MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL J U LY/ A U G U S T 2 0 2 0
MBJ
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PLUS
+
HIGHER ED UPDATE
MGM'S ENERGY INDUSTRY
RECOVER TOGETHER MGM LEADERS WORK HAND-IN-HAND ON COVID-19 RECOVERY
Telehealth brings the doctor to you.
With our Telehealth service, The Jackson Clinic makes it simple and convenient to see a physician from the comfort of your home – or wherever you go. It’s available to the whole community, from Greenville to Prattville. And new and current patients are welcome. Just visit us online and schedule your appointment to talk with a See a primary care physician or specialist on your tablet, laptop or smartphone.
doctor on your video device. Primary care physicians as well as a full range of specialists are available. Whether you prefer to visit us virtually or in person, we’re here to help you and your family stay healthy. To learn more about Telehealth, visit JacksonClinic.org.
49
CONTENTS JULY/AUG 2020
THIS ISSUE: Staybridge Suites Montgomery - Downtown offers the amenities of an extended stay in the heart of Downtown. All suites offer fully equipped kitchenettes and living spaces that will certainly make you feel at home whether you’re traveling for work or leisure. Conveniently situated at the I-65 and I-85 interchange to allow for easy navigation around the city. Within steps of historic and entertainment district, this location is ready to help all travelers experience the Capital City.
ON SITE AMENITIES:
10 44 49 64
Power Play: Energy Industry Overview Recover Together MGM Tourism Update: Staycation 2020 2020 Higher Education Update
26 Investor Profile: Bruce Crawford 28 Member Profiles: Beth J. Petty, Andrew Thrash and MeKeisha Thomas 35 Military Profile: Col. Craig Drescher 38 GiveBack: Doing Good Together 42 #myMGM: MGM Impact Makers 80 Small Business Briefcase: The New Normal in Working Remotely
• Complimentary High Speed Wi-Fi • Business Center with on-Site Boardroom • Evening Socials on Mondays-Wednesdays • State-of-the-Art Fitness Center • Complimentary Breakfast Buffet • Guest Laundry Facilities Staybridge Suites Montgomery-Downtown is ready to be your home away from home!
CHAMBER NEWS:
82 Connect: Chamber News 84 Connect: Chamber FAQ 86 Members on the Move 88 Members in the News 90 Business Buzz 93 Ribbon Cuttings 93 New Members 94 Intel
(334) 532-0700
275 Lee St, Montgomery, AL 36104
S
MBJ
THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT 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, Arthur DuCote, Ryan Skipper and Adam Stephenson PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Nick Drollette, Robert Fouts, Donna Wallace King, Grace O'Connor, David Robertson Jr. ON THE COVER Montgomery Chamber Small Business owners. Photography by Grace O'Connor. ADVERTISING & COMMUNICATIONS Christina Bennett exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 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 2020 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 12, Issue 5. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.
CHAMBER NEWS
Events +
MA RK YO UR CALENDAR S FOR THE SE UP COMING C HAMB E R E V E NTS
DON'T MISS THIS
WE'RE HERE FOR YOU! 2020 CALENDAR OF EVENTS & CHAMBER PROGRAMMING Throughout COVID-19, traditional Chamber
PROGRAMMING & EVENTS
programming and events have been put on hold, but as we transition to recovery and reopening, we are re-evaluating our plan. We look forward to connecting with you like never before and are excited to announce that we will continue live, in-
SEPT
22
Diversity Summit, 8 am-3:30 pm; MPAC
person events during the third and fourth
The 2020 Diversity Summit is the
quarter of 2020. We invite you to continue
premier conference in the region
to connect and engage with us, so mark
for Human Resource professionals,
your calendars now.
building leadership capacity and culture champions alike. Our speakers,
AUG
04
Military Appreciation Day – August 4, 5, 6; 9 am-4 pm at the Montgomery Zoo
The Chamber's Military Appreciation Day at the Zoo is a fun day for all military personnel and their families. With a valid
panelists and tactical workshops will empower participants to gain a deeper understanding of how diversity, talent and innovation shape and impact the future of our community. Presenting Sponsor: Martha’s Place
entire family can enjoy a great day at the Because of COVID-19, the event
Join us for these upcoming 2020 events.
will span three days, and only 700 tickets will be available each day, so
State of the City & County –
registration is required. Register now at
October 21, 7:30 am-9 am
montgomerychamber.com/events.
at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel
Presenting Sponsor: Guardian Credit Union
20
OCT
08
Chamber Golf Classic , 7 am-7 pm at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
Conversations & Connections: Empowering Women – October 28, 11:30 am-12:45 pm
Region’s premier business golf tournament.
This engaging and impactful speaker
Come network on a beautiful golf course
series specifically targets women in
with Chamber members, elected officials,
business who wish to build a strong
community leaders and potential clients.
network, inspire one another to achieve
The flights usually sell out, so register now!
individual potential, support each other
Presenting Sponsor: Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
in business endeavors and create August speaker will be the first Chief
Presenting Sponsor: Baptist Health
The Chamber Golf Classic is the River
Wynlakes Golf and Country Club
a legacy through mentorship. The
Grant Writing 2.0 – August 25, 1-4:30 pm Are you a nonprofit looking for specific grant money for a program? If so, this is the class for you. This proposal workshop is for those who wish to strengthen their grant writing skills and learn how to master the techniques of preparing and writing winning proposals to various funding agencies.
Save the Date:
Montgomery Zoo with FREE admission.
AUG
Sponsored By: exploreMedia
Presented by: River Region United Way
military ID (active duty and retired), the
Conversations & Connections: Empowering Women, 11:30 am-12:45 pm at
Chamber Orientation – August 12, 8-9 am This informal orientation allows members to connect and engage with the Chamber and give a brief overview of their business or service. It is the perfect opportunity to get plugged into the community and involved in some of the Chamber’s initiatives that impact the local business community.
at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club Presenting Sponsor: Jim Massey Cleaners and Laundry
148th Annual Meeting – December 8, 11:30 am -1 pm at the Montgomery Convention Center
PLEASE NOTE: Please know that safety continues to be top of mind and very important
Master Sergeant (CMSgt) Bernadette M.
to us all. We will continue to adhere to all state orders and follow strict guidelines to keep you
Hollinger, Command Chief of the 187th
and the attendees safe at every event.
Fighter Wing, Dannelly Field, Alabama.
additional programming and events will be added back to the schedule, so please check our
Presenting Sponsor: Jim Massey Cleaners and
calendar of events page montgomerychamber.com/events for a complete list of events.
ALSO: As we continue to navigate the “new” normal,
Laundry
8 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Industry Overview: ENERGY
P WER
PL Y
The River Region’s energy industry goes beyond generating the power that runs our lives and businesses, serving as a conductor of increased connection and charging up our economic development efforts.
Her counterparts at other energy utilities have the same thoughts at the top of their minds. Horace Horn, Vice President of External Affairs at PowerSouth, echoed Sanders. “We’ve been heavily involved in a lot of new infrastructure in Montgomery, keeping up with the growth,” he said. “We pretty consistently have projects going
Walking into a room, flipping a wall switch
on across the River Region to ensure we
and instantly being greeted by a flood of
keep up-to-date on power delivery,” he
light is a daily occurrence for most of us.
said.
We never expect that the result of our minuscule, muscle-memory movement will
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DRIVERS
ever be any different. We take our ready
Yet “keeping the lights on” is not their
and lightning-fast supply of electricity for
sole focus. These companies contribute
granted. It’s the same when our gas stove
more than the products they generate and
gives us a blue flame in response to a
distribute; they’re all key players in our
simple knob twist. Or when reliable warm
area’s quest to bring new business here
water flows free from the faucet. In today’s
and also aid in supporting the expansions
world, the energy that powers countless
of companies already here, creating
facets of our lives stays in the background;
jobs and building our tax base, as Gary
we only think about it when it’s gone.
Harrison, CEO/General Manager of Dixie
instinctive reaction to dark followed by a
Electric Cooperative explained. Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama Power’s Southern Division,
“One of the most obvious benefits we
thinks about it every day. “We take very
[the energy industry] offer is job creation.
seriously our mission to serve every
We not only create jobs through our
customer safely, reliably and at the best
own employment opportunities, but also
price possible,” she said. “That’s why
through economic development efforts,”
system improvements that can minimize
he said. “By consistently maintaining
any outage — were it to occur — are our
system reliability levels above 99 percent
ongoing initiatives.”
and keeping rates economical, we
11 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview: ENERGY
help make it appealing for commercial businesses and industrial manufacturers to locate in our area, which creates even more jobs.” Fred Clark, President and CEO of Alabama Municipal Electric Authority, agreed. “Electric utilities are foundational for our community and all communities as they relate to economic development,” he said. “We provide a low-cost reliable resource that invites industry to locate here and allows it to sustain itself; we are
UPDATE: YOUR CHAMBER #ATWORK
“The Chamber provides an invaluable service to Montgomery. For our company, it provides information, expertise, networking opportunities and so much more. Montgomery’s Chamber of Commerce is truly a hub for the business community, and we are proud to be a part of it.”
a critical infrastructure element.”
– Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama Power’s
Horn pointed to recent economic
Southern Division
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
“The state of the natural gas industry is strong, and the estimated future supply of domestically produced natural gas is enough to support America’s diverse energy needs for more than a century. From
development efforts — and wins — that PowerSouth played a part in. “We’ve been
system and working on entertainment and
our research, we know that
very involved in the water project coming
quality of life projects for this area.”
two very important things to consumers are the importance
to Montgomery and, along with many others, we were majorly involved with the
And while gas and electric companies
of choice and the ability to save
work to bring the F-35 jet to Montgomery,”
have been and remain competitors,
energy and money. In Alabama,
he said.
according to Henderson, pure motives
we’re continuing to look at
prevail when it comes to enhancing
ways to provide safe, reliable
Southeast Gas has also been instrumental
prosperity in our community. “Now more
and efficient energy to new
in boosting the area economy, as CEO
than any time in the past 20 years, the
communities and industries.”
Greg Henderson explained. “The utility
energy industry is working together
providers often work collaboratively to
on behalf of communities,” he said.
create a strong appeal for industries
“Collaboration is key, and from economic
hoping to locate in the region,” he said. “In
development and industrial recruitment
particular, Southeast Gas and other energy
to energy efficiency programs and
providers recognize the benefit of a
community support, we are trending
strong community and consider that when
toward ways to strengthen and grow the
offering incentive packages for potential
River Region and Alabama together.”
–Brian Davis, PE, Regional Manager, Spire
new industry, as well as existing industry.”
CHANGES & CHALLENGES Alabama Power’s massive mega-watt
Our utilities’ ability to deliver the energy
role in the River Region’s economic
we need and want has improved
development is common knowledge,
greatly through the decades, and today,
and Sanders outlined why that will never
technology is bringing benefits like smart
change. “We work hard to partner to
and automated metering. “This allows
bring business to the area because
consumers to instantaneously see what
we know that every business, large
their energy use is, and if needed, make
or small, that decides to locate here
adjustments for energy conservation,” said
becomes an opportunity for someone,”
Clark. “This has been deployed and will be
she said. “Perhaps it brings a new job,
deployed further, giving consumers more
a better-paying job, a new skill, a new
and more knowledge.” Usage monitoring
technology, and the benefits just continue
also helps consumers notice variances
to expand. Related to this, our mission also
that could be indicative of an issue with
includes focusing on the K-12 education
their systems and appliances. Automated
12 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
“The natural gas industry is strong and stable, with plentiful supply, historically low wholesale prices and demand for the fuel continuing to grow. Technology is advancing, and the natural gas industry is positioned to be part of balanced energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions while still protecting consumer choice for heating and cooking.”
– Greg Henderson, CEO of Southeast Gas
Preserving Alabama’s natural resources starts in our backyard. Did you know longleaf pines are home to roughly 120 endangered or threatened plant and animal species? That’s why Alabama Power is working hard to help them grow. We’ve teamed up with partners across our state to preserve the natural resources that make Alabama a great place to put down roots – especially if you’re a longleaf pine. AlabamaPower.com/Environment
© 2020 Alabama Power Company
13 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
ENERGY
SPEED OF LIGHT: “Technology has changed our industry tremendously. We used to get reports from control rooms at power plants and substations every 15 minutes. Today, we get that same information every two to three seconds.”
sooner rather than later. “The cost of electric cars is decreasing, and the battery charges are lasting longer,” he said. While most evolution in the industry has
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
been positive, Harrison pointed to a challenge: changing regulations. “When our power supplier is faced with new regulations pertaining to generation sources, we also have to consider the economic impact of these changes
- Horace Horn, Vice President of
on our cost of providing service,” he
External Affairs at PowerSouth
said. “This means finding a balanced approach that will allow us to avoid or minimize rate increases to our
meter reading has streamlined
UPDATE:
members.”
“The industry is well-positioned to meet the future demands of a rapidly changing economy in
operational processes, too, allowing utilities like Dixie Electric to offer
FOOT ON THE GAS
options like prepaid electric service.
One major shift in the electric energy industry is the root source of the power
Southeast Gas makes use of new
it provides. Once primarily coal-fired,
metering tech as well and also heavily
today’s power plants have moved to a
relies on technology, including
different fuel mix. “Twenty years ago,
ultrasound, to track and trace gas
we used 75 percent coal, and that
pipelines to prevent damage, plus
has changed dramatically,” said Horn.
methane-detection systems to identify
“Most new generation is now natural
leaks before an accident occurs.
gas.” Clark noted that AMEA’s power
Montgomery. While addressing short-term needs, our company's leadership is also thinking beyond just the next few years to ensure we are investing in the people and technology to meet those future demands.”
– Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama Power’s Southern Division
generation is now about 35 percent Other advances have put electricity on
coal, and by 2026, it won’t have any
wheels, as the number of electric cars
coal generation in its fleet of resources.
on the road continues to accelerate. This move is a direction all electric
The switch has largely been driven by
utilities are watching. “It’s causing an
natural gas’ greater cost effectiveness,
increase in the installation of charging
a plus that has pushed the industry to
stations,” Harrison said. “It will be
be, according to Horn, currently “very
interesting to see how this trend moves
dependent” on natural gas. While being
forward in the future.”
so tied to one fuel could be an issue, he believes the industry is coping well.
Clark noted that expansion in this area is a “when,” not an “if” proposition.
The continual decline over the last
“Electric vehicles are coming, and
20-plus years in the cost of natural
they will be part of our future,” he
gas is an obvious plus for natural gas
said. “They’ll reduce emissions and
companies like Southeast Gas, and is
be economical resources for our
primarily due to ease of access. “In the
communities. The real question
late 1990s and early 2000s, access
is timing.” Clark believes recent
to natural gas was limited primarily to
developments will bring more growth
traditional drilling resources, which continued on page 18
14 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
“I would say that overall, our industry is strong. Obviously, electricity is a commodity that people depend on every second of the day, so there will always be a need for economical, reliable energy.”
– Gary Harrison, CEO/General Manager of Dixie Electric Cooperative
Industry Overview: ENERGY
HERE & NOW:
NOTABLE PROJECTS Alabama Power has proven a powerful partner with the City of Montgomery, working with city leaders to create a brighter future through the Smart City and Innovation District initiatives. “Working closely with the City of Montgomery, we are continuing to replace all city lights with brighter,
Chamber of Commerce to bring a
Sanders elaborated on the long-term
more efficient LED lighting,” said Leslie
number of Smart City offerings to the
impacts of these efforts. “The goals
Sanders, Vice President of Alabama
downtown area,” she said. “We’re also
are to enhance digital City and County
Power’s Southern Division. “That project
expanding to meet the needs of our
services to improve overall quality of
should be completed early next year.”
military partners and contractors. The
life, leverage data to spur economic
new high-tech economy booming in
development, enhance telemedicine
Other aspects have included the
Montgomery is a direct result of the
capabilities and expand extracurricular
increased installation of fiber, as
faster, more secure, opportunities
STEM offerings for Montgomery
Sanders explained. “Excess fiber is
afforded by fiber and the phenomenal
students,” she said.
now being used in partnership with the
team that the City, County and Chamber
City of Montgomery and Montgomery
put together.”
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
15 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
I N DU STRY Leader | Energy
Southeast Gas When was your company founded? 1952 How many employees do you have in the River Region? 15 What are your primary products and services? Southeast Gas is the natural gas provider for 35 communities in 19 counties in Southeast Alabama. The company was formed as an economic development arm for the region, allowing a unique approach to recruiting industry to the area. The company works closely with its owner cities and its additional 21 franchise service cities and towns to market the region to prospective manufacturers and businesses. The company is also a natural gas appliance retailer and provides technical and installation services for Southeast Gas customers.
resources to local education through its Give Back to Schools initiative. In addition to contributions over the past several years in excess of $1 million, company employees are also active volunteers within the local schools and provide multiple community service scholarships to area high school students each year.
Milestones & Honors: Southeast Gas is the current recipient of the American Public Gas Association’s (APGA’s) System Operational Achievement Recognition award, which recognizes natural gas systems that have achieved excellence in the operation of their natural gas utility. The company and individuals from its leadership team are also the recipients of several national awards from APGA in previous years for excellence in leadership, marketing and safety.
