? We provide accounting, tax and consulting services to businesses and individuals throughout the Southeast. In addition, we offer wealth management, strategic planning, business consulting services, technology consulting and specialized industry services. WHAT SETS JACKSON THORNTON APART? We try to live and work by the golden rule: Treat others as you’d want to be treated. We also believe that it’s vital to give back to the communities in which we are located. From the very beginning, philanthropy and volunteerism have been a priority for each of our 200-plus principals and employees. 2020 was a year like no other, and much has carried over into this year. There have been several government programs available to the business and not-for-profit communities—programs never seen before. We’ve been very busy and proactive in assisting and guiding our clients through all of the various funding programs available to them. We’ll continue to look for ways to help position our clients to effectively utilize any new funding approved for 2021.
Ned Sheffield, outgoing President and John Fendley, incoming President & CEO.
WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR JACKSON THORNTON? We have a new President and CEO taking the helm this month. John Fendley, who has been with the firm for more than 30 years, was elected to that leadership position. Ned Sheffield had been in that role for 12 years and will remain a close advisor to John throughout 2021. Speaking of 2021, we will continue to look for innovative ways to serve our clients, whether it’s in person, through a Zoom call, or via our secure online platform. MILESTONES & AWARDS: We celebrated our centennial in 2019 with 100 Acts of Service for 100 Years. We exceeded those 100 acts by more than 40 percent. We let our employees dictate the kinds of things they’d like to do and ways they’d like to give back.
Corporate office located in Montgomery.
200 COMMERCE ST / MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 / 334-834-7660 / JACKSONTHORNTON.COM 57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
T W O E S TAT E P L A N N I N G M I S TA K E S & T I P S F O R AVO I D I N G T H E M BY B A R R Y P R I M
accumulated substantial or unique assets. But, simply creating a will doesn’t always solve the potential problem of what happens to your assets after you pass. In fact, executing a poorly worded document can make things worse! In my 30-year career dedicated to trusts, estates and investments, I’ve seen many properly drafted documents do exactly what the person intended. Unfortunately, I’ve also seen a few mistakes. Creating a great will or trust requires expertise and honest reflection
2. PICKING THE WRONG EXECUTOR/TRUSTEE. T I P : Most people will turn to a relative or close friend to serve as their executor or trustee. While this sounds logical, it can create issues if the person is not familiar with the responsibilities and duties involved in being a fiduciary for someone else. The choice of who will serve in this role needs to be well thought out and discussed with whoever gets chosen —especially if there are unique circumstances and family dynamics (which is the case almost every time!).
on what the consequences might be well into the future. Of course, no one can predict everything that might happen, but with the right guidance and discussion, it’s possible to avoid
H O W TO AVO I D E S TAT E P L A N N I N G M I S TA K E S :
some issues. Here are a few trust and estate mistakes I’ve seen that could have been avoided. By sharing them, we hope you can learn from them and avoid them:
It is vitally important to think carefully about how a will or trust is designed. There are many items to consider, such as how the assets are titled, how the portfolios are constructed and more.
1. USING LANGUAGE THAT IS TOO SPECIFIC.
It can seem a daunting task, but in the end, you
T I P : While some sort of specificity can be
so hard for will be handled effectively and in
helpful in a trust, be very careful about just how specific to make it. Over time, circumstances
will be relieved knowing what you’ve worked accordance with your design.
can and will change. Unfortunately, I’ve seen issues arise that could have been easily avoided with the use of more common language that allows some discretion for the trustee.
MEET THE EXPERT Barry Prim is a Senior Client Consultant for Warren Averett Asset Management. He is responsible for building and strengthening client relationships in the Montgomery area. Contact him at Barry.Prim@warrenaverett.com or 334-260-2340.
59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
ACCOUNTING
things you can do, especially if you’ve
E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W
Creating a will is one of the most important
60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
You may have heard it before: Stock markets
our plan is always aimed squarely at achieving
like “certainty.” But the global environment has
your long-term goals.
provide impartial investment advice or to give advice in a fiduciary capacity. Investment, Insurance and Annuity Products: Are Not FDIC-Insured | Are Not Bank Guaranteed | May Lose Value | Are Not Deposits. Are Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency | Are Not a Condition of Any Banking Activity
advisability of acquiring, holding or disposing of a particular investment, nor should it be construed as a suggestion or indication that the particular investment or investment course of action described herein is appropriate for any specific investor. In providing this communication, Regions is not undertaking to
This information is general education or marketing in nature and is not intended to be accounting, legal, tax, investment or financial advice. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation. This information should not be construed as a recommendation or suggestion as to the
been anything but certain since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Even so, we have witnessed
DISCUSS YOUR OPTIONS
markets doing what they’ve done in previous
Double-checking your liquid assets might be
crises—and that is endure, albeit with changes
a good place to start a portfolio review with
along the way.
your advisor. Do you have enough to weather additional storms? How can you be sure? We
At Regions, we advise our clients in times like
often have planning meetings with our clients
these in much the same way we advise them
to identify their cash flow needs for the next
during more “certain” times—and that is to
18 to 24 months. If something unforeseen
keep your eye on your long-term goals and the
happens, we don’t have to make trades when
eventual recovery and stabilization of sectors
we don’t want or need to—because we’re
within the markets.
prepared. Remember also that there is often the silver
T H R E E R E C O M M E N D AT I O N S TO H O L D O N TO A P O S I T I V E O U T LO O K .
lining of inexpensive stocks when markets are down. As there’s more uncertainty, there’s going to be more volatility. That can mean opportunities, too.
AVOID RASH MOVES
GET A STRESS TEST
As uncertainty increases, we have a tendency
Our client portfolios are run through computer
to become more certain of our own opinions.
simulations to measure resilience against
Yet making big financial decisions when there
possible future financial situations. The
is so much volatility often leaves investors with
simulations determine the probability of
lost returns in the long run. They might sell
success, based on your goals and time frames.
at a low point and miss out on a recovery, for
We revisit this simulated probability in good
example.
times and bad, and that is often the driver behind whether anything needs to be changed.
Portfolio managers at Regions Bank work to put fear aside and focus on data. Our investment
While 2020 was a hard year, and there is a lot
portfolios are designed for the long term, with
of uncertainty around what 2021 will bring, a
a focus on your timeline, your goals and what
conversation with a wealth advisor may be the
our experience has taught us about financial
difference between success and failure when
markets. While individual crises come and go,
dealing with the stock market.
MEET THE EXPERT Anne Ferrell Dalton is Vice President, Wealth Advisor at Regions Private Wealth Management.
61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
BY A N N E F E R R E L L D A LTO N
E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W
PERSISTING IN TURBULENT MARKETS
MGM IN
Montgomery is equipping students and paving the path for progress with its diverse array of education offerings, plus a brighter-than-before future for its public schools. 62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
By Jennifer Stewart Kornegay
A
REPORT CARD 2020
EDU CAT ION
A
In any community, providing quality education for all children equals a
“
higher quality of life. It’s a simple
to understand the part education plays in workforce development, economic development, and therefore, a higher standard of living. The Chamber helmed the effort to enlist area businesses and helped them voice their collective sentiments. Sheron Rose,
fact so accepted that adages from
Senior Vice President, External Affairs at the Chamber, explained
cultures far and wide proclaim its
engaged in education. It is a vital component of the Chamber’s
the Chamber’s position. “The Chamber has a history of being mission: improving the economic well-being of the business
truth, like this Tibetan proverb:
child without education is like a bird without wings.
”
Over the last few years, the flightless birds left behind by our area’s once-failing public schools have dominated most discussions of education in Montgomery.
community and enhancing the quality of life of the area through the creation and preservation of jobs,” she said. “Passage of the ad valorem referendum was the injection in the arm that MPS and the Montgomery community needed to continue the move forward. The community’s vote shows their desire to improve public education for the good of all.” The vote was a big win for education in the MPS district, but the effects won’t be felt for some time, and the work is not done. “The levy and collection of the additional funding for MPS does not start
L
until October 2023. Most of the collections for 2023 will be sent to the school system in 2024,” Rose said. “In the meantime, efforts to make financial and academic improvements should continue.”
essons Learned
Montgomery will now invest more in public education than it has in decades. But an essential piece of the puzzle is ensuring that this investment pays the proper dividends. A recent MPS audit revealed
Today, there’s more than one reason to have a hopeful outlook on education in our area, and since it’s an issue that will play a powerful role in Montgomery’s path forward, that paints the projections for the entire city a much rosier shade.
some egregious misuses of money but also laid out steps to address these issues, as Rose explained, pointing to the hire of MPS Chief School Finance Officer (CSFO) as a positive development. “I think that the biggest take-away [from the audit results] was that a CSFO with a substantial background in education finance was hired for MPS,” she said. “Arthur Watts, an MPS graduate, brought his extensive finance knowledge back to the system
The most obvious bright spot
that initially prepared him.” Watts
appeared on the horizon last November, with the passage—by a
quickly submitted a timely and
large margin—of a property tax increase, from 10 to 22 mills. Now,
balanced budget for the system
more money will flow into the Montgomery Public School system;
—the first in 10 years—and
the tax is expected to bring in an additional $33 million annually
openly asked that the public
starting in 2023. And all funds raised by the increase head directly
hold MPS accountable.
The property tax increase approved by vote in Montgomery County is expected to bring in an additional $33 million annually starting in 2023.
to MPS. The vote that made it a reality—61.1 percent to 38.9 percent —proves a hefty majority of Montgomery residents have bought into
Building on recent success and promising increased accountability
the idea above: that quality education for all is a prerequisite for
are obviously moves in the right direction, and Dr. Eric Mackey,
prosperity.