What sets your company apart from the competition? As a locally owned utility, Southeast Gas offers personalized service that gives consumers a heightened confidence. Southeast Gas also invests hundreds of volunteer hours for local organizations in the region and contributes financially to local groups. Southeast Gas commits significant
10701 Vaughn Road / Pike Road, AL 36064 (334) 530-8811 / southeastgas.com
16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
17 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview: ENERGY
made pricing of the commodity strongly dependent on weather and other external conditions. As an example, hurricanes during that time greatly impacted access to natural gas and drove the price to unprecedented highs,” Henderson said. “Since that time, technology has advanced, and access to natural gas from multiple sources is plentiful.” Another industry challenge is also related to costs, notably their rise. “Everything we build can be expensive: new lines, new substations and more. We have to keep up with these things, and technology can help us, but new technology is expensive too, so it is now a large part of our budget,” Horn said. The expenditures that are necessary to continue business require a lot of capital. “So, we have to stay financially
YOUR CHAMBER #ATWORK
“We operate over about two-thirds of Alabama, but in the River Region, we look at the Chamber as our go-to; it is the engine that drives business here. We have long supported it and been behind it, providing leadership and resources and being a proud partner with the Chamber as its team does a wonderful job leading the business community and its efforts in our area. The River Region is a better place because of the Chamber and its work.” – Horace Horn, Vice President of External Affairs at PowerSouth
RIVER REGION RISING UP COVID-19 RESPONSE “COVID-19 has truly changed all of our lives. Within just a three-week period, many businesses were asked to close, school kids all became involved in distance learning, social gatherings became online chats and virtual meetings, and the list goes on. As a member of this community, I am so proud of the way we all have responded. We’ve got remarkable healthcare heroes working on the front-lines, first responders, including
stable and strong,” he said. The good
utility workers and those in the
news? PowerSouth is, and Horn says prosperity is on the horizon for the
At the same time, during the “safer at
Department of Human Resources,
sector overall. “There will always be
home” and “stay at home” periods in
working through trying times to keep
changes and challenges, but I still see
March, April and early May, residential
us all safe. We’ve seen businesses
a bright and comfortable future for the
energy use rose, according to Clark.
altering their operations, but still
entire industry,” he said.
Ditto for Southeast Gas. “Our residential
finding creative ways to serve
accounts in collections have risen,”
the customer and keep people
COVID-19 IMPACTS
Henderson said. Aware of the financial
employed. We’ve got government
COVID-19, a challenge that very
crunch this may put some residential
leaders working to know and
few saw coming, has changed the
customers in, thanks to virus-related
address needs, and the not-for-profit
complexion and outlook of businesses
job losses, Southeast Gas waived late
community helping to meet whatever
across the state, which in turn affects
fees and suspended disconnections for
need might arise. Hopefully when
— and is affected by — the energy and
non-pay customers for a limited amount
this is published, we’ll be back to
utility industry. “With the closures of
of time.
‘normal.’ What I hope we never lose, however, is that problem-solving
businesses, there has been an impact on our revenue because we’ve not been
While Clark was quick to say that
spirit that has embraced our entire
selling energy to those places,” Clark
this uptick did not make up for the
said. “What this shortfall really does,
commercial and industrial load
how big it is, is still somewhat unknown
reduction, he remains optimistic about
at this point.”
recovery in the wake of the pandemic.
community over the past month.” – Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama Power’s Southern Division, commenting in April 2020
“I believe that things are improving Henderson is seeing similar losses
and will continue to improve,” he said.
and for the same reasons; right now,
“I hope our hot weather drives up
Southeast Gas is anticipating a direct
revenues and kills the virus.”
impact to its revenues for the year. “We expect this amount to grow,” he said.
continued on page 22
18 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Industry Overview: ENERGY
SMALL CHANGE CAN SAVE
BIG $$
Switching to more energy efficient LED lighting in your office and other facilities can equal major savings on your utility bills. We asked Robert Jones, Owner of LED Solutions, how and why and asked former Chamber Chairman and State Farm Agent Willie Durham how working with Jones’ company has reduced his business’ energy costs.
WHAT DOES LED SOLUTIONS OFFER? Jones: We are a “turn key” energy company offering investmentgrade energy audits, savings assessments and lighting service contracts that allow your energy savings to pay for your lighting upgrade.
HOW DOES USING YOUR SERVICES BENEFIT A BUSINESS? Jones: There is zero capital investment, zero maintenance and zero risk. We guarantee the savings in an off-balance-sheet transaction.
HOW MUCH CAN A BUSINESS TYPICALLY SAVE ON ENERGY COSTS WHEN THEY SWITCH TO LED AND WHY SHOULD THEY USE YOUR COMPANY TO DO IT? Jones: A good rule to calculate for most facilities: HVAC is 60 percent of your total power bill. We reduce the remaining 40 percent by 70 percent. For example, if
A BRIGHT IDEA
your monthly power bill is $5000, $3000 is for HVAC, and we would reduce the remaining $2000 to $600, saving your company $1,400 per month.
WHEN DID YOU MAKE USE OF LED SOLUTIONS SERVICES? Durham: October 2019. The company provided a proposal to retro fit all fixtures throughout my office.
WHAT BENEFITS AND SAVINGS HAVE YOU SEEN SO FAR? Durham: The proposal was to reduce my energy cost by approximately 68 percent annually. Also, it would reduce the amount of heat being transmitted by current lights as well as provide brighter/cleaner lighting for my office. It did all of that, and my initial cost will be recouped within an 18-month period.
19 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
YOUR CHAMBER #ATWORK
“Our Chamber membership allows Southeast Gas to support local businesses through sponsorships and events. It allows us to be a part of bigger conversations, as well as smaller, intimate discussions on the things that matter to the River Region and beyond. Our membership allows us to be a part of something bigger than us. It allows us to contribute to the growth and success of Montgomery and the region.” – Greg Henderson, CEO of Southeast Gas
20 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
I ND U ST RY Leader | Energy
Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) When was your company founded? 1981
in its member cities. AMEA has been supportive of member cities with the following programs: providing more than $2.5 million in
How many employees do you have in the River Region? 10 What are your primary products and services? AMEA is a public power authority, which provides
scholarships to graduating high school seniors in AMEA member cities since 1992 and providing distribution services that include a smart grid initiative of $25 million and a $1 million investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, just to name a few.
wholesale power to cities in central and south Alabama. AMEA has
Milestones & Honors: AMEA has partnered with
annual revenues in excess of $200 million. AMEA provides energy
Lightsource BP on a utility-scale solar project in Montgomery
to approximately 135,000 customers who are served by Alexander
County. This $125 million plant will be in service in 2023. AMEA has
City, Dothan, Fairhope, LaFayette, Lanett, Luverne, Opelika,
also been working with renewable energy through member solar
Piedmont, Riviera Utilities, Sylacauga Utilities Board and the Utilities
projects, investing some $1 million in 11 projects.
Board of Tuskegee.
What sets your company apart from the competition? AMEA is a low-cost, reliable power supplier, which prides itself in forward-thinking, innovative initiatives. These initiatives include owning power generation in the AMEA-Sylacauga Plant, a 95 MW peaking plant with an initial cost of $50 million. The plant was placed in service in 2004. Searching for economic energy alternatives, AMEA has invested in solar research parks
80 Technacenter Drive, Suite 200 / Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 262-1126 / amea.com
21 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview: ENERGY Sanders is looking on the sunny side
UPDATE:
too. “I am confident we’ll all bounce back to the economic growth we
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
enjoyed prior to the pandemic,” she said. “A reality, however, is that many businesses and employees need help. Our collective challenge will be to ensure businesses not only survive but are in a position to thrive when the economy fully reopens.”
POWERING OUR AIR POWER LEADER
Harrison shared similar sentiments.
Since the late 1990s, in a
“With so many individuals out of
partnership with Central
work, and some businesses shutting
Alabama Electric Cooperative
down, we will be faced with many
called Cooperative Utility
challenges to help our members as
Services, LLS, Dixie Electric
they work to recover financially from
Cooperative has been operating
this pandemic,” he said.
and maintaining the electric systems on Maxwell-Gunter Air
Additionally, Sanders called for
Force Base. “When the Air Force
her industry and the community
announced their plan to privatize
at large to pay close attention to
the utilities on their installations,
critical needs the virus highlighted
we successfully bid on the
so we are better prepared for future
opportunity, and were ultimately
problems. “We must be focused
awarded a 50-year utility
on things that will look different
services contract,” said Gary
after the pandemic,” she said.
Harrison, CEO/General Manager
“Connectivity has become a priority
of Dixie Electric Cooperative.
for every sector of our community,
“Since the military plays such
especially on the educational front.”
a vital role in our community,
“Clearly our industry is very strong, we have resources to meet the demand. The South, I think, is still poised to be the real growth area of the country, so we have great opportunities for additional growth here and that will fuel our [energy industry] growth and prosperity.”
– Fred Clark, President and CEO of Alabama Municipal Electric Authority
we felt it was important for Horn agreed. “There’s still some
us to support this initiative by
uncertainty lingering from COVID-19,
the Air Force that allowed the
but our emphasis on keeping our
installation commanders to focus
workers safe then continues now,”
on their core defense missions
he said. “At the end of the day, they
and functions, rather than being
keep the power flowing.”
concerned about repairs and upgrades to utility systems.”
Sanders also touted the workers
“PowerSouth is a very strong company; our business is stable. And we feel very good about the
who perform Alabama Power’s
future. I think the same probably
necessary functions as she stressed that commitment to community
always been a partner in the area
is an energy source that can’t be
of economic growth. We’ve always
tapped out. “Our employees take
worked to prevent outages and to
great pride in providing reliable
minimize the duration if one were
electric service, and our company
to occur. In my time, the technology
has always been responsive to
has changed, but our goals and
community needs,” she said. “We’ve
objectives remain the same.”
22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
applies to others too.”
– Horace Horn, Vice President of External Affairs at PowerSouth
M EM BER Spotlight
HCS GROUP HCS Group team leadership has been providing electrical engineering and other energy-related services to the River Region and beyond U.S. borders for more than 30 years.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 8 WHAT ARE HCS GROUP’S PRIMARY SERVICES? Electrical engineering, energy-related services such as micro-grid and renewable energy system design, power generation, transmission and distribution, technical energy audits and power system analysis/studies. WHAT IS HCS GROUP’S PHILOSOPHY? We are a “Small Business on a Large Mission.” Our business model has not changed from its original conception: to strive to provide added value to worldwide projects as a small business. We believe that “Leadership is our team’s greatest asset; integrity is our team’s greatest responsibility; and service is our team’s greatest privilege.” WHAT SETS HCS GROUP AND ITS SERVICES APART? HCS Group was founded in 2008 during a major economic turndown but had established a business model that provided a successful strategy for sustainability. The plan reached areas worldwide working with the State Department, DoD and other agencies and grew into supporting the Power Africa program in several remote regions of Africa, including major hospitals and clinics in Zambia, as well as in Latin America. HCS is also working in Spain and Iceland in support of the U.S. Navy and Air Force. Considered an essential business due to the missions we support, we have maintained operations during the 2020 pandemic. It’s not been easy, but we are proud of our team’s efforts and success in meeting mission goals. WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR HCS GROUP? We believe a sustained growth in the energy sector will take our company into future markets. With young engineers stepping into leadership positions, we will maintain our global vision and business model thanks to our experience in engineering clean, renewable and resilient power systems, which are needed worldwide. RECENT RECOGNITION: HCS Group was honored to be named the 2019 Outstanding Sustaining Member of the Year in the Small Business Category by the Society for American Military Engineers (SAME) Mobile Post. This award is based on our small business efforts throughout the Southeast, Central and South America and the Caribbean.
8401 CROSSLAND LOOP / MONTGOMERY, AL / (334) 277-6737 / HCSGROUPET.COM
23 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview: ENERGY
FOR THE FUTURE: SUSTAINABLE ENERGY As increased emphasis is put on
AMEA has invested $125 million in the
sustainability, Montgomery-based HCS
project, and Fred Clark, President and CEO
Group has specialized in clean, renewable
of Alabama Municipal Electric Authority,
energy and is partnering with other entities
explained why. “A few years ago, we
to bring more solar power to Alabama.
created solar research parks, small sites
The company is currently working with the
where we could study the effectiveness
Alabama Power Company, Office of Energy
and efficiency of solar power, with the
Initiatives (OEI), Mobile District Corp of
very first one being built adjacent to our
Engineers and the Anniston Army Depot on
headquarters in Montgomery,” he said. “We
a new microgrid installation at the Depot
spent $1 million and now have 10 with two
that includes a 7.5 megawatt natural gas
more to come. They’ve taught us a lot, and
power plant and connecting a 3.7 megawatt
what we’ve learned has moved us more
solar energy farm.
into solar and to the Lightsource project.”
The company has already completed
According to Clark, the decrease in the
similar projects, assisting Coronal Energy
cost to construct and operate large-
in performing the initial programming,
scale solar facilities coupled with federal
planning and concept designs for five
subsidies are making solar competitive with
Southern Company Solar Centers, including
coal and natural gas as a fuel source. And
one in Alabama.
it’s the renewable fuel that makes the most sense for our region. “In some areas of the
HCS Group also puts its expertise to work
country, wind generation is big, but not
beyond U.S. borders, including projects with
here,” he said. “In the South, solar is where
USAID and TANESCO (the power utility of
the big growth will be.” AMEA’s solar facility
Tanzania) to modernize and provide more
will be in service and conducting energy in
efficient and resilient microgrid installations
2023.
by adding a solar component and energy storage into 18 existing microgrids. “We’ve
Horace Horn, Vice President of External
developed a niche in the energy sector
Affairs at PowerSouth, noted the industry’s
market worldwide creating cleaner and
overall move toward more sustainability.
resilient energy for mission critical assets,
“Industry-wide, there is a lot of pressure for
economic stability and assisting third-world
all of us to take a harder look at renewable
countries in establishing and sustaining a
energy sources like solar, wind and bio
better quality of life,” said President and
mass,” he said. “We have invested in some
CEO Kent Hornsby.
solar recently, and that’s a new endeavor
Back here at home, Alabama Municipal Electric Authority is working in partnership with Lightsource BP on an 800-acre utilityscale solar project in south Montgomery County that will supply 100 megawatts, making it the largest solar power project in central and south Alabama once complete.
24 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
YOUR CHAMBER #ATWORK
“The Chamber is an outstanding partner. The bridge between the business community and local, state and federal governments that the Chamber builds and provides is invaluable. And the economic development role it plays is crucial; it was crucial for us with the Lightsource project. I personally have served on the governmental affairs committee, and the state, local and federal advocacy that the Chamber does for the community is second to none.” – Fred Clark, President and CEO of Alabama Municipal Electric Authority
Industry Overview: ENERGY for us.” He stressed that PowerSouth
of the energy industry is facing “forced
is carefully weighing and examining all
electrification.” “Many cities and towns
aspects of its decisions on the issue.
across the country are passing ordinances
“We are taking a hard look at all of it,” he
that require newly built businesses and
said. “When it fits in our business plan
homes to use only electric appliances,”
and makes sense, then we are moving
Greg Henderson, CEO of Southeast Gas,
into those things. We aren’t doing it just
said. He stressed that the use of natural
because it’s the popular thing to do.”
gas and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions are not mutually exclusive.
Dixie Electric is also continually evaluating
“There are ways these reductions may be
renewable resources. “While we already
achieved through natural gas solutions,
have some renewable resources in our
as well, and without increasing energy
generation mix,” said Gary Harrison,
costs for most households.” He highlighted
CEO/General Manager of Dixie Electric
options including expanded energy
Cooperative, “we continue to monitor
efficiency programs, the advancement
improvements in cost and technology
of highly efficient natural gas appliances
to determine additional ways we can
and renewable sources of supply. “These
incorporate more renewables into our
can all play an important part in the clean
portfolio.”
energy mix,” he said. Balanced energy strategies that include natural gas, as
The push to “get greener” is fueling
well as electricity, wind and solar, as well
some specific challenges for natural
as other sources, allow the entire energy
gas companies, though. This segment
industry to put our communities first.”
25 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
YOUR CHAMBER #ATWORK
“I think everyone would agree that in order for any business to thrive, they must be connected to the community. The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce offers a conduit for businesses to interact with each other through various activities and events. Even during times when public interaction isn’t available, like those experienced due to COVID-19, the Chamber provides a way for us to remain connected and offers valuable information and resources to help ensure the future success of its members.” - Gary Harrison, CEO/General Manager of Dixie Electric Cooperative
VESTOR IN
PR
OFIL
PO WERHOUSE
Q&A
E
BRUCE CRAWFORD Bruce Crawford is a self-described “people person,” and in his position as Montgomery CEO at BBVA, he gets to put his interpersonal skills to good use while also reaping rewards from the countless relationships he forges and fosters in his job. How long have you worked for BBVA? 23 years
develop its award-winning mobile banking app and online tools to provide a fully digital service without sacrificing the human
How many employees does BBVA have in the River Region? BBVA has seven branches and 75
relationships at the heart of banking. Having a relationship with
employees in the Montgomery MSA.
to expect with your first mortgage application or talk through
a local banker means you have someone to talk to about what your savings goals and how to achieve them.
Are you from Montgomery? I grew up on a working Greensboro, in Prairie Eden to be exact. Growing up in that
What specific challenges is BBVA (and banking in general) facing related to COVID-19?
environment was like a wonderful dream. After college I was in
The personal and economic impact of the pandemic is the
search of a job and chose to settle in Montgomery.
biggest challenge facing the banking industry right now.
cattle farm in West Alabama between Demopolis and
Our first priority is to ensure the health and wellness of our
What got you interested in banking? In 1982, a friend
employees and our customers. We have temporarily shifted
put me in touch with Bryan Poole, who at the time headed the
the way we do business, relying heavily on phone and video
Credit Administration for First Alabama Bancshares, the holding
conversations in lieu of face-to-face meetings whenever
company for then-First Alabama Bank. I was hired, and the
possible. We are taking advantage of the digital foundation we
opportunity soon opened my eyes to the broad and intricate
have in place to provide access to account information and to
aspects of banking that I found interesting, enjoyable and
many transactions, as well. And finally, we are working hard to
rewarding. I am a people person and enjoy the daily interaction
ensure our customers have access to the tools and resources
with team members, clients, prospective clients, civic and
they need — whether from us, from the government or from
community volunteers and leaders.
other sources — to help navigate our “new normal”.
What are the duties and responsibilities of your position? I am responsible for all aspects of commercial and wealth banking for the Montgomery area market and central
Why do you and BBVA choose to be so involved with and supportive of The Chamber and its work? I view the Chamber’s overall mission as working
Mississippi.
to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Montgomery and the River Region and to improve economic development
What is your favorite aspect of your job? I enjoy
to provide jobs and opportunities for the citizens. As a past
the significant responsibility of my job, as well as the wonderful
Chamber Chairman, I had the opportunity to see firsthand
people with whom I have the opportunity to interact, both within
the many impactful missions the Chamber accomplishes on a
the bank and externally.
daily basis, be they economic development, support for small business, military affairs, workforce development or visitors and
How much has banking changed in the last decade, and how is BBVA adapting and keeping up? More than anything, people want choices and the
What are your interests outside of work? My family
flexibility to bank in the way that’s most convenient for them.
first and foremost, including four amazing grandchildren; wing
While many consumers are happy to handle transactions online
shooting with my good friends; Gulf fishing with the “Fish Boys”;
-- moving money, paying bills, etc. -- there are other times when
and just being outside in nature.
they prefer a human to help them. BBVA has worked hard to
26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS
tourism efforts, to name a few.
Together, We Can Bruce Crawford praised capital city stakeholders’ willingness and ability to collaborate and stressed that this strong community-focused spirit will serve the area well in the coming months. “Montgomery has an excellent business climate due primarily to the way our business leaders, elected officials and civic/ community leaders all work together to help create opportunities. This environment of cooperation will prove itself an enormous benefit as we all work through this financial crisis together,” he said.
“
“I am a people person and enjoy the daily interaction with team members, clients, prospective clients, civic and community volunteers and leaders.”
27 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M EMB E R profile
BETH J. PETTY Keeping her father’s dream alive fuels Director of the Hank Williams Museum Beth Petty’s work at the downtown spot dedicated to the country music legend.
What drew you to your position at The Hank Williams Museum? In 1976, I observed my father, Cecil Jackson, sorting through old records, books and yellowed newspapers. I asked him “What are you going to do with all this old junk?” “I hope it will go in a museum for Hank Williams one day,” he said. He was one of the most dedicated fans of Hank Williams and has been involved in every facet of the Hank Williams legacy. He directed the installation and dedication ceremony in 1991 of the life-size bronze statue of Hank in Montgomery. He also helped with the formation of a boyhood home museum and was instrumental having a portion of I-65 designated the “Hank Williams Memorial Lost Highway.” Finally, he established the Hank Williams Memorial Foundation, and on February 8, 1999, the Hank Williams Museum opened.
What all does your job involve? My main duty is to protect, preserve and honor the legacy of Hank Williams, which includes acquiring exhibit collections and designing exhibits; conducting tours and workshops for the public; cleaning and maintaining artifacts; conducting public relations, marketing and fundraising; designing and creating souvenirs; and more.
What is your favorite piece of Hank memorabilia? A little blueish-gray pocket songbook from WSFA. It was daddy’s No. 1 prized possession. And, the 1952 baby blue Cadillac convertible is the museum’s centerpiece.
What’s a rewarding aspect of your work? Making
Worldwide Appeal
Hank’s music brings to those who grew up with it and the younger generation of fans. I love getting to hear the stories of those who knew Hank (there are not many left).
What are your interests outside of work? My husband and I love traditional country music and like to support the local musicians. We also like to travel to other parts of the country to support the musicians who come here to support the Hank Williams Museum. thehankwilliamsmuseum.net 28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
The Hank Williams Museum welcomes an average of 20,000-25,000 visitors from around the globe each year.
lifelong friends from around the world and seeing the joy
29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
VO T E
MGM IMPACT MAKER A W A R D S
Vote for a business or individual making a difference in Montgomery and the River Region for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce MGM Impact Maker Awards
Areas of Impact
Talent, Economy, Image, Community, Military
Awarded to:
Individuals; Non-Profits; Small and Mid-Size Businesses; Large Businesses/Corporations
Vote July 20 - August 14 www.mgmimpactmakers.com Sponsored by:
M EM BER profile
ANDREW THRASH According to Andrew Thrash, antiques should never stay stuck in the past. The General Manager of Montgomery Antiques & Interiors (MAI) loves the “strong statement” items of yesterday’s decor can make and loves showing MAI customers how to pick a perfect piece for their homes.
What are the duties of your job? As General Manger, I oversee both MAI locations and handle all day-to-day aspects of employee management, vendor management, marketing and bookkeeping.
When did you first get interested in antiques? I honestly just grew into it. I started at MAI my senior year of college, working as a weekend porter moving furniture. After graduating and through grad school, I just grew to love antiques and the store. Before I knew it, I had just gradually risen to the top job.
Do you have a favorite style or time period when it comes to antiques? I am really fond of the carved oak pieces, both English and French styles. There is just so much warmth and character in them, and they mix very well with modern furniture and styles.
What, in your opinion, makes antiques special and worth preserving? They are such character-filled statement pieces that surprisingly mix with just about any modern style. Most pieces can be
Event in Bloom
reworked from their original purpose to something that fits your needs. I have a really cool carved cabinet that I have made into a bar, and it is probably the most talked
MAI just hosted the inaugural Camellia Antiques & Interiors
about piece when I have friends over.
show back in March. This was
What do you love most about your job?
antique vendors and interior
a huge expo-style event with designers from across the
The creativity to not only constantly change up the
state and the Southeast. It
store but to help my customers find those special
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
pieces that they need to complete their homes.
was to benefit the Landmarks
What are your interests outside of work?
and is something we hope to
Foundation of Montgomery grow and continue as either
I don’t have much free time available, but when I do,
an annual or biannual event.
I love to spend time with family and close friends. My main interests are working out at the gym, playing in a kickball league with friends, and then hanging with my child/rescued pit bull, Tyse. www.mgmantiques.com
31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M EMB E R profile
MEKEISHA THOMAS Founder and Principal Accountant of Inaugural Accounting Group, MeKeisha Thomas does more than handle bookkeeping and taxes for her small business clients; she teaches them how to better understand the role accounting concepts play in their growth and success.
Are you from Montgomery? No, I am originally from Selma. I came to Montgomery because I wanted to be close to my parents, while getting away some and not being in the same city.
What first got you interested in studying accounting and pursuing it as a career? When I started working for the Alabama Department of Revenue in 2003, in order to pursue a promotion, I had to further my education.
When and why did you start Inaugural Accounting Group? I started it in July 2016, and I did it because I wanted to help small business owners learn how to run their businesses proficiently and not be intimidated by an IRS audit.
What are Inaugural Accounting Group’s primary services? Bookkeeping and taxation.
Who are Inaugural Accounting Group’s primary clients? Small business owners What sets Inaugural Accounting apart from other accounting firms? First, we are affordable. And secondly, we train the small business owner to understand their businesses just like they were the accountant to help them succeed.
What one piece of advice about accounting would you give a small business owner? QuickBooks is not simple. The commercials make it seem so you see.
Putting Pro in Profession Everyone at Inaugural Accounting has received Advanced Certification for QuickBooks Online and Desktop, and MeKeisha is currently studying to become a United States Tax Court Practitioner.
What’s your favorite thing about your job? Helping small business owners understand their books and use that information to thrive. inauguralaccountinggroup.com 32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
easy, but there is more depth and complexity to it than what
33 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Baptist Health On Call Care connects people with the care they need, wherever they are. Using sophisticated and secure technology, care professionals and specialists can consult, diagnose and treat patients through a phone, tablet or computer. Whether you’re looking to schedule an appointment or limiting public interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth appointments let you see a Baptist Health or local UAB Medicine provider from the comfort of your own home. T E L E H E A LT H S E RV I C E S Breast Health Convenient Care Endocrinology Family Medicine Gastroenterology Neurology Neurosurgery Primary Care/General Medicine Rheumatology Urology Need to schedule an appointment? Contact your healthcare provider to find out if Baptist Health On Call Care is right for you!
Call (334) 747-4010 to get started!
34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Qualityare, c h t l a e H y l l a u t r Vi . e r e h Anyw
M I L I TARY profile
COL. CRAIG DRESCHER Finding the best ways to train and develop airmen and then watching that training pay off is the secret to job satisfaction for Col. Craig Drescher, Commander of the Air Force’s 908 Airlift Wing.
How long have you been in the Air Force? I joined the Air Force Reserve in July of 2004, so almost 16 years. I have been in the military for more than 30 years, as I was in the Navy from 1989 until July 2004.
How long have you been Commander of the 908th Airlift Wing? Since September 2019, but I’ve been a member of the 908th for 12 and a half of the last 16 years. Before assuming command, I was the wing vice commander for nearly a year.
What does your work in this role involve? As the commander, I am responsible for more than 1,200 Reserve Citizen Airmen tasked with providing tactical airlift, aeromedical evacuation and agile combat support worldwide using our nine C-130 H2 aircraft. My top priorities are to further develop the airmen of the 908th and to enhance the wing’s combat capability.
What role does the 908th Airlift Wing play in the Air Force and in our communities? All of our reserve units provide the country a strategic depth that our senior national leaders can use as leverage when they need it. Specifically, the 908th
The One & Only
provides the Air Force combat capability anytime and anywhere using highly trained, innovative citizen airmen
The 908th Airlift Wing is our state’s sole Air Force Reserve unit.
who are ready today and will be leading tomorrow. We put a high emphasis on always being ready so we can quickly respond with short notice to support anything from combat operations like we have been doing for the last 20-plus years overseas, to providing humanitarian relief worldwide. We are also available to support regional activities like hurricane evacuations for some of our sister units located in the southeastern United States or FEMA response after a storm. We are a vital PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
part of the National Defense Strategy. Our role in the community is stronger and more vital than most know because our individual reservists are often flying under the radar. Being a Reserve wing, and the only one in the state of Alabama, 75 percent of our
35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
“
“The local community provides tremendous support to and partnership with the military. It’s great to see the think tanks that are taking advantage of all the military resources that are in the River Region.” members live and work in Alabama and many are from right here in Montgomery and are working in the local community, serving as healthcare professionals, police officers and fire fighters, small business owners, chefs, lawyers and everything in between. Our members are out in the community every day helping make it the wonderful place that it is. I feel very lucky to be here serving in this capacity in my hometown, and I am so proud and honored to be able to serve alongside the awesome men and women in the 908th, they are truly patriotic citizens. This is more than a military unit; it’s family.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work? There are three things that make my job very rewarding. The first is watching the great, innovative, patriotic Airmen of the wing come together to solve a problem and execute a mission. For example, in early January, with very little notice, we decided to evacuate the aircraft because of pending storms. The entire wing executed this flawlessly. Secondly, I derive great personal satisfaction from watching the Airmen develop. We spend a lot of energy coming up with new and more effective ways to train and ready our Airmen; it’s really fun to watch the members grow and develop into better leaders. Lastly, I still love putting on the uniform every day and greatly enjoy the privilege of serving the country in the world’s greatest air force!
What’s your impression of Montgomery’s partnership with the local military, and why is a good relationship so essential? The local community provides tremendous support to and partnership with the military. It’s great to see the think tanks that are taking advantage of all the military resources that are in the River Region. It’s exciting to see the public-private partnerships taking advantage of all that is available, which is drawing a lot of investment and growth in the development of people, business and infrastructure.
What are your interests outside of work? With five children and one grandchild, there is not a lot of time for additional interests and hobbies. I love attending all the activities the children are involved in, I enjoy exercising, and I like to follow college sports.
37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
GiveBack
DOING GOOD TOGETHER MGM has come together in moving and motivating ways in the last four months. Here are a few highlights
IMAGE COURTESY OF MONTGOMERY MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS.
of the capital city’s community spirit shining brightly through the COVID-19 cloud.
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) showed support by organizing a “HeART for our Heroes Program,” with the help of an anonymous local Montgomery artist.
Throughout the unprecedented uncertainty and trying times
spreading germs to family members. The rooms all have
brought on by COVID-19 and the resulting restrictions and
private bathrooms and kitchens, Wi-Fi, cable and laundry.
shutdowns, Montgomery has proven itself a true community.
Baptist has taken responsibility for cleaning the rooms, and
Businesses and organizations of all sizes and types — as well
other businesses – including Lowe’s and Walmart -- have
as countless individual residents — have stepped up and joined hands, donating time, talents, resources, services and money to help their neighbors better navigate the
Heartfelt Thanks
crisis. Here, we’ve compiled a few of their stories, but these are by no means the only ones. Read on for some inspiration, and read even more on the Chamber’s Doing Good Together page on its website, which is dedicated to the capital city’s recovery from the pandemic.
“We are grateful for the work of all of our first responders and we understand the risks they take every day.” - Tom Methvin, Beasley Allen
donated other items and services.
Mobis Alabama Donates Masks Mobis Alabama donated 17,000 face masks to help protect frontline workers in central Alabama and west Georgia. About 10,000 masks went to the Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency; 2,000 masks were sent to East Alabama Medical Center; and another 5,000 masks went to the Troup County (GA) Emergency Management Agency.
HeART for our Heroes Program
AUM Helps Healthcare Workers With most of its on-campus resident students gone due to COVID-19, AUM had space to spare and so opened 48 of its dorm rooms for use by some of Baptist Health’s frontline health care workers concerned about going home and
With many healthcare professionals across the country working diligently to keep communities safe, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) showed support by organizing a “HeART for our Heroes Program,” with the help of an anonymous local Montgomery artist.
38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
The artist donated their personal protective equipment, which they wear while creating their own art, to healthcare facilities. In return, the artist asked that the museum collect words and images of encouragement from children across the region to accompany the donation, with the goal of bringing a small amount of hope, support and thanks to Montgomery’s local healthcare heroes.
Community Communication Proves Key
+
For more Doing Good Stories visit montgomerychamber.com
In early April, leaders from businesses, nonprofits, churches and other organizations all over the River Region came together to create Concerned Community Providers Group. The group offered 150 leaders the chance to effectively and efficiently discuss community needs related to COVID-19 by participating in three large conference calls. Officials on the calls included U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed, Montgomery County commissioners and leaders who work alongside Governor Kay Ivey. Thanks to the calls, area nonprofits had their voices heard by those in positions to enact policy and access resources, and several saw real
MGM Coffee Shop Supports Community in a New Way As the restaurant industry across the country has been forced to make unprecedented changes amid the
results like donations that addressed their specific needs. The calls are also being credited with solving the issue of internet access for children in public housing so they could participate in online school.
MAX Credit Union Meets Needs Through its non-profit foundation, MAX4Kids, MAX Credit Union made a donation of more than $100,000 to local organizations for COVID-19 relief efforts and to help those facing food insecurity. In all, 16 area organizations are receiving donations. The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting response created an unprecedented need in Central and East Alabama, particularly for basic necessities like food. Responding to community needs during challenging times is important to MAX, said MAX CEO Martin Head.
shop is giving back and serving the
Hyundai Donates Needed COVID-19 Tests
community in a new way. Located
Thanks to a partnership between the
support the organizations who are actively
on Dexter Avenue in the Kress
City of Montgomery, Hyundai Motor
working to provide relief,” he said.
Building, Prevail Union coffee shop
Manufacturing Alabama, Hyundai
has long believed, as did William
Hope on Wheels, Health Services,
Supporting local children’s charities is a key
Faulkner, that "man will not merely
Incorporated (HSI), Assurance
focus of the MAX4Kids Foundation, which
endure, he will prevail.” Now, this
Scientific Laboratories and the
was started by MAX team members in 2001.
coffee shop is continuing to spread
Alabama Department of Public
The COVID-19 pandemic left many non-profit
its message of hope and community
Health, expanded drive-thru testing
organizations concerned about funding. “We
and is prevailing by offering “batch
for COVID-19 became available in
want our partner organizations to know that
brew donations” to the people
west Montgomery and Hayneville
we haven’t forgotten them and will continue
who need it most – those on the
in mid-May. Members of the public
supporting them during times of great need,”
front lines fighting COVID-19. For
are being tested for the COVID-19
said Kenneth Hill, MAX4Kids Board President.