Alabama’s State Superintendent of Education, who spearheaded the progress during his time overseeing MPS, shared his thoughts
The cause was bolstered by robust and consistent support from
on the current state of the system. “Many changes have been
the local business community. Companies large and small seem
made during the past two-and-a-half years, and the current
63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
A New Way Forward: MPS Accountability In 2019, when MPS CSFO Arthur Watts and MPS Superintendent Dr. Ann Roy Moore discovered financial discrepancies in the system, Watts requested an audit that confirmed his findings. Watts then implemented multiple actions to correct what was uncovered,
financial picture shows the impact of
Like many cities across the country,
these positive changes,” he said. “We
Montgomery currently has public and
are very proud of our record of improved
private schools, but within these two
financial accountability, transparency and
categories are even more options. Under
stability under my administration.” And
the MPS umbrella are several distinct
while they’ve garnered a sizable portion of
offerings, including the system’s magnet
recent education headlines, Montgomery’s
schools and its Career Technical Education
traditional public schools are only one
Department, which has programs at seven
factor in the capital city’s education
high schools, 10 middle schools and one
equation.
centralized career tech center. It offers 16
V
iva Variety
program clusters with 25 pathways.
We’ve all grown accustomed to picking
According to Todd E. Davis, Career Tech’s
from multiple options in so many facets
Director, the mission of MPS Career
of our lives, whether it’s as trivial as pizza
Technical Education Department is to
toppings or a matter with more gravity,
“educate students to become industry-
like selecting a doctor. More choices
credentialed completers in a safe and
mean we’re more likely to find the right
collaborative environment that empowers
fit for our unique needs, and nowhere is
them to be college and career ready.”
getting specific needs met more critical
“We create programs that produce highly
than in education, as Anthony Brock,
skilled, educated and employable citizens
Head of School at Valiant Cross Academy,
for the global workforce,” he said.
including:
explained. “I am a product of Montgomery Public Schools, and I truly believe we
Thanks to the partnership between MPS
The central office budget
still need to do everything as a city and a
and Montgomery Education Foundation,
county to support them. Properly funding
charter schools are now an ingredient
our schools and providing other needed
in the public school mix too, with Davis
resources should be at the forefront of
Elementary set to open in the fall of
every local citizen’s mind,” he said. “I also
2021 and subsequent schools opening
believe that options for students and
the following year. Ann Sikes, Executive
families allow parents to decide what works
Director of the Montgomery Education
best for their child. We believe Valiant
Foundation, outlined the benefits charter
to 3 percent.
Cross Academy is an excellent option for
schools bring area families, namely access
our young men we serve; however, it may
and accountability. “Choice and diversity of
To combat inefficiencies,
not be the best option for everyone.”
options are important to families. However,
was reduced by $2 million. The state recommends not expending more than 5 percent of the operation budget at the central office level. Watts reduced MPS central office expenditures
personnel were reduced,
the equity of that choice and the access The key point is keeping the focus on
to that choice is critical to ensure that all
and a school was closed.
students, as Justin Hampton, Director
students succeed,” she said. “Charter
of Innovation and Strategic Initiatives at
schools help expand the equity of choice
Watts contacted the District
The Montgomery Education Foundation,
and provide two important components;
explained. “The entire conversation around
the ability to innovate and a high level of
education begins with every family desiring
required accountability.”
offices were consolidated,
Attorney and Attorney General to pursue criminal charges against the
what’s best for their children. Having a diversity of options allows for the needs of
Hampton agreed, putting special emphasis
misuse of funds.
each child to be met in unique ways and in
on access. “They [charter schools] offer
potentially unique learning environments,”
additional options for all families, but
New systems were
he said. “Just like no two children are the
particularly to those who otherwise are
same, no two traditional, magnet, private
relegated to only one option or very
or charter schools are the same either.
few options,” he said. “As a community,
Montgomery is finally moving toward
we should support our neighborhood
accommodating the rich diversity of its
schools while simultaneously creating new
residents, both new and legacy.”
educational opportunities. Along with the
employees responsible for
established for collecting and tracking all monies coming into and leaving MPS programs.
64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
<<
EDUCATION is more than YO U K N OW
The Saint James Family is so proud of 2021 Seniors Paige Hemmer and Zach Ohliger for being named 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists! This is a tremendous national honor that only a select few students across the country earn each year. In recognition of their 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, academic record, leadership abilities, honors and awards received, and participation in school and community activities, these accomplished students are prepared for what lies ahead in college and beyond. Congratulations to Paige and Zach, Saint James Trojans, 24 /7!
Paige Hemmer
Zach Ohliger
Pre-K3â&#x2C6;&#x2019;12th Grade
<<
Saint James School
334-273-3021 or STJweb.org
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE Call today to learn more tuition assistance and affording a Saint James education for your child. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
recent successes of MPS, it’s an exciting time for public education in Montgomery.” Among the city’s list of private schools that’s more than 25 strong, there is also variety. There are faith-based private schools and independent schools, like Saint James School. Saint James’ Head of School Dr. Larry
MGM
Capital city Pre-K through post-secondary education options at a glance:
EDUCATION MIX
McLemore called the range of education opportunities now available in Montgomery a “great thing.” “When you think about this area, we have a very diverse mix of people—multiple countries, ethnicities, people who’ve grown up
PRE-K • Nationally recognized pre-K programs
here, folks who’ve been all over and come here
MPS PROGRAMS:
—that’s a real strength for our area,” he said. “So, it’s great to have choices that reflect that.”
“Independent schools offer very mission-driven education, and these
• Traditional schools • Magnet schools • CTE programs • ROTC programs
schools let families find a
- Dr. Larry McLemore, Head of School, Saint James
equips students to attend and succeed in college)
CHARTER SCHOOLS:
niche that speaks to their family and their children.”
• Dual Enrollment programs in partnership with the postsecondary system • GEAR UP Alabama (a federally funded program that
• Two “start-up” charter schools, LEAD Academy and LIFE Academy • Three “conversion” charter schools (two elementary and one junior high), slated to open in fall 2021 and 2022
McLemore stressed the importance of transparency and understanding when families weigh all the options, noting that while Saint James is never exclusionary, it is designed for a specific type of student. “We strive hard to reflect diversity of our area and also to be clear about our mission, which is to serve students planning to go to college,” he said. “So, if you are not planning to attend college, maybe we are not the fit for you.” College prep is the core of Saint James, but its “whole child education” focus includes a commitment to diversity. “We recognize that diversity is such a great well of learning and wisdom, so that is a natural thing for a school to embrace,” he said. “Our students come from about 15 or more countries any given year. Diversity of thought is important here too.” Private school options enhance the breadth and depth of choices, and different types of private schools create environments tailored to
• Private schools • Home schooling • Parochial schools
Q:
• DoD (Department of Defense) schools for military families on base
OTHER OPTIONS:
Why are private schools an important part of the educational option mix in the River Region?
“While it is very important for all of us in Montgomery to support our public schools, I think that independent schools play an important role in our community by offering a variety of missionspecific educational offerings in the community. With independent schools, parents have the choice to engage in a small community of administrators and educators who have the flexibility to provide a curriculum that is best suited to the mission of that school community. At The Montgomery Academy, we are committed to providing a strong college-preparatory curriculum that will help us, as our mission states, to develop ‘leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence.’” - John McWilliams, Head of School, The Montgomery Academy
different priorities for different families. In this
66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
regard, independent private
with the basic premise that education
schools come with a real plus,
is workforce. At Trenholm, our mission
according to McLemore: the ability
is to provide comprehensive and
to make local decisions, define their
Top Marks: Alabama’s Pre-K
own mission and then execute it with a matching curriculum. “Independent schools offer very mission-driven
Alabama’s Pre-K program has
education, and these schools let families
accessible educational opportunities, including academic transfer and technical programs designed to promote economic development, enhance workforce development and improve the quality
find a niche that speaks to their family and
earned high ratings and stands
their children.”
out as one of the top programs
work very closely with business and
of its kind in the country. It
industry in our service area: healthcare,
was created to address a
emerging technologies, business
Other private schools in the city also pursue a highly specific mission, like
longtime issue. “One of our
Valiant Cross Academy, an all-boys
biggest challenges in K-12, is
school, which opened in 2015 and has
getting students on grade-
been growing steadily ever since. It’s
level for math and reading,” Dr.
educational philosophy is centered on
Eric Mackey, Alabama’s State
discipline and leadership development.
Superintendent of Education,
“We are a smaller school with a focus on
said. “When students get to
holistically educating our scholars in
kindergarten, many are already
an intentional culture of structure and
behind their peers in other
discipline,” Brock said. “Our vision
of life for the community,” she said. “We
administration, culinary and advanced manufacturing.” In the IT sector, the education-workforce link is strong and gaining even more momentum, thanks to the Chamber’s TechMGM initiative, which forms partnerships with K-12, higher education, industry and government agencies to continue building a highly skilled
is to push against the notion of an
states.” With a high-quality Pre-K
achievement gap amongst minorities, but
program, educators can solve
to facilitate educational programs like
rather an opportunity gap. We believe
this problem before it starts,
BEST Robotics, CyberPatriot, Raspberry
with consistency and high-expectations,
according to Mackey. “Once
JAM and Esports to name a few,” said
T
that these young men will be successful.”
they get to school, they do progress, but focusing on school
eaching Tomorrow’s
readiness in Pre-K will change the dynamics.”