$15, individuals can purchase 96
Coronavirus without having to
“These organizations serve the most
oz. of Prevail coffee to be brewed,
pay any out-of-pocket costs. HSI
vulnerable individuals in our communities,
packaged and delivered to the
is operating the test sites at its
our children, and MAX4Kids is doing all we
doctors and nurses in Montgomery
Montgomery Primary Healthcare
can to sustain their outreach efforts while
area hospitals.
Center and Hayneville Family Health
children are away from schools and organized
Center locations.
activities.”
COVID-19 pandemic, a local coffee
39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
“Many individuals and families in our area are facing extreme hardship, and we want to
GiveBack leader in multiplex molecular diagnostics, can simultaneously detect three different genes (N, E and RdRP genes) of SARSCoV-2, the virus responsible for causing COVID-19. The Seegene tests will be analyzed by Assurance Scientific Laboratories. Assurance Labs, based in Birmingham, specializes in molecular diagnostics and microbiology. Assurance Labs was the first commercial lab in the state of Alabama to begin testing for COVID-19. Since it began testing on March 11, the company has tested almost 40,000 patients and provides test results within 24 hours of the time specimens are received.
Local Law Firm Makes Mask Donation In an effort to press forward with the
the current state of our country has our
firm motto of “helping those who need
staff and lawyers doing what they can
it most,” Beasley Allen Law Firm lawyers
to reach out to our community,” Beasley
and staff donated giveaways for morale
Allen Lead Product Liability Attorney
boosting events at the Shepherd Center
Greg Allen said. “First responders are
in Atlanta, fed more than 500 nurses
not only continuing their work as usual,
at three Montgomery hospitals and
they are doing it with added uncertainty
donated to the Montgomery Police
about the virus, and we hope that
Department relief fund. Members of
the donation of masks will give them
the firm’s staff are personally making
some comforting protection against
masks and providing disinfecting
this threat.” Beasley Allen Managing
supplies to those in need. Additionally,
Attorney Tom Methvin said, “We are
the firm donated 1,500 N95 masks
grateful for the work of all of our first
to help replenish Montgomery area
responders and we understand the risks
first responders’ personal protective
they take every day. God bless each
equipment.
person that puts their safety on the line
for others, especially in these trying
“We are blessed to be in a position to
times.”
Montgomery Restaurant Adapts During Virus Times Following the statewide mandate earlier this spring to close dine-in service, downtown restaurant Cahawba House’s sales plummeted 80 percent in just one
help others year in and year out, and
week. Instead of worrying about the threat of the coronavirus’ impact on their restaurant, owners and brother and sister
“Our community owes a huge debt of
When the pandemic began to heavily
pair Tara and Tim Essary started to rethink
gratitude to Hyundai for its generosity and
impact Alabama, Mayor Reed reached
their business model.
assistance in setting up these drive-thru
out to Hyundai leadership in Alabama,
testing sites,” said Montgomery Mayor
California and the Republic of South Korea
With more and more grocery stores
Steven L. Reed. “I reached out to Hyundai
seeking surplus testing supplies. The
struggling to restock their shelves, the
because South Korea’s response to the
automaker responded with 5,000
duo decided to remove all the restaurant’s
pandemic has been extraordinary. Our
COVID-19 RT-PCR tests donated to the
tables from the dining room to make
cooperative effort with Hyundai will enable
City and 5,000 donated to the State
room for freezers and shelving to create
us to increase testing and better serve the
of Alabama. The tests, developed by
their own market called Bama Bonafide
people of Montgomery.”
Seegene, a South Korea-based global
Bodega. Tara herself did research by
40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
GiveBack going to different grocery stores in the area to see what each store was out of, which is how the owners determined what to stock. Local farmers, who were some of the restaurant’s original suppliers, were happy to jump in and fill the fridges with a variety of local products. Other offerings were staples like fresh bread, milk, dry goods and frozen, Southern-comfort dinners, all available for curbside pickup. The market also sold household items such as soap, gloves, disinfectant wipes and toilet paper.
MGM Medical Supply Distributor Steps Up As the COVID-19 pandemic advances, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has become vital to safely operating most businesses. More demand and global supply interruptions have made it increasingly difficult to find legitimate and reasonably priced sources for PPE. For example, the cost of PPE supplies has risen by more than 1,000 percent
Chamber Connects Students, Makers and Air Force Innovators to Make Face Shields In April, the Chamber brought
communities. Perhaps just as
together Air Force innovation
importantly, we are showing students
specialists, the local maker
that technical and creative abilities not
community and area students
only make for great careers but can
to produce 3D printed personal
even save lives,” said Charisse Stokes,
protection equipment (PPE) for local
Executive Director, TechMGM.
healthcare providers. TechMGM, the Chamber’s tech economic and
MGMWERX generously ordered and
workforce development initiative, Air
provided the materials for printing
Procurement Professionals.
University’s MGMWERX innovation
and assembly of the face shields.
center and a collaborative of local
Montgomery Fighting COVID provides
Alabama Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth called on the
makers called Montgomery Fighting
the printing files and list of preferred
COVID together issued a STEM
materials for the challenge and
challenge to activate additional 3D
also assembles and sanitizes the
printers and encourage student
shields before providing them to the
and educator volunteers to join the
Montgomery EMA.
according to a report published in April by the Society for Healthcare Organization
state’s medical supply distributors to lend a hand. Turenne PharMedCo Medical Supply Services answered this call and has provided unprecedented access to about 20 types of PPE and infection control supplies for direct
effort to produce face shields for the
sale to Alabama businesses.
Montgomery Emergency Management
Ten local public and private schools
Agency (EMA), which distributed them
have volunteered to participate
For more than 25 years, the Montgomery-
to healthcare providers.
so far, including Alabama State
based medical supply distributor has exclusively served healthcare providers such as nursing homes, hospice agencies and assisted living facilities. The dire need for PPE in Alabama motivated Turenne PharMedCo to expand access to its products. “The threat of COVID-19 has made it vital for companies to do anything they can to protect their employees and customers while maintaining operations,” said Craig Miller, Vice President of Turenne PharMedCo. “We are grateful to
University, Alabama Christian “In Montgomery, we have often
Academy, Brewbaker Middle
faced our greatest challenges when
School, Cornerstone Classical
communities come together. We are
Christian Academy, Eastwood
uniquely positioned at the Chamber
Presbyterian Church School, Elmore
to bring together these groups to
County Technical Center, Montgomery
maximize each of their resources,
Catholic Preparatory School, Pike
talents and abilities to not only
Road High School, Prattville High
provide desperately needed PPE
School and Trinity Presbyterian
gear, but make connections between
School.
our military, maker and education
help make our community safer and support Alabama businesses." 41 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
MyMGM
MGM IMPACT MAKERS: WHAT MAKES THE MAKER? Influence. Affect. Change. Touch. Transform. These words describe and define the action of making an impact on something or someone else. But what does it really take to be named a Chamber Impact Maker? And in what areas of Montgomery life are they most needed? We asked our past Impact Maker award winners to share their thoughts.
IMPACT MAKER 2019
NONPROFIT
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Karlyn Edmonds, Chief Executive Officer
IMPACT MAKER 2019
SMALL BUSINESS
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN IMPACT
The Montgomery Zoo
MAKER? An Impact Maker cares deeply about
Melanie Golson, Marketing
our community and works hard to make every
& Public Relations Manager
IN MONTGOMERY NEED MORE
Makers represent forward-thinking that will push
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE
see in Montgomery is that people
our community and help it thrive. They are in the
AN IMPACT MAKER? An impact
trenches, working every day to make a difference.
maker is someone who sees a
An Impact Maker reflects so well the promises we
problem in the community and finds
make in our Girl Scout Law. They are honest and fair,
the solutions as well as the people
courageous and strong, responsible for what they
who can address the problem and
say and do, respect themselves and others, and
make changes. This person may not
use resources wisely. Perhaps most of all, an Impact
be able to physically implement the
Maker makes our world a better place.
solution but has the ability to lead a
day count as they strive to make it better. Impact
team of people who can. An Impact
WHAT ISSUE OR CHALLENGES IN
Maker must be a strong leader who
MONTGOMERY NEED MORE IMPACT? We must
is not afraid of change or dealing
make certain there is a bright future ahead for the
with the push back from those who
children of our community. They need high-quality
are resisting change. They must
education and the opportunity to have experiences
be a good communicator, able to
that prepare them for a successful life. To provide for
explain the problem and solution
their wellbeing now ensures that the River Region
in a way that many people can
will thrive in the years to come.
understand so they can get on board with implementing a solution.
42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
WHAT ISSUE OR CHALLENGES IMPACT? The biggest issue I are afraid of criminals. They do not want to speak up when they see something or have some knowledge that will help the police with their investigation. We need more mentoring programs so that not just children but also adults have someone to teach them coping skills, leadership and conflict resolution techniques. We need to concentrate on adults, in my opinion, because children mimic what they see, and if adults are able to handle conflict without resorting to violence, children will learn the same things.
IMPACT MAKER 2019
MID-SIZE BUSINESS
Guardian Credit Union Rachel Stewart, VP of Marketing
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN IMPACT MAKER?
VOTE
Being an Impact Maker is an honor as a member of the local community. The importance of the connections we make with each other are important on a personal and professional level. Impact Makers are genuinely looking to serve others. Making an impact does not always have to be a grand gesture; often the impact comes when we focus on the small details.
IMPACT MAKER 2019
FOR THE 2020 IMPACT MAKERS JULY 20 - AUG 14
INDIVIDUAL
Charles Lee, Executive Director, That’s My Child
IMPACT MAKER 2019
LARGE BUSINESS
Alabama State University Lois G. Russell, Vice President for Institutional Advancement
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN IMPACT MAKER? An Impact Maker leaves an indelible mark on her/his community. Impact Makers are legacy builders who work to make a difference by providing innovative and thoughtful solutions to community issues. Some of the characteristics are that they are innovative, aware and mission-minded. Impact Makers aspire to do great things while inspiring and helping others to achieve their own greatness.
WHAT ISSUE OR CHALLENGES IN MONTGOMERY NEED MORE IMPACT? One challenge is “brain
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN IMPACT MAKER? Being an Impact Maker to me
drain,” particularly among millennials
means being an example for my community;
who choose local universities for higher
examining ways I can make a positive change
education but then relocate after
for those in my community; being able to
graduation to pursue their careers. The
listen to others acknowledge and affirm their
city would benefit greatly from cultivating
feelings; showing kindness to all as well as
local talent and showcasing more
respect and generosity; and holding myself and
proactively the best that Montgomery
my community accountable. Impact Makers are
has to offer and by building links
also leaders, have a positive mindset, are the
between institutions of higher education
people others know they can always count on
and employers. Also, the pandemic has
and last but not least, are trailblazers who are
highlighted socio-economic disparities
not afraid to make their own tracks!
that exist nationwide and in the River Region. Having ongoing, city-supported
WHAT ISSUE OR CHALLENGES IN
initiatives that address disparities
MONTGOMERY NEED MORE IMPACT? Well,
would create an equitable distribution
I wouldn’t be Charles Lee if I didn’t say that our
of resources to form an economic
youth are the main issue in Montgomery. Our
shield against occurrences such as
kids are lacking in education, job opportunities
a pandemic. Institutions of higher
and just a safe haven to grow. They are our
education need to be at the forefront of
future, and we have to start now developing
these efforts.
their young minds.
43 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
We Will
COVID-19 has presented Montgomery and the River Region with multiple challenges, but one thing is certain: We will recover, and we’ll recover together.
Montgomery’s major industrial and hospitality partners, our corporate and military communities and the hundreds of small businesses that are all key players in our economy began to brace for the challenges ahead. In March, April and May, Montgomery’s economy faced tremendous challenges, as did the national and global economies. Our business community was
Montgomery began the year 2020 with
forced to innovate. Manufactures shifted
tremendous momentum. In 2019, the
operations to meet new demands and
city’s announced capital investment
stepped up to keep employees safe. The
by new and existing industries and its
hospitality industry also shifted focus, with
tourism expenditures had both topped $1
many restaurants enacting alternate means
billion, marking tremendous milestones
of serving customers with dining rooms
for the region. The more than $1 billion
closed, and hoteliers working to adjust to a
in announced capital investment ranked
extremely altered landscape.
Montgomery County second among all other Alabama counties, and these investments alone far exceeded the efforts of the seven-county region surrounding Birmingham. Montgomery’s $1 billion in tourism expenditures set a record for the region and represented a 6 percent increase year-over-year from 2018 to 2019. As a city on the rise, Montgomery’s main objective going into 2020 was to accelerate growth and to take its recordbreaking achievements from 2019 to the next level. All indications pointed to a strong first quarter. When news started to spread about a novel coronavirus, it was not just Montgomery’s healthcare community that began to pay close attention.
44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Challenges Montgomery’s small business community faced particularly difficult challenges as it worked to comply with public health orders, to understand the complex landscape of advisories and mandates, and to try to maintain access to revenues in the face of drastically decreased consumer activity. What began as a public health crisis quickly turned into a complex economic challenge, leaving small businesses scrambling to navigate the intricacies of emergency relief efforts while being forced to make the difficult decisions necessary to continue operations, which in
MGM CHAMBER
Small Business Owners
some cases resulted in suspending operations. Due to the pandemic and the myriad problems
As of May 16, the number of small businesses open for operations decreased by
27.6%
compared to early January 2020.* (*Source: tracktherecovery.org)
it presented, by mid-May, consumer spending had decreased by 32.7 percent in Montgomery compared to 20.5 percent nationally. As of
OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP
Rita Lewis Lake Point Vineyard and Winery lakepointvineyard.org
May 16, the number of hourly employees in small businesses had decreased by 40.5 percent in Montgomery County compared to early January 2020, and the number of small businesses open for operations decreased by 27.6 percent compared to early January 2020.* As this health emergency continued to cause challenges in our small business community, the need to respond with care and compassion to these businesses became evident and urgent.
Paul Dallas Wishbone wishbonecafe.com
Jim Yeaman Lattice Inn thelatticeinn.com
Heather Parrish Southern Art & Makers Collective southernartmakers.com THIS PAGE, FROM TOP
Sieu Tang Tang’s Tailor Shop (334) 239-8258
Kevin King The King’s Canvas thekingscanvas.org
Wanda Battle Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church dexterkingmemorial.org
45 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Solutions The Chamber’s No. 1 priority became aggregating resources and communicating
In April, the Chamber worked with the City of
important updates, best practices and information on access to relief for the entire business community. In early April, Mayor Steven L. Reed created the Economic Impact Task Force to identify the economic impact of COVID-19 on Montgomery businesses, workers and families and then facilitate
Montgomery,
measures to address it. The Chamber joined
Montgomery
on several initiatives to provide resources
County and the Small Business Development Center at Alabama State University to
this effort and began working collaboratively
In April, the Chamber worked with the City of Montgomery, Montgomery County and the Small Business Development Center at Alabama State University to create the
Together Small
small and minority businesses to the
clearinghouse that connects small and minority businesses to the resources and information they need most as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis.
to 75 local businesses.
businesses.
Recover Together Small Business Hub, a
a free, one-stop
$240,000+
and emergency assistance to local
create the Recover Business Hub,
Applications for the small business relief fund opened on June 1, and to date the fund has awarded
free, one-stop clearinghouse that connects resources and information they need most as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis. The response was overwhelming, and by mid-May, it had become abundantly clear that capital and access to funding were one of the biggest concerns and hurdles for our small and minority business community in the virus’ wake. As we began to look toward a recovery period, a coalition of local partners launched
to 75 local businesses, demonstrating the
the Recover Together Small Business Fund
tremendous need.
to provide grants to as many small employers as possible. The relief fund is administered
Despite the many challenges, there is hope
through the Chamber’s 501(c)3 charitable
on the horizon. In fact, in the midst of these
foundation, which contributed the initial seed
trying times, the Chamber still experienced
funding, and has been further supported
heavy project activity, and our CVB sales
through the generosity of our corporate and
team continues to line up events and
philanthropic partners, individual contributors
conferences late in 2020, into 2021 and
and local government support.
beyond. The initiatives highlighted here are just the beginning. As the Chamber, our
Applications for the small business relief fund
business community and our many partners
opened on June 1, and to date more than
look ahead, we will continue to work to bring
650 applications have been received and
the resources to our community where they
more than $240,000 have been awarded
are needed most.
46
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
We are here for you. Small Business Support
Take advantage of the Chamber’s network of support and counseling as you re-open, recover and revive your business.
Are you a small business in need? Do you have questions regarding loan assistance, legal assistance, HR issues or tax concerns? Do you need assistance reopening your business? You can call the Recover Together Small Business Hub, 334-226-7529, or fill out the HUB form on montgomerychamber.com/hub, and one of our Hub Specialists will contact you as soon as possible to share information about available resources and connect you with relief.
Find out more:
montgomerychamber.com/hub
We are all in this together. As Montgomery has worked to emerge from the COVID-19 crisis, a coalition of community partners launched the Small Business Hub, a one-stop resource for small businesses seeking information and resources, and the Small Business Relief Fund, a grant program created to provide working capital to small businesses facing COVID-19-related challenges. These initiatives resulted from the collaborative efforts of Mayor Steven L. Reed’s Economic Impact Task Force and were made possible through the generosity of Montgomery’s corporate and philanthropic community, local government support, and the engagement of individual Montgomerians. We are all Montgomery, and we are dedicated to supporting our small businesses as we work to recover together from this crisis.
recover together MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER of COMMERCE 48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
FOR A FULL LIST OF RESTAURANTS, BARS & ATTRACTIONS CHECK OUT VISITING MONTGOMERY.COM
IMGM ER, ETH E G O T AN B WE C ANGE CH THE
2019 TOURISM:
TOTAL REVENUE = $1.025 BILLION, AN 83% INCREASE IN THE PAST 10 YEARS
T O U R I S M U P D A T E
M ONTG OME RY ’ S R E CORD-B REAKING TOURISM NUMB ERS F OR 2 01 9 S E T THE STAGE FOR THE FUTURE.
+ STAY CATION 2020 FOUR D AY S O F #MYMGM FUN
#
M
Y
M
G
M
49 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Recently, the Alabama Tourism Department conducted its annual report, revealing that
M ON TGO M E RY H A D E X P E R I E N C E D REC ORD - B R E A K I N G TO U R I S M G ROW TH F O R 2 0 1 9, WI T H $ 1. 0 2 5 B IL L ION I N TOTA L R E V E N U E . This marked the first time in Montgomery’s history that tourism growth for the city topped the billion-dollar mark, representing a 5.6 percent increase over 2018, a 22 percent increase in the past two years and an 83 percent increase in the past 10 years. This increase in spending directly impacted the city’s workforce, as V I S I TO R S WE R E RES P ON S I B LE F O R 14 , 4 2 8 J O B S IN TH E H O S P I TA LI T Y I N D US T RY, AN 18 PERCENT INCREASE IN THE PA S T TWO Y E A R S . With spending on hotels, restaurants, shopping and transportation significantly increasing, these numbers confirm that Montgomery is and continues to be an economic powerhouse for the state tourism industry.
O U R P A S T WHERE WE’VE BEEN Established in 1819 and situated on the banks of the Alabama River, Montgomery’s history is deeply rooted in the social and economic conversations that are currently as compelling and vital as ever. A stroll down our historic streets with their historic markers and sites shows that this city has transformed from the Cradle of the Confederacy to the Birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement in less than a century and continues today to face hard and painful issues head on, initiating unprecedented change for the better.
TODAY, THIS V IBR A NT R IV E R TOWN IS CHA NG ING AGA IN AND E XPE R IE NCING A R E SU R G E NCE LIK E NE V E R BE F OR E . With a revitalized downtown and new and developing cultural attractions and experiences, Montgomery has once again established itself as a landmark Southern destination and cultural hot spot, inspiring all who visit to truly believe in the city’s message that “together, we can be the change.”
T H E P R E S E N T
O U R F U T U R E
WHERE WE ARE
WHERE WE’RE HEADED
As 2020 began, Montgomery looked ahead with hope, expecting to once again shatter records in tourism and economic growth. Unfortunately, tourism in the region,
As Montgomery businesses slowly begin to reopen,
country and world quickly halted due to the global
we understand that it will take time to navigate
coronavirus pandemic, resulting in multi-million-dollar
new guidelines and restrictions and to ultimately
revenue losses for the city. These losses drive home the
discover a “new normal.” In the meantime, the
impact of this vital sector: In a normal year, these lost
Chamber’s Convention and Visitor Bureau sales
dollars lighten the tax burden on citizens and help to
and marketing team is already hard at work learning
offset the cost of city services and amenities; these dollars
how our venues and hotels can address the needs
sustain small businesses like restaurants and shops and
of meeting and event planners as conventions and
cultural institutions that are treasured by those of us who
gatherings take on smaller, more physically distant
call Montgomery home. These dollars keep thousands
forms. The team is pursuing niche groups like
employed in our city.
corporate diversity and inclusion trainings that are perfectly suited to Montgomery. And it’s launching
However, this is not the first time that Montgomery has
a phased public relations and marketing campaign
faced trials, and the people of this town are resilient. While
that highlights the way our city inspires change for
COVID-19 is currently impacting the tourism industry, there
the better.
is every reason to believe that better days await. Travel is a force that brings us together and transforms our lives
At its core, travel inspires innovation and progress
for the better and moving forward, tourism in Montgomery
that can lead to a healthier, happier and more
will continue to be a powerful component of the city’s
productive lifestyle.
resurgence. Travel industry professionals project that as normal travel resumes, travelers will seek “bucket list” travel
While the demand for travel is still regaining
experiences that are more meaningful and that align with
momentum, WE E NCOU R AG E MONTG OME RY R E SIDE NTS TO COME TOG E THE R A ND TO R E DISCOV E R THE IR OWN BACK YA R D. Whether
their own personal values. For 200 years, Montgomery has played a pivotal role in America’s history and now, WE O F F E R V I S I TO R S AN E N L IGH TEN ED P E R S P E C T I V E O F O U R PAS T, OU R FU TU R E A N D O U R C ULT UR E O F C HA N GE. No doubt Montgomery will be at the top of many travelers’ lists because of this.
shopping local, dining at one of our restaurants, visiting one of our renowned cultural experiences or even booking a “staycation” at one of our beautiful downtown hotels, we can make a difference for the businesses in this sector.
51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
MGM STAY CATION 2020 FOUR D AY S O F #MYMGM FUN
TA K E A DAY OR A LONG WE E K E N D TO E XPE R IE NCE M O N TG O M E RY THR OU G H A V I S I TO R’ S E YE S.
D O
A Y N E
E AT
CA PITOL OYSTE R BAR
Enjoy a classic Montgomery lunch on this spot’s deck overlooking the river.
EXPLORE
THE HA NK WILLIA MS MU SEUM Learn about the life and times of Montgomery’s own troubadour.
DOWNTOWN WA LK ING TOUR: R OSA PA R K S STATU E , DE XTE R AV E NU E A ND R IV E R F R ONT PA R K Get reacquainted with these familiar streets on foot.
A LA BA MA STATE CA PITOL, OLD A LA BA MA TOWN A ND MU SE U M OF A LA BA MA Get grounded in your local story with a visit to these hallowed halls of history.
VISIT
1 977 BOOK S OR R E A D HE R R ING BOOK STORE Turn the page with a literary treasure from these fascinating book retailers and community spaces.
DRINK UP
TOWE R TA PR OOM, COMMON BOND BR E WE RY OR G OAT HAU S BIE R GA RTEN Grab a pint of local brew and a bite at these downtown brew-centric bars.
DINE OUT
CE NTR A L OR THE HOU SE AT THE R E NA ISSA NCE Cap off day one with dinner at one of these spots offering locally inspired menus and beautiful surroundings.
52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
FOR A FULL LI ST OF R ESTAUR AN TS , BAR S & ATT R AC T I O N S C H EC K OUT VISITING MON TG OME RY. CO M
D A Y T W O DRINK UP
P R E VA I L U N I O N
Start the day with a cup of joe plus smiles and shared optimism at this hub beloved by Montgomery’s caffeinated creatives.
E X P L O R E T H E LE GACY M US E UM
Discover why this experience may be the most essential and timely of any in America today.
E A T PAN N IE - G E O R G E ’ S K I TC H E N OR C H RIS ’ H OT D O G S Whether you’re craving comfort or charm, you’ll get both with these great lunch spots.
E X P L O R E T H E N AT I O N A L MEM ORIAL FOR P E AC E A N D J US T I C E Acclaimed internationally as one of the most moving and important experiences of our time, you will be forever changed by this powerful experience.
TOU R TH E ROSA PA R K S L IB RA RY A N D M US E UM You’ll learn Rosa Parks’ inspiring personal story, plus how communities in Montgomery worked together to change the world.
DINE OUT TA S TE
Step off the sidewalk and into this cozy wine bar for tasty small plates, wine flights and Montgomery-themed cocktails.
DRINK UP
AV IATOR/ TH E A LLE Y /C O M M E R C E B EERWORK S A nightlife triple play awaits in these interconnected hotspots in the heart of downtown.
FOR A FULL LI ST OF R E STAUR AN TS , BAR S & ATT R AC T I ON S C H E C K OUT VISITING MON TG OME RY. COM
D A Y T H R E E E AT
CA H AWB A H O US E
A favorite of visitor and locals alike, this eatery’s biscuits, fresh local preserves and cinnamon beignets are the perfect foundation for a day of exploring Montgomery.
EXPLORE
D EXTER AV EN UE K I N G M E M O R I A L B A P TIS T C H U R C H A N D PA R S O N AG E Raise your spirits and your voice (in song) on a heartfelt tour of this treasured church where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. began his career as a young pastor and became a Civil Rights hero.
F. S C OTT & ZE LDA F I T ZG E R A LD M U S EU M & AI R B N B
D A Y F O U R
E AT
E AT
these lunch spots, from a tender
As every good traveler knows,
EXPLORE
BR E A K FA ST AT BA R BA R A GA ILS
Remember the romance, ambition and creativity of this literary power couple and darlings of the
when you have to bring cash
Jazz Age as you stroll through the Fitzgerald’s former home.
and wait in line, it’s going to be
E AT
staple, located right on the
so worth it! This neighborhood
D ERK ’ S F I LE T & V I N E O R VIN TAGE CAF É
Selma to Montgomery historic trail, serves home-cooked
Whether you want a filling meat and three or a
goodness.
light and inspired plate, these neighboring cafes will fuel you up for an afternoon of exploring.
EXPLORE
CIV IL R IG HTS ME MOR IA L A ND CE NTE R Take a moment to
EXPLORE
FREED OM RIDE S M US E UM This historic bus station bore witness to a horrific moment in Montgomery history. View the powerful timeline on the exterior and be sure to step inside to delve into the stories of the freedom riders who worked to end segregation on interstate buses.
VISIT
S O UT H E R N A RT & M AKERS C O LLE C T I V E
No staycation is complete without a souvenir or two. Stop by this quirky shop for locally made art and goods.
consider how the fight for equal rights continues, and even pledge your name to continue the fight.
F R A NK M. JOHNSON JR . F E DE R A L BU ILDING A ND U NITE D STATE S COU RTHOU SE
DR E A MLA ND BBQ OR BIBB STR E E T PI ZZA Find legendary food at both of rack of ribs to a giant slice of ‘za.
MONTG OME RY MU SE U M OF FI NE A RTS & A LA BAMA SHA K E SPE A RE F E STIVA L Round out the day with a ramble through the museum's sculpture garden or the Shakespeare Garden, both set in a 300-acre cultural wonderland.
DINE OUT
V INTAG E YE AR OR COR K & CLE AVER
Inspired dishes, perfectly crafted cocktails and fashionable patios make these perfect places to relive your staycation adventures.
DRINK UP
M. Johnson and the pivotal civil
K R U OR THE TIPPING POI NT
L A J OL L A OR C I T Y G R I LL
rights cases he decided from his
Relax and take in the eclectic
From a flirty and fizzy cocktail to a hearty entrée,
courtroom here in Montgomery.
vibes at these friendly
Learn about the work of Frank
DINE OUT
La Jolla and City Grill deliver both with class and style every time. 54 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
neighborhood bars.
55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
56 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
T R A N S F O R M YO U R M A N U FA C T U R I N G & D I S T R I B U T I O N C O M PA N Y TO R E M A I N P R O F I TA B L E I N A P O S T- C OV I D W O R L D
where you currently fit and how adaptable you
to move forward in a post-COVID-19 world?
are to the transformation that is underway.
In the years between the recession and the worldwide disruption caused by the Coronavirus also continued to see margins erode due to
T H R E E T R A N S F O R M AT I V E S T E P S TO R E M A I N P R O F I TA B L E I N A P O S T- COV I D WO R L D :
increased competition.
1 . H A R N E S S T H E P O W E R O F YO U R DATA
outbreak, many distributors saw recovery but
Traditional distributors were having to work harder for diminishing returns. Customers, armed with readily available data, know what they want, and with just a few clicks, know how much the competition is charging for it. Distributors have been forced to strategically reposition themselves by differentiating their service from that of their competitors before, during and after the sale. Traditional distributors also have done this through offering a number of value-added services such as inventory management, storage and transportation. Leaders have successfully implemented leaner, more nimble operations. More and more, competition has come directly
P O I N T S . There are a number of tools on the
market to enhance your position—from simple software to track customer usage to the complex internet of things that can be used to monitor equipment and inventory movement efficiencies and project potential bottlenecks. 2 . D E T E R M I N E W H E R E YO U S H O U L D G O B I G . Use your resources or strategically partner
with someone else to create economies of scale. 3 . TA I LO R YO U R M A R K E T F O R YO U .
If you operate in a small market, you may not be able to compete with the larger chains headto-head on all counts. Instead, determine the combination of products or services that you can focus on and do those better than anyone else.
from manufacturers themselves as disruptive new entrants to the market capitalize on the ready-made distribution channels provided by
MEET THE EXPERT
Amazon or similar platforms. Utilizing these platforms removes or greatly reduces barriers to entry to distribution channels. As manufacturers use business-to-business service offerings from some of these distribution giants, the margin squeeze will be that much tighter for the traditional distributor. Large manufacturers with the resources to adapt quickly into larger scale operations can directly provide the online shopping experience for business consumers to which they have grown accustomed, especially considering the widespread brick and mortar
Adam Stephenson is a Warren Averett member
closings. To stay relevant, companies will have to
who specializes in audits and business advisory
keep up.
services for the manufacturing and construction industries as well as real estate development
Where does this leave you? As companies begin
and finance. You can reach him at 334-260-2342
to ramp back up, navigating these uncharted
or Adam.Stephenson@warrenaverett.com.
waters will require an honest assessment of
57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
ACCOUNTING
How is your distribution company positioned
E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W
BY A DA M S T E P H E N S O N , C PA , C I A , C C A
58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
From restaurants to gyms to retail stores, this
reaching out proactively to small business
summer is going to be a challenging time for
clients to find out how we can help. It’s
Montgomery businesses.
important to ask questions that some folks haven't thought about yet, such as whether a
As a vice president and business banker with
company has sufficient reserves with plenty of
Valley Bank in the greater Montgomery area, I
flexibility, along with a high level of efficiency.
have helped countless small business owners dealing with the challenges wrought by the
More than ever, it is vital for businesses to have
pandemic.
access to good advice. So business owners need the ability to have direct conversations
Business owners have reached out to the
with their banker, to be able to say, “Things are
bank to defer payments, add lines of credit
not perfect, but let’s get on the same page.”
and explore their eligibility for the Paycheck Protection Program. These are obvious things
We are pleased to help all types of businesses
for your banker to help with, but there are also
in Montgomery. Earlier this month, we worked
a number of other areas where your banker
with a local tutoring franchise that employs
can help you:
college students as tutors. We were able to help them get a small loan, and the employer
C R E AT E (O R S H O R E U P ) YO U R CO N T I N G E N C Y P L A N .
said, “You have no idea how far these dollars
The pandemic came out of the blue, but there
the other businesses we’ve helped is a local
could be a second wave of infections in the
assisted living and nursing home.
will go for these college students.” Among
fall or winter, so what’s your game plan if that happens? It’s best to have a plan in place so
No matter what size business you have, your
you can be nimble in the moment. A quality
banker should be able to work with you to find
contingency plan will also come into play if a
creative solutions. Even in these toughest of
financial institution is evaluating your eligibility
times, there is a solution out there.
for loans and additional lines of credit.
M A K E K E Y CO N N E C T I O N S .
MEET THE EXPERT
I work in the world of finance, of course, but I see myself as more than a numbers guy. My goal is to create deep relationships with my clients, and in many cases, to connect them with potential service providers (such as lawyers or accountants) or potential customers. Your banker should be able to make quality recommendations about folks who can help your business.
S T R E A M L I N E O P E R AT I O N S . As we get through this tough situation, businesses will need to keep finding ways to be more efficient. With this in mind, we are
Ryan Skipper is a vice president and business banker with Valley Bank in the greater Montgomery area.