Workforce Today
Anita Archie, Interim President at
Pre-K programs also make it
Trenholm State Community College,
easier to identify other issues
agreed that plentiful educational
earlier, which often leads to
opportunities and options yield better
improved outcomes. “From
results, and that’s not just true in K-12;
birth to five years old, a child is
it’s critical in higher education too. “You
and competitive workforce. “We help
TechMGM Executive Director Charisse Stokes. “All of these programs better develop our workforce and engage students and IT professionals in the learning process. In addition, we work closely with the leading employers of IT professionals to ensure we have programs within K-12 and higher education that will make our students employable and help them to earn jobs locally within the field.”
get to pick what is right for you. Should
learning,” Mackey said. “If we
I attend a college or university? Should I
are able to recognize learning
MPS’ Career Technical Education is a
pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree,
disabilities at an earlier age,
direct pipeline to jobs. By providing
or should I pursue a certification program
then we can make adaptations
or a career/tech program?” she said. “We
and provide resources earlier.”
are not just talking about the traditional
students with structured training and targeted tools necessary to enter distinct career fields, they prepare students for the many high-wage, highly skilled jobs
students (coming out of high school) but the nontraditional students, which
requiring less than a bachelor’s degree.
include adult learners, individuals with
And the benefits bleed beyond
“Each student is encouraged to explore
dependents, students attending classes
schoolhouse and campus borders when
various areas of study and to develop
part-time or financially independent
education fulfills one of its most basic
the essential skills to feel competent
students. It is a plus to any area when
functions: getting students ready to
in entering today’s competitive job
students have options.”
work. Archie explained, “We can start
market,” said Todd E. Davis, Career
67 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
POWERFUL PARTNERS:
Montgomery & Maxwell-Gunter AFB Join Forces for Educational Excellence By Trent Edwards
In 2018, the Air University Commander and President established an installationwide Working Group to identify, recommend and implement
TECHNICALLY SPEAKING
solutions to address public
TechMGM hosted CampIT for area
River Region Partnership for
education. The resulting Maxwell-
eighth grade students in November.
Educational Excellence sought
The event reached 2,000-plus
to improve the quality of public
students and provided virtual
education for all children in the
Trent Edwards, Senior Vice President, Military & Community Development
content in the areas of esports,
River Region. The goal of the
cybersecurity, digital media and
Maxwell-River Region Partnership
of national organizations and the
software development. In addition,
for Educational Excellence is two-
advice of peers at comparable
it offered a live panel discussion
fold: First, to identify and implement
installations.
that shared information on a variety
near-term ways to provide military-
of IT career fields. In December,
affiliated families with more high-
Local universities have been
Tech MGM celebrated National
quality public education options
indispensable partners in
Computer Science Education Week
for their children. Second, to
the Partnership, providing expertise
with multiple events for 3,000-plus
serve as a catalyst and facilitator
from their colleges of education
grade school students, college
for sustainable public education
and hosting events. In April 2019,
students, IT professionals and
approaches that benefit the entire
Troy University hosted a set of K-12
educators, including a Raspberry
River Region. Representatives from
Educational Workshops to address
PI competition, a resume-writing
across Maxwell-Gunter AFB came
the most promising ideas identified
workshop and an Esports
together with local schools, non-
in January: maximizing Federal
tournament.
profit organizations, community
Impact Aid, improving stakeholder
leaders and other stakeholders to
communication, adjusting timelines
work collaboratively on the issue.
and processes, aligning military
Tech’s Director. “Students begin to acquire
support to school districts’ needs
specific job training skills as they continue
The Maxwell-River Region
and out of district enrollment for
to take courses that meet their interests and
Partnership for Educational
military-connected students. More
abilities. A rich offering of courses leads
Excellence focused on the 3,000-
than 65 district-level staff, faculty
students to employment, further education or
plus children of active duty parents.
from local colleges of education and
further training.” CTE also allows students to
It helped thousands more children
outside experts came together to
take concurrent courses so they earn college
whose parents serve in the U.S.
recommend concrete actions that
credit while in high school, and its stats prove
Air Force Reserve and Alabama
would improve public education in
it is a roadmap to success for many students,
Air National Guard. It attracted
the River Region.
according to Davis. “Students who take two or
attendees from dozens of school
more CTE courses are less likely to drop out of
districts surrounding the state’s
In September 2019, Alabama
high school,” he said.
other installations. This was
State University hosted a K-12
possible thanks to the support of
Education Symposium focused
Mackey also lauded CTE programs, spotlighting
local universities, non-profits and
on the Interstate Compact on
how they’re helping 173,165 students (grades
elected officials. The group has
Educational Opportunities for
9-12) across the state. “Our CTE program in
also benefited from the assistance
Military Children. More than 240
68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
The Maxwell-River Region Partnership for Educational Excellence focused on the 3,000-plus children of active duty parents.
Region Partnership for Educational
Alabama is strong and continues to evolve
Excellence has collaborated with
through public and private partnerships,” he
several non-profits. Most prominent
said. “Over the past five years, we have seen a
among them is the Military Child
120-percent growth in credentials earned, with
Education Coalition, which sponsored
81.9 percent of students in Alabama currently
eight River Region representatives
enrolled in at least one CTE class.” Statewide,
to attend the National Training
there 68 CTE centers in seven regional
Seminar in July 2019. This experience
workforce councils with programs driven by
provided valuable new insights.
local workforce demands and a concentration
Further, the National Association of
on high-wage, high demand industries in 16
Federally Impacted Schools traveled
career clusters.
to the River Region twice, at their own expense, to train schools on
participants from across the state
Rose listed a few of the many organizations
how to apply for Federal Impact Aid,
were in attendance. After an
and programs that work in tandem with area
and the Military Interstate Children’s
overview, participants selected
schools to augment workforce efforts. “We have
Compact Commission has been
from two tracks: The first provided
AIDT (Alabama Industrial Development Training)
indispensable to our training efforts.
scenario-based training to school
that provides skills training to prepare workers
Finally, the National Math and
counselors and military spouses. The
for high demand jobs, the Regional Workforce
Science Initiative has been active in
second was a panel that addressed
Development Training Center that retrains
the River Region.
how to use the Interstate Compact to
misplaced workers,” she said. “There’s also
build partnerships between
Central AlabamaWorks Region 5 that’s a liaison
In 2019, Air University hosted
educational and military leaders.
for education systems and industry sectors and
school superintendents, civilian
Panelists were State Commissioners
works to identify the training needs of industry
university leaders, and community
and District Superintendents from
and then works with educational systems
organizations for a Public K-12
Arkansas, Missouri and Rhode Island.
to identify and expose students to relevant
Education Summit to create
The Alabama State Superintendent of
careers.”
dialogue and foster a collaborative
Education served as moderator, and
approach to enhancing educational
the Lieutenant Governor closed the
This exposure and helping students understand
opportunities for military-connected
event by describing Alabama’s plans
what’s available is a crucial component of
children. The event was attended
to improve military families’ quality
education too, as Archie stressed. “Part of our
by the State Superintendent of
of life.
job as educators is to also educate folks on the
Education, Dr. Eric Mackey and more
opportunities, that’s why we love our career
than 80 other participants. The In November 2019, Auburn University
discovery program,” she said. It brings 2,000
Summit identified five focus areas:
at Montgomery hosted a K-12
eighth graders to Trenholm’s campus over two
improve stakeholder communication
Educational Resource Fair. This event
days to learn about various careers. “You don’t
and connections; adjust timelines and
brought educational and grant-
know what you don’t know,” Archie said. “The
processes; align community military
making organizations to the River
students who participate learn so much, things
support with district needs; maximize
Region, so local schools could draw
like the fact that the average starting wage here
districts’ Federal Impact Aid; and
on them to expand their offerings
in manufacturing is 56k a year.”
establish flexible out-of-district
moving forward. Despite inclement
enrollment policies for military-
weather, teachers from across the
Archie touted how Trenholm is accomplishing
connected children.
its mission, but she also praised the entire
region flocked to the event to avail
education landscape in Montgomery and as well
themselves of resources not always
In this new year and beyond, the
available in Central Alabama and
as the collaboration that’s propelling it to new
Partnership’s work continues, and the
never brought together in a single
heights. “The great thing about our area, we
Chamber is proud to work alongside
location before.
are all working together for the same goal. ASU,
our military leaders to keep learning
MPS, private schools, Pike Road, AUM, all of us,
and keep improving education for all
In addition, the Maxwell-River
we have great relationships with each other, and
River Region students.
we’re all trying to better quality of life here using education.”
69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
A
cross Alabama and here in Montgomery,
administrators, principals and teachers put in long hours and
Approximately
lots of mental energy to ensure
2,310 teachers
24 National Merit finalists and scholars (2020-2021 academic year),
with countless other high-achieving
students earning $98,454,072
in scholarship monies. (2020-2021 academic year)
In the last year, Montgomery students were awarded almost
$100 million
in scholarships.
SUCCESS STATS: MGM Education Achievement by the Numbers
face of a frightening pandemic.
Overcoming COVID-19 Challenges
helping produce
that school would go on in the
MAKING THE GRADE:
are educating area students,
A Strong Network
Dr. Eric Mackey, Alabama’s State Superintendent of Education,
+
applauded their efforts. “As I have said many times, there is no substitute for face-to-face instruction with a high-quality teacher,” he said. “This circumstance has been and continues to be challenging with bumps and detours, but our
=
administrators, teachers and students have responded well across the state.” They followed The Roadmap to
TechMGM Executive Director
Reopening Schools, which was
Charisse Stokes elaborated on the
released in early summer and gave
Wi-Fi school buses plan, which was
schools and educators a framework
enacted after it came to light last
to develop and implement local
spring that several hundred MPS
plans for the school year that fit
students didn’t have internet access
their community’s needs. “Some
in their homes. “We worked closely
school systems provided an option
with the City IT department, MPS
for students to return to a traditional
logistics, IT and administration and
classroom setting (with modifications)
also Alabama Power Company to
or to learn remotely through virtual
create a solution,” she said. The fix
instruction, while others started as
involved outfitting MPS school buses
virtual only and transitioned in the fall
with “cradlepoint” devices used by
to in-person instruction,” Mackey said.
the City in public safety vehicles. These devices provide internet
Virtual learning was essential,
access in the buses and to areas in
and using CARES Act Funding,
close proximity to them. “We worked
the Alabama State Department of
with MPS logistics to install these
Education bought a statewide digital
units in their school buses, and then
curriculum and made it available
created a schedule based on data
to all school systems. “Additionally,
received from parents on network
funding was provided for professional
access,” Stokes said. “This temporary
development for teachers; devices
solution provided network access
for students and teachers; and
to hundreds of students throughout
broadband connectivity utilizing
the week on a rotating schedule in
innovative solutions such as installing
multiple locations. Students could
Wi-Fi devices on buses and the
then access their assignments,
Alabama Broadband Connectivity for
coursework and resources to
Students initiative,” Mackey said.
complete their schoolwork.”
70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Small Business Briefcase +
PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS
HINDSIGHT IS 2020 (ESPECIALLY FROM THE YEAR 2020) Last year gave us a lot to complain about, but it also provided some valuable learning opportunities we should all work to identify and remember.
The world as we know it has been changed by COVID-19, but most of us have very short memories, and the lessons that 2020 provided can be
2) Prepare for hard times. Preparedness is one piece of business advice that you may have heard before, but last year made it
forgotten far more quickly than you
more crucial. Today,
might think. Let’s examine the top 10
companies must
things we can take from 2020 in relation
do business while
to organizations and businesses.
considering the possibility of another
3) Adapt and continue to develop more robust strategies to meet the needs of customers.
1) Flexibility is necessary.
shutdown. Companies need to prepare
2020 led to a reinvention of consumer
The ability to adapt to what the situation
their business and staff to ensure that
behavior. The question of how it has
calls for is necessary when it comes to
they can withstand a crisis so when or if
changed, not only in terms of the basic
managing all the aspects of a business.
another disaster strikes, enough cash is
attraction of a product and service but
Companies have to be flexible to ensure
on hand. Look for ways to cut expenses
the real sense of need, has pushed
the effectiveness of their actions. For
and save money. Stay on top of all
businesses to rethink how they engage
example, evaluate the situation of your
accounts receivable to make sure there is
these end-users and to develop creative
company. Is remote work possible and
always cash available. Consider looking
ways to sell products. And with new
more efficient? Will the company be able
for other revenue streams. Companies
barriers put on shopping in brick-and-
to continue generating revenue even if
also need to make sure that members
mortar stores, an additional question
it loses its physical workspace? Business
of their team have access to necessary
arose: How can organizations use the
agility is the capacity of an organization
resources. One way to do this is to
platform of online “shopping” in new
to adjust rapidly to changing market
digitize important files and make them
ways to not only enhance the experience
dynamics, customer demands and
available online. Having backup copies of
but find avenues to create a singular
industry standards profitably and cost-
documents also helps. It is ideal to have
relationship between the product or
effectively, without compromising quality.
spare laptops in case a you must shift to a
service and the customer?
Last year proved we have to be agile to
remote work setup. All companies should
adapt and respond quickly to changing
prepare for situations similar to past
events.
lockdowns and quarantines.
4) Realize we have far less control over our work than we think we do – especially considering pandemics, natural disasters and more.
MEET THE EXPERT:
People often believe chaos is a bad thing. Many times, better efficiency,
Sharleen Smith is the Director of Continuing Education
effectiveness and innovation come from
and Outreach of Troy University. She has more than 30
chaos or change. This is a painful, yet
years of experience in organizational consulting and training.
important, lesson in humility about our
Her training includes more than 250 topics, and she has
position in the world. Think more about
presented to more than 300,000 people at 15,000
sustainability (and your lack of control)
conferences, workshops and seminars.
when living in the good times.
72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
5) Explode communication efforts and initiatives. Interaction with others changed in 2020, and we have been forced to find new ways to establish human bonds. Strong, clear decisionmaking and communications, both within organizations and externally with clients and stakeholders, has been fundamental to successful reactions to the pandemic. From moving physical site visits to virtual walk rounds to bids being submitted
how communication is essential to your
colleagues and employees. It is important
business and build a contingency plan.
to discuss the direction you are taking, why you are taking it, and why it will ultimately
6) Reset and reimagine.
benefit you and the business. Then, it is
While the pandemic is still very much
just as important to hear the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideas
with us, we are starting to see a shift in
and input. Create new relationships and
organizations moving from a reactive
develop your current team bonds to ensure
mode into a proactive mode. They are
the relationships are trusting, accountable
considering their next moves with the
and committed when you hit tough times.
benefit of having been through the pandemic, which has enabled them to look
8) Examine productivity.
at things differently. We need to retreat to
The true nature of workforce productivity
reset and reimagine new dimensions and a
came to the forefront during 2020.
refreshed path to reach our vision.
According to several research studies, many respondents found themselves more productive in their home environment
clients to move at their own pace and time.
7) Work as a highly effective team.
During the pandemic, many organizations
Cultivating
have realized their communications
relationships is the
are lackluster, and crisis management
key to success.
was non-existent. Start thinking now
Make a concerted effort to meet with other
via microsites instead of in-person, new initiatives are saving time and allowing
without the interruptions they had in a physical office. Some of these practices that will remain with us post-pandemic include: businesses being more trusting and empowering of employees (53 percent); managers increasing flexible
Continuing Education and Outreach
CUSTOMIZED TRAINING
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.
Contact us for your organizational needs! 334-983-0005 continuinged@troy.edu
ONLINE CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS We offer a wide range of online certiďŹ cate programs aligned with industry recognized standards in accounting, human resource management, project management, technology and more.
73 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
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.
Small Business Briefcase working hours (49 percent), virtual
restaurants were caught off-guard by the
where they can work through innovative
teams working across locations and
pandemic. When they should have been
ideas on how your business can be
departments (38 percent); and agile
ready to serve online customers and
sustained during tough times.
teams forming and disbanding around
provide delivery and curbside pickup
specific activities (37 percent). Working
services, they instead had to play catch-
We are looking back, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not yet
remotely will remain too. (62 percent).
up. Prepping for the future includes
out of the COVID-19 woods, so learning
It is very apparent that people can be
making sure your organization is ready
these lessons will help your business
productive when not in a typical office.
to meet demand.
excel in 2021. Do not let your experience
Productivity and performance depend on
gained in 2020 go unused. The greatest
the organizational culture you currently
10) Ingenuity wins.
indicator of future success is past
have.
Organizations able to reconsider their
success.
9) Invest in technology.
business model or rethink to quickly adapt to market conditions have a better
Having technology in place with
chance to survive and
employees trained
even thrive. It is always
to use it may have
important to encourage
been the difference
innovation within
between seamlessly
your organization,
shifting to remote
but the pandemic has
work and lagging.
illustrated just how beneficial it may be.
Many smaller, local retailers and
Allow employees to hold focus groups
74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
LEARN MORE: Check out archives of our
Small Business Briefcase series in past issues by visiting montgomerychamber.com
M EM BER Spotlight
HUGHSTON CLINIC Founded in 1949 with a focus on sports medicine and orthopaedics, today Hughston Clinic continues its commitment to keeping or restoring the human musculoskeletal system to its best possible condition in all of its 25-plus locations in the Southeast.
PRACTICING PHYSICIANS: R. Lee Murphy Jr., MD, including specialties in General Orthopedics, Orthopedic Surgery, Shoulder and Sports Medicine; Derek A. Woessner, MD, FAAFP including specialties in Concussion, General Orthopaedics (NonSurgical) and Sports Medicine; B. Collier Watson, DO, including specialties in Foot and Ankle and Orthopedic Surgery; William N. Melton, MD, including specialties in Hand, Wrist and Elbow. HISTORY: Hughston Clinic was founded by Dr. Jack C. Hughston (1917-2004) in 1949. In 1984, he achieved his dream of focusing primarily on sports injuries with the opening of Hughston Sports Medicine Hospital, the first facility of its kind in the country. Dr. Hughston also made significant contributions to the study and advancement of sports medicine and orthopaedics with the establishment of a postdoctoral fellowship, as well as the Hughston Foundation, which was designed to promote advances in sports medicine and orthopaedics through research, education and communication. WHAT ARE HUGHSTON CLINICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRIMARY SERVICES? Hughston Clinic specializes in orthopaedic services including practice areas in spine, hand, joint, sports medicine and trauma. Hughston Clinic operates a network of 25-plus orthopaedic clinics in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. WHAT SETS HUGHSTON CLINIC APART? We ensure that our patients receive only the highest level of quality treatment for musculoskeletal injury and disease. This includes the understanding of all aspects of human performance and the application of techniques and procedures learned through sports medicine, research, education and training focused on improving the quality of life for everyone. The doctors who make up this unique practice have devoted their lives to the study of orthopaedics and the treatment of musculoskeletal trauma, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital conditions. In fact, few institutions anywhere in the world have assembled and sustained this level of talent in orthopaedic medicine. We are, and will continue to be, a nationally and internationally recognized center of excellence for research, education and training and quality treatment of musculoskeletal injury and disease.
WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON THE HORIZON FOR HUGHSTON CLINIC? Hughston continues to expand into not only new territories, but fields as well. We have recently added ear, nose and throat to our list of specialties under Hughston Medical Group.