59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
BANKING
BY RYA N S K I P P E R
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S IN THE KNOW
T H R E E WAYS YO U R B A N K E R C A N H E L P YO U R B U S I N E S S B O U N C E B A C K
SPONSORED CONTENT
Adapting, Supporting and Moving Forward – As One
By Arthur DuCote, Montgomery-Area Market Executive for Regions Bank
From education to nonprofits, a holistic approach will strengthen the River Region. In 2020, perhaps the one constant we’ve
That’s one reason Regions Bank enhanced
seen – is change. Small businesses. Big
its work with community partners. Consider
businesses. Schools. Nonprofits. All have
our support of Alabama State University.
been impacted. People across Montgomery,
We’ve long worked with ASU on a variety of
the nation, and the world are finding ways
initiatives. But we knew the challenges of
to keep moving forward, months after the
COVID-19 presented a need to modify that
pandemic began, while remaining prepared
work. So, a financial grant allocated by the
to adjust further.
bank to ASU in May is supporting greater access to online learning. Our goal is to help
Take a closer look at education. This is the
more students build on the success they’ve
time of year when, typically, students may
already achieved, without limitations from
be traveling with families. Those who are
the changes we’ve seen in recent months. By Arthur DuCote,
old enough may be working summer jobs at retail stores. Or maybe they would be in the
A separate grant for Tuskegee University is
Montgomery-Area Market
middle of an internship in a downtown office
supporting a Student Emergency Fund to
Executive for Regions Bank
filled with professionals.
help with the transition to online instruction, travel assistance, food and personal items,
It’s all changed. The retail store may
and more. We also allocated funding to
not have done any summer hiring. The
Valiant Cross Academy to support an
downtown office may still be only partially
emergency food pantry. A grant for Arsenal
full. I suspect we’ll all be defining the “new
Place, a business incubator in Selma, will
normal” for a while to come. Instructors
support the organization’s education and
aren’t just creating lesson plans for the
workforce readiness programs.
fall. They’re thinking of new ways to reach students of all ages who experienced a
Our community partners in education – and
challenging gap in their education in the
nonprofits across the River Region – are
spring.
rising to the challenge. It’s up to all of us to find ways we can help. Because for us to
So even if this summer is nothing like the
truly emerge stronger, we’re going to have
ones we’ve seen before, and even if the
to come together and ensure the recovery
coming fall will look different than last
reaches everyone.
year’s, there are ways to move forward as a broader community without losing sight
We have more work to do. And we thank
of the need to help ensure all people can
you, and your businesses, for considering
succeed.
ways you can make a difference as we move forward – together.
*The Regions Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.
60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Find the latest resources at regions.com/ coronavirus.
61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CLI Trus
DES Sma
Your small business is big to us. In uncertain times, your business remains our priority. From simple checking accounts to complex loans and services, our dedicated relationship managers are here to help you no matter what challenges your business may be facing. Together, we can help your business stand strong and move forward. Learn more at trustmark.com/business
MEMBER FDIC
62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PUB Mon Jour
TRI 7.5
COL 4C
M EM BER Spotlight
WSFA 12 NEWS Since 1954, WSFA 12 News has worked to make a difference by giving consumers the latest news, weather, sports and entertainment programming across all of its digital platforms. HISTORY: WSFA first signed onto the air on December 25, 1954, and even before it began, the call letters W-S-F-A were familiar in Montgomery. Gordon Persons (who went on to become an Alabama governor) opened Alabama’s fourth radio station in 1930, locating it at what was then the city’s airport. He publicized the station using the slogan “With the South’s Finest Airport,” hence, WSFA. Raycom Media, which owned WSFA since January 2006, was sold to Gray Television in January 2019. Today, Gray’s television stations cover 24 percent of U.S. television households and broadcast nearly 400 separate programming streams, including nearly 150 affiliates of the CBS/NBC/ABC/FOX networks. NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 82 WHAT ARE WSFA’S PRIMARY SERVICES? Local news, weather, severe weather, breaking news and sports coverage; NBC News and entertainment as well as sports programming; and syndicated programs. WSFA 12 News works tirelessly as the market’s news leader to ensure the people of Central and South Alabama have the most reliable news source available to them via a variety of digital platforms. WHAT SETS WSFA AND ITS SERVICES APART? WSFA has been serving the River Region for 65 years, and now with our new technologically advanced facility, we will be able to do so for another 65 years and beyond. We are well aware of the trust our viewers have put in us over the decades and never take that trust for granted. We work hard every day to ensure our viewers continue to receive the very best local news, weather and sports via any one of our many digital platforms. WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR WSFA? Our biggest announcement is our new state-of-the-art facility located on historic Dexter Avenue in downtown Montgomery. We also celebrated our 65th anniversary on December 25, 2019. RECENT RECOGNITION: We were awarded a prestigious Regional Edward R. Morrow Award for our breaking news coverage of the Lee County Tornadoes in 2019. Amanda Curran was awarded the ABA’s ABBY Award for best Meteorologist in Alabama. We also earned ABBY Awards for Best Hard News covering the 2019 Montgomery mayor's election and Best Breaking News Severe Weather Coverage for the 2019 Troy tornado.
445 DEXTER AVENUE, SUITE 7000 / MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 / 334-288-1212 / WSFA.COM 63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
Alabama State University: Joining Hands With Community On July 18, 2020, Alabama State University celebrates 153 years of providing academic excellence. From its roots as a “normal” school in Selma, Alabama, to its status as one of the River Region’s premier institutions of higher learning, ASU has a rich legacy of producing graduates who become global leaders and world changers. ASU is proud of its history, but it is also focused on “the
o 22
promise of a bright future” for its graduates and the communities they serve.
NOTES, NEWS AND VIEWS
In addition to academic achievements, Alabama
HIGHER
State University has emerged as a community leader
UPDATE
Under the leadership of the University’s 15th
EDUCATION
by forging impactful partnerships and strategic relationships at the federal, state and local levels. President, Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr., ASU has launched an initiative called CommUniversity, which has a mission of continuing and extending the University’s
Here’s the news you need to know about our area’s multiple higher education institutions to earn top marks: their latest additions, announcements, expansions, offerings, awards and more.
impact on Montgomery, the River Region and beyond. A recent example of CommUniversity in action is the establishment of the COVID-19 testing site on the campus of ASU. President Ross initiated the idea for the site and coordinated efforts with the University’s Health Center staff. The resulting partnership with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Montgomery Housing Authority allows residents of local Housing Communities and other areas of the city to drive or walk up to be tested in a neighborhood location. Because of the many modern and spacious facilities
64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
65 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
on campus, the University has been able to partner with local organizations and agencies to host meetings and other activities of benefit to area residents. Most recently, through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Labor, ASU’s Dunn-Oliver Acadome served as the site to receive those seeking assistance with unemployment claims from across the state of Alabama. These examples illustrate the vital role that Alabama State University continues to play in serving the community, particularly during times of crisis such as the Coronavirus pandemic. This commitment to education, service, innovation and excellence earned ASU a 2019 Impact Maker award from the Chamber.
Auburn University At Montgomery: Meeting Students Where They Are While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed — at least for the time being — the ways we live and learn, Auburn University at Montgomery’s ability to meet the needs of students remains consistent. Ranked among the top regional comprehensive universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, AUM is offering an alltime high $11 million in scholarships and student assistance in 2020. The scholarships range from $1,000 Freshman Opportunity Scholarships with no ACT or SAT required to academic scholarships worth as much as $40,000 over four years. This
homeland security, among others. Graduates of AUM’s nursing,
year, incoming freshmen will receive free laptops or equivalent
medical laboratory sciences and biology programs have worked
bookstore scholarships.
on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, caring for patients, conducting tests and even guiding efforts to develop a vaccine.
While AUM expects to resume face-to-face classes for the fall
Undergraduate and graduate programs that include a Master of
2020 semester, it excels at supporting its students in online
Healthcare Administration and Doctor of Nursing Practice position
environments as well. In-person services ranging from tutoring to
graduates for success in a variety of settings, ranging from state
career counseling to student healthcare are now offered remotely
agencies to the Mayo Clinic.
too. And AUM has established itself as the first choice for students in the River Region by offering small classes (17:1 student-to-faculty
As businesses and governmental agencies seek to navigate a
ratio) and a diverse (more than 40 nationalities represented)
new normal, AUM’s Master of Business Administration, Applied
and rich campus experience (70 student organizations, NCAA
Economics and master’s and doctoral programs in Public Policy
Division II athletics), but it also offers flexibility. Of its more than 90
and Public Administration build effective leaders by preparing
undergraduate and graduate degree programs and certifications,
graduates to plan for and manage disruptions and leverage data
24 are offered fully online.
to make strategic decisions. Additionally, the university’s Master of Management Information Systems program and newly launched
Recent challenges facing the healthcare and business
Center for Cyber Security offer opportunities for graduates to help
communities reinforce the value of AUM’s programs in allied
businesses navigate the challenges and opportunities within a
healthcare, business, public administration, economics and
growing e-commerce environment within Alabama and beyond.
66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
67 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
and the safety of its students, faculty, staff and their families. Its online platform allows CSU to continue course instruction without disruption or downtime for its students as well as provide an alternative to those looking to transition to online education. As a national leading educator of first-responders and public safety professionals, CSU’s faculty members not only teach students how to be safe and healthy, but they also serve as EMTs, fire chiefs, emergency management professionals, police captains and more in their own communities across the United States. CSU rolled out more than six new continuing education courses in 2019, including a certificate series in the rapidly growing field of forensic investigation. CSU’s online courses are always evolving
Columbia Southern University: Pivotal Steps Now and For the Future
and are designed to equip students with the training they need to take the next step in their careers. This year, CSU continues to make enhancements to its curricula, policies, technologies and staffing to serve more students at the
As developments surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continue to
highest level. As more students look to online education as a path
unfold, CSU is remaining committed to upholding its core values
to success, CSU is prepared to support them from start to finish.
68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
Culverhouse College of Business at The University of Alabama: How Culverhouse Approaches COVID-19 Just a few short months ago, the possibility of a pandemic sweeping through the country seemed like the stuff of fiction for many. With the national economy possibly entering into a deep recession and tens of thousands dead due to coronavirus, the dean and team at The University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Business have gone through a process that has prioritized the health and safety of faculty, staff, students and business partners. University leaders quickly provided actionable guidance as the college transitioned to remote learning, teaching and operations. Despite so many moving pieces and so many aspects to consider, such as the availability of internet at a student’s home and the
or PPE, for healthcare providers at local hospitals. The lessons
need for advising students of policy changes, Culverhouse was
learned now serve as the basis for summer coursework to help
successfully able to close out the spring 2020 semester with
students gain the ability to address complex, far-reaching problems
a minimum of hiccups, as Culverhouse Dean Dr. Kay M. Palan
via innovative approaches.
explained. “It is remarkable — but also no surprise considering the excellent team in place here across campus,” she said.
Many of Culverhouse’s research and outreach centers are involved in distributing expertise on coronavirus as it relates to their
The one area most at risk of things going awry was in remote
respective areas, including the Alabama Center for Real Estate,
instruction, according to Palan. “Our faculty thrives on their in-
whose efforts are noteworthy for explaining — to both the general
person interactions with students. Our College’s mission clearly
public and experts — the implications of the pandemic on real
states that we will strive to provide a personal touch in all that
estate and the greater economy.
we do,” she said. “So as a faculty member, how do you meet this objective when you have to convert classroom lessons and course
Palan stressed what COVID-19’s many challenges are teaching.
materials designed for in-person instruction to remote delivery?”
“Above all else, the last few months have heightened the importance of being prepared, being flexible, and being
Palan noted the amount of trial and error, but also praised her staff.
innovative,” she said. “So, even as we prepare for an on-campus fall
“I am very proud of how we were able to make the transition. Some
experience for our students, we also are ready to make changes to
of our faculty developed radically inventive new course materials
those plans, depending on how the pandemic progresses.”
to help students understand obtuse, technical topics,” she said. One of the newest faculty members, Dr. Kenny Wunder, who is the
She also pointed to the possibility that the landscape of higher
Dai-Ichi Life Insurance Company Endowed Professor of Actuarial
education may be forever changed. “Online instruction can be
Sciences and Risk Management, created an animated video
highly effective as either a standalone delivery mechanism or as
featuring himself going through the details of working with spot
a tool augmenting in-person delivery,” she said. “Work sessions
rates. “It is a delight — which is a word not often heard in context
conducted via Zoom or other online meeting platforms have
with ‘spot rates’,” Palan said. (If you’re curious, you can find the
proven to be just as effective and sometimes more efficient than
video on the Culverhouse YouTube channel.)
those done in a physical space.”
Other faculty embraced tools like Zoom to conduct classes on
No matter what the future brings, Culverhouse remains committed
a large scale. Culverhouse faculty also used the coronavirus
to providing the high-value, high-touch business education that it
pandemic as a teachable moment. Students and faculty affiliated
has become known for. “Whether it’s primarily online or in person,”
with the college’s STEM Path to the MBA program coalesced an
Palan said.
all-hands-on-deck effort to develop personal protective equipment,
70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
Faulkner University: Focused on the Future of Health Care
renovations to the property so it can house our new College
Like many universities across the nation, life at Faulkner University
The first of the College of Health Science programs to be housed
was upended due to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. In its wake,
in the new location is scheduled to be Physical Therapy in 2021.
Faulkner quickly adapted to the new challenges, and professors
As renovations are completed, additional programs will be housed
began providing quality instruction remotely to students for the
there to include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and
spring and summer 2020 semesters.
Speech and Language Pathology.
In the midst of the current pandemic, healthcare professionals
Faulkner also announced its reaffirmation of accreditation by the
are needed now more than ever. The future of health science
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on
careers is moving in the direction of team-based health care and
Colleges (SACSCOC) for the next 10 years. Faulkner received
collaboration. This is the unique educational environment Faulkner
the best possible review, being found in full compliance, with the
is offering its students. Earning a degree in Health Sciences
committee offering no recommendations or requests for continued
prepares students for careers in fields such as Speech Language
monitoring.
of Health Sciences. The positive influence it will have on the community is astronomical.”
Pathology, Physician Assistant and Physical Therapy. This spring, the university graduated Faulkner’s College of Health Science
In addition, several of Faulkner University’s academic programs
inaugural class earning a Master of Arts and Master of Science in
received national attention for quality and affordability. Faulkner’s
Speech Language Pathology (MA/MS SLP). A ceremony for them
online Master of Justice Administration was nationally recognized
will be held on campus, along with all spring graduates, on August
as one of the most affordable in the nation for accelerated Master’s
8. These students have helped hundreds of patients over the past
in Criminal Justice Online programs in 2020, according to a new
two years at Faulkner’s SLP Clinic, and they will help thousands
report by BestCollegesOnline.org. Faulkner’s online Bachelor of
more throughout their careers.
Science in Business Administration degree was ranked among the top 25 universities in the nation by Online Schools Report for Best
In light of its growing health science programs, this June, Faulkner
Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration for 2020. The same
University announced the recent purchase of the Montgomery
reporting agency announced Faulkner was also ranked 14th out
East Plaza Shopping Center, located adjacent to campus, which
of 50 schools for Best Online Master’s in Business Administration
will become the new site for the University’s College of Health
for 2020 for its Executive Master of Business Administration
Sciences.
online degree. And Faulkner’s online psychology degrees were all recognized as being the third Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology
“This is a huge opportunity for Faulkner University to expand as
Degree Programs out of 50 in the nation for 2020, according to
an institution both geographically and academically,” said Faulkner
Learn.org.
University President Mike Williams. “We are excited to begin 72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
HIGHER
HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS & PROGRAMS YEAR FOUNDED
CHAMBER MEMBERS
Source: nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
EDUCATION
CURRENT ENROLLMENT
# OF DEGREES OFFERED
Alabama State University alasu.edu
1867
4,929
60
Amridge University amridgeuniversity.edu
1967
1,058
40
Auburn University at Montgomery aum.edu
1967
4,523
63
Central Alabama Community College cacc.edu
1989
1,726
29
Columbia Southern University columbiasouthern.edu
1993
21,104
54
Faulkner University faulkner.edu
1942
3,100
76
Fortis College, Atlanta Highway fortis.edu
2008
337
5
Fortis College, Eastdale fortis.edu
2008
207
2
Huntingdon College huntingdon.edu
1854
1,008
33
South University southuniversity.edu
1899
336
18
Strayer University strayer.edu
1892
55,337
35
Trenholm State Community College trenholmstate.edu
1963
2,042
22
Troy University troy.edu
1887
16,981
90
Troy University Montgomery troy.edu
1887
3,023
48
Tuskegee University tuskegee.edu
1881
2,877
62
University of Alabama ua.edu
1831
38,103
200+
UPDATE
SAVE DIVERSITY
THE SUMMIT Date LEADERSHIP THAT TRANSCENDS
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22, 2020
Diversity, Unity and Shared Prosperity Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
73 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
education more accessible right here in Montgomery. South University has been in Montgomery for more than 120 years and takes seriously its goal of continuing to be a good local partner and to support the school systems and students on the pathway to graduation. “It is important now more than ever that we think about how to make the transition from high school to higher education as smooth as we can,” said Kandis Steele, Campus Director of South University in Montgomery. “The River Region is a fabulous area to stay, learn, work and grow. It just makes sense to invest in your future.” To qualify for the South University River Region High School Grant, for the fall 2020 term start, students must be a graduate of an eligible Autauga, Elmore or Montgomery County high school
South University, Montgomery: New Grant Assists with Tuition and Fees
as well as a first-time college student (no prior post-high school college enrollment or credits; high school dual-enrollment students are eligible) and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 at high school graduation. To continue receiving the grant after their first term, students must maintain eligibility.
South University recently announced that for the first time, it will offer a new River Region High School Grant for all eligible
Eligible students will receive a grant toward tuition and fees of:
graduates to receive help with tuition and fees to make higher
• $1,745 per quarter if they pursue a bachelor’s degree in:
74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
Business Administration (BBA) or Psychology (BA), Healthcare Management (BS), Public Health (BS), Information Technology (BS) or Criminal Justice (BS) • $1,676 per quarter in the Medical Assisting Associate of Science degree program • $1,408 per quarter in the Physical Therapist Assistant Associate of Science degree program South University has extensive program offerings in areas like Business, Physical Therapist Assistant, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, Healthcare and more, along with flexible learning options including day, evening and online courses. It also boasts a welcoming environment with supportive faculty and staff who provide one-on-one attention and mentorship from enrollment through graduation. Interested students should Contact the admissions team at South University, Montgomery to learn more.
Trenholm State Community College: TSCC Receives Grant to Create a Distance Learning Network Providing new avenues of educational opportunity that will help rural students overcome geographic barriers and meet industry workforce demands is the goal of Trenholm State Community College (TSCC) through a grant funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Trenholm State received
duplex audio to be installed in three high schools: Bullock County
$497,000 to provide high-quality instructional resources to rural
High School, Macon County Career Tech Center in Tuskegee
students through the creation of a distance learning network.
and the South Montgomery Academy Campus in Grady. The high schools will serve as end-user sites, and Trenholm State’s
The college was the only community college to be awarded the
main campus and Patterson Site will serve as pure hub sites. The
grant. TSCC will serve as a significant provider of information,
initiative will provide an accessible course delivery model with
advocacy and training in STEM (Science, Technology,
an array of college preparatory, Advanced Placement, career
Engineering, and Math) related occupational fields and serve as a
technology and dual enrollment courses.
catalyst to improve the economy and workforce in rural Alabama. Phase one will focus on Adult Education and Ready-to-Work
Given the critical need to close the gap to produce high-skilled
opportunities, followed by the expansion of dual enrollment and
healthcare professionals, Trenholm State also plans to establish
short-term certificate offerings. The project has the potential
a distance education (DE) program in medical imaging. “The
to raise educational outcomes and increase college-readiness
college can help rural students align their educational and career
among rural high school students. “Rural communities pose
goals with specific academic programs/career tech training to
unique challenges, and the grant will help Trenholm State
earn a degree or industry credential,” Archie said. No matter
prepare students and low-skilled workers enter the pipeline of
the remoteness of the schools’ location, successful completion
high-skilled in-demand STEM careers,” says Interim Trenholm
of courses via the distance learning platform for rural students
State President, Anita Archie.
could be enormous. The network can make learning exciting and improve college readiness while motivating rural students to pursue more rigorous academic courses.
TSCC will purchase distance learning equipment, videoconferencing equipment for full-motion video and full-
75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
Tuskegee University: Setting Strategic Direction for Next Decade Recent moves to online academic instruction and virtual student
Troy University: University Freezes Tuition for Second Year in a Row
engagement resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the ever-changing landscape of higher education in Alabama and throughout the country. Forecasting and embracing those changes will be Tuskegee University’s goal as it begins developing its next 10-year strategic plan — an overall direction
With uncertain times due to COVID-19 affecting many students,
that will carry it to its 150th anniversary in 2031.
Troy University announced it will freeze its undergraduate and graduate tuition for the 2020/2021 academic year.
“Tuskegee University specifically — and higher education in general — has changed drastically in just the five years since our
The current undergraduate tuition of $325 per credit hour in class
now-expiring strategic plan was crafted,” President Lily D. McNair
and $338 per online credit hour, and the general university fee of
said of the document she inherited in July 2018 upon the start of
$42 per credit hour will remain the same for in-state students in
her presidential tenure. “I imagine that a plan developed even 12
the coming academic year. Tuition for out-of-state students and
months ago would be under serious re-evaluation in light of our
TROY Online students will also remain the same. Graduate tuition
current healthcare crisis.”
rates will remain at $425 in-class and $494 online. During her annual homecoming state of the university address “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce
in November 2019, McNair shared with alumni some of her
for the second straight year Troy University will not increase
priorities that will inform the university’s future strategic direction.
undergraduate or graduate tuition rates. Many of our students
In that address, she further refined the tenets of her “new era of
and their families face economic uncertainty, therefore we believe
leadership and excellence” — the outline of her strategic vision
this is a prudent decision,” said Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr.
that she introduced as part of her March 2019 inauguration.
TROY reopened its campuses and locations on June 1 and is planning toward in-person classes for the fall semester with
“Every voice will be important, and your voice is needed [in the
procedures and protocols to ensure the safety of students, faculty
strategic planning process],” McNair said to alumni last fall, while
and staff.
76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
HIGHER EDUCATION
UPDATE
noting that focus groups and listening sessions with other internal and external stakeholder groups will be a vital component of the process. As a stakeholder-informed process, McNair looks to the university’s alumni, donors, employees, students, parents, and community and research partners to share their hopes, dreams and vision for what many affectionally call “Mother Tuskegee.” But, McNair indicated, that plan will have to address some specific challenges and opportunities facing the university now and into the future. “Every student who desires a quality education should be provided that opportunity,” she said. “However, college affordability and financial aid limitations prevent students from seeing that goal to fruition. Quantifiably, we see that affect student retention and graduation rates. We must ensure students who start a degree can complete it — and then move successfully and seamlessly into the global workforce.” Corporate and workforce development partnerships throughout the university’s STEM and liberal arts disciplines continue to demonstrate the value Tuskegee alumni offer the marketplace.
The University of Alabama: Student Achievements Continue
As do its research partnerships — such as recent NASA-related
Since its founding in 1831, UA has educated more students from
collaborations with Bell Textron and Huntsville-based Dynetics,
our state than any other college or university in the world. Students
which are building on the university’s established strengths in
like Marillyn Hewson from Tuscaloosa, recently retired Chairman,
aviation and aerospace science engineering. In concert with
President and CEO of Lockheed Martin, and Sonequa Martin-Green
those efforts, McNair looks for the university to continue its
from Russellville, who landed the lead role in "Star Trek: Discovery."
legacy of solving contemporary challenges like food and energy sustainability, climate change and health disparities.
Once again in 2020, UA students are earning honors. More than 600 National Merit Scholars are currently enrolled at UA, including
You don’t have to look much farther than the university’s backyard
256 in its most recent freshman class. This year, 12 UA students
for some of those challenges, including economic development,
were selected for Fulbright Awards, making it, once again, a leader
food insecurity and health disparities — the latter exacerbated by
among all universities in the country. And for the fifth consecutive
the lack of a healthcare infrastructure in Macon County. University
year, UA's Alabama Astrobotics team took first place in the NASA
leaders continue to work with city and county officials to reinstitute
Robotic Mining Competition.
ambulance service to the area — while all involved recognize the need for emergency medical facilities to serve students and
UA offers more than 200 programs of study in 12 different colleges
area residents alike. Through a “communiversity” approach,
and schools. If none of these is quite right, New College allows
these leaders are collaborating on a comprehensive and holistic
highly motivated students to customize their own course of study.
approach to solving these issues.
Through the Accelerated Master’s Program and the STEM and CREATE Paths to the MBA, high-achieving UA students can work
“It’s exciting — and humbling — to know that the strategic direction
toward an undergraduate degree while pursuing a graduate
we set today will carry us to the threshold of such a milestone in
degree at the same time. Finishing both in five years or less saves
our university’s history,” McNair said, acknowledging that the new
time and cuts overall educational costs.
strategic plan will align with the university’s 150th anniversary. “The direction we take now will position Tuskegee for its next century
UA is the place where students can become what they aspire
and a half of imparting knowledge to our students, leading in our
to be, and the university invites those ready for the challenge to
communities and serving our collective society.”
prepare to make their mark.
78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
79 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Small Business Briefcase +
PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS
THE NEW NORMAL IN WORKING REMOTELY COVID-19 and the resulting shutdowns pushed many to work from home, but now that the virus is loosening its hold on the country, working remotely might remain a key part of the “new normal.” Here’s what employers need to know. BY SHARLEEN SMITH
+ADVANTAGES:
Remote employees often report
flexibility, focus and no commute as the biggest benefits of working from home. Performance and productivity have also increased with remote work in most cases. Two studies in 2015 and 2018 indicated that employees are more productive working from home thanks to fewer interruptions, less distractions, more time for cognitive capacity
COVID-19 and the resulting shutdowns pushed many to work from home, but now that the virus is loosening its hold on the country, working remotely might remain a key part of the “new normal.” Here’s what employers need to know. Many have assumed that working remotely would end as authorities have allowed our workplaces to open, thanks to the COVID-19 situation lightening up. But in reality, many business offices just might migrate to a model with more people working remotely in the future. Should that happen, we will have a new set of opportunities but also, new problems to deal with. So, what are they? Let’s start with a look at the pros and cons of having staff working remotely.
and increased job satisfaction in working more autonomously. According to a study conducted by Airtasker, telecommuters worked 1.4 more days every month, or 16.8 more days every year, than people who consistently worked from the office. And since the coronavirus? Depending on the research, productivity has increased anywhere from 13 to as high as 38 percent.
MEET THE EXPERT
Remote working has led to more
Sharleen Smith is the Director of Continuing Education and Outreach of Troy University. She has more than 30 years of experience in organizational consulting and training, including the development of human resource policies and procedures, strategic planning, performance management systems, classification and pay systems, interviewing and onboarding processes, change management, talent management and more. Her training includes more than 250 topics, and she has presented to more than 300,000 people at 15,000 conferences, workshops and seminars. Contact her at gssmith@troy.edu.
80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
communication and therefore, more open environments that promote discussion and conversation. Businesses that have robust remote-working plans for their employees often have a better handle on their cybersecurity needs and business continuity planning.
_ DISADVANTAGES: Trust and communication are two of the biggest challenges for companies as more
Blurred lines between work and home life
people work remotely; businesses must trust
can lead to a sense of working all the time if
that their remote employees will do their jobs.
not managed properly.
Occasionally, remote workers report a
For many employers, cybersecurity
sense of alienation from a lack of social
is also a concern when employees work
interaction they receive in the office.
remotely.
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS FOR EMPLOYERS Managers need to learn how to “supervise” from a distance. Instead of relying on “seeing someone at a desk” or “dropping in their office” five times a day to ask if the project is completed, supervisors and managers need to manage by clearly defining goals or deadlines for a project or assignment.
THE BOTTOM LINE It takes logical and innovative thinking to create procedures for remote work. It will require training for supervisors, team leaders and even executives so they can best learn how to
Employees need to be trained on what the remote office should look like to be professional. Having children’s toys behind you, stacked boxes in the corner, television or music playing in the background and a dog jumping into your lap during a virtual meeting are not professional. For successful remote working, a professional and organized workspace is key.
A good balance of work and home time for employees must be established. With some flexibility, employers need to define the work hours and trust employees to live up to those hours.
81 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
supervise a remote workforce. But in the end, true leaders will always be open to change. The only constant is change, and if managed appropriately, change brings progress.
CHAMBER NEWS Connect
BIG NEWS! MONTGOMERY CHAMBER NAMED TOP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION The Chamber was named by Site Selection
and consider it for expansion,” Bruns said.
magazine as one of the nation’s Top 20 Economic Development organizations and
Bruns visited Montgomery in the summer
received the magazine’s 2020 Mac Conway
of 2019 and pointed out what he learned
Excellence in Economic Development
first-hand as he offered his personal
Award.
congratulations for the recognition. “I met
“
The Mac Conway Awards for Excellence in Economic Development, named in honor of Site Selection
so many of your wonderful staff and board members and leadership, as well as
YOU CONTINUE
founding publisher H.
TO IMAGINE
McKinley “Mac” Conway,
A GREATER
are awarded to the top local and regional U.S. economic development groups based on an index
area. I’ve seen how you’re taking advantage of assets like Maxwell-Gunter Air
MONTGOMERY AND TOGETHER AS A REGION,
of corporate job creation
YOU’LL MAKE THAT
and facility-related capital
VISION REAL.
investment data calculated
business leaders in the
Force Base, Alabama State, Trenholm State, the Equal Justice Initiative, and I see how you’re working as a team now with your Recover Together Business Hub and Relief Fund,” he said.
both cumulatively and per capita.
“Of course, maybe it’s your coffee shop that says it best – Together We
In a statement, Adam Bruns, Managing
Prevail. I am sure that’s going to be the case
Editor of Site Selection, noted the numbers
for you in the months and years ahead. It’s
that earned the Chamber the honor:
my hope that the projects and programs
more than a billion dollars invested, 32
you pursue in the days ahead continue to
companies, more than 1,200 new jobs all
offer your employers and your citizens a
in the last year. “It’s really not just about
wonderful vista and a promising future. You
the stars aligning, it’s about your priorities
continue to Imagine a Greater Montgomery
aligning, it’s about your assets and your
and together as a region, you’ll make that
constituents aligning, and that makes all the
vision real. So, congratulations once again
difference in the eyes of global corporate
and our best wishes for your continued
investors when they come to your region
health and prosperity.”
2020 IMPACT MAKERS Help the Chamber recognize the people and businesses who are making an impact by working to build a greater Montgomery by voting for this year’s MGM Impact Makers Awards. The awards honor and recognize member individuals and businesses
VOTE
JULY 20 THROUGH AUGUST 14
within the community who are making an impact in these areas:
Talent: Supporting education, workforce development, recruiting and maintaining young talent
Economy: Creating and preserving jobs, small business development, economic development and corporate recruitment
Image: Transforming Montgomery’s image and quality of place for locals, business owners and visitors
Community: Fostering collaboration among elected leadership; engaging business stakeholders and business owners to increase community capacity
Military: Making Montgomery the best hometown in the Air Force by supporting military neighbors and families and helping develop new industry verticals that sustain Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and enrich the entire River Region.
Visit montgomerychamber.com/ mgm-impact-makers for details.
COVID-19 RESOURCES & INFORMATION Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, your chamber has been hard at work collecting and disseminating critical resources and information to help you and your business manage the pandemic. Relevant information is monitored and updated daily on the Chamber’s COVID-19 website – montgomerychamber.com/covid-19. The mini website houses up-to-date information regarding Chamber operations, business continuity planning, COVID-19 media and releases, and it also provides critical resources and direct links to key government, organization, association and community websites.
82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
SOCI A L MEDI A IS NOT FREE! Even “free” organic posts cost time (and money).
AND YOU GOTTA BECAUSE:
70%
People spend
75 min
of users use it every day
a day on it
BUT: Less than
3%
of your followers see your posts
THE ANSWER: TARGETED LEAD GENERATION Gain more customers and increase your ROI by more than 200%
CONTACT US FOR RESULTS: Pam Mashburn
Christina Bennett
334.201.8787 pam@exploremedia.org
334.221.4619 christina@exploremedia.org
YOUR TARGETED MEDIA SPECIALISTS 83 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Member FAQs D ISCOV ER W H AT YO U R C H AMBER CAN DO FOR YOU AN D YOUR BUS IN ESS .
RECOVER TOGETHER SMALL BUSINESS HUB (HELPING UNITE BUSINESS)
Q:
What is the Recover Together Small Business Hub?
HOW LONG WILL THE HUB BE AVAILABLE? The program will be available indefinitely. The goal is to assist businesses as we weather this crisis together and to continue to serve the needs of businesses long after
A:
recovery. A communications, counseling and case management vehicle, the Recover Together
Small Business Hub provides a free clearinghouse service that helps identify and prioritize small business requests, and then connect those small businesses to the resources they need most. In addition to receiving requests for help, the Hub will be initiating community outreach to engage small and minority-owned businesses across Montgomery. This publicprivate collaboration is an early outcome of Mayor Steven Reed’s Economic Impact Task Force.
WHO ARE THE HUB SPECIALISTS? They are trained members of the Chamber staff who follow up directly with businesses in need and provide guidance, resources and referrals. Referrals will be made to the appropriate Hub partners to provide technical assistance and one-on-one
HOW DOES THE SMALL BUSINESS HUB WORK?
IS THE SMALL BUSINESS HUB FREE?
The Hub works by connecting business
Yes. The Hub is a free service provided by
owners with resources that will be the
the Chamber in partnership with The City
most beneficial to them as they navigate
of Montgomery, the Montgomery County
WHAT SUPPORT OPTIONS WILL THE HUB IDENTIFY AND HELP WITH?
the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Commission and the Small Business
The Hub Specialists will help small
Business owners fill out their Hub form by
Development Center at Alabama State
businesses understand the support options
going to recovermgm.com.
University.