HUGHSTON CLINIC MONTGOMERY / 2257 TAYLOR ROAD, SUITE A / MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 334-245-6605 / HUGHSTON.COM 75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
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NEWS & UPDATES
BIG NEWS:
HYUNDAI ADDS FIFTH VEHICLE TO MGM PRODUCTION PLANT On November 9, Hyundai Motor America introduced the all-new 2022 Tucson to the U.S. automotive media. During the press event, José Muñoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America, announced Hyundai is expanding the number
MONTGOMERY VOTES TO MOVE EDUCATION FORWARD For the first time in 50
of models it builds in
15 YEARS =
4.75M
the United States with
VEHICLES
the addition of 2022 Tucson production
performance and expertise
And the Chamber’s 2020
at the Hyundai
of our HMMA team,” said
Chairman, Arthur DuCote
Motor Manufacturing
Montgomery Mayor Steven
echoed both, noting how
Alabama (HMMA) plant in
L. Reed. “It allows Hyundai
proud Montgomery is of its
Montgomery starting in 2021.
to quickly adapt to consumer
longstanding partnership
years, Montgomery
preferences and demonstrates
with the auto manufacturer.
residents voted to
HMMA, which started
the long-term commitment
“As home to Hyundai’s only
invest in our future—
vehicle production in May
between Hyundai and the
North American manufacturing
our children. Led by a
2005, is Hyundai’s only U.S.
Montgomery community. We
facility, the Montgomery
coalition of business
manufacturing facility and
are proud of Hyundai’s track
community pledges to
community stakeholders
produces Hyundai’s highest
record of success and stand
continue our enormously
and visionary elected
volume of U.S. models
steadfast in our continued
successful partnership,”
leadership, Montgomery
including Santa Fe, Elantra
support of HMMA.”
DuCote said. “We are so
residents voted in an
and Sonata. Hyundai will build
overwhelming majority
the 2022 Tucson and Santa
Montgomery County
has chosen to expand the
to increase education
Cruz at HMMA because of the
Commission Chairman Elton
number of vehicles built at
funding for Montgomery
continued SUV growth in North
Dean expressed similar
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing
Public Schools. Amid
America and the benefits
thoughts. “Montgomery
Alabama.”
a year marked by a
of localized production in
remains deeply committed to
pandemic, Montgomery
meeting consumer demand.
its partnership with Hyundai
HMMA is now capable of
came together as never
While Tucson production
Motor Manufacturing Alabama
building five high-quality
before, and the “yes”
will continue in Korea, the
and is honored to learn
models on a single line with
vote did more than create
majority of production for U.S.
that now five of Hyundai’s
a group of more than 3,000
much-needed funding for
customers will come from
best-selling, innovative and
dedicated team members and
our schools. It gave us all
Alabama. Tucson is Hyundai’s
high-quality models are built
has produced more than 4.75
the confidence that we
best-selling model in our
here in the River Region,” he
million vehicles for the North
can be the Montgomery
country.
said. “Together, Hyundai and
American market during the
we aspire to be. Read our
Montgomery have created a
past 15 years.
article on Montgomery’s
“Hyundai’s decision to build
roadmap for manufacturing
full education picture on
the Tucson in Montgomery is
success of which we are very
page 60.
indicative of their belief in the
proud.”
very honored that Hyundai
76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
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NEWS & UPDATES TECH NEWS: TECHMGM HOLDS VIRTUAL STEM CAMP FOR STUDENTS
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE TO RECEIVE NEW FLYING MISSION
that Montgomery and Maxwell are on the
The Air Force has chosen Maxwell Air Force
said Anna Buckalew, the Chamber’s President
Base’s 908th Airlift Wing as the preferred
accelerates change and innovates to prepare America’s Airmen and protect our nation,” and CEO. “Montgomery’s defense sector is
TechMGM, Montgomery’s
location to host the MH-139A Grey Wolf
initiative to connect and leverage
Formal Training Unit. The MH-139 Grey Wolf is
the city’s unique technology
the replacement platform for the Air Force’s
assets, and the Montgomery
UH-1N Huey helicopter, which supports the
Armed Forces Communications
Air Force’s Intercontinental Ballistic Missile
and Electronics Association
(ICBM) missions. The aircraft will be one of the
(AFCEA), recently hosted a
Air Force’s newest aerial
virtual camp for all 8th grade
weapons systems and has
Montgomery Public Schools
a long future as a strategic
students to help interest
Air Force asset. The aircraft
them in STEM disciplines and
should begin to arrive in
career paths. CampIT exposed
2023.
students to the fields of digital
leading edge in supporting the Air Force as it
a critical economic driver for our region, and this is further proof of the momentum that continues to build for our future.” Thanks in particular are due to the leadership efforts of Senator Richard Shelby, the senior member of Alabama’s
“
congressional delegation who worked directly with the Secretary of the Air Force to
“MONTGOMERY’S DEFENSE SECTOR IS A CRITICAL ECONOMIC DRIVER FOR OUR REGION, AND THIS IS FURTHER PROOF OF THE MOMENTUM THAT CONTINUES TO BUILD FOR OUR FUTURE.” - Anna Buckalew,
media, cybersecurity, software
The opportunity to acquire
development and esports. This
this training mission at
event aligned with TechMGM’s
Maxwell is paramount as
mission to maximize the
the Air Force divests from
community’s diverse technology
existing C-130 missions,
talent pipeline and promote
which would affect the
the city as an emerging and
908th Airlift Wing at the
innovative technology hub.
base as soon as 2023.
The receipt of the MH-139
“The goal of CampIT is to
ensures mission stability
allow students to expand their
for the 908th Airlift Wing, an Air Force
horizons, explore and engage
Reserve unit that has called Maxwell Air
with different STEM and IT
Force Base home for multiple decades. Now,
careers,” said Charisse Stokes,
Alabama’s only Air Force Reserve Unit will
Executive Director of TechMGM.
have a helicopter flying training mission and
“By holding this event virtually
partnerships with Global Strike Command and
this year, we were able to reach
Air Education and Training Command. The
more students and possibly
908th Airlift Wing consists of more than 1,198
prepare them for a higher wage,
individuals and boasts an annual economic
skilled work environment.”
impact in the region of more than $60 million
annually. The MH-139 mission, coupled
TechMGM partnered with
with other Air Force missions, positions
the Montgomery AFCEA
Montgomery extremely well to support our
Chapter Education Foundation,
nation’s national defense posture.
the Chamber’s President and CEO
Montgomery Esports and Gaming, MGMWERX, Fearless
“Maxwell AFB’s selection for this next-
and CGI for the event.
generation flying and training mission shows
77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
solidify the MH-139 mission, and to Congresswoman Martha Roby, whose district includes Maxwell Air Force Base and who has advocated tirelessly for the men and women who will make this mission possible. “The impact this decision will have on our community is significant,” said Mayor Steven L. Reed. “Montgomery continues to prove
it is not only serious about its support for our military, but that we are serious about our ability to look ahead and to successfully compete for the projects, missions and initiatives that will carry our community and our nation forward.” Montgomery County Commission Chairman Elton Dean offered praise. “Congratulations to the men and women of the 908th Airlift Wing who have received a vote of confidence from our national defense leadership,” Dean said. “Montgomery is known as the best hometown in the Air Force because of our exceptional and enduring partnerships between Air Force leadership, the Montgomery community and our congressional delegation’s tireless support.”
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MONTGOMERY LEADERS CELEBRATE NATIONAL MANUFACTURING MONTH On October 1, the Chamber kicked off
annual salary at manufacturing companies
Chairman. “At the Chamber, we are
its celebration of National Manufacturing
in Montgomery is more than $58,500
dedicated to enhancing the quality of
Month with a virtual town hall on
per year, 29 percent higher than the local
life for our residents by creating and
manufacturing featuring Mayor Steven
average wage.
preserving jobs. We hope that during this
L. Reed, County Commission Chairman
month, we can attract local students and
Elton Dean and Trenholm State Technical
In addition to the town hall, the Chamber
members of our workforce to consider a
College Interim President Anita Archie to
has produced a video highlighting local
career in manufacturing.”
recognize Montgomery’s diverse
manufacturing employees and the
manufacturing sector and its significant
career opportunities that exist in modern
WATCH EXCERPTS
economic impact on the River Region.
manufacturing. The video was distributed
FROM THE TOWN HALL HERE:
to local education partners during the The Montgomery metro area is home to
month of October.
325 manufacturing companies, employing more than 18,200 workers, that produce
“This month, we want to celebrate our
surgical equipment, aircraft parts,
manufacturing sector for its significant
water heaters, automobiles, branded
contribution to our local economy,”
pharmaceuticals and more. The average
said Arthur DuCote, 2020 Chamber
www.gotscrap.com 334-272-0767 430 Air Base Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36108
Our recycling services include: ✓ Manufacturing Scrap Services ✓ Appliance Recycling ✓ Automobile Recycling ✓ Certified Destruction ✓ Demolition Scrap
78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Connect CO NNEC T I NG YO U TO T H E M ANY CHAMBER RES OURCES AN D S ERVICES AVAILABLE
TECH NEWS CHAMBER LAUNCHES PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTION STUDIO
MBJ NEWS
Instead of being overwhelmed by the
Journal launched its first digital
obstacles of the pandemic, the Chamber
issue e-newsletter in September
saw an opportunity to not only adapt
which highlighed the articles
but to prepare for the future. To keep
and features from the issue and
the business community connected to each
included links to member news
other and timely resources, it quickly launched
and a direct link to the digital
an in-house production studio to transform
issue online. It also featured a list
more than 40 signature events into high
of upcoming articles and topics
quality virtual experiences, in addition to
for the magazine’s future industry
providing COVID-specific programming during
overview articles. If you aren’t
the height of the crisis. The new production
receiving it, email
studio not only elevated the value of the Chamber’s virtual events, but also positions the
jminiard@montgomerychamber.com
organization to execute an exciting new digital content plan as we emerge from COVID
to be added to the list.
response and enter a new phase of communications and programming strategy in the future.
79
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
The Montgomery Business
CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LO O K B AC K AT T H E FACES AN D PLACES OF RECEN T CHAMBER EVEN TS
OCTOBER
VIRTUAL TOWN HALL ON MANUFACTURING
PAST
Virtual EVENTS
October 1 Presenting Sponsor: Trenholm State Community College ASE’S FINANCIAL FRIDAY SERIES: THE LENDING PROCESS
02
October 30
October 2
Sponsored By: ASE Credit Union
Sponsored By: ASE Credit Union
NOVEMBER
SMALL BUSINESS BRIEFCASE: EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT SUPERCHARGES PRODUCTIVITY
OCT
ASE’S FINANCIAL FRIDAY SERIES: ALL ABOUT EMPLOYEES
CHAMBER ORIENTATION
November 5 Sponsored By: exploreMedia
October 6
First Friday Culture Builder & Social Hour
Presented By: Troy Continuing Education & Outreach
Sponsored By: STRATICE, LLC
ASE’S FINANCIAL FRIDAY SERIES: MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS
October 16 Sponsored By: ASE Credit Union INNOVATEMGM
FIRST FRIDAY CULTURE BUILDER & SOCIAL HOUR
November 6 Sponsored By: Partners Realty EGGS & ISSUES WITH CONGRESSWOMAN MARTHA ROBY
November 10 Grand Presenting Sponsor: Balch & Bingham LLP
October 20 Presenting Sponsor: Troy Cablevision
ASE’S FINANCIAL FRIDAY SERIES: TAXES & INVESTMENTS
STATE OF THE CITY & COUNTY
Sponsored By: ASE Credit Union
November 13
October 21
OCT 08
NOV 03
CONVERSATIONS & CONNECTIONS
Presented By: River Region United Way
November 17-19
Presenting Sponsor: Jim Massey’s Cleaners and Laundry
Sponsored By: Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
Presented By: Troy Continuing
GRANT WRITING 2.0
October 28
Chamber Golf Classic
Small Business Briefcase: How to Recruit, Retain & Incentivize Great Employees
Presenting Sponsor: Baptist Health
NOV
Military Appreciation Week
8-14
Caddell and HCS Group
Presenting Sponsors:
Education & Outreach 80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
NOV 19
Governmental Affairs Reception Presenting Sponsor: Alabama Interactive
75+ 602 175
ENGAGEMENT EVENTS and TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES SPONSORSHIPS COMPANIES
Big Impact This year has had its share of challenges and you’ve been there every step of the way. Thank you to ALL of our generous 2020 TRC sponsors for continuing to fund and invest in the Chamber during a tough year. Your confidence and support ensured that the Chamber could continue providing educational, training and networking opportunities to the business community and we needed that this year, perhaps more than any other. Your partnership and investment made a huge impact and allowed us to continue our critical mission to unite business, elected and community leaders to create economic prosperity and a better quality of life for all. We can’t thank you enough! We are excited to Build On Together with you in 2021.
THANK YOU MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER of COMMERCE
81 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
H O W TO S E C U R E YO U R B U S I N E S S F O R W H AT E V E R 2 0 2 1 H AS I N S TO R E BY D E A N P E E V Y
After such a complicated year in 2020, it’s tempting to put our heads down and just push
3. PLAN FOR GROWTH. Once you’ve developed your plans for potential
that trap. Preparation is key to take advantage
challenges and opportunities in 2021, ask
of whatever 2021 has in store for you and your
yourself the types and amounts of funding you
business. Here are four steps to take:
might need for each situation. Opportunities can put just as much of a strain on capital as challenges can. For example, maybe you need
1 . AS K “ W H AT I F ? ”
a line of credit to facilitate growth created by
It’s virtually impossible to plan for a situation
your online business. Perhaps you put off a big
like 2020 but attempt to think through all
equipment purchase in 2020 that you’ll need to
potential challenges and opportunities your
make in 2021. Determine with your banker the
business could face in 2021 and how you
best funding source for each need.
would address them. Ask as many “what ifs” as you can think of. Reflect on what you’ve
4 . I N V E S T I N YO U R T E A M .
been through as a business in 2020 (and prior), assess how you resolved those situations, and
Your people are your most valuable asset. In
have a game plan moving forward.
2020, with employees working from home, traditional modes of communication have been disrupted, leaving some team members feeling disconnected. It’s critical to make sure
2 . CO M M U N I C AT E W I T H YO U R B A N K E R .
your employees are engaged and that they understand how important they are.
Your banker should be a trusted advisor. Once you start planning for potential risks
Remember that crises lead to opportunities.
and opportunities, have a conversation with
The things that made you successful prior
your banker. If your banker understands your
to 2020—your thought process and how
business and the local business community,
you assess opportunities—haven’t gone
they can potentially play a key role in solution
away. Resilient business people will have
development and could have ideas that you
opportunities to succeed in 2021 and beyond.
haven’t thought of. Maybe your banker has
Ask us how Valley Bank can help you take
experience with alternative or non-traditional
advantage of the opportunities coming your
programs or sources of funding. If you’re
way.
communicating frequently, your banker can add value when developing a game plan.
MEET THE EXPERT 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 nearly 20 years. He can be reached at dpeevy@valley.com or 334-270-3003. Valley National Bank is a Member FDIC and Equal Opportunity Lender.
83 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
BANKING
knows what 2021 has in store? Don’t fall into
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S IN THE KNOW
forward without a real plan. After all, who
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
Miltope Corporation Has New President and CEO ST Engineering North America announced
Trustmark Announces Succession Plans
the appointment of Dianne Howells as
The Boards of Directors of Trustmark
the new President and Chief Executive
Corporation and Trustmark National
Officer of Miltope Corporation, effective
Bank announced that Gerard R.
September 28. With more than 25 years of
Host became Executive Chairman of
experience in the aerospace and defense
Trustmark Corporation and Trustmark
industry, Howells brings her proven
National Bank effective January 1.
leadership in program management,
Duane A. Dewey, President and
product development, manufacturing and
Chief Operating Officer of Trustmark
sales growth to this critical role.
National Bank, succeeds Host as President and CEO of Trustmark Corporation and CEO of Trustmark
Alan Williams Joins River Bank & Trust
National Bank.
Alan Williams has joined River Bank & Trust as Vice President and Mortgage Loan Originator. Based out of the years of mortgage lending expertise to
Hodges Warehouse + Logistics Names Director of Productivity Improvements
assist the River Region community with its
James Uhm joins Hodges Warehouse
home financing needs.
+ Logistics as the Director of
Wetumpka office, Williams will use his 20
Productivity Improvements. In this role, he will work with the leadership
Huntingdon Announces Faculty Chemistry Hire
team to identify and prioritize top opportunities for operational
Dr. James Patterson joined the
improvement; help develop a
Huntingdon College faculty as Assistant
system upgrade plan and assist with
Professor Of Chemistry on January 1.
execution; and develop systems and executing strategies to
Dr. Tom Perrin, Interim Vice President
implement a continuous improvement program and culture that
For Academic Affairs And Dean Of
deliver substantive productivity and profitability gains.
Faculty, said “Dr. Patterson’s credentials are impeccable. More importantly, he demonstrated during his interview that his desire, above all,
New Chief Lending Officer at MAX Credit Union
is to mentor students and to assist them with undergraduate
MAX Credit Union named Wendy Anderson as its new Chief
research.”
Lending Officer. Anderson brings nearly 27 years of experience in the financial service industry to her new
Jackson Thornton Names New President & CEO
role at MAX Credit Union. Anderson
Jackson Thornton, a certified public
has served as acting Chief Lending
accounting and consulting firm
Officer since early March, filling the
headquartered in Montgomery,
vacancy created when former Chief
announced the election of John S.
Lending Officer Martin Head was
Fendley as the firm’s President & CEO,
selected as MAX Credit Union’s
effective January 1. Fendley will succeed
President and CEO in late 2019.
Ned F. Sheffield, who has held the position since 2009.
86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move
Montgomery Catholic Names Director of Communications & Marketing Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School names Brittany Bradley as the new Director of Communications and Marketing. Bradley began in her new role on December 1.
Wiggins Incorporated Names New Vice President Nathan Copeland joins Wiggins Incorporated as Vice President of Operations. Copeland is a River Region native and comes to Wiggins with a background in strategic planning and process development for both higher education institutions and the private sector.
Huntingdon Makes Faculty Religion Hire Huntingdon College President J. Cameron West announced that Huntingdon Class of 2018 alumna Bria Imani Rochelle will return to her alma mater to serve as Instructor Of Religion And Content Coordinator for the Huntingdon Leadership Academy. She will begin her role in summer 2021.
Jackson Thornton Names New Principals Tuan P. Blank and Richard B. Compton have been selected as the Jackson Thornton’s newest principals. Blank is a principal in the firm’s Franklin, Tennessee, office and specializes in audit and accounting services for clients in the utilities industry. Compton is a principal in the firm’s Montgomery office and specializes in audit, accounting and consulting services for clients in the utilities industry.
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
Community
Achievements
Montgomery Wins National Technology Award The City of Montgomery earned national praise and recognition
Montgomery Volunteer Lawyers Recognize Pro Bono Efforts
alongside other leading civic innovators, from the Center for
The Montgomery Volunteer Lawyers Program recently recognized
Digital Government (CDG) in the Fourth Annual Government
the 2020 Pro Bono Awards winners, which included Beasley
Experience Awards. As the only city from the Southeast to be
Allen attorney Lauren James as a member of the 2020 Pro Bono
honored, Montgomery was a winner in the CDG’s Overall City
Leadership Corps. James’ practice is focused primarily on medical
Government Experience category. The awards highlight the
drugs and devices. Before becoming a lawyer with Beasley Allen,
achievements and best practices of states, cities and counties
she was a law clerk while attending Faulkner University Thomas
that are radically improving the experience of government and
Goode Jones School of Law. While there, she received the
pushing the boundaries of how citizen services are delivered.
Alabama State Bar’s Pro Bono Law Student Award.
2020 River Region Ethics and Public Service Awards Announced
Madeline Burkhardt Makes Museum Influencer List Madeline Burkhardt, the Adult Education Coordinator and Curator at the Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University was included in the inaugural Blooloop 50 Museum Influencer List 2020. This list celebrates innovation, excellence and creativity in museums and science centers worldwide. In its inaugural year, the list recognizes and celebrates 50 of the most influential people in the museum sector worldwide for 2020.
2020 River Region Ethics and Public Service Awards
The recipients of the 2020 River Region Ethics and Public
National Trial Lawyers Appoint LaBarron Boone to Executive Committee
Service Awards were announced on October 8 at the Alabama
Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C. Principal
Activity Center. The luncheon and awards ceremony recognized
and Executive Committee member LaBarron Boone has been
businesses, organizations and individuals for their community
selected to serve on the Executive Committee for The National
leadership, service and contributions to ethical business practices
Trial Lawyers – Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Lawyers group. Boone is an
in the River Region. Awards were given to recipients in each of
accomplished trial lawyer representing clients who have been
the following categories: Small Business: State Farm Insurance,
tragically injured or families who have lost loved ones by no fault
Willie Durham, Agent. Medium Business: East Taylor Dental
of their own.
Associates. Large Business: International Paper. Non-profit Organizations/Public Agencies: Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama. Maury Smith Award for Individual Community Leaders: Nan Hobbs
Executive Airport Director Inducted into Marquis Who’s Who
Barganier.
Marquis Who’s Who has inducted Marshall J. Taggart Jr., C.M.,
Bryan Stevenson Honored
Executive Airport Director into its
Montgomery Regional Airport’s
EJI Director Bryan Stevenson is among four activists honored with the Right Livelihood Foundation’s annual award. The Swedish foundation established the award in 1980 to “honour and support courageous people solving global problems.” It has become widely known as the “Alternative Nobel Prize.” There are now 182 Laureates from 72 countries. The Right Livelihood Foundation cited Stevenson for “his inspiring endeavor to reform the U.S.
registry. Biographical volumes of Marquis Who’s Who profile individuals on factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility and prominence in a field. Current reference value is also taken into account during the selection process.
criminal justice system and advance racial reconciliation in the face of historic trauma.” 88 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
Locals Recognized by Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association
In addition, 20 Beasley Allen lawyers were recognized in The
The ARHA honored employees in the restaurant and hospitality
were also recognized for their successes and named “Lawyer
sector statewide as Stars of the Industry, and multiple
of the Year” in three categories. Four additional Beasley Allen
Montgomerians made the list of finalists in several categories
lawyers were included in The Best Lawyers® in America: Ones to
including: Reggie McClure, Montgomery Country Club as Front of
Watch 2021 edition.
the House Hospitality Employee of the Year; Chantale Williams, Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa as Humanitarian of the Year; Eric Rivera, Vintage Hospitality Group as Chef of the Year; and Jud Blount, Vintage Hospitality Group and Bob Baumhower,
Best Lawyers in America® 2021. Three Beasley Allen lawyers
Butler Snow Recognized U.S. News—Best Lawyers® recognized Butler Snow in its recent release of “Best Law Firms” 2021®. The firm received six national
Aloha Hospitality as Restaurateur of the Year.
rankings, 90 metropolitan tier 1 rankings, 42 metropolitan tier
Bradley Honored with Multiple Recognitions
ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and
Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announced that 53 of the
breadth of legal expertise.
2 rankings and 26 metropolitan tier 3 rankings. Achieving such
firm’s partners have been recognized in the 2021 edition of Benchmark Litigation, which also listed Bradley as a “highly
The firm was also included in The American Bar Association’s
recommended” firm. In addition, the firm was ranked Tier 1
(ABA) Health Law Section’s Eighth Annual Regional Top 10 Law
nationally for Product Liability and Recall, and five attorneys were
Firm Recognition list. This award recognizes the top 10 law firms
recognized as National Practice Area Stars. A leading guide to
in each region (Northeast, Southeast and DC, South, Midwest and
litigation firms and attorneys in the United States and Canada,
West) with the highest number of attorneys in the ABA’s Health
Benchmark Litigation “highly recommended” Bradley in Alabama,
Law Section as of August 31, 2020.
Mississippi and Tennessee, and “recommended” the firm in North Carolina. In addition, the 2021 edition of U.S. News—Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” awarded the firm Tier 1 national rankings for the practice areas of Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, Litigation–Construction and Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions –Defendants. Bradley also earned Tier 1 metropolitan rankings across 69 practice areas and in all 10 of its offices.
Awards ASU President Receives Award from Alliance of Black School Educators A prestigious statewide education award from the Alabama Alliance of Black School Educators (ALABSE) was presented to Alabama State University’s President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. on October 29. The inaugural Charles Townsel Outstanding Higher
Gilpin Givhan Named 2021 “Best Law Firm” Gilpin Givhan was named “Best Law Firm” in the categories of Health Care Law, Litigation-Tax and Tax Law by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® for 2021. This publication ranked Gilpin Givhan as a Metropolitan Tier 1 firm, the highest ranking a law firm can receive, in the practice area of Health Care Law, and Tier 2 rankings in the practice areas of Litigation-Tax and Tax Law. Firms selected for “Best Law Firms” are recognized for professional excellence and ratings from clients and peers.
Educational Leadership Award was presented to Ross during AL-ABSE’s third annual state conference, which was held virtually from Birmingham this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Ross said he was both surprised and honored to receive the Alliance’s Townsel Award.
Caddell Construction Receives 2020 HIRE Vets Medallion Award From U.S. Department of Labor U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia recognized Caddell
Beasley Allen Ranks High in Several Rankings The National Law Journal recently acknowledged a number of attorneys and firms securing the highest-ranking verdicts from 2015 to 2019. The National Law Journal Verdicts Hall of Fame included six categories: Admiralty/Maritime, Fraud/Professional Negligence, Medical Malpractice, Products Liability, Securities and Wrongful Death. Beasley Allen Law Firm was recognized in five of
Construction as a recipient of the 2020 HIRE Vets Medallion Award during an award ceremony at the U.S. Department of Labor. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Program is the only federal award program that recognizes job creators who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.
the 33 largest Products Liability cases.
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CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
The Wellness Coalition Receives Funding to Improve Heart Health The Wellness Coalition’s innovation and commitment to improve the heart health of the people of Montgomery was recognized with a grant from the AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation’s Connections for Cardiovascular Health SM Next Generation program. The $149,288 grant will fund the HeartLink – Improving Cardiovascular Health in the Alabama River Region program.
Caddell Construction Long-Term Executive Retires In September, Caddell Construction announced the retirement of Senior Vice
Faulkner University Honors Frontline Workers, Healthcare Professionals in Cautious Way Faulkner University’s annual Benefit Dinner featuring former United States Representative Trey Gowdy took on a new look October 1 as the University and the Renaissance Hotel took every precaution to safeguard guests against COVID-19. In light of the pandemic, the university dedicated the night to honoring the hard work and selfless sacrifice of those who have battled and continue to battle COVID-19 on the frontlines of our state and communities. Nearly 120 individuals were honored during the program, including healthcare professionals, food service personnel, maintenance workers, grocers, postal workers, truck drivers, veterinarians, waiters, janitors and others who have risked their health in order to keep our communities running.
President of Operations Bob Nanney. After celebrating 37 years with the company, Nanney had been with Caddell longer than any employee other than Mr. Caddell himself. Nanney was a young man as he made the career leap from Blount to Caddell in October 1983 when the company was only nine months old. He
The Breath Project Holds Inaugural Festival The Breath Project Virtual Festival—a new theatrical initiative formed by Artistic Director and Co-Founder Gamal Abdel Chasten and Co-Founder Marieke Gaboury in response to the current global spotlight on racial injustice—held its inaugural festival on October 24 and 25. In partnership with Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) and 23 other theater companies across
was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019. In his executive role, he had oversight responsibility for more than $3 billion of work.
by multidisciplinary theater artists of color. In the wake of the death of George Floyd, the 8
Huntingdon College Names Black Student Union Center
minutes and 46-second time frame has become a symbol for the racial injustice faced by
During a luncheon and presentation held on
the country, the free festival featured 24 world premiere 8-minute, 47-second works created
countless members of the Black community across the United States.
Local Nursing Home Completes COVID-19 Training Program Capitol Hill Healthcare is one of a small number of long-term healthcare facilities recognized for completing federal training on COVID-19. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) program is for clinical staff and management and part of a nationwide effort to combat the spread of the disease in nursing homes. With COVID-19 cases rising in Alabama and many other states, CMS Administrator Seema Verma has urged more of the nation’s nearly 16,000 nursing homes to participate in the free training to hinder the spread of the disease among the vulnerable resident population. According to the agency, “There are 125,506 individuals from 7,313 nursing homes who have completed the training. This represents approximately 12.5 percent of the approximately one million nursing home staff in the country.”
90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
campus on October 24, Huntingdon College President J. Cameron West announced the naming of the Wanda A. Howard ‘81 Black Student Union Center. The Center, located in the renovated ground floor of the campus building known as The Hut, which is home to the College’s Office of Student Affairs and Office of Health and Wellness staff and is the hub of campus life, will serve as a dedicated space for the Black Student Union, a membership organization founded on campus in 1980.
PNC Announces Agreement to Buy BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC) and the Spanish financial group, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. (NYSE and MAD: BBVA) announced that they have signed a definitive agreement for PNC to acquire BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., including its U.S. banking subsidiary, BBVA USA, for a purchase price of $11.6 billion to be funded with cash on hand in a fixed price structure. BBVA USA Bancshares, with $104 billion in assets and headquartered in Houston, Texas, provides commercial and retail banking services through its banking subsidiary BBVA USA and operates 637 branches in Texas, Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Colorado and New Mexico. When combined with PNC’s existing footprint, the company will have a coast-to-coast franchise with a presence in 29 of the 30 largest markets in the United States.
Cumulus Media Announces PROJECT SHINE Cumulus Media has launched PROJECT SHINE, a crossplatform charitable initiative serving as a nationwide call to local volunteerism through partner VolunteerMatch, the world’s largest volunteer engagement network. PROJECT SHINE will be promoted on the company’s 422 radio stations and websites across 87 U.S. markets, including on Cumulus Montgomery radio stations (WLWI-FM, WHHY-FM, WMXS-FM, WXFX-FM, WMSP-AM and WLWI-AM) and through Cumulus Media’s Westwood One, the largest audio network in the U.S., with creative promos framed by a new version of iconic rock band Collective Soul’s hit “Shine”, rerecorded exclusively for PROJECT SHINE. PROJECT SHINE encourages Cumulus’ hundreds of millions of listeners to visit local station websites to instantly connect with VolunteerMatch’s powerful search engine and database and find local volunteer opportunities. The campaign was produced by Cumulus, with support from production company Benztown and McVay Media. Rick Hendrick, Operations Manager, Cumulus Montgomery, said, “2020 has been difficult for all of us, but there is always an opportunity to help out our neighbors and friends. PROJECT SHINE is our chance to be that help and we hope that everyone considers this opportunity to join our efforts.”
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
ADVER TISING SPECI A LTI E S
Allison Whatley Promotions-Boundless Allison Whatley P.O. Box 9006 Montgomery, AL 36108 334-322-4984 www.boundlessnetwork.com ASS OC IATIONS/NO N -P R OF I T
Children First Katie Jeter P.O. Box 5248 Montgomery, AL 36103 334-604-1043 www.alabamachildrenfirst.com B AKERY
The Pastry Vault Oriana Robinson 15 Travertine Drive Pike Road, AL 36064 334-648-1781 B E AUT Y SALONS/SPAS / B A R B E R
Amour Aesthetics Deidra Palmore 3079 Wetumpka Highway, Unit F Montgomery, AL 36110 334-219-0815
JANUARY 2021 NEW MEMBERS CON S U LT IN G S E RV IC E S
Jessiwey LLC Jessica Weyreuter 3027 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334-414-1980 One Cube Up William Wright 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 444 Montgomery, AL 36104 803-430-0501 www.onecubeup.com ZenBusiness Ross Buhrdorf 5900 Balcones Drive, Suite 5000 Austin, TX 78731 844-493-6249 www.zenbusiness.com/alabama-llc/ DA N C E
Symphony Q Academy of Dance, LLC Laquangela Littleton 1055 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334-239-8516 www.sqacademyofdance.com F I N A N C IA L P L A N N E R /A DV IS O R
B U SINESS SERVICES
Express Mobile Notary & Loan Signing Services, LLC Kimberly Parker 3300 Country Church Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334-202-2221
Brianne C. Smith, PFS - RFG Advisory Brianne Smith 2740 Central Parkway Montgomery, AL 36106 334-310-9520 www.rfgadvisorywealth.com/ briannesmith
CH IR OPR AC TORS
H E A LTH & N U T R IT IO N
The Joint Chiropractic Tresha Brown 7244 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334-676-2290 thejoint.com/alabama/montgomery/ east-montgomery-22007
Luxury Body Sculpting Denise Dukes 8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 155 Montgomery, AL 36117 334-603-8833 www.LuxuryBodySculpting.com
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M E D IC A L E Q U IP M E N T
Rehab Medical Luke Miller 3359 Copter Road, Unit 8 Pensacola, FL 32514 334-201-9376 www.rehabmedical.com M O R TG AG E /F IN A N C E
InterLinc Mortgage Services, LLC Brett Dickey 6985 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334-801-9726 www.welendmontgomery.com P E T R O L E U M E Q U IP M E N T
Future Fuel, Int., LLC Billy Johnson P.O. Box 1442 Millbrook, AL 36054 205-914-4163 www.futurefuelintllc.com P H A R M AC E U T IC A LS U P P L IE S /E Q U IP M E N T
H2-Pharma, LLC Brooke Cantey 2021 Berry Chase Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334-647-1947 www.h2-pharma.com
R E A L E STAT E - R E S ID E N T IA L
Nicole Sloan Realty Nicole Sloan 8148 Old Federal Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334-356-4288 www.nicolesloanrealty.com R E TA IL S H O P S /D IST R IBU T ION
Divine Vines and Decor Aretha Dix 1043 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334-676-1795
SPECIALIZED. IN YOU. Whether you are coping with back pain at work or find yourself skipping your workouts after a knee injury, at Alabama Orthopedic Specialists, we are here for you. As the only subspecialty-trained orthopedic group in Montgomery and Central Alabama, our advanced specialists are all experienced, fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors with focused expertise to offer you next-level treatment solutions in: • Back, neck, and spine care
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• Total joint care, replacement, and revision
For all your orthopedic needs, call (334) 309-8504. Main Campus 4294 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106
Prattville Office 461 East Main Street Prattville, AL 36067
Wetumpka Office 277 Huntress Street, Suite 202 Wetumpka, AL 36092 alorthospecialists.com 93 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
“Determined people working together can do anything.” - Jim Casey
TRENHOLM CAMPUS 1225 Air Base Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36108
PATTERSON SITE
3920 Troy Highway Montgomery, AL 36116 ACCREDITATION H. Councill Trenholm State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT It is the official policy of the Alabama Community College System and H. Councill Trenholm State Community College that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, disability, sex, religion, creed, national origin, age or any other protected class as deened by federal and state law be excluded from participation in, be denied beneets of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, activity, or employment.
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CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES
SELVIN’S SOUL FOOD AND SPORTS CAFÉ
SANDRA NICKEL HAT TEAM, REALTORS
1240 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-647-1187 Selvin Harris, Owner / Restaurants-Southern
1067 Woodley Road, Suite 1, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-834-1500 • www.hatteam.com Sandra Nickel, Broker-Owner / Real Estate-Agents
FIT4MOM-MONTGOMERY
CARLITO’S MEXICAN GRILL
989-330-3350 • www.montgomery-al.fit4mom.com/ Alyssa Sellers, Owner and Founding Mom Fitness Center/Gym, Fitness Training, Health & Fitness
8844 Minnie Brown Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-593-7779 Carlos Medellin & Brendan Sartin, Owners / Restaurants-Mexican
HOUSE & HOME REAL ESTATE
AMOUR AESTHETICS
2951 Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-230-5777 • www.houseandhome.house Carol Andrews, Owner/Broker Real Estate-Agents, Real Estate/Housing/Leasing
3079 F Wetumpka Highway, Unit F, Montgomery, AL 36110
334-219-0815 Deidra Palmore, Owner / Beauty Salons/Spas/Barber
95 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES
WINE AND DESIGN
ROCK N ROLL SUSHI-DOWNTOWN
7732 EastChase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-245-3387 • www.wineanddesign.com Monica Virgil, Imani Whitehead, Owners Attractions – Arts & Culture, Entertainment & Recreation
36 Dexter Avenue, Suite 108, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-356-1833 • www.rocknrollsushi.com Gerard Saurage, Owner, Selena Martinez, Owner/Manager Catering Services, Restaurants, Restaurants-Japanese
BOARD AND BRUSH
KIDSSTREET URGENT CARE
7236 Halcyon Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-202-4632 • www.boardandbrush.com/montgomery Brandie Jeffries, Owner / Entertainment & Recreation
3039 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-513-7819 • www.kidsstreeturgentcare.com Betsy Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer / Health Care Services
FUTURE FUEL, INT., LLC
SYMPHONY Q ACADEMY OF DANCE
P.O. Box 1442, Millbrook, AL 36054 205-914-4163 • www.futurefuelintllc.com Billy Johnson, Jr., Founder/CEO / Petroleum Equipment
1055 Woodley Rd., Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 221-3516 • www.sqacademyofdance.com Laquangela Littleton, Owner / Dance
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Showcase YOUR B US INES S Industry Leaders 2021 MAR/APR
Legal
MAY/JUN
SEP/OCT
Real Estate, Housing, & Leasing
Non-Profits / Architecture & Design
JUL/AUG
NOV/DEC
Higher Ed Update / Insurance
Women in Business / Cyber & IT
Contact Christina Bennett for more information at christina@exploremedia.org and 334.221.4619
97 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Numbers reflect October 2020 over October 2019. CHAMBER NEWS
Business Buzz
CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Economic Intel • HOUSING NUMBERS •
ECONOMIC NEWS
BIG NEWS
+
HYUNDAI ADDS FIFTH VEHICLE TO MONTGOMERY PRODUCTION PLANT
+21%
HOUSING
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
+41% MONTGOMERY’S MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE TO RECEIVE NEW FLYING TRAINING MISSION: THE MH-139A GREY WOLF FORMAL TRAINING UNIT
#FLY MGM +17.4% +11.6%
1053
578
TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE
TOTAL HOME SALES
87 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET
$217,157 AVERAGE SALE PRICE
• TOURISM UPDATES •
TOTAL HOME SALES
Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area
EMPLOYMENT & LABOR LODGING TAX
CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE
171,119
$1,030,529
EMPLOYED LABOR FORCE
OCTOBER 2020
7% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
158,703
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area EMPLOYEES
60%
+60%
YTD OCCUPANCY RATE
JUN
JULY
AUG
SEPT
OCT
6,409
10,223
11,078
12,366
14,523
TOP SECTORS
+8.4%
GOVERNMENT
42,400
TRADE, TRANSPORTATION, WAREHOUSING & UTILITIES
29,500
PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES
20,200
EDUCATION & HEALTH SERVICES
19,000
NUMBER OF PASSENGERS Source: Alabama Tourism Department
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
98 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101
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