Once a form is completed
WHY IS THIS SERVICE BEING OFFERED?
and submitted, a frontline Hub Specialist will triage requests. The Hub Specialist will either handle that request immediately, connect the business with the appropriate agency
THE HUB MISSION: Inform business owners and connect companies with the programs
or schedule a one-on-
they need.
available, including the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), Emergency Grants and Small Business Debt Relief. Business owners will
In the wake of the COVID-19
receive guidance on which option is best
pandemic, local businesses
for their individual business situation based
are laying off employees and
on the information provided and will be
closing their doors even as
connected with an appropriate partner to
assistance becomes available
help them take advantage of the identified
through a variety of state
program.
and federal emergency relief
one counseling session
programs. Many businesses
targeted to its specific
are simply not aware of
needs. A business may
counseling sessions.
the assistance or have had
also call 334-226-7529 to speak directly
difficulty accessing it. It is critical for
to a Hub Specialist about its needs. In
business owners to know what they can
addition to receiving requests for help, the
and should be doing to stay in business
Hub Specialist will be initiating community
and keep the economy going. The Hub
outreach to engage small and minority-
can inform business owners and connect
owned businesses across Montgomery.
companies with the programs they need.
84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
GET STARTED: VISIT MONTGOMERYCHAMBER. COM/HUB FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND RESOURCES.
85 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
Four Star Freightliner Names Coleson as CFO Four Star Freightliner, Inc. Controller
Cooper Named Alabama Power Vice President of Corporate Sustainability
Scott Coleson was promoted to Chief
Stephanie K. Cooper was named
Financial Officer (CFO), effective
Alabama Power’s Vice President
April 16, 2020. Coleson began his
of Corporate Sustainability. In this
career at Four Star Freightliner as a
new role, Cooper will oversee the
college intern nine years ago. After
development and implementation of the
his internship, he was hired full-time
company’s strategic initiatives related
by Four Star Freightliner as staff
to social responsibility, governance and
accountant. He was promoted to
sustainability.
senior staff accountant and then to controller for Four Star Freightliner’s seven locations. Gary Imdieke, who served Four Star Freightliner for nearly 20 years as CFO, retired in December.
Brent Cherry Joins Alliance Insurance Group After 12 years with BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama, Brent Cherry has joined Alliance Insurance Group. He served
New Waters Realty Continues to Grow
multiple roles at BCBSAL, most
Jennifer Atkins, Qualifying Broker
Large Group division. The clients he
and Vice President for New Waters
represented ranged from Fortune 500,
Realty Company, announced two
municipalities, hospital, transportation
new additions to the New Waters
and automotive companies.
recently as an Account Executive in the
Realty team, Realtor® Lynn McKinley and Realtor® Todd Taylor. McKinley
Faulkner University Announces Interim Dean
received her real estate license in
Dr. Leah Fullman was appointed as
2005 and for the last 14 years has
Interim Dean of Faulkner University’s
leased and managed commercial
College of Health Sciences. Fullman was
properties. Taylor is originally from
the University’s first hire in August 2016
East Tennessee and moved to
in the health sciences and spearheaded
Alabama to continue pursuing his
the development of the two existing
coaching/teaching career.
health science offerings: the BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders and the MA/MS in Speech-Language
Jessica Sparhawk Joins Bradley’s Montgomery Office
Pathology.
Jessica Sparhawk has joined Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP’s Montgomery office as an Associate in the Litigation Practice Group. Sparhawk received her J.D. from the University of Miami School of Law, where she was a member of the University of Miami Law Review. She received her Bachelor of Arts (magna cum laude) from the University of Nevada.
Huntingdon Names Director of Institutional Health Huntingdon College President J. Cameron West announced that Nyree Conville, R.N. was hired as the College's Director of Institutional Health. Conville began her nursing career in the emergency department at Jackson Hospital and has worked in emergency services, nursing management, case management and as a clinical documentation specialist for Coosa Valley Medical Center since 2000.
86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Kelly Fitzgerald Pate Selected as United States Magistrate Judge The judges of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama have selected Kelly Fitzgerald Pate to fill the United States Magistrate Judge vacancy to be created in the Middle District of Alabama due to the retirement of Magistrate Judge Wallace Capel on July 31, 2020. A native of Montgomery, Pate has been a civil litigator with the law firm of Balch and Bingham LLP since 2005. After a full background investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pate will be appointed by the Court to fill the vacancy.
Bill Taylor Joins Alabama Farmers Federation As Ag Policy Intern Auburn University (AU) senior Bill Taylor is spending his summer interning with the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Department of Governmental and Agricultural Programs (GAP). Taylor will work across departments to advocate for agriculture; produce ag policy communications; and strengthen his understanding of governmental and Federation work.
Jim Massey’s Cleaners Names Director of Training and Hires District Manager Bob Beisel was hired by Jim Massey’s in 2015 and recently promoted to Director of Training. His responsibilities include training all newly hired Jim Massey’s customer service representatives and managing and coordinating inventory documentation. Eric Guttensohn was named Jim Massey’s Cleaner’s River Region District Manager on April 27. Guttensohn works with each customer service representative and answers directly to customers, ensuring they have a pleasant experience at every Jim Massey’s location.
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
Achievements
and Priester’s Pecans Inc. received more than $15,000 in prizes and will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo
Triple E Farm and Priester's Pecans Named Alabama's 2020 Farm Of Distinction
Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest during the Sunbelt Ag Expo in October. Triple E Farm began in 1981 when Thomas bought part of a commercial beef herd from the widow of a respected cattleman. Two years later, he and Melissa built their first poultry houses. Today, the operation spans 1,000 acres and includes a 50-cow beef herd; 1,000 head of stocker cattle annually; and three poultry houses producing almost 400,000 chickens a year. Meanwhile, Priester’s Pecans cracks, shells and processes more than 1.5 million pounds of gift-quality nuts a year and produces candy, baked goods and snacks, which are marketed through retail stores, a website, fundraisers and wholesale agreements.
New Waters Realty Agents Earn National Endorsement Roderick Oree, Realtor®, and Jennifer Atkins, Broker, of New A Lowndes County beef, poultry and pecan operation was
Waters Realty have earned the Commitment to Excellence
named Alabama’s Farm of Distinction during the recent Alabama
endorsement (“C2EX”) from the National Association of
Farm-City Awards. Thomas and Melissa Ellis of Triple E Farm
Realtors®. The endorsement goes to Realtors® and Brokers who
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
have demonstrated knowledge and competency in 10 core areas
since February 2017. CRDN serves as part of
of real estate practice: Client Service, Professional Reputation, Real
the emergency response team by restoring
Estate Law, Realtor® Code of Ethics, Equal Service To All, Advocacy
textiles and electronics following disasters
of Real Property, Ownership, Trust and Integrity, Use of Technology,
such as fires or floods. At this year's CRDN
Data Privacy and Areas of Practice.
International Convention, Guthrie was awarded 2nd place in both Sales Professional of the
Copperwing Design Certified by Women’s Business Enterprise National Council
Year per Household and Sales Professional of the Year Mid-Market for the United States and
As a WBENC-certified company,
Canada.
Copperwing earns recognition for its diversity as a woman-owned and managed
Beasley Allen Attorneys Honored
company. This world-class certification is
Fourteen Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C. attorneys
accepted by more than 1,000 corporations
have been selected to the 2020 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff
representing America's most prestigious
Consumer Lawyers list: Jere Beasley, Founding Attorney; Greg Allen,
brands, as well as by federal, state and
Lead Products Liability Attorney; Tom Methvin, Managing Attorney;
local government entities and the (SBA)
Cole Portis, Personal Injury Section Head; Dee Miles, Consumer
Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program.
Fraud Section Head; Chris Glover, Managing Attorney – Atlanta;
Janet Guthrie Honored With International CRDN Awards
Section Head; LaBarron Boone, Executive Committee Member;
Janet Guthrie has worked as General Manager of Jim Massey’s
Leigh O’Dell, Executive Committee Member; Kendall Dunson; Larry
Restoration Division: CRDN of Montgomery and Central Alabama
Golston; Ted Meadows; and Navan Ward Jr.
Andy Birchfield, Mass Torts Section Head; Rhon Jones, Toxic Torts
89
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
ASU Honey Beez Docuseries Debuts A docuseries starring Alabama State University's renowned Honey Beez' plus-sized dance team debuted in April on Snapchat for a 10-episode gig, which helped keep millions of quarantined homebodies delighted and entertained. Hollywood reality television actress La La Anthony's production company featured the University's talented dance squad with highlights from its 2019-2020 season of performances. The program follows the Honey Beez and their coach from auditions to live performances at football games and other venues, while sharing some of the
Four Star Freightliner Partners with Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama
real-life highs and lows experienced by the
Four Star Freightliner and Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama are teaming up to reward heroes
young ladies along the way.
during the COVID-19 crisis: truck drivers. While they last, drivers who stop at the parts or service counters at any of Four Star Freightliner’s seven locations will be given a box of Girl Scout cookies. Boxes of the cookies were donated by Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama. The organization says it is proud to support the community during these unprecedented times. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has declared truck drivers as essential workers, in addition to a wide array of transportation and logistical occupations that support trucking.
River Region United Way President and CEO Resigns
Homes. A representative from Kelly Realty
River Region United Way (RRUW) President
fruitful partnership for many years to come.
and CEO Jimmy Hill has tendered his
said the company is looking forward to a
accept a statewide position in an area of
Caddell Construction Awarded Contract in Guam
personal interest. Hill served at the River
Caddell Construction, along with joint
The Shoppes at EastChase Launches Permanent Curbside Pickup Initiative
Region United Way for a total of 10 years,
venture partner Nan Construction, has
The Shoppes at EastChase recently
joining the organization in May 2010 as
been awarded another $100-plus million
launched “On the Go,” a curbside pickup
Vice President of Resource Development
contract to design and build a new
initiative throughout the shopping center.
and succeeding Russell S. Dunman as
barracks at the Naval Base in Guam. The
“On the Go” is a new program designed
President and CEO upon his retirement in
project award is the latest in a list of new
to adapt to the ever-changing needs of
2014.
work awarded this year, bringing the total
retailers and customers by offering another
value of new contracts to more than half a
avenue for the community to support their
billion dollars since January.
favorite brands and restaurants. Shoppers
resignation, effective June 1, 2020, to
Kelly Realty LLC Announces Partnership with The Billingsley Place Homeowners Association
may purchase products via a specific retailer Work will include the design and
website or place an order by phone with the
Kelly Realty LLC has entered into a
construction of a building complex with
retailer. The order will be fulfilled by store
management partnership with The
multiple floors to house unaccompanied
personnel, and then a pickup time will be
Billingsley Place Homeowners Association.
U.S. Marines at the Joint Region Marianas
scheduled. A designated landing page on
Located several blocks off Taylor
site on the island of Guam. The “BEQ-H”
The Shoppes at EastChase website lists
Road, Billingsley Place neighborhood
complex will include a Bachelor-Enlisted
participating retailers and includes phone
was established as a planned urban
Quarters tower, a utility facility, a washing
numbers to call upon arrival and location
development in 2004 by Lowder New
area and a community core building.
pickup areas.
90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Alabama Ag Credit Doubles Scholarship Fund Due to these uncertain times, Alabama Ag Credit has expanded its college scholarship program and awarded 23 scholarships, instead of 10 as initially planned. Each scholarship is valued at $1,000. The 2020
Four Star Freightliner Awards Six College Scholarships Four Star Freightliner recently awarded six high school seniors with the 2020 Zachary Sizemore Memorial Scholarship.
winners are: Shelby
Recipients were chosen for their academic
Marsh, Blake Carroll,
achievement, demonstrated leadership
Peyton Parkman, Mathew
and community activities in memory of the
Prater and Alesia McGraw
Four Star employee. Five out of the six
from Auburn University;
award winners include children of Four Star
Hudson Hines, Caleb
Freightliner employees.
Jordan and Caleb Powell from Coastal Alabama
The 2020 recipients are: Keeley Johnson,
Community College;
Marbury High School in Deatsville, Ala.;
Nicholas Walton Saunders
Jordan Granger, Prattville High School in
from Enterprise State
Prattville, Ala.; Chadwick Norris Jr., Trinity
Community College; Taylor
Presbyterian School in Montgomery; Hailey
Paris from Jacksonville State University; Garrett Barefoot from Lurleen B. Wallace Community College; Jacob Meadows, Caroline Parkman and Emily Strickland from Mississippi State University; Emma Wendland from Samford University; Aaron Trawick and Hill Stabler from University of Alabama; Reid Shackelford from Trenholm State Community College; Noah Carnley, Rebecca Starling and Sidney Davis from Troy University; Patrick McNeil from University of Alabama Birmingham; and Chole Nance from Wallace Community College.
91 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Earley, Callaway High School in LaGrange, Ga.; Bryce Shiver, Headland High School in Columbia, Ala.; and Carson Herring, Rehobeth High School in Dothan, Ala. Each student will receive a $1,000 award applicable to the college of their choosing.
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
ASU & Gadsden State's Presidents Sign Historic Agreement
The Presidents of Alabama State University and Gadsden State Community College signed a formal transfer articulation agreement - memorandum of understanding (MOU) - which provides a pathway for qualified Gadsden State students to study and earn undergraduate degrees from ASU. It was announced at one of the first virtual joint news conferences held between Alabama institutions of higher education with both ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. and Gadsden State President Dr. Martha Lavender signing the MOU for their respective schools.
ASU Offering Online Scholarships for Out-of-State Students Alabama State University officials announced plans to offer a new summer scholarship for new and returning out-of-state students. The Hornet Hive Online (HHO) scholarships help students with the cost of tuition during the University’s summer semester, particularly as they and the rest of nation are dealing with the challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic. University officials stressed that the Hornet Hive Online scholarship is a "special circumstances" scholarship, which only applies to
HHO scholarships are still responsible for all costs not covered under this award.
students who pay out-of-state tuition. Students who receive the
92 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
ARCHIT EC TS
Barganier Davis Williams Architects Associated Janet Harris 624 South McDonough Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-834-2038 bdwarchitects.com
Mr. Handyman of Montgomery, Auburn and Tallassee Joan Lasseter 1425 I-85 Parkway, Suite C Montgomery, AL 36106 334-366-9895 mrhandyman.com/montgomery-auburn-tallassee/
ASSOC IATIONS/N ON -P R OF I T
Alzheimer’s Association Aimee Johnson 2151 Highland Avenue South, Suite 210 Birmingham, AL 35205 205-379-8065 alz.org American Heart Association Jada Shaffer 1449 Medical Park Drive South Birmingham, AL 35213 334-233-3674 heart.org/en/affiliates/alabama/ montgomery
M A IN T E N A N C E /R E PA IR CO MPAN Y
JULY 2020 NEW MEMBERS H OS P I TA L S /C L IN IC S
Hughston Clinic Rachel Dye 128 Mitylene Park Lane Montgomery, AL 36117 334-245-6605 hughston.com
M A R K E T IN G /M A R K E T IN G R E SEARCH
Andrea Callahan International, Inc. Andrea Callahan 9164 EastChase Parkway, Suite 143 Montgomery, AL 36117 334-490-8009 andreacallahan.agency SHAXOR, LLC La'Queta Savage 3616 Erwin Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 334-209-5900 SHAXOR.com R E A L E STAT E - AG E N TS
D I STR IBUT ION/WHOL E SA L E
Ring Bomb Party® Lillian Coleman 410 North Eastern Boulevard, Suite C Montgomery, AL 36116 ringbombparty.com
I N FOR M AT IO N T E C H N O LO GY FIRMS
E VENT PLANNER
Alaska Northstar Resources, LLC Brian Knott 1749 Platt Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334-409-6305 aknorthstar.com
Thomas Event Innovations, LLC Aylajaquez Davis-Thomas 6175 Eric Lane Montgomery, AL 36116 334-231-4990 thomasinnovations.wixsite.com/mysite
Version3 Brandon Howard 3480 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, AL 36116 773-440-4409 version3.com
Wallace & Moody Realty Matthew Wallace 7051 Fain Park Drive #125 Montgomery, AL 36117 334-425-0333 wallaceandmoody.com
R E STAU R A N TS
Taco Mama Alan Renfroe 7208 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334-593-8298 tacomamaonline.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS PARAKELEO COUNSELING, LLC 382 Leavell Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-221-4746 • aliciaclaybon.com Alicia Claybon, Owner Counseling 93 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Numbers reflect April 2020 over April 2019. CHAMBER NEWS
Business Buzz
CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Economic Intel WE'RE HERE FOR YOU.
Recover Together Small Business Fund
• NOTEWORTHY NUMBERS • MGM 2019 TOURISM STATS
• MORE THAN 650 APPLICATIONS RECEIVED •
+18%
TOURISM TOTAL REVENUE:
75 LOCAL
$240,000+
SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESSES
AWARDED SO FAR
INCREASE IN THE PAST 2 YEARS
14,428
MGM
Source: Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
CIVILIAN
HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY
$1.025 BILLION
LABOR FORCE LABOR FORCE
171,420
147,476
JOBS
83% IN THE +PAST 10 YEARS
EMPLOYED
LABOR FORCE
Source: Alabama Tourism Department
HOUSING Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
SECTORS GOING UP
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR GOVERNMENT
FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
TRADE, TRANSPORTATION, WAREHOUSING & UTILITIES
INFORMATION
14% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
- 0.9% - 1.4%
429 TOTAL HOME SALES
- 3.1%
$183,222
- 5.0%
AVERAGE SALE PRICE
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
1,529 TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE
102 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area
95 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
MBJ
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101
96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL