Montgomery Business Journal - March 2018

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 / MARCH 2018

MBJ

L E G A L I N D U S T RY O V E R V I E W :

Adding Up Impacts of MGM Attorneys

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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CONTENTS MARC H 2018

THIS ISSUE: 10 16 24 38 40

Legal-Ease Flying High: The History of Maxwell State of the City & County

CHAMBER NEWS

Employee Wellness

08 Events

Boom: F-35 Coming to Montgomery

56 Connect 58 Connect Resource Guide

28 Powerhouse Q&A

62 Members on the Move

30 Member Profiles

64 Members in the News

44 GiveBack

67 Business Buzz

48 #MyMGM

72 Ribbon Cuttings

51 Regional Impact

76 New Members

55 Member Spotlight

78 Intel

60 Small Business Briefcase

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

S

5

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

MBJ

THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Randall L. George DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Jina Miniard

EXPLORE MEDIA PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn

MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay

ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy

DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird

CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Kornegay, Wendi Lewis, Serrah Nichols PHOTOGRAPHERS Shelby Berry Shubird, Bryan Carter, Michael Clemmer, Robert Fouts, David Robertson Jr., LaShanda Gaines ON THE COVER The F-35 program is on its way to Montgomery.

Image courtesy of Lockheed Martin Corporation.

ADVERTISING Anna Turner / 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 2018 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

All rights reserved.

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT

Committed to exceptional service, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce works to improve the economic well-being of the business community and enhance the quality of life of the area through the creation and preservation of jobs.

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. Subscription rate is $30 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 10, Issue 2.

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.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS

Events +

MA RK YO UR CALENDAR S FOR THE SE UP COMING C HAMB E R E V E NTS

Upcoming Workshops

MAR

22

60 Minute Coffees & Business After Hours

State of the City & County RSA Activity Center 7:30-8:30 am

These popular networking events are the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers.

Join community and business leaders, elected officials and military leaders during this annual breakfast event and hear from Mayor Todd Strange and County Commission Chairman

3/14

Elton Dean Sr. as they give a comprehensive update on the State of the City and County.

60 Minute Coffee Sponsor: Alabama Artificial Limb Orthopedic Services; Location: Montgomery Antiques & Interiors

Presenting Sponsor: Baptist Health

3/29 Business After Hours Sponsor: Spectrum Reach; Location: Alabama Shakespeare Festival

4/18 60 Minute Coffee Sponsor & Location: Newk’s Eatery

4/26 APR

12

Business After Hours Sponsors: ASE Credit Union and ASK Location: ASK

Chamber Golf Classic Wynlakes Golf & Country Club

5/9

The Chamber Golf Classic is the River Region’s

60 Minute Coffee Sponsor & Location: MACOA

premier business golf tournament. Come network on a beautiful golf course with Chamber members, elected officials, community leaders

BUSINESS Resource Center

Business 101: Start it Up! March 6, 20; April 3, 17; May 1, 15; 8:30-9:30 am at the Chamber’s BRC No registration required. $10 fee.

Establish a strong foundation for your new or existing business. Topics covered include locating financing, writing a business plan and finding expert advice.

Presenting Sponsor: The BeneChoice Companies, LLC

New Around Here?

CHAMBER MEMBER ORIENTATION April 4, 8-9 am at the Chamber This informal orientation is the perfect event for members to connect and engage with each other, give a brief overview of their business or service and hear from the Chamber President, Randy George, on the Chamber’s top goals and initiatives that impact the local business climate.

Sponsored By: BB&T

and potential clients. The flights usually sell out, so register now! Presenting Sponsor:

MAY

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Wynlakes Golf & Country Club

APR

25

Military Salute Riverwalk Stadium

Chamber and business leaders join the city’s

Conversations: Women In Business Wynlakes Golf & Country Club

elected officials to host military leaders at

All Ears // BizTalk MGM - The Official Podcast

Riverwalk Stadium in recognition of the military’s

for Small Business in MGM

The Chamber’s “Conversations” is an opportu-

vital role to our community. Discounted tickets

Every Monday at 6pm on WVAS

nity for professional women to come together

are made available to more than 1,700 military

90.7FM, Montgomery Chamber staff

to discuss business and share best practices

members and their families during this annual

plus host Melissa Johnson Warnke

unique to women in the workforce. Lunch

Biscuits Baseball event.

from the Alabama Retail Association

Sponsor: River Region Dermatology & Laser

Presenting Sponsor: HCS Group, PC

talk with business experts on topics that are important to small businesses.

Register now: montgomerychamber.com/events

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Sponsor: MAX

MONTGOMERY AREA C HAM BE R OF COM M E RC E

TROY U N IVE RSITY

OUR TROJAN WARRIOR SPIRIT Monica S., Graduate Student Computer Science. Hyderabad, India.

TROY University is a proud partner of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Chamber members are eligible for 10% tuition scholarships and application fee waivers. For more information, visit troy.edu/Montgomery or call 1-800-414-5756.

◆

MONTGOMERY

© 2018 Troy University

Now more than ever, Troy Montgomery is fueling success. At our state university, working professionals are getting the degrees they need to not only seize opportunities but to also create them. That’s progress.

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM That’s the Trojan Warrior9 Spirit, and it’s alive and well at Troy University.

◆

LEGAL

LegalEase

IN

BRIEF

The Law in Our Land

Take a look at the many

ways the legal profession and those who practice it contribute to our community, and it’s easy to see how essential this industry is in our area.

WHEN YOU THINK OF INDUSTRIES AND SECTORS THAT DRIVE OUR ECONOMY, the legal profession may not be the first (or even second or third) category to enter your mind, but in Montgomery County, with 1,687 attorneys currently in practice (and the majority located in the city of Montgomery), lawyers make a formidable footprint, one that leaves a positive mark on several key aspects of many Montgomerians’ lives, as John Bradley, director of admissions at the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law explained. “We have a large number of lawyers and firms here, and that’s a good thing on several levels,” he said. “The economic impact is large, particularly when you look at jobs. The legal industry is one of the area’s major employers.”

A Time of Plenty In many law firms, support staff outnumbers the attorneys, meaning each lawyer provides several jobs. One of the city’s largest and most known firms, Beasley Allen, has 80-plus attorneys with 225 support staff. While some of these people work in the firm’s Atlanta office, most are here.

A high number of lawyers also provides a lot of options for area consumers. “That’s great for business owners; it means they have a lot of choices in legal representation and means there is a wealth of legal knowledge and resources at businesses’ disposal here,” Bradley said. Beasley Allen’s founder Jere Beasley agreed. “The number and diversity of practice areas is a great resource,” he said. “And now, many

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

LEGAL

IN

BRIEF

lawyers are specializing, and that is

almost all local businesses with

really important; it means they know

respect to their development and

their stuff and have real expertise in

planning as well as compliance with

a particular field.”

legal requirements.”

A vibrant legal community is a plus

By creating jobs themselves and

SHOWING OFF

for the city’s image and economic

assisting other businesses in doing

development too, as Davis Smith,

the same, lawyers play a quantifi-

Each year, Beasley Allen

managing partner at Gilpin Givhan

able role in Montgomery’s prog-

explained. His 12-attorney firm

ress. But there are types of legal

primarily practices corporate and

work that impact our lives in ways

tax law. “We see a lot of businesses

we may not realize. “I don’t think

and investors looking to come into

people understand the burden that

Alabama. You look at downtown,

lawyers bear for clients and how

and a lot of that is coming from

that alone adds to our community

out of state, and there are a lot of

in a positive way,” said Suzanne

lawyers helping get those deals

Duffey of the Montgomery County

done,” he said. “Because our local

Bar Association.

legal infrastructure includes many

hosts a legal conference that brings thousands of attorneys to the capital city. In 2017, its eleventh event drew 1,493 lawyers, many with their spouses, to get an inside look at a recent case Beasley Allen successfully litigated. The event is the largest of its kind in the state and one of the top five legal

sophisticated attorneys who know

Sharing & Serving

how to do this, we help make the

Many firms believe being located

area attractive to companies looking

“These lawyers stayed

in the capital city gives them plenty

to do business here.”

here for at least one night

of benefits too. Balch & Bingham

and ate here too, and

has 20 attorneys in Montgomery Hank Hutchinson, managing partner

that’s a lot of folks, so it

and has been doing business here

at Cappell & Howard echoed Smith.

has a real impact,” Beasley

for decades. While it now has 215

“Capell & Howard and other firms

said. Dawn Hathcock, Vice

attorneys in seven offices, and its

have played a leading role in the

President, Destination &

founding office opened in Birming-

development and growth of new

Brand Development for

ham 100 years ago, its second

and existing businesses in the River

the Chamber agreed.

office, which currently has 22 law-

Region and have had a positive

“We have been pleased

yers, was opened in the capital city.

impact on the quality of life in the

to welcome the confer-

“Montgomery is the hub of state

region,” he said. “Lawyers are often

ence here for more than

government, so it makes sense for

principal participants in the securing

a decade,” she said. “It

us to be here and to stay here,” said

and locating of new and expanding

provides lawyers from all

managing partner Riley Roby. The

businesses and assist and advise,

over an opportunity to see

corporate law firm practices in a

together with other professionals,

everything Montgomery

number of areas but devotes a lot of

has to offer as a destina-

conferences in the country.

tion, and we hope that translates into return visits for vacations, events or

“As the capital city, Montgomery should be the model for the rest of the state in both commerce and culture, and I think lawyers

additional meetings. In addition, hosting nearly 2,000 attendees provides

have an obligation to support both and to be

a huge economic impact in

active in the community other than in their

the River Region estimated

work: through charitable giving and by getting involved in issues to drive it forward.”

- JERE BEASLEY, FOUNDING PARTNER, BEASLEY ALLEN

to be $1 million.”

LEGAL IN

its attention to energy, environmental

in-house legal clinics. “These allow

and financial services matters. “Many

our law students (under supervision)

of our clients are regulated by state

the opportunity to provide no-cost

agencies and are routinely engaging

legal services to indigent clients.”

with those groups, so it’s the right

The mediation clinic actually helps

BRIEF

spot for us.”

GETTING SCHOOLED

Recognizing that they’re in the “right spot” for continued growth and

more than the clients it serves. “Our students mediate small claims cases and have a high settlement rate, so that helps our area keep court costs

success, Montgomery’s lawyers are

The Thomas Goode Jones

heavily represented in the city’s phil-

School of Law brings almost

anthropic ranks. But this involvement

100 students from outside of

Hutchinson outlined the legal indus-

is also a natural extension of a ser-

Alabama to the capital city.

try’s community involvements. “Mont-

vice mindset, according to Bradley.

Out if its enrollment of 230

gomery area attorneys are involved

“You see a large level of engagement

future lawyers, approximately

in almost all civic and philanthropic

in the community and lots of giving

34 percent come from beyond

organizations throughout the region,”

down,” Bradley said.

the state’s borders. And it’s

he said. “Our firm’s attorneys have

important to note its accredited

substantially participated in most of

status. Having an accredited

the prominent Montgomery charita-

law school is a positive

ble organizations in some capacity,

While having more engaged citizens

the Chamber’s economic

including our being a leading con-

is an obvious plus for the city and its

development team often touts

charitable and civic organizations, it

in its business recruitment

back from our legal professionals,” he said. “It’s because the legal profession is really about service.”

tributing law firm to the River Region United Way for a number of years.”

helps Bradley in his work too. “It is a

and expansion efforts. “It’s a

draw for students to our law school

major asset for our community

And it’s not just time and mon-

in multiple ways,” said Ellen

ey these lawyers donate, Smith

to see such an active, committed

McNair, The Chamber's

explained. “When you have a lot of

Vice President, Corporate

lawyers like we do, you see them all

Development.

over the boards of non-profits, and

legal community here,” he said.

Jones teaches its students the value of giving back through its three

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT While lawyers are sometimes stereotyped as shady and even have their own comedy category – lawyer jokes abound – they play a key part in our society. “I hate the bad name that lawyers get. They are so important to our way of life, to our democracy and justice system,” said Suzanne Duffey

GIVING BACK

Red Oak Legal expressed the same sentiment. “I tend to think that lawyers

MAKES GOOD BUSINESS

do more good than harm. While many are quick to blame lawyers as a

Capell & Howard was named as

source of what’s wrong with society, lawyers are at the forefront of ensur-

a 2016 Alabama Small Business

ing that business gets done,” he said. “Both individuals and businesses

of the Year due to the firm’s

need to be confident their contracts can be enforced, their debts collected

business successes across

and their property protected.” His firm specializes in elder law, protecting

the Southeast but also for its

a segment of our population often at risk and in need of help navigating

high level of involvement in the

age-specific issues that can be complex, things like drafting wills and wad-

River Region and its committed

ing through government benefits programs like Medicaid. “Attorneys are at

participation in the Montgomery

the front line of ensuring that the basic rules of a civil society are enforced,

Area Chamber of Commerce

and that’s good for everyone,” Wiggins said.

and other organizations.

of The Montgomery County Bar Association. Attorney Raley L. Wiggins of

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

LOCALS

H AN K HU TC HIN S ON

JOH N B R A D LEY

R A LEY L. W I G G I N S

SU ZA N N E D U F FE Y

they are there to provide legal expertise in

They do it because of a call to serve, but

addition to other things,” he said.

some also do it for their home, like Smith, a

Duffey echoed Hutchinson and Smith.

“Montgomery area lawyers do so much pro bono legal work to help people who have no one else to go to bat for them,” she said. “It adds up to thousands of volunteer hours put into the County Bar Association Foundation’s Volunteer Lawyers Program.

And they don’t ask for recognition; they do it because it is the right thing.”

ROLL CALL 178 = NUMBER OF LAW FIRMS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY 1,687 = NUMBER OF ATTORNEYS IN PRACTICE IN COUNTY Source: Montgomery County Bar Association

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Montgomery native who has high hopes for Montgomery’s future. “I’d love to see more new businesses formed here,” Smith said. “I already see an entrepreneurial spirit here, and I want to see more of it. Encouraging the creation of start-ups will bring more jobs, and those small and medium businesses create a professional and sustaining workforce that grows everything over time.”

LEGAL

CHANGING TIMES

CONNECTION COUNTS As the capital city of Alabama, Mont-

Q&A WITH COUNSEL

gomery is a hot spot for governmental affairs. Lobbying is big business here, and while many local law firms have

IN

BRIEF

We asked two Montgomery attorneys, Davis Smith and Riley Roby,

made these services a component of

about the changes and trends they’ve seen in their profession in the

their client offerings, the opportunity to

15-plus years they’ve both been in practice.

gain real “facetime” with political leadership has drawn some firms based eliminates the use of paper as we can now file “paperwork” digitally and submit pleadings and other documents electronically. The internet gives us amazing access to information

RILE Y ROBY

DAVIS S MI T H

for research, and the communication with our clients is faster

MBJ: How has technology affected the way you do business?

and more efficient too.

Smith: It has really helped us spread

MBJ: What else has changed?

our footprint out in terms of the

in other cities to open offices here. It wasn’t the main reason Butler Snow, a firm based in Mississippi, opened its office here in 2011, but it has played a role. “Opening here had more to do with an opportunity to partner with a great group of lawyers that could provide tremendous value to the firm’s commercial litigation group; however, it also provided a launch pad for another key practice area, government relations,” said Ross Gunnells, Butler Snow’s Senior Government Rela-

tions Advisor. “GOVERNMENT

AFFAIRS REPRESENTS THE FASTEST GROWING PORTION OF OUR TEAM’S WORK IN MONTGOMERY.”

clients we can serve. The days of

Roby: In some cases, the advances

closing a transaction where everyone

of technology have driven costs

sits around a table for eight hours are

down, but in others, like guys doing

very few and far between now. We

very specialized work, they may now

can handle so much online, through

be able to charge a premium. We are

email, and that makes everything

seeing a move toward more special-

much more efficient. And as we reach

ization in the legal profession.

leads Butler Snow’s government affairs

in other places how great Montgom-

Smith: Recruiting has gotten easier

government’s legislative process,

ery is and highlight the quality of

for us. Historically, it was difficult to

legal services available here.

get young attorneys here, but now

more areas, we can show businesses

they can see our downtown devel-

Roby: Technology has significantly

opment and other progress, and the

and positively altered the practice of

internet and other tech has helped

law. For one, it has moved us from a

us spread that message. That has

paper-intensive professional service

helped us bring more qualified young

to one that minimizes or now almost

attorneys to Montgomery.

Gunnells was Governor Bentley’s Legislative Director and now, with Derek Trotter, another of the former governor’s Legislative Directors, he practice, helping clients navigate state procurement and regulation. “Offering these services creates value to current firm clients,” Gunnells said. “And as a capital city where legislation is created, having law makers and legal firms working side-by-side along with businesses and industry is critical.”

By the Numbers

A REAL IMPACT

HOW THE JOBS ADD UP

CLOSE TO $147,000,000 TOTAL ANNUAL WAGES 14

$104,456 ANNUAL WAGES PER EMPLOYEE

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

R OSS G U N N ELLS

FLYING

H IGH A LOOK AT

100 YEARS

FROM THE SKY.

Image byThomas Meneguin.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Courtesy of the Alabama Department of Archives & History.

Orville and Wilbur Wright, the “fathers of flight,” opened the first civilian flight school on the outskirts of Montgomery in 1910.

In the Beginning In 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright made the dream of flight a reality when their bi-plane soared above the sands in Kittyhawk, North Carolina, for 12 seconds, covering 120 feet.

After many more flights going longer and farther, on March 26, 1910, the duo established the nation’s first civilian flying school in Montgomery on an abandoned cotton plantation,

Since its formation in 1918, Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and the capital city have been linked. Location was the initial common bond, but over the century-long relationship, a true partnership has emerged, one built on shared goals and shared vision that have proved key for both the area’s and the base’s prosperity. It’s changed all of Alabama too: The base’s presence in Montgomery provided impetus for the profusion of aviation and aerospace activity that’s taken off throughout the entire state. Today, as the base celebrates a milestone anniversary, the ties between Montgomery and Maxwell are stronger than ever, and the two are looking ahead to the next 100 years and what continued collaboration will bring.

and the first powered flight in Alabama took place. Dr. Robert Kane, Air University Director of History, explained why the Ohio-based brothers chose Montgomery. “After that very first flight, the Wright brothers perfected their plane design and got ready to patent it and then sell planes,” he said. “But they needed pilots to buy airplanes, so they decided to create their target market by giving flight lessons.” For their training courses, the brothers needed mild year-round weather and felt they’d find it in the South. Wilbur was investigating possibilities in Jacksonville, Florida, when someone told him he ought to check out Montgomery. “City leaders were thrilled to have him here; they wanted to move the city forward and saw aviation as a way to do that,” Kane said. Wooing the Wrights here was one of the newly formed Chamber’s first economic development efforts. And it was successful. “They worked hard to sell Wilbur, offering some incentives, helping him find good, flat land and even donating some materials for the hangar,” Kane said. Since the city already had the right weather, the Wrights confidently started operations here.

Though the Wrights’ school lasted only a short time, it set the stage for exciting things to come in Montgomery, most notably the establishment of Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base

by Jennifer Kornegay

at the very same place that witnessed the state’s first flight.

Courtesy of the Air University History Office, Maxwell AFB, AL.

Image courtesy of Maxwell Air Force Base.

Big numbers = big impact for all in our area: $2.6 billion

The annual economic impact of our area’s entire military complex

Left: Newly renovated Civil Air Patrol National Headquarters, as it looked in 2010 .

Right: Free French flight cadets at the Gunter Field basic (phase 2) flight school at a parade in 1943.

With World War I raging, the Army Air Service

deceased mayor William A. Gunter, and an

(precursor to the Air Force) established Aircraft

advanced school (phase three) at Maxwell.

and Engine Repair Depot No. 3 at this spot in 1918, marking the foundation of what would

In 1946, Air University was established as a

become Maxwell-Gunter AFB. In 1922, the War

major command at Maxwell and tasked with

Department re-named the depot Maxwell Field

preparing Air Force personnel for the future.

in honor of Second Lieutenant William C.

It was to be different from other military ed-

Maxwell, an Alabama pilot who died in 1920.

ucation institutions, as its leaders worked to break from traditionalism and expand beyond

The Making of Maxwell

the rigid thought and doctrine of past military education. Its importance to the nation and the overall goals of the Air Force cannot be

The next major step in the base’s journey came in 1928, when the War Department decided to relocate the Air Corps Tactical School (ACTS)

68,473 people

from Virginia to Maxwell Field, drastically increasing the number of personnel at the field from 210 to nearly 2,000, when the ACTS

(nearly 20 percent of our population):

officially opened at Maxwell in 1931. The open-

The number of active

the country’s intellectual center for airpower

duty military and students in/at Air University, AF Reserve, National Guard, DoD civilians, military contractors,

ing also signaled Maxwell’s move to become education.

underestimated: Maxwell is the premier Air Force educational base. “Air University is the strategic center of the Air Force,” Kane said. “It provides a very broad spectrum of education and training across several hundred professional continuing education programs, several degree granting programs and more. Currently, AU graduates about 80 percent of new Air Force officers every year, and just about every airman (enlisted, officer and reserve) will in some form or fashion be touched by AU.”

In 1941, Maxwell’s mission grew again. Air Corps established a basic school (phase two

Growth at Air University and on Maxwell

of the Air Corps’ three-phased flight training)

overall continued for decades. By the time

at Montgomery’s Municipal Airport, called

the Vietnam War was over, the modern era of

Gunter Field in honor of Montgomery recently

Air University was starting. AU re-energized

military retirees and all their family members in the greater Montgomery Metro Area.

Don’t Miss It

Celebrate Maxwell AFB’s 100 Year Anniversary April 6-7, 2018 with a centennial themed Biscuits Baseball game on Friday night and a Riverfront Block Party on Saturday. Visit visitingmontgomery.com for complete details.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

100

RS

A YE

its mission and curriculum was

AU’s Cyber College, officially

overhauled to “put the ‘war’ back

formed in 2017, is aimed directly

into the war college.”

at countering the world’s growing cyber threat. Other programs

As far back as 1993, leaders at

along the same lines include the

AU were deemed the “maverick

e-School of Learning for officer

thinkers” of the Air Force, and

distance learning and the AU

today, the base and its leadership

research task forces and Integra-

are excelling in this role. Proof

tion Cell.

is in the efforts, started in 2013, to transform officer and enlisted

In 2018, Air University and

professional military education

Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base

programs using new education

continue working toward lofty

Host with the Most

technologies and methods, such

goals, goals that are integral to

as blended learning and Internet

our country’s progress and safety:

In 2015, the warm welcome and strong support that Mont-

platforms. In 2015, under the new

to formulate Air Force concepts,

gomery has consistently provided to all who live and work at

AU commander and president,

doctrines and strategies and to

Maxwell earned the city a prestigious national award, the Altus

Lt. Gen. Steven L. Kwast, Max-

educate tomorrow’s planners and

Trophy. The recognition is presented annually to the city that

well launched a new initiative, a

leaders in air, space and cyber-

has shown the most “outstanding support to an Air Education

tech-focused strategy to better

space power for the Air Force,

and Training Command base,” and Montgomery was chosen

prepare the Airmen who will

other branches of the armed forc-

from many other cities for the distinction. The city is proud to

lead tomorrow’s Air Force in an

es, federal government civilians

be recognized as the “Best Hometown of the Air Force.”

increasingly unpredictable world.

and international organizations.

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Image courtesy of Maxwell Air Force Base.

Beyond Borders

Col. Ken Backes presides over an Officer Training School Commissioned Officer Training graduation.

Maxwell-Gunter AFB’s presence in Montgomery brings with it multiple positive impacts like the cultural breadth and depth that Air University’s International Officer School brings. The program brings close to 250 officers and their families from countries all over the globe – Israel, Australia, Japan and more – to live and learn in Montgomery each year. Area families volunteer to sponsor these students and

Better Together

their families. Since 1954, more than 11,000 international military

Ever since Maxwell-Gunter AFB located in the capital city, a beneficial relationship has flourished. The base has an estimated

“Folks feel welcome here

annual economic impact of $2.6 billion,

and want to stay or come

and that number keeps growing, but its

back. My last assignment

value goes far beyond dollars and cents, as Kane explained. “The base population provides a qualitative presence thanks to a number of collaborative events we do with the community, like this past September, when we provided some of our Air Force

students from 143 countries have graduated from IOS preparatory courses and added some international flavor to our community.

was Maxwell, and we decided to stay because we love the area.”

MGMWERX

- Dr. Robert Kane, Air University Director of History

The Montgomery community (city,

7,000 visitors,” he said.

plug into that on the private side; our part-

contractors and our higher educa-

nership with the Air Force has a positive

tion institutions) have worked with

As Charisse Stokes, President of Tidal IT

impact on our businesses’ bottom lines

Maxwell-Gunter AFB to create an

Solutions and part of the Chamber’s cyber

and on our residents’ quality of life.”

innovation center that will allow all

paintings for exhibit at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, an exhibit that drew

innovation team pointed out, base person-

COMING

SOON

county, state, private industry, DoD

these entities to collaborate and

nel contribute to the city simply by being

She also outlined Maxwell-Gunter’s inte-

innovate more efficiently. “MGMWERX

here. “The people of Maxwell-Gunter AFB

gral role in the city’s newest and fastest

will be an off-base innovation center,”

bring us a wealth of intellectual capital and

growing sector, innovation and technology.

said Joe Greene, The Chamber’s Vice

information technology expertise as well

“This is where we are really moving for-

President, Military & Innovative Strate-

as experience across several other demo-

ward, working with the base on the Smart

gies. “It will allow Air University to col-

graphics and areas,” she said. “Because

City-Smart Base initiatives and leveraging

laborate with our tech companies and

professional military education occurs at

our military resources to solve problems

universities on issues of importance to

Maxwell, they have a variety of personnel

on the civilian side,” Sanders said.

cyber and national security,” he said.

that spend time here and lend their skillsets and talents to the community.”

Located in downtown Montgomery Sanders went on to stress the value of the

and funded by the Air Force, it will be

connection that forms between Mont-

a spot where the military can share

Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama

gomerians and base personnel. “The

ideas and expertise with our tech

Power’s Southern Division, agreed. “Max-

people that work at Maxwell are integral

creatives. It will also allow students at-

well has a worldwide scope and impact,

to our community,” she said. “They can be

tending courses on base to work with

and it is here in Montgomery, allowing

here for six weeks to 30 years, either way,

tech innovators in the private sector.

Montgomery to affect the world, again,”

they are a crucial part of the fabric of our

she said. “It also gives us an opportunity to

community.”

20

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Giving Back As Sanders mentioned, the generosity of base personnel is another positive they add to the area, donating their time and talents to give back. Airmen stationed at the base routinely volunteer to staff local events, assist local charities, plant trees, tutor area students, hold and participate

Freedom Park ribbon cutting.

in blood drives, food drives, park and public school cleanup efforts and more.

assignment was Maxwell, and we decided

“Our population volunteers and engages

to stay because we love the area.”

with many groups and organizations here, putting in tens of thousands of volunteer

Sanders and other business and civic lead-

hours each year,” Kane said.

ers have long understood the prominent

And many people who’ve served even a

past and present and the critical role it will

short time at Maxwell-Gunter AFB return

play in the city’s future, and she’s thrilled

to make Montgomery a permanent home.

more people are coming to the same con-

“One great indicator of how all the collabo-

clusion. “There has never been a time that

ration works is that Montgomery has large

the partnership between the city and base

military retiree presence,” he said. “Folks

has been as strong as it is now,” she said.

feel welcome here and want to stay or come

“I think the world is going to be amazed at

back. My wife and I are an example. My last

what is going to come out of here soon.”

place the military occupies in Montgomery’s

21

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

“The people that work at Maxwell are integral to our community much more than even helping provide a positive and strong economic impact.

They can be here for six weeks to 30 years; either way, they are a crucial part of the fabric of our community.”

- Leslie Sanders, Vice President of Alabama Power’s Southern Division

Tech TOWN

+

Thanks in large part to MaxwellGunter AFB’s presence here, Montgomery has grown to become a hub of military aviation advancements and information technology, with multiple IT companies headquartered here to support contracts and services for the Maxwell-Gunter IT complex. The bases are also crucial players in the city and Chamber’s TechMGM initiative, collaborating heavily with the community on multiple tech and cyber initiatives.

Here are a few points to ponder

There are two broad

These two complimentary

categories of focus for the

focuses led General Kwast

Air Force in Montgomery.

(former AU commander) to

11) Thought leadership and

create the Air Force Cyber

education of Air Force

College under Air

leaders at Maxwell, and

University that seeks to

2) managing, developing, 2

train Air Force leadership

procuring and defending all

to think more critically

the technical and software

about the newest form

systems for the ENTIRE Air

of warfare:

Force (worldwide).

cyber warfare.

from Joe Greene, The Chamber’s

TechMGM has created the internet exchange, developed the RSA Datacenter, established coding communities and accelerated tech certification programs and is currently working with Alabama Power and other entities to lay an extensive fiber network downtown and to the bases to support these efforts.

Vice President, Military & Innovative Strategies:

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A MASSIVE — and successful — TEAM EFFORT TO LAND THE F-35 MISSION HAS MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION READY TO GO SUPERSONIC.

LAND

IN G SOO

N

24

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

. . .

LEGACY

THE

W

OF OUR LOCATION

hen an object travels through the air faster than the speed of sound, a shockwave is created, and this wave produces

an audible thunderous burst known as a sonic boom.

Often associated with jets — since they attain the

Brig. Gen. Randy Efferson, Chief of Staff Air

velocity necessary to break the sound barrier — sonic

National Guard, enthusiastically explained

booms generate tremendous energy. On December 20, a sonic boom exploded across Montgomery; it was

how winning the F-35 program will help

a shockwave of excitement and opportunity brought

continue the important legacy of the Red

on by Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II jet.

Tails. “The 187th Fighter Wing is home to There may not have been an F-35 anywhere near

the 100th Fighter Squadron, which is one

the capital city on that day, but when the news broke

of the original Tuskegee units dedicated to

that Montgomery was getting the coveted fleet of F-35s, that it would be “bedding down” in the capital

flying African Americans in combat fighter

city with the historic 187th Fighter Wing, it had the

aircraft,” he said. “This is a very important

same earth-shaking, house-rattling and awe-inspiring

and immeasurable legacy for the State of

effect of an actual sonic boom. And it had much more

Alabama. Receiving the F-35 ensures this

significance.

legacy for the next half-century.”

The announcement led to a wave of excitement and hometown pride. Leaders and officials touted the huge economic boost it will bring to our area and the entire state. Before the first plane arrives, jobs will be created and capital investment will occur. And the image boost is just as important. “While the direct economic impact is impressive, the cutting-edge military technology and ongoing missions at Maxwell and Gunter will attract more innovators and technology professionals here,” said Leslie Sanders, Vice President, Southern Division for Alabama Power and chair of the F-35 task force that worked tirelessly to bring this impressive win to the city.

But they also praised the high level of collaboration

Im a g e c ou r te sy of Loc kh e e d M a rt in b y A n ge l D e l cu e to.

from the community and the productive teamwork

25

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

approach that led to the achievement. “The F-35 effort was special because every aspect of our community rallied in support — our military partners, business community, civic leadership and incredible support from our elected leaders. Few issues have created such unity,” said Sanders. “There was incredible collaboration at every level. I have not been involved in a project in which there was such close partnership between the military, public officials, business community, education leaders and private citizens. We often met several times a week to discuss opportunities presented and potential obstacles. When calls were made for help, we found open doors and willing support.”

IN THE AIR

ENGINE:

An array of technical innovations make the F-35 the most advanced fighter jet in the Air Force. The combination of extreme stealth, maneuverability, improved communication between the pilot and the craft and between multiple aircraft mean it can do the job of multiple jets. It’s also more effective, more survivable and less expensive to maintain than previous fighter jets.

Single Pratt & Whitney F135 or GE Rolls-Royce fighter engine

SPEED: Mach 1.6

IN IT TOGETHER Development partner countries: Australia, Britain, Canada, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway and Turkey

WEAPONS PAYLOAD: 6,800 kg to 8,160 kg

42%

of the jet is built of composite materials

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

“We couldn’t have gotten far without political courage shown by elected

Now that the F-35s coming here is official, Montgomery will be moving forward even faster, preparing to take off and reach new heights. CHECK OUT THESE STRATOSPHERIC STATS:

leaders at every level (local, state and federal).

Senator Shelby was extremely instrumental at the Federal level, as were Congresswomen Sewell and Roby. On the

The bed down of the F-35s directly protects a collective

state and local level, we received outstanding support from Governor Ivey and every elected official in the city of Montgomery as well as

4,000 JOBS.

the County. That translated into successfully

It will ensure that both the Montgomery and Birmingham Air National Guard units, as well as their associated units throughout the state, remain active for the next 50 years.

building a coalition of people unwilling to settle for ‘almost.’ We’re proud of our military partners; we’re proud to call them neighbors and friends.

In a few years, I’ll be proud to hear the roar overhead and know we were all a small part in helping bring the F-35 home to Montgomery.”

– Leslie Sanders

27

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Direct economic impact (salary and operations management) of current mission:

$80 MILLION ANNUALLY

OTHER IMPACTS: The F-35 represents

$2 BILLION WORTH OF AIRCRAFT (20 aircraft)

to be stationed at Dannelly Field.

VESTOR IN

OFIL

Q&A

E

BILL HUDGENS A Hudgens has been in the cockpit flying Montgomery Aviation forward for more than 70 years.

The Fixed Based Operator company that Bill Hudgens now owns was started by his father in 1945, making it the oldest FBO continually operated by its founding family in the state. That’s a long flight, requiring multiple course adjustments along the way, but Hudgens still loves the business and is in the process of expanding and upgrading Montgomery Aviation’s facilities.

Question? Answer.

What does Montgomery Aviation do? We are a Field. We are basically a private aviation terminal and service

Since you bought Pensacola Aviation in 2012 and split your time between here and there, why stay in Montgomery? It is home. We’ve put a

station. We sell fuel, provide hangar space and storage for

lot of effort into this community, and we have a lot of sweat

planes, a pilots’ lounge and other services, including main-

equity in this company that my father built. I’m very pleased

tenance and flight training through a company called Box

to be in a position to continue that. And I’m proud of what

Aviation, for aircraft owners, be they private or corporate.

Montgomery has become and is becoming. What we have

Fixed Base Operator for private aircraft located at Dannelly

accomplished is due to a lot of good people here, our Cham-

Give us a brief history of Montgomery Aviation.

ber and its leaders, Mayor Strange, County Commissioner

My father and a few other investors founded it in 1945. They

Dean and many more. They have great vision and energy.

opened up using old surplus WWII planes. The company at that time offered charter flights, which we no longer do. My dad was also a flight instructor, and the company was a Piper

How important is the Montgomery Regional Airport to the city and its future? It’s really crucial to so much here. We have a great relationship with the air-

distributor.

port, and it serves as a gateway for tourists and folks doing

How long have you been in the business? I was

business here. Without it, our economic development efforts

always out here as a kid and always knew I wanted to do

would be stifled. Other efforts and industries like manufac-

this. I got an aviation management degree at Auburn Univer-

turing and the new cyber initiatives are all supported by

sity, and for a little polish, I went to Harvard Business School.

people traveling in and out of this airport. It’s the lifeline to

After that, I did flight instruction, I worked in the shop and did

continued progress.

a little bit of everything.

What’s on the horizon? We are breaking ground on What has changed about the private aviation business in the last few decades? The use of pri-

a new lobby building this spring or summer and doing some pretty intense renovations on some of our hangars as well.

vate aircraft took a huge hit around the 2008 financial crisis. aircraft at that time sold their planes and have not re-en-

What’s on the horizon for the private aviation industry in general? Everyone in our industry is excit-

tered that market. We’re pumping less retail fuel than we did

ed about the impact of technology on aircraft and aircraft

10 years ago, and part of that is due to the above – fewer

navigation.

Some of the area companies that had and used private

local owners – but the transient aircraft coming through has thinned out too. And, year over year, aircraft fuel efficiency

What do you love about your job?

improves. So there are some challenges.

I’m a pilot myself, and flying is just neat stuff. I get to do that in this job. The sensation of flying grabbed me as a little kid,

How have you addressed them? We have to pay

and I still love it just as much. I love the other people who fly

close attention to service, and we do. Most everyone at our

too; we share a unique bond. The aviation community is full

front desk and on the flight line has been here at least sev-

of interesting, nice people, and I get to work with them.

eral years. They know what they are doing, and they enjoy what they are doing and that shows.

28

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS

PR

PO WERHOUSE

Famous Flyers Numerous celebrities have come in and out of the capital city through Montgomery Aviation over the years, giving Hudgens the opportunity to see many famous faces and meet some of them, folks like Elivs, Oprah, several U.S. presidents and lots of college football coaches. But one star that really shines to Hudgens is Ed Long, a pilot who still holds the world record for logging the most flight time: 64,396 hours and 55 minutes in his lifetime. He flew out of Montgomery Aviation.

“

“Everyone in our industry is excited about the impact of technology on aircraft and aircraft navigation.”

29

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

ME M BE R profile

KAREN LAWTON Karen Lawton grew up surrounded by technology. Her mom worked in IT; her dad was an engineer, and her older brother broke apart and reassembled computers at home as a hobby. Today, as President, Founder and CEO of SJ Technologies, an IT consulting company based in Buford, Georgia, Washington D.C. and Montgomery, Lawton is using her decades of experience to help her company’s clients use tech efficiently and safely.

What is your background in IT before founding ST Technologies? I was co-founder of InfoShark, a software company my mom started in 1998. I built and ran the sales department and was involved in raising $12 million of venture capital. After that, I worked for several different business partners focused on Oracle and IBM Solutions, which allowed me to work with many different large enterprises.

What are SJ Technologies’ primary services? We focus on leveraging the transformational power of DevOps methodologies and technologies to help organizations evolve. Services include: DevOps and DevSecOps consulting services and workshops, IT modernization, cloud migration strategy and support.

Who are the company’s primary clients?

We provide IT solutions and services to commercial and federal customers. Some of our customers include U.S. Treasury, U.S. Army, the Department of Energy and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Is the threat of cyber-attacks on businesses growing? Absolutely. We hear about a steady stream of viruses that affect businesses on a regular basis. For example, in the spring, there was the WannaCry, which hit 230,000 computers in over

Tech Talk: and practice that works to unify software development (Dev) and software operation (Ops).

How can businesses fight back? It is clear from the name ransomware that there is a lot of money to be made from malware. For example, the Experian cyber-attack resulted in 300 million people having their information stolen. Mostly, this will be sold for the purpose of identity theft. There is an

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

DevOps is software engineering culture

150 countries.

enormous amount of technology with dozens of tools that can be used to defend against cyber-attacks. However, some of the most effective methods of fighting cyber-attacks are related to people. Make cybersecurity everyone’s responsibility. Have policies and procedures that are clear, concise and visible. Train everyone regularly.

How does SJ Technologies approach cyber security for its clients? SJ believes in continuous securi-

Don’t worry

about the Dry CLEANING.

ty. This means that security is baked into the software process from the beginning when users are first describing their requirements. It is included in every phase that follows (design, code, build, test, deploy) and continues throughout production.

We also embrace the “human factor” aspects of security.

What is SJ Technologies’ client-service philosophy? SJ Technologies recommends the business, cultural and technology solutions best suited to meet each of our clients’ needs, fit their budgets, and exceed their expecta-

We’ll pick up where you left off.

tions. “One size fits all” is not in our vocabulary.

What do you love about or enjoy about your job? I appreciate being in the services business because I love to learn new things, and it is such an expansive field that’s always changing. My daily goal is to help people solve problems, and there is no shortage of opportunities in this industry.

What would you like to see change in your industry? The percentage of women in technology is not acceptable (25 percent) and is declining. I am trying to do what I can for women in tech. I contribute to a STEM program at a middle school in an underprivileged area. We belong to sever-

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al organizations that help women in our industry, including the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. Anytime I can help a woman in the industry, I will.

Any recent milestones or awards? Woman-Owned, Certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). With three-year revenue growth of 3,802 percent, SJ Technologies ranks No. 78 on the Inc. 5000.

What are your interests outside of work? I enjoy cooking. One of my daughters is a vegan, so I have begun trying some of those recipes.

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M EM BE R profile

LISA PERKINS Lisa Perkins has been making music in Montgomery since she was a kid. Today, with her band and her recording studio/music management company Titanium Music Productions Group, she’s sharing her sound and helping others do the same.

How long have you been a musician? Since I was 12 years old. My dad had a band back in the day called Tom Perkins and the Wild Hannibals, and my brothers and I were pretty much forced into being musicians through him.

What does the company do? We are a recording studio/music production company. We provide quality live entertainment, sound and music production, artist development and management, motivational speaking and corporate training services.

What is the name of your band? Lisa and The E-Lusion. I started the band in 1999.

Where does the band perform? We perform for all types of events and venues. We do a lot of corporate parties, weddings, anniversary parties, family reunions, birthday parties, club events, etc.

What do you enjoy about your job? I enjoy how music and performing make me feel, and how my music and performances make others feel. There is nothing else that I would rather do.

Any recent milestones or awards? I recently released a video of the first song off of my upcoming album, a fun song about some of the nightlife in down-

Point of Pride One of my proudest moments was when I got an opportunity to perform for a star-studded event in Atlantic City. I was flown there by Mr. Greg Calhoun of Calhoun Enterprises, and my brother Eric and I entertained a room full of superstars

number one in Alabama on Number One Music last fall.

What’s on the horizon for you and your company? I am finishing my album project and will hopefully be touring with it. As far as Titanium Music Productions Group, we are expanding to Titanium Enterprises International to include our other areas of expertise like our corporate training and motivational speaking division, audio/video recording, band booking agency and event planning, and more. titaniumentint.net

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

including Evander Holyfield, Jay-Z and about 1,500 others.

town Montgomery called “Party Downtown.” It was

34

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER profile

FRAZER MCCURDY Frazer McCurdy and his partner bought International Crating & Assembly in 2017. While they are committed to maintain the company’s reputation for great service, they’re using advances in technology to push the company to new heights.

When was International Crating & Assembly (ICA) founded? ICA was founded in 1993 by Donnie Fincher and Curtis Carter. They started with just three employees and a warehouse. Over the last 20 years, the company has grown to be one of the largest crating and packaging companies in the River Region. My partner Doug Lafont and I purchased the company in July 2017.

What are ICA’s primary products and services? We specialize in all types of crating and packaging using wood, steel, plastic and corrugate. Our 60,000-square-foot facility combined with modern manufacturing management techniques gives ICA the ability to utilize either JIT (Just In Time) inventory management or vendor-managed inventory services.

What types of businesses does ICA serve?

ICA serves small, family owned businesses to large corpo-

On off time:

rations. We are a regional company. However, most of our

One of my proudest

customers are in the River Region.

achievements so far is completing of the University

How has technology changed what ICA does?

of Alabama’s executive MBA

One of the biggest advancements in technology that has

program. I finished graduate

helped our company is the software that we use for ac-

school last May while working

counting and order fulfillment. It is a cloud-based program

fulltime. With schoolwork off my

that has helped us become more efficient.

plate, I enjoy hunting and fishing.

I also try to attend as many

What sets ICA apart from other similar companies? Our ability to provide complete packaging

Auburn football games as I can.

solutions that feature both products and services to meet each of our customers’ individual needs. We like to think of ourselves as the internal packaging department for our customers, and we strive to provide the best possible customer service.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

What do you like most about your job? Every day is different. Each day presents new challenges to overcome. I also have enjoyed getting to know our customers and new prospects.

ICA-COPR.COM

35

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

ME M BE R profile

SUZANNA WASSERMAN As Marketing Manager for The Shoppes at EastChase, Suzanna Wasserman works to publicize the retail center, but she’s equally committed to creating stellar shopping experiences for her fellow Montgomerians.

Are you from Montgomery? Yes. I graduated from Saint James School and Huntingdon College. I absolutely love it here and am proud to call it home!

What does your job entail? In my role, I handle all of the public relations, social media, on-property events, media relations, customer and retailer engagement, sponsorships and community engagement.

What is your marketing philosophy? Live and breathe the community that you are marketing to.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love receiving customer feedback and engagement that challenges me to exceed their expectations and most importantly, create lasting memories. In the last three years at The Shoppes, I have created a vision for our shopping center and the events we establish in the community. My favorite project was creating Santa’s Winter Wonderland, a custom-built tiny home for Santa at The Shoppes for the holidays. Not only did Santa’s home create an incredible seasonal environment, it gave us the opportunity to reach families with special needs children during our Sensory Santa events.

Why are brick-and-mortar retail spots still important? They provide more than simply shopping. They provide an experience to satisfy our community needs, which include events like our Lights Up Holiday Parade, Sounds of Summer, Moonlight Movies on the Green and the Farmers Market. Also,

Hands-on service.

Personally, I’m honored to have had the opportunity to serve my community in Chair for the Inaugural American Cancer Society’s Best Dressed Ball, which raised more than $95,000. In 2017, I served as Vice President of Communications for the Junior League of Montgomery, as well as President of Child Protect’s Junior Board.

retailers are gaining momentum, research suggests that millennials do more brick-and-mortar shopping than previous generations.

What are your interests outside of work?

Volunteer work, spending time with friends and family, and I enjoy live music. I never miss a show!

THESHOPPESATEASTCHASE.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

several ways. In the last year I served as the

while the perception is that online shopping and online

It makes people believe differently.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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TATE SCity &

the

of

COUNTY

County

AD VALOREM TAX $20.7 MILLION

A N N UA L E C O N O M I C U P DAT E

COUNTY

SALES TAX REVENUE $44.8 MILLION, up 1 percent from FY2016

THE CITY SAYS

ALL-TIME HIGH CITY SALES TAX: MORE THAN $103 MILLION CITY AD VALOREM TAX: MORE THAN $32 MILLION CITY LODGING TAX: MORE THAN $9 MILLION

THE NUMBERS FOR LAST YEAR IN BOTH MONTGOMERY COUNTY AND THE CITY OF MONTGOMERY SHOW IT TO BE A PERIOD OF EXTREMELY POSITIVE GROWTH, and leaders of both entities are enthusiastic about continued progress through the rest of 2018.

GREEN LIGHT

City of Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange

The City of Montgomery continues to invest

offered these insights on what is imme-

in itself with construction at the Montgom-

diately behind and what is ahead for the

ery Zoo, the Museum of Fine Arts, a new

capital city, touting the F-35 program as a

Municipal Justice Complex, renovations at

major win.

the Morgan Library Branch downtown and the paving of 100 street segments. It is also

“The decision to bring the F-35 to the

screening multiple inquiries from compa-

187th Fighter Wing was the culminating

nies eager to set up shop in the high-tech

success of a great year in Montgomery

recycling center that has been dormant for

and the River Region. Along with secur-

more than a year while legal issues were

ing hundreds of jobs at Dannelly, we are

resolved. Upon identifying the best partner

confident this step will reap tremendous

and setting the parameters of the opera-

benefits in our initiative to grow our tech

tion, curbside recycling will likely resume

ecosystem,” he said. “Additionally, there is

in Montgomery later this year. This extends

investment and development taking place

the life of our landfill and further adds to

in every corner of our city. We can all take

our “green city” status.

pride in the growth occurring in downtown. A combination of local and outside

COUNTING THE COUNTY

developers is giving new energy to other

Montgomery County made remarkable

areas as well; especially the West Fairview

strides in 2017, and Chair of The Montgom-

Avenue corridor, Five Points, Cottage Hill

ery County Commission, Commissioner

and Atlanta Highway.”

Elton Dean, pointed to a few highlights.

38

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

“

COUNTY

FY2017 LODGING

The decision to bring the F-35

TAX REVENUE $2.7 MILLION

to the 187th Fighter Wing was the

culminating success of a great year in Montgomery and the River Region. Along with securing hundreds of jobs at Dannelly, we are confident this step will reap tremendous benefits in our initiative to grow our tech ecosystem.

- Mayor Todd Strange

“Taking a look at our unemployment rate alone brings great joy and pride. We went from a 5.9 percent unemployment rate to a mere 3.1

“ DOLLARS & SENSE:

percent in just 365 days. As a county, we know

+

the importance of good, high paying jobs, as well as the need to compensate good employees. We were able to give our deserving

SOME NOTAB LE F Y2017 ACCOMPLI SHMENTS:

The City was able to reach its goal

county employees all a raise in 2017,” he said.

of adding an additional

“It’s hard to say what I’m most proud of looking

$2 MILLION

back, but I do believe landing the F-35 is cer-

to its reserves fund, bringing the total

tainly at the top. The brave men and women in uniform, both current and former military, are

$1.4M

cation is also a primary target for the Montgomery County Commission because those students are our future, and they deserve the

ON AVERAGE DAILY.

best education possible. There is no doubt in

projects in 2017 and has more on tap for this year.

2017:

Construction of county vehicle maintenance shop

with visitors spending

and focus on economic development. Edu-

several construction and renovation

Tourism remains a strong in Montgomery,

2018, we will work to bring more quality jobs

Montgomery County completed

to $25 million.

economic performer

Montgomery will continue to make history. In

B UI LDI NG ON SUCCESS

Renovation of sheriff’s dispatch center and offices

what ultimately made it happen. The legacy of the Red Tails will live on through the F-35, and

+

2018: Proposed park on Old Selma Road Renovation and repair of downtown county facilities City-County acquisition and renovation of Perry Street parking deck

my mind we will make Montgomery County better than it has ever been.”

39

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

PHYSICAL WELLNESS Down With the Pounds offers patient-specific, physician-supervised, medical weight loss programs, as well as operating a corporate wellness program. The program provides employers the tools and information to help their employees

IT’S ALL GOOD

get healthy and stay healthy.

EMPLOYEE WELLNESS T H E

W H O L E

P I C T U R E

Putting emphasis on employee wellness – everything from their physical to financial health – is an important aspect of running your business right.

But why should employers care? Employee physical health can impact a company’s bottom line. It impacts health care and insurance costs, employee productivity and attendance and workplace morale. “I have learned in my experience that employees who are unhealthy and/or overweight are not as productive,” Turner-Williams said. “When they’re out sick, you are paying them as well as the person you have to call in to work for them or overtime to cover for people who aren’t there. So that affects the bottom line.”

Health and wellness are most often acquainted with things like diet, exercise and lifestyle choices that promote physical wellbeing. But true wellness includes more than the body; it extends to the mind as well. And while it’s logical for a person to be concerned about his or her health, it’s also something that should concern employers.

“Healthy employees are happier employees,” said Yolanda Turner-Williams, CEO of Down With the Pounds, which helps individuals and businesses develop plans to improve their overall health, including weight. “Having control of your physical health goes hand-in-hand with financial health, relationship health, being a better parent. You have to work on the mental part as well as the physical part.”

Down With the Pounds will conduct a “lunch and learn” program in the workplace and provide materials to help employ-

Yolanda Turner-Williams

ees learn about physical wellness, such as cookbooks with healthy recipes, help them think about making good choices, and exercises they can do at home. They also encourage businesses to build in time for their employees to exercise or have group fitness activities. “In a workplace that provides healthy food choices or opportunities to exercise, you get better output,” Turner-Williams said.

SCALE BACK ALABAMA Each year, employers state-wide encourage one another toward big goals and big number changes on the scale by spring. Learn to lose along with them at scalebackalabama.com.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

FINANCIAL WELLNESS “If my money is funny, everything in my life is out of order,” said Nakima Boleware, Vice President of Workplace Solutions for BBVA Compass, South Alabama Market. “Show me an employee who is stressed about finances, and I’ll show you an em-

M OV E I N T H E R I G H T D I R E C T I O N

ployee who is not productive.” Boleware conducts free financial

PHYSICAL WELLNESS SIMPLE STEPS

wellness seminars for BBVA clients, as well as for businesses that are not customers of the bank. Each seminar typically lasts about an hour, and can be scheduled quarterly, monthly, even weekly or bi-weekly, depending on what the business needs. “If

1

you empower your employees to be financially secure – what-

Encourage employees to drink

ever that means to them – They will be more loyal and more

more water by always having it on hand for them, either for free or a minimal cost.

focused,” Boleware said.

STEP IT UP!

Although each program has a general focus, such as how to handle credit or how to plan a retirement savings program, Boleware and

2

Opt for fruit, nuts, salads and other healthy choices

Start a staff

other BBVA Workplace Solutions representatives work to address individual

challenge to take

concerns. One of the biggest worries

when providing office snacks and meals.

3

Run a “biggest loser”

involves credit. “This is critical because it all goes back to worry about taking

steps each workday.

care of your family. What if there is an emergency, how are you going to han-

+

dle that?” Bolware said. “For an employer,

Nakima Boleware

this affects productivity. If I’m not financially where I need to be,

competition in your office.

I’m going to be spending my time figuring out how to take care of my home life.”

4

Schedule “required”

M O N E Y M AT T E R S

mini-breaks throughout the workday to get people standing,

FINANCIAL WELLNESS SIMPLE STEPS

with a

stretching and giving their eyes a break from computer screens.

Stay accountable

•1

Conduct an employee survey to find out their most pressing financial concerns and consider hosting a seminar or a series of

on good food choices

“lunch and learn” events focused on their concerns.

by lunching with others eating right.

•2

Compile a list of free, easy to use budgeting and financial literacy tools to distribute to employees, and remember to look beyond just saving for retirement. Controlling credit is a big

“In a workplace that provides healthy food choices or opportunities to exercise, you get better output.”

- Yolanda Turner-Williams

issue for many.

•3

Consider a program that includes real accountability for establishing good financial habits.

•4

Be open. Make it clear that you or someone else in your office is accessible and available if employees need to talk about financial concerns.

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CAREER WELLNESS

Webinars are also a good, inexpensive way

Professional development and continual

to gain professional development.

learning are key components for employee wellbeing and productivity at all stages of

Even with a small budget, Smith encourages

their career. Both employees and employ-

companies to give employees the opportu-

ers need to be intentional about setting

nity for professional development outside

goals and making professional progress a

the office as well. “I may hear a speaker, or

priority. But it doesn’t have to be expensive

even someone next to me at the luncheon

or even formal training. “You don’t have to

Sharleen Smith

have money to do this,” said Sharleen Smith,

Dr. Yulanda Tyre

talk about something I haven’t thought

developing yourself, and usually it’s free.”

about. That’s where I see a lot of growth.”

Continuing Education and Outreach for Troy

Dr. Yulanda Tyre, Assistant Vice Chancellor

Smith notes that in today’s world, knowl-

University. “Help employees set a plan for

Student Affairs and Director Counseling

edge changes every three months, and in

themselves. For example, I set a plan for

and Health Promotion Services for Auburn

medical and technical fields, may change as

myself, and I read a book a month, or read

University at Montgomery, encourages

often as every three weeks. “People have to

12 articles online that have to do with an

work teams to actively look for articles and

start focusing more on their career develop-

area I am challenged with. If you have the

educational journals or join or create a pro-

ment,” she said. “Our world is changing so

internet, there’s really not an excuse for not

fessional ListServ and share the information.

fast, it can leave people behind.”

Director of Professional Development,

I T I S W E L L , AT WO R K

CAREER WELLNESS SIMPLE STEPS

1 Get employee input on challenges

2 Encourage involvement and

3 Be welcoming. Make sure

or learning curves they are facing and

participation in continuing education pro-

employees know they have someone in

the programs and opportunities they’d

grams with rewards and by celebrating

the office to go to when they want to talk

like for you to provide.

goals reached and other milestones.

about pursuing learning opportunities.

MENTAL WELLNESS Including mental health in overall wellness is becoming a priority, as millions of Americans are impacted by mental health conditions every year. “Corporate America has been connecting the dot between the mental health and wellness of their employees, and its direct correlation with productivity and even the success of their organization,” said Janeese Lowry Spencer, the

M I N D OV E R P R OTO CO L MENTAL WELLNESS SIMPLE STEPS 1• Prioritize intentional care and service by providing opportu-

founder and executive director of Venture

nities for learning about mental health issues, expressing care

Life Coaching.

affirmation, and encouragement, providing a work environment that is clean and welcoming and by being attuned to the stress levels of your teams.

“This increased awareness has heightened the importance and necessity for

2• Push a team approach. Employees thrive in a culture where

employers to be well informed of the most common mental health issues facing their

they are included and where there is camaraderie. Small chang-

employees.”

es in language can bring significant positive environmental

Janeese Lowry Spencer

According to Spencer, when employers prioritize the mental health of their employees, they can reduce challenges like absenteeism, tardiness, co-worker conflict, poor work quality, apathy, dissatisfied

shifts, like shifting from first person pronouns like “I, me, and my” to collective pronouns like “we, us, and ours.”

3• Choose growth by welcoming creative and innovative ideas

customers and more, and it all starts with creating a healthy work

and embracing challenges and risks and placing a high value

environment, something Spencer says requires thought. “Without a

on investing in their employees’ professional and personal

strategic plan, this will not happen,” she said.

development.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

GiveBack

TICKET TO RIDE

/ by WENDI LEWIS

Montgomery Area Nontraditional Equestrians’ (MANE) unique therapies rooted in horseback riding

IMAGE COURTESY OF MONTGOMERY AREA NONTRADITIONAL EQUESTRIANS (MANE)

are often just the ticket for rehab and recovery.

MANE’s students, volunteers and horses work together to make a lasting difference in many lives.

Montgomery Area Nontraditional Equestrians (MANE) is a

participant, an older veteran suffering from PTSD. She remem-

non-profit organization formed in 1994 that provides safe and

bers how excited and comforted he was to be at MANE every

effective therapeutic horseback riding opportunities to chil-

week. “I don’t have to talk to these horses – They know what

dren as young as 4, and adults of all ages.

Through a wide variety of programs, MANE serves people with emotional, physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities, as well as at-risk youth and

I’m feeling,” he told her.

Four-legged support

adults from programs including Boys and

What these animals do is absolutely amazing. There’s an energy between the horse and the rider.

Girls Clubs, Transformation Montgomery, Second Chance Foundation, Chemical Addictions Program (CAP), Lanier High School and Valiant Cross Academy. “Our motto is ‘MANE, a place where horses change lives,’ and that is so true. What

- Tiffany Atkinson

these animals do is absolutely amazing,”

The staff at MANE evaluates each participant’s unique needs to find a program suited for their age, ability and skills.

Therapeutic horseback riding can help individuals improve balance, range of motion and muscle control, as well as develop more efficient motor planning while strengthening muscles, joints and tendons. Instruction may include ground work, grooming and tacking as well as riding. “Some lessons are from the ground – how to move the horse only using body

said Tiffany Atkinson, Program Director for MANE. “There’s an energy between the horse and the

language – and that is really a confidence builder for some,”

rider, and an energy the horse absorbs. Parents are brought to

said Chandalyn Chrzanowski, MANE’s Equine Director and

tears watching how different their child is on and off a horse.”

Lead Instructor. “It teaches them how to stand up straight and be confident in giving an answer, understanding mechanics,

Adults, too, feel the connection. Atkinson recalls talking with a

44

looking a person or a horse in the eye. Riding teaches bal-

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

GIVEBACK

BRIEFS

ance, how to be assertive and how to ask for additional help or independence.”

In addition to the physical benefits,

Good Deeds Done Right

Holiday Hope

In 2017, MANE was recognized

Information Transport Solutions, Inc.

with a River Region Ethics in

spread some holiday cheer last year,

riders can experience improved concen-

Business & Public Service Award

supporting both Toys for Tots and the

tration, patience, self-discipline, motivation

in the Non Profit / Public Agency

Merry Wood Lodge in Elmore, as part of

and interpersonal skills. There also is a

category. This is a program

its annual charitable giving. ITS provid-

social aspect. “Participants interact with

of The Samaritan Counseling

ed gift donations to Toys for Tots and

other children, the horse, the instructors,”

Center, Inc. in collaboration with

donated a flat screen television to the

Chrzanowski said. “We work hard to try to

Auburn University Montgomery’s

Homestead Unit at Merry Wood Lodge

pair volunteers and horses with the correct

School of Business and School of

in Elmore, a 124-bed skilled nursing

students. That makes it a more rewarding

Sciences to bring the importance

center that provides rehabilitative care,

cognitively or emotionally challenged

experience for everyone. They might talk

of business and public service

dementia care, and long-term care to

to someone for the first time or try a skill

ethics to the forefront to honor

citizens in the River Region. “Everyone at

for the first time. There’s so much confi-

those individuals and companies

ITS was excited about the donations and

dence-building involved in it.”

that practice and believe in good

glad to contribute. Our hope is that these

ethics. “The staff, volunteers

gifts put a smile on the faces of those

MANE is a fully accredited Premier Riding

and Board members are just so

touched by our giving,” said ITS CEO

Center through the Professional Asso-

humbled by it. MANE definitely

Steve Meany.

ciation for Therapeutic Horsemanship

couldn’t have won the Ethics

International (PATH Intl.), and all instructors

award without the volunteers,

are certified by PATH Intl. PATH Intl. is a

supporters in the community and

regulatory agency that assures stringent

devoted parents.”

standards for quality therapeutic horse-

Powering Non-Profits The Alabama Power Foundation recently awarded seven Elevate grants to nonprofit organizations across the state,

back riding through instructor certification,

including Family Promise of Montgom-

site accreditation and program monitoring.

tri-county K12 students for field trips and

ery. The Elevate grant program empow-

“We are a Premier Accredited center, and

service learning days. MANE has three

ers organizations by providing funds for

there are only five in Alabama,” Atkinson

10-week sessions a year. Cost is $300 per

community-centered projects, hosting

said. “That’s incredible to have right here

student per session, but scholarships are

capacity-building workshops and pro-

in the River Region. MANE serves so many

available, generally ranging from 25 to 75

viding networking opportunities within

in the community and provides worthwhile

percent.

the nonprofit community. Each grantee

volunteer and outreach opportunities.”

received a $10,000 grant in 2017 and a Horses for the program are carefully se-

$5,000 challenge grant in 2018 and will

MANE serves around 90 riders on a

lected for what is a physically and mentally

participate in at least one workshop to

weekly basis and also hosts hundreds of

demanding job. Only between 5-10 per-

help them grow and find ways to expand their positive impact in the community.

45

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

GiveBack cent of horses screened are accepted.

Community Relations and Foundation

MANE provides between 7,000-9,000

Coordinator for MAX Credit Union, which is

volunteer hours in the community each

an annual donor. “MAX is proud to support

year, including internships for university

MANE as they continue to make an impact

students and professionals. For each MANE

on children and adults.”

participant, generally three volunteers are required – one to lead the horse and two

Michael W. Hart, Market President for Re-

sidewalkers.

gions Bank echoed Rollan. “At Regions, one of our core values is ‘make life better. Our

MANE has held a 501(c)3 status since 1994

affiliation with and support of MANE makes

and operates solely off of fundraisers,

that commitment easy,” he said. “When

grants and donations. They hold two major

you see their facility, meet their team of

Saddle Up

volunteers and staff, and see the faces of

every October and Course for Hope, a golf

Looking for a way to do some good in

that they are indeed making life better for

tournament and live auction held every two

your community? You don’t have to have

years. They also rely on corporate sponsors

experience to volunteer – MANE staff

fund raisers – Raise the Roof, a party featuring a live band and fresh Wintzell’s seafood

for the events and other businesses that

will help train you. There are also oppor-

provide assistance throughout the year.

tunities for volunteers to provide other

“MANE provides a unique opportunity for

services, anything from office assistance

individuals to receive therapy that is unlike

to event planning to grounds work. For

any other in our area,” said Brooke Rollan,

more information, visit maneweb.org.

those being served there can be no doubt all with whom they interact.”

The Chamber wants to share the good news of businesses doing good. Please send story ideas to jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.

Halcyon Pointe

Executive Class “A” Office Space I-8 5 (Exit 9 ) & Taylor Road Montgomery, AL

John Stanley_MBJ17_Half_PROOF.indd 1

46

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

2/7/17 4:55 PM

GiveBack

HOPE HEALS A Montgomery non-profit is assisting those searching for a second chance, arming them with education and tools, and most importantly, hope for the future.

Montgomery resident Jonathan Pitman found himself battling addiction, and his unsuccessful struggle eventually cost him his

Dig Deeper #SerquestMBJ

job, his shot at the Air Force and his relationship with his parents.

He hit rock bottom when he was dropped off at a homeless shelter. One of the requirements to stay there was to be out during the day. But Pitman had nowhere to go and nothing to do.

Want to know more about Pitman’s inspiring turnaround and other good works of Hope Inspired Ministries?

Check out #SerquestMBJ on Facebook to watch a video, produced

by Serquest, a local organization that helps non-profits with their media and software needs to secure and source resources.

When someone at the shelter suggested he check out Hope Inspired Ministries, he wasn’t sure what the program even was,

internship, he was kept on and, four year later, he’s now risen to

much less how it could help him, but his desperation for a change

the position of manager.

pushed him to the non-profit anyway.

Hope Inspired Ministries and Chappy’s Deli gave Pitman not only As Pitman soon learned, Hope Inspired Ministries helps those in

the practical skills to thrive in the workplace, they also gave him

situations just like his get their lives back on track by assisting

the hope he needed to move beyond his addiction into a happy,

them in gaining and keeping a job. A nine-week training program

healthy life. Today, Pitman owns a car, has a girlfriend and has

teaching the skills needed to be a good employee had already

even restored his relationship with his parents, proving that the

begun, but Pitman jumped in and, thankful to be included, he

work of groups like Hope Inspired Ministries and other non-prof-

excelled, graduating the program alongside the others.

its in our area can truly change lives.

P OW E R E D B Y

To put their new skills to the test, Hope Inspired Ministries’ students are placed in internships at local businesses, and Pitman was given the opportunity to work at Chappy’s Deli. He took his role seriously and did his duties well. At the end of the

47

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

MyMGM

MONTGOMERY BISCUITS – BIGGER & BUTTER / by WENDI LEWIS Montgomery’s beloved baseball team has new owners up at the plate, and they’ve got plans to hit a real homerun here by deepening the bond between the Biscuits and the community.

BISCUIT LOVE To say fans were stunned by the announcement that their team would be called the “Biscuits” is a major understatement. Emotions ranged from amusement, to bewilderment, to downright outrage.

Initial reaction from many was that the name would draw ridicule.

But almost immediately, residents began to warm up to the

Taste of the South

idea. In no time, people were sporting gear proudly emblazoned with the team mascot, Monty, a biscuit sporting cleats, with a butter-pat tongue.

Since opening day, the Biscuits

300,000 hot, flaky biscuits

The name – and the subsequent success of

to hungry fans. The Biscuits was

beyond Montgomery’s borders; it attracted the

have sold

the first team in the country

the team decked out in signature colors of “butter” and blue – ended up being beloved attention, and affection, of the nation. “Minor

to offer the Southern staple

league baseball offers an intangible benefit to

as a concession.

the community: quality of life,” said Brendan Porter, Chief Operating Officer for the Montgomery Biscuits.

“The success of the Biscuits brand nationally creates instant

recognition and helps to put Montgomery on the map. Any minor league region or city does bring that notoriety, but the popularity of the Biscuits name and branding drives that a little more. Montgomery gets it – They get sports tourism and see the value in it.”

NEW LINE UP The news that Montgomery would be home to a new minor league

Porter is part of the team transitioning the Biscuits under new own-

baseball team in 2004 was met with excitement on several fronts. It

ership. On May 4, 2017, the team was purchased by a group made

was the first tangible project in answer to a long-awaited downtown

up of Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment, investor Gary Green and

revitalization promise, and it would be the city’s first Major League

baseball veteran Todd Parnell. They also operate the successful

Baseball-affiliated team since 1980, when the Detroit Tigers affiliate

Richmond (Virginia) Flying Squirrels franchise. The group had been

Montgomery Rebels played their final season in the Southern

looking for a new team for about four or five years when they found

League at Paterson Field.

the Biscuits.

The new team would be a AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. Own-

Parnell, or “Parney” to those who know him, is a veteran in the

ers Sherrie Myers and Tom Dickson reviewed more than 4,000 en-

baseball business with nearly three decades of experience. He was

tries in a “name the team” contest, and rumors swirled that it would

in Birmingham for a meeting in the fall of 2016 when he says DiBella

reflect the railroad, as a converted historic train depot was home to

asked him to tack Montgomery onto his trip to check out the team.

the new Riverwalk Stadium. Or, maybe the team would be something

Tired from a round of travel, he begrudgingly set up a meeting

to do with aviation, reflecting Montgomery’s location of the Wright

with Meyers and drove down to the capital city. “When I got off the

Brothers’ early flying school and now Maxwell Air Force Base.

interstate and came into downtown something literally happened

48

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MyMGM ON THE FIELD In 2017, the Montgomery Biscuits won the Southern League’s Patriot Award, which is given to the organization that shows outstanding support of, and engagement with, the United States Armed Forces and veterans.

In 2006, the Biscuits won the team’s first Southern League championship.

In 2007, they did it again!

to my body. It was like love at first sight,” Parnell

days and not on game days.”

said. “It was beautiful. I came in the ballpark into this historic building, and the steps up to office

Already, the Biscuits hosted a Halloween Candy

creaked, and I knew we were going to buy the

Walk, a Food Truck Invasion the day after Thanks-

team if Sherrie liked us enough and chose us to

giving featuring 17 local and regional food trucks,

be the one. When I got back in the car I called

and the city’s New Year’s Eve celebration. Each

Lou and said ‘we gotta do this.’”

Taking over in May, mid-season, the new owners

“We as an organization will

announced the transition with a bang – literally.

take an approach

The Grand Re-Opening game featured a “human

of starting with a

cannonball.” They haven’t slowed down yet, charging full steam ahead into their new role of community supporter, cheerleader and No. 1

‘yes.’ You’re able to do much more for

booster. They want to take the existing affec-

people if you have a

tion for the Biscuits and turn it into year-round

yes mentality.

excitement and involvement. The plan involves

The baseball team

a commitment to top-notch baseball at the core,

needs to be the

and a dedication to building lifelong memories at the heart. “We have to respect the nine innings

front porch

and love the game and respect the game. Be-

of the community

cause without the nine innings we’re not creating

and, especially in

memories. But we’re not in the baseball business, we’re not in the entertainment business; we’re in the memory-making business,” Parnell said.

2018 baseball season will feature an enhanced promotion schedule, with more fireworks, celebrity appearances, giveaways and other special events designed to ramp up the excitement – including the return of the “human cannonball.”

CONNECTING COMMUNITY The Montgomery Biscuits will be visible throughout the community year-round, as a community and economic development partner. The owners understand that they are in a unique position.

There is only one minor league baseball team, which they feel requires them to do a little more, and be a little more. “We have to be at the front of the line for everything,” Parnell said. “Meaning

Montgomery,

one of the most active businesses in the commu-

of downtown.”

nity. We need to become that community leader

- Todd Parnell

“And that’s 12 months a year, not just during the

event was met with overwhelming support. The

season. In the park, away from the park, on game

and help to positively impact the community and the economy, not only in Montgomery but in the surrounding region.”

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Regional Impact

FORMIDABLE FOLLOW THROUGH By providing a stellar golfing experience on par with lauded courses around the world,

IMAGE COURTESY OF ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL BY MICHAEL CLEMMER.

Alabama’s RTJ Golf Trail has proven a wise and wide-reaching investment for our state and its citizens.

Hit the Course

“Economically, the stronger I can make Alabama, the stronger I can make the pension fund. If the state fails, then we fail.” It was this knowledge that drove Dr. David Bronner, head of the Retirement Systems of Alabama, to undertake a carefully planned but gargantuan risk. He would create, in one

Check out 11 golf opportunites around the state.

No matter the region,

18 holes of green are waiting to mix a little pleasure into the business of golf in our state.

fell swoop, a world-class golf trail covering the

the PGA Tour to the LPGA and Symetra Tour.

RTJ is one of the state’s top tourist attractions, drawing visitors from throughout the country and around the world. In addition to golf, many of the courses boast on-site or nearby resort properties and spas operated by Marriott or Renaissance. “By creating something that nobody else had, we moved tourism to a more than $12 billion industry,” Dr. Bronner said.

state of Alabama as an investment in tourism and economic development that would pay dividends for

According to the book “The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail: Its His-

decades.

tory and Economic Impact,” by Dr. Mark Fagan, annual reports for Now, nearly 40 years after work began on the largest golf course

the Alabama Tourism Department showed tourism spending in the

construction project in history, the Robert Trent Jones (RTJ) Golf

counties of Autauga, Elmore, Montgomery, Lee and Butler at the

Trail includes a total of 11 sites and 468 holes. Since the first cours-

inception of the Trail sites (and their associated hotels) was $462

es opened in 1992, more than 12 million rounds have been played

million. For 2016, their tourism spending totaled $1.492 billion; an

on the Trail. It has hosted professional golf events ranging from

increase of $1.03 billion.

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Additionally, Dr. Fagan pointed out, “Hundreds worked to develop the Trail and thousands have worked as a result of the Trail. Financial, legal, political and economic impact details for each of the golf sites, hotels, adjacent housing and commercial development were the outcome of RSA’s investment.”

IF YOU BUILD IT Dr. Fagan was a consultant to RSA on the development of the Trail. At the time, he was a program developer for the Alabama Advantage for Retirees program at the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. Interestingly, the project had a the pension fund overseen by Dr. Bronner provides support for the state’s retirement system. “If it’s good to have tourists here for a week, it’s better to have them for two weeks,” Dr. Fagan said.

“Retirees have the time and the money to spend. In 1990, the economy in Alabama wasn’t so good; we were and are still feeling the effects of racism and repercussions of that. The Golf Trail gave them a reason to stop here.”

But Dr. Bronner didn’t want to just build 18-hole public golf courses in a few spots; he wanted to build 378 holes at eight sites throughout the entire state, all at one time. He wanted to create a golf experience that would span the state, with each of the courses easily accessible from major airports and interstates. He wanted

52

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

IMAGE COURTESY OF ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL BY MICHAEL CLEMMER.

large focus on retired people as an audience for the Trail, while

them close enough together that it would be convenient for people to access one from the other, to create a true golf Trail. He enlisted legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., arguably the premier golf course architect in the world, to create what would become the RTJ Trail. “More dirt has been moved on this project than when they built the Panama Canal, and the engineering has been compared to the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge,” Dr. Fagan said. “We built 40 lakes and over a half a

Tourism spending in the

million square feet of buildings.”

counties of Autauga, Elmore,

Dr. Bronner required a partnership with the com-

(and their associated hotels)

munities where the golf courses were located, to provide necessary infrastructure to support the project. In this way, they would be invested

Montgomery, Lee and Butler

increase of $1.03 billion

have seen an

since the inception

in it and active in helping it to succeed. Generally,

to provide visitors with a complete vacation experi-

of the Trail sites.

at least early on, Dr. Bronner worked it out where he

renovated, and new properties were constructed ence along the Trail. Within the last 10 years retirement

resorts and communities have become part of the project.

did not pay any money for the land – It was either donated by the developer or rented for $1 a year from the city or some other public entity. Then the local government would build access roads and put in utilities and other infrastructure, so it became a joint public-private project.

Currently there are two – the Columns at The Grand Hotel and National Village at Grand National.

In order to promote the Trail, Dr. Bronner enlisted the RSA-owned Raycom Media network of more than 100 newspapers and more than 60 television stations to spread the word about the unique golf op-

KEEP IT COMING

portunity in Alabama. “You’re not going to go to something if you’ve

A second wave of investment accompanied the golf course con-

never heard of it,” he said.

struction with the addition of hotels and resorts. Historic hotels were

53

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Montgomery is essentially an RTJ hub, with

three of the courses, including the highly praised

less than an hour away.

Capitol Hill,

As the Trail helped change the image of Alabama, it attracted industry as well as tourism, and had significant impact in the River Region. “The Trail is a unique draw for industries that think golf is a big deal to their employees.

Hyundia and Kia are examples of that, along with their many suppliers,” Dr. Bronner said. “It helped us recruit that industry where golf is a favorite pastime. It wasn’t available to any extent like it was here.”

The Trail is constantly growing and being updated. Some courses have been reworked and freshened. The resort at Auburn/Opelika is expanding in 2018 to add 95 more rooms and a full-service spa. RSA, through the Trail, also is negotiating with the PGA to bring three of their schools here that qualify golfers to play in the PGA. These schools bring in people from around the world to qualify to be a PGA member. The Trail has already proven itself a hole in one for the state and the River Region and will continue to be a valuable player in the future.

54

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

ALDRIDGE BORDEN For a century, Aldridge Borden has met our area’s accounting needs.

Today, the firm is living its philosophy of treating clients and community like family, celebrating its 100th anniversary all year long with events that put the focus on others.

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 45 HOW WAS THE COMPANY FOUNDED? The firm’s founder, Mayer W. Aldridge, was the first chairman of the Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy and was issued CPA certificate No. 2 (currently there have been more than 12,000 issued in the State of Alabama).

He began offering services as an accountant and tax advisor to the public in 1918. After World War II, Aldridge admitted John R. Borden and Charles Jones as partners. The firm practiced as Aldridge, Borden and Jones until 1957. The firm was later renamed Aldridge, Borden & Company.

WHAT ARE ALDRIDGE BORDEN’S PRIMARY SERVICES? Our firm is a traditional CPA firm with tax, accounting, attestation and bookkeeping services. In addition, we provide business valuation and consulting services as well as information technology services.

We also provide cloud based accounting services (our OneSource brand), which allows real time access to financial transactions and information.

WHO ARE THE FIRM’S PRIMARY CLIENTS? Our client base represents nearly every facet of our community, from individuals to larger businesses.

HOW IS THE FIRM CELEBRATING ITS 100TH YEAR IN BUSINESS? Aldridge Borden plans a yearlong celebration to honor and recognize our clients and community. On January 19, we kicked it all off with a ribbon cutting. In February, our employees demonstrated random acts of kindness throughout the River Region.

Beginning in March, we will spotlight various clients through the firm’s social media platforms. Each month after, the firm has activities planned to focus on those who have contributed to our community

WHAT DOES THE FIRM CREDIT WITH ITS LONGEVITY AND

and our success, activities like service projects, client appreciations,

SUCCESS OVER A CENTURY? Our success is attributable to staying

first responder-military appreciations and more. We will close 2018

true to our core values. Aldridge Borden is a family of professionals

by hosting a holiday party with current and former employees.

committed to serving the public interest as Certified Public Accountants and trusted advisors with integrity, honesty, quality and respect.

WHAT IS THE FIRM’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? Our vision is for Aldridge, Borden & Company to continue the heritage of our

WHAT SETS ALDRIDGE BORDEN APART? Its people. Aldridge

founders by serving as the leading authority on business solutions

Borden brings together a myriad of exceptional people who, through

and a preferred trusted advisor in our market. We believe our culture

a collaborative effort, are constantly working toward the firm’s mission.

of collaboration must extend to our clients and community as part of

The emphasis on its client-centered service expertise and staff devel-

our family.

opment makes it unique.

74 COMMERCE STREET, MONTGOMERY / 116 COMPANY STREET, WETUMPKA 334-834-6640 / ABCPA.COM 55

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS

Connect +

NEWS, R ESO U R CES AN D A LOOK IN S IDE THE MAN Y WAYS YOUR CHAMBER WORKS FOR YOU

TEAM REPORT Chamber Ambassadors Chamber Ambassador Chair, Mia Mothershed, Marketing Director at Jackson Hospital, has been involved with the Chamber Ambassador program for more than five years, and in 2018, she’s spearheading the Ambassador team, ensuring the group of volunteers continues to do its great work supporting other Chamber members and area businesses. She shared a bit about the program and why she believes it’s an integral piece of the Chamber’s mission.

2018 CHAMBER AMBASSADORS MEET THE NEW CREW: 69 TEAM PLAYERS on the Chamber’s road to success.

economic well-being of the business community and enhance the quality of life of the

Nicholas Andrews, Farmers Insurance

area through the creation and preservation

Desiree Atkins, South University

of jobs. I like to say that the Ambassadors help bring to life the words of the Chamber’s dynamic mission statement.

What will your role as Chair entail and what do you hope to accomplish?

As this year’s Chair, my role will be what I aspire to accomplish daily: to engage, enlighten and empower others. Each Ambassador already has a heart for the Chamber’s

How long have you been involved with the Chamber as an Ambassador?

It was so long ago that I can’t pinpoint the year. I started volunteering with other campaigns, and becoming an Ambassador was a natural progression. I can say, it has been more than five years.

Please explain who Ambassadors are and what they do. Chamber Ambassadors are volunteers who give their time and service to the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. We participate in monthly events promoting the Chamber’s mission, representing our companies, who are also members of the Chamber, and offer support to many area businesses.

mission; it is my hope to use those three tools to add more fruitful branches in the

Jonathan Avant, BBVA Compass Shannon Baker, D.R. Horton Homes Christina Bennett, exploreMedia Kristina Boddie, exploreMedia Renee Borg, Alabama Technology Foundation Sandy Boutwell, Troy Cablevision, Inc. Angelica Brooks, Signal 88 Security of Montgomery Ray Brown, Homewood Suites by Hilton

River Region.

How does the local business community benefit from what Chamber Ambassadors do?

The Ambassadors walk out the Chamber

What one thing would you like MBJ readers to know about Chamber Ambassadors? Chamber Ambassadors

mission in everything that we do. We are

are a select group of approximately 75

invested in the River Region. Whether

business men and women who work for

shopping locally or dining out, we are

Chamber member organizations, believe

always open to connecting businesses to

in the Chamber’s mission and support their

each other and possible customers. We are

community.

walking billboards for the local business community.

How do Ambassadors benefit from the program and their involvement?

What is your favorite part of being an Ambassador? I love the look on a new business owner’s face when they become a Chamber member, and they realize the

The Ambassadors have an opportunity

support that comes with their membership.

to not only represent and promote the

It is like they have been given the keys

Chamber, but to meet and engage with

dor is to enlighten others about the Cham-

to success. Ribbon cuttings, networking

other members, elected officials and key

ber’s mission, which is to stay committed

events, training seminars and webinars, it

business stakeholders and promote their

to exceptional service, work to improve the

just goes on and on.

own business at various Chamber events.

What is the mission of the Ambassador program? The mission of every Ambassa-

56

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Richard Cash, Alabama Office Supply Co., LLP

Electia Love, Bealoaks Property Management, LLC

George Sanders, Holiday Inn Express

Shawn Daley, Regions Bank

Courtney Lowry, Addison Park Apartments

Tisha Simpson, Woodforest National Bank

Cindy Davis, Cadence Bank

Aaron Madden,

Craig Snell, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC

Kenneth Davis, Edward Jones

Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery

Kris Stallworth, State Farm Insurance

Andrea Diggs, Associated Business Services

Pam Mashburn, exploreMedia

Jamar Stanford, Cellular Sales-Verizon

Cathy Duncan, Trustmark Bank

Marcil McClammy, Keller Williams Realty

Megan Stanley, Alfa Companies

Ebony Evans, Health Services, Inc.

Sellars McCurdy, Warren Averett, LLC

Tiffany R. Stinson, Jackson Hospital & Clinic, Inc.

Josie Fountain, Alabama News Network

John McFarlin, Trustmark Bank

Gloria Frazier, Keller Williams Realty

Serena Minton, JMR+H Architecture, PC

Leticia Gregory, Stifel

Marie Ottinger, Faulkner University

Barry Harp, Hancock Whitney Bank

Nia Pagniacci, WCOV TV

Amanda Hines, Aldridge Borden & Company, PC

Daniel Paulk, BBVA Compass

Melanie Hogan, Alabama State University

Lisa Perkins-Jackson,

Ricky Hollon, MAX

Titanium Music Productions Group, Inc.

Brent Teel, Starke Agency, Inc Kimberly Theus, Thompson Supply Company Jamal Thomas, Gumptown Magazine Heath Thomas, Strickland Companies Stephanie Turner, Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. Paige Ward, ServisFirst Bank Betty Washington, Starting Point, Inc. Kathy Williams,

L’Teisha Holloway, Health Services, Inc.

Heather Phillips, Trustmark Bank

Carson Howe, River Region United Way

Katherine Reed, Aldridge Borden & Company, PC

Lisa Ann Williamson, New York Life Insurance

LeBaron Judkins,

Gena D. Richardson, The Arc of Alabama, Inc.

Donna Young, Supreme Lending

Defense Information Systems Agency Sara Khanal, Renasant Bank

Century 21 Brandt Wright Realty, Inc.

TaWanna Robbins, American Red Cross of Central Alabama

Bill Lacomb, BBVA Compass

Brooke Rollan, MAX

Stacey Lancaster, Community Coffee

Maurice Rollins, Rehab Select/Hillview Terrace

Kenneth Laneaux, Country Financial

Rusty Salter, AKD Screenprinting & Embroidery

57

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

2018 Chamber Ambassador Sponsor:

CHAMBER NEWS Connect CO NNEC T I NG YO U TO T H E M ANY CHAMBER RES OURCES AN D S ERVICES AVAILABLE

ONLINE M EM BERS HI P D I REC TO RY montgomerychamber.com/directory

R I B B O N C UTTI N G S , G R O UN D B R E A K I N G S A N D G R A N D O PE N I N G S Rhonda Figh, rfigh@montgomerychamber.com

J O B BOA RD montgomerychamber.com/jobboard

PR E SS R E L E AS E S & A N N O UN C E ME N TS Jina Miniard, jminiard@montgomerychamber.com

EV EN T C A L EN DA R montgomerychamber.com/events

S MA L L B US I N E SS R E S O UR C E S webinars, seminars, mentoring, counseling NE T WO RKI N G EVEN TS Sandra Kelley, skelley@montgomerychamber.com

& CO -WO R K I N G A N D O F F I C E S PAC E FO R R E N T Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com

HOSTING IN-TOW N M EET I N G S & EVEN TS Keely Smith, ksmith@montgomerychamber.com AMB ASSA D O R P RO G RA M Lynn Norton, lnorton@montgomerychamber.com

WO R K FO R C E TR A I N I N G Constance Calambakas, ccalambakas@montgomerychamber.com

MEMB ER TO M EM BER D I S CO U N TS Rhonda Figh, rfigh@montgomerychamber.com

S E MI N A R S A N D TR A I N I N G Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com Temisha Young, tyoung@montgomerychamber.com

RESEARC H I N FO RM AT I O N Rachel Madore, rmadore@montgomerychamber.com

CO R PO R ATE R E TE N TI O N Jessica Horsley, jhorsley@montgomerychamber.com

MEMB ERSHI P M A I L I N G L I STS & L A BEL S Sandra Kelley, skelley@montgomerychamber.com

CO R PO R ATE R E C R UI TME N T Shelby Stringfellow, sstringfellow@montgomerychamber.com

NOTA RY S ERVI C ES Paul Redhead, predhead@montgomerychamber.com

G OV E R N ME N T CO N TR AC T R E S O UR C E S Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com

“

OUR CHAMBER. YOUR VOICE.

WHAT THEY SAY

Heather Phillips, Branch Manger for Trustmark National Bank’s downtown

CHAMBER MEMBERS

third year and explained why she’s happy to give her time and talents to

Montgomery branch, is serving as a 2018 Chamber Ambassador for the the group. “I joined the Chamber Ambassador program in 2016, shortly

SPEAK OUT

after moving to Montgomery.” she said. “I have met so many contacts in

ON HOW THEIR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS THEIR BUSINESS.

HEATHER PHILLIPS, BRANCH MANGER TRUSTMARK NATIONAL BANK

58

the business community through the Chamber during Ribbon Cuttings, 60 Minute Coffees and After Hours, all of which have helped me grow the downtown branch by 122 percent of my goal this past year.”

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LO O K B AC K AT T H E FACES AN D PLACES OF RECEN T CHAMBER EVEN TS

MEMBER EVENTS:

DEC Business After Hours 14

at Henig Furs

SUCCESS STARTS HERE BUS TOUR , DEC 15 across Montgomery

Sponsored by Henig Furs

Presenting Sponsor: River Bank & Trust

The eighth Annual Success Starts Here bus tour recognized expanding industries that have made significant investments year-to-date. The $204,929,270 in investments and 1,056 new jobs these industries have announced have helped secure 7,393 existing local jobs.

• JET Polymer Recycling announced $5 million in investments and 37 new jobs.

• Montgomery Coca-Cola Bottling Company, a Division of Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED announced $28 million in investments and 48 new jobs.

• Regitar U.S.A., Inc. announced $2.2 million in investments and 15 new jobs.

JAN 08

60 Minute Coffee at Vaughn Road Church of Christ Sponsored by AGAPE

ALABAMA UPDATE, JAN 24 at the RSA Activity Center

CHAMBER AMBASSADOR

Presenting Sponsor: Beasley, Allen, Crow,

ORIENTATION, JAN 30 at the Chamber

Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C.

A new year means new Ambassadors,

Governor Kay Ivey spoke to a sold out

and the Chamber kicked off the 2018

crowd during the Annual Alabama Up-

JAN 25

Business After Hours at The Vance Law Firm Sponsored by The Vance Law Firm

date. She praised Alabama’s leadership, touted efforts across the state to the

program with an Ambassador Orientation. Members were able to network, introduce themselves and

land the F-35 and explained that Ala-

meet several key staff members.

bama’s economy is well, with revenues

Sponsored By: Jackson Hospital

up, economic developments on the rise and unemployment at an all-time low.

59

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Small Business Briefcase +

PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS

VIRTUALLY UNSTOPPABLE

5

/ by SERRAH NICHOLS

TOOLS FOR VIRTUAL TEAMS

Thanks to the internet and the connectivity it provides, small businesses can easily collaborate with team members and clients who are 10 or 10,000 miles away.

A good, progressive business owner is constantly searching for ways to boost business growth. Today’s technology makes it easier than ever to expand operations outside of a business’ home city, meaning it can gain and work with new team members (who may contribute new or different approaches to company issues) and also reach new clients.

Working with out-of-town teams and clients comes with specific challenges, and constant communication is key. Now, tools like video conferencing and more take virtual collaboration to a new level, making it simpler, more productive and even more profitable.

5

TOP

TOOLS

EXPERT ADVICE

We asked local CPA Nan Lloyd of Associated Business Services how taking advantage of technology to work with virtual team members and clients has benefitted her business.

WHY WORK WITH VIRTUAL CLIENTS? We choose to work with the virtual world because the challenge allows us growth not possible with the traditional office setting. We live in a virtual age where

Check out these free or low cost tools for sharing ideas and information with non-local team members or clients.

the hand-held computers we use regularly double as a phone. ABS is committed to staying ahead of the electronic curve to offer our clients the ability to reach us and find the answers they need, using a method with which they are comfortable.

ezTalks Meetings / This col-

Trello / A free alternative to

laboration tool is effective for

BaseCamp, Trello combines

HOW HAS WORKING WITH CLIENTS OUTSIDE OF

video conferencing and also for

several collaboration tools into

MONTGOMERY BENEFITTED YOUR BUSINESS?

webinars. A free option allows

one. It is especially useful for

In 2014, I started conducting webinars for multi-lev-

up to 100 participants, and it

working with remote employ-

el marketing businesses. The webinar reached 250

allows access to screen sharing

ees because business owners

people and grew from there. That exposure and the

and recording services.

can create checklists, track

referrals from it have grown our client base nationwide.

deadlines and assign tasks,

Today 25 percent of our clients are not in Alabama.

GoogleHangout / This webinar

while sharing files and staying

Using virtual tools has been a huge production boost

software is free of charge, easy

updated on project progress.

and allows us to look for staff outside our area too. The possibilities are endless for staff and clients.

to use and operated within the browser. It works well with high

WhatsApp Business App /

quality video chat functions and

This popular free Android

instant messaging.

app is made specifically for

MEET OUR EXPERT:

small business owners to aid Dropbox / This tool is useful for

in communication. It offers

saving and sharing documents

quick messaging responses,

and other files with multiple us-

including automated messag-

ers simultaneously. It offers two

ing when you are unavailable,

terabytes of storage and offers

and provides messaging and

file recovery up to 120 days, for

business statistics.

a little over $10 a month.

Nan Lloyd is a CPA and General Manager at Associated Business Services in Montgomery and works seamlessly with multiple out-of-area clients thanks to today’s digital tools.

60

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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61

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

Brooks Seale Joins River Bank & Trust

company’s government relations efforts in the state, in

Montgomery native Brooks Seale has joined River Mortgage

addition to working closely with community and business

Services, a division of River Bank & Trust. He serves as a

leaders, public elected officials and others

Vice President and Mortgage Loan

at AT&T to continue to bring advanced

Officer in the River Region. For 15

communications technologies to consum-

years, his clients have enjoyed his

ers and businesses. “It is my privilege to

mortgage banking expertise and

have been appointed state president,

exceptional customer service. Now

leading a tremendous AT&T team here in

he brings his talent and experience

Alabama,” said Hutchens. “I look forward

to the River Bank team. “Brooks is

to helping continue to build on AT&T’s long

a dynamic person and an outstand-

history – 138 years and counting – of in-

ing mortgage banker,” said Jimmy

vestment, job creation, innovation and community engage-

Stubbs, River Bank’s CEO. “He understands the value of

ment all across our great state.”

community. That’s something our bank is known for, and you just can’t put a price tag on that.” Seale serves as a board member on Dream Court, a local organization that brings adaptive tennis to individuals with special needs. He is also an active member of Trinity Presbyterian Church. The Montgomery Academy alumnus earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Southern Methodist University.

Later, he graduated from Leadership Montgomery.

Hartzell Engine Technologies Names New President Joe Brown, CEO of Tailwind Technologies Inc., the parent company of Hartzell Engine Technologies LLC, recently announced the retirement of president Mike Disbrow. Industry veteran Keith Bagley took over as the company’s new president on January 1. “I am extremely

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Names New Director of Admissions

proud of what we have accomplished here

“We are excited to welcome Julie Lopez to her new role

and I know that there are some great op-

at Montgomery Catholic. As a past student and a current

portunities ahead,” Disbrow said. Prior to his appointment

parent, she knows who we are

as president of Hartzell Engine Technologies, Bagley had

and believes in our mission. She

served as the General Manager of Pratt & Whitney’s OEM

will be integral in welcoming our

operation, Columbus Forge, in Columbus, Ga. “I would like

new students and their families to

to thank Mike and the entire management team at Tailwind

our school community,” said Anne

Technologies for this wonderful opportunity,” Bagley said.

Ceasar, school president. From a

“It’s a tremendous situation to be able to step into a posi-

military family, Lopez attended Mont-

tion where the company is not only well-established from

gomery Catholic in elementary and

a business and culture perspective, but is poised for some

again in high school when her par-

exceptional growth in a variety of general aviation markets.”

in Montgomery over the past seven years,

ents were stationed at Maxwell AFB. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Auburn University and has worked as a Director of Marketing and Events Coordinator for the past 13 years.

+ SUBM IT T IN G N E WS? Submit information to

Jina Miniard at jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.

AT&T Alabama Announces New President

Attach press releases as a Word document and include

Wayne Hutchens has been named president of AT&T Alabama. Hutchens most recently served as AT&T Alabama assistant vice president of regulatory and external affairs.

As president of AT&T Alabama, Hutchens will oversee the

62

a high-resolution headshot (at least 300 dpi). An accompanying headshot is required for “Members on the Move” announcements.

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

Community

very excited about the alliance this Agreement has established, and the doors this relationship will open for future collaboration

Valiant Cross Academy Opening High School

opportunities. The possibilities are endless.”

YMCA Names “Man of the Year” General Paul Hankins was named the 2017 YMCA Man of the Year. For 66 years, teens of the Montgomery Student YMCAs have shown their appreciation to the men and women dedicated to serving youth in the community by planning and executing the YMCA’s Man of the Year annual program held the first Monday of December at Trinity Presbyterian Church. At the banquet, students pay tribute to the nominees, one of whom is selected as Man of the Year.

Hankins’ passion for service to the Valiant Cross Academy and Troy University representatives celebrate together.

Valiant Cross Academy announced the location of its new high school in January. Beginning in August 2018, the high school will be located at Building 136 on the campus of Troy University in downtown Montgomery. The school will occupy space on the second floor initially and will add additional floors as the school expands over the years. In addition to occupying space on the campus, the two organizations have entered into a unique partnership. The scholars from Valiant Cross Academy will be benefiting greatly by utilizing the University’s library, the Rosa Parks Museum, and classroom space. The scholars will also benefit from University teaching opportunities as well foreign language instruction from the Confucius Institute. “This is just the start of our vision of success for our scholars. We want them to be familiar with the college experience before it’s time for them to actually consider what colleges and universities they will want to attend. We are excited about this opportunity and look forward to the possibilities,” said Anthony Brock, Head of School, Valiant Cross Academy. Valiant Cross Academy, an all-male school with Christian principles located in the heart of downtown Montgomery on historic Dexter Avenue, is a thriving middle school with full 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Each grade will matriculate up until they graduate from high school. “We knew early on that we could only fit three grades at our current location,” said Kimberly Baker, Director of Development, Valiant Cross Academy. Baker continues, “We truly believed the right situation would ultimately open up for these young men, but I don’t believe we could have ever imagined an opportunity this amazing.” Dr. Lance Tatum, Vice Chancellor at Troy’s Montgomery Campus echoed Baker’s enthusiasm. “The announcement between Troy University and Valiant Cross Academy was both

youth of Montgomery shines through his YMCA work and earned him the honor. An active member of Frazer Methodist Church, he has served as the chair of the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex for almost four years. He is currently active on the Metro YMCA Board of Directors, the YMCA Strategic Planning Committee, the YMCA Property Committee and a member of the YMCA Jimmy Hitchcock Committee. He served in the United States Air Force for more than 29 years, where he served as the university president for three separate educational arms.

He was hired as the president of the Alabama Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in February 2005, after serving as municipal consultant to the Mayor of the City of Montgomery and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

And he is a member of countless boards outside of his YMCA work. This year’s program, co-chaired by Claudia Hubbard of St. James School, and Catharine del Carman of LAMP, featured 12 nominees and a guest speaker, Sim Sippial, YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s 2016 Man of the Year.

Achievements Local Lawyer To Serve Samford University Beasley Allen’s Andy Birchfield, head of the firm’s Mass Torts Section, was selected to Samford University’s Board of Trustees in December 2017. A 1988 graduate of the university, he will serve on the board through 2022 as one of 43 members selected to the university’s governing body. Birchfield has been with Beasley Allen since 1996. The Mass Torts Section he manages is recognized as a national leader in pharmaceutical litigation.

significant and historic for the Montgomery campus. We are all

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News

Four Star Freightliner Dealer Principal Jerry Kocan presents the Employee of the Year award to Suzy Herring.

Four Star Freightliner Names Employee of the Year Four Star Freightliner, Inc. announced Suzy Herring as its Employee of the Year in December 2017 during the company’s annual Year End Employee Celebration at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. Herring works as the Executive Assistant to the Dealer Principal and Human Resources Representative for Four Star Freightliner. She has only been with the company for a year and a half, but has made an immediate impact on the more than 170 employees at the six different Four Star locations. “I am so proud of what Suzy has brought to Four Star,” said Jerry Kocan, Dealer Principal. “Her leadership, consistency, intelligence and heart separate her from most people especially in the Human Resource arena. Our team members know that Suzy will help them with any of their benefits, investments and human resource questions. We are a better company because of Suzy’s contributions.”

Rebecca H. Baker Attains CFP Rebecca H. Baker, CFP, of the Longleaf Wealth Management team at UBS Financial Services has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. She also holds the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, along with her Master of Business Administration (MBA).

The CFP identifies those individuals who have met the rigorous experience and ethical requirements of the CFP Board, have successfully completed financial planning coursework and have passed the CFP Certification Examination.

65

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

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

Awards & Honors

knack for bringing together individuals, businesses, government officials, educators and civic leaders for common goals,” said Fed-

Horace Horn Honored with Alabama Farmers Federation’s Cultivator Award

eration President Jimmy Parnell. “Whenever a project benefitting rural Alabama is discussed, Horace is at the table — and often called the meeting. He is a trusted friend and colleague of the Alabama Farmers Federation.” A former poultry grower, Horace ran a successful construction company and partnered with Auburn University in development of organic lawn and garden products. He is chairman of the Alabama State Port Authority and has served in leadership positions with dozens of organizations.

Beasley Allen Attorney Honored Beasley Allen’s David Dearing, a principal attorney in the firm’s Mass Torts Section, has been selected as a member of the International Society of Barristers. Society membership is extended by invitation only to those “of exceptional talent whose qualities Horace Horn was presented the Alabama Farmers Federation’s

including integrity, honor and collegiality embody the spirit of the

Cultivator Award for fostering relationships to benefit rural fami-

true professional,” according to its website. Selection is based

lies. For 30 years, the Crenshaw County native has been dedicat-

on an extensive screening process that includes comments from

ed to rural development — first as an entrepreneur, then as a U.S.

judges before whom nominees have appeared and other attor-

Department of Agriculture (USDA) director and now as Power-

neys who know them well. Dearing has been with Beasley Allen

South’s vice president of external affairs. “Horace has a unique

since 2012.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

WANT YOUR NEWS IN THE MBJ? Submit information for consideration to Jina Miniard at jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.

Please attach press releases as a Word document or a PDF (Word documents preferred), and please include high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) photos with your press

W E LCO ME , COACH! Faulkner University Names New Football Coach Faulkner recently announced the hire of Shayne Wasden to take the helm of its football program. The former Troy University associate head coach replaces Charlie Boren, who resigned in December after six seasons on staff. “I am honored and extremely excited to be given this

release if possible.

SUBMISSION DEADLINES: MAY ISSUE: MARCH 21 JULY ISSUE: MAY 29

opportunity,” Wasden said. “My staff and I plan to continue to build this program, win games and ultimately win championships. More important than winning, however, are the Christian principles and values that this university was founded on that our student-athletes will represent both on and off the field. We want to create an environment that produces Christ-centered young men that leave this university and have a positive impact on society.” Wasden, 49, spent 12 seasons at Troy from 2004-2015, the last 10 of which were as associate head coach.

In that span he worked extensively with wide receivers and tight ends and was also the special teams coordinator. Wasden helped lead the Trojans to five Sun Belt Conference Championships and five bowl game appearances.

Capitol Hill Healthcare Earns Top Qualification When your facility is responsible for making

our residents and ensuring them the best quality of life.”

about 700 meals a day, having extra ex-

Hill Hill Carter Opens New Office

pertise in food safety is key. Sharon Baker,

Hill Hill Carter opened an office in Fairhope

Administrator of local long-term care facility

at the end of 2017 to meet demand brought

Capitol Hill Healthcare, has attained one of

on by the law firm’s rapid growth in recent

the highest levels of certification from the

years in south Alabama. “We have long

National Restaurant Association, becoming a

represented clients in southern Alabama

Certified ServSafe Instructor and Registered

and, as a continued commitment to servicing

ServSafe Examination Proctor. She plans to

those clients, opening an office in Fairhope

teach enhanced food safety and handling

makes a lot of sense,” said David W. Hender-

to her staff. “Commitment to food safety

son, Managing Shareholder of Hill Hill Carter.

and education helps identify potential risks.

With the addition of this office, Hill Hill Carter

Identifying risks helps reduce them and will

now has locations in the northern, central

keep our operation, staff and residents safe,”

and southern areas of Alabama.

Baker said. “Food safety is part of caring for

67

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Eastchase Central Sold Montgomery-based developer Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC completed the new shopping venue Eastchase Central in October 2017 and in November 2017 sold the 56,000-square-foot project, which features the national retailers Marshalls, HomeGoods, Kirkland’s and Five Below. Eastchase Central is the latest commercial retail development of the 330-acre, mixed-use project, EASTCHASE, that started in 2002 by Jim Wilson & Associates with the initial opening of the Shoppes at Eastchase.

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

BUSI N E SS BUZ Z Focus Batter Up! Biscuits 2018 Season Starting Soon The Montgomery Biscuits made a series of announcements in January, outlining

City Leaders Launch Envision 2050 Montgomery officials recently announced a new comprehensive city plan, called Envision 2050, that will be created to identify the city’s needs and ways to meet those needs and better prepare Montgomery for the future.

The new group will take over the work of Envision 2020, a volunteer organization formed 17 years ago to solve some of the area’s problems by bringing together a diverse group of leaders from the public and private sectors. Robert Smith, planning director for Montgomery, will spearhead the Envision 2050 initiative. The first step is conducting an in-depth study, expected to take at least a year, to determine the city’s current status in several areas like land use and infrastructure.

the staff changes, promotional nights and giveways fans can look forward to during the 2018 season, which starts with the first pitch on April 5. Here are a few highlights. Visit biscuitsbaseball. com to get the full scoop.

The 2018 Field Staff: Brady Williams will return as Manager along with the returning Pitching Coach R.C. Lichtenstein and Coach Gary Redus. Jamie Nelson will also join the Biscuits for his first season as a Coach in Montgomery.

Giveaways & Goodies: Premium giveaways begin on April 18, with a “Monty the Biscuit Pillow” presented by WOW! During the “Night of Champions” on April 27, ALFA Insurance will be giving away 2,000 upscale, premium Biscuit picture frames to fans. The Biscuits are also planning an exciting

Montgomery Veteran Launches Franchise U.S. Army Veteran Marche` Johnson has brought the Major Organizers franchise to Montgomery and surrounding areas.

The Montgomery native is a United States Army Veteran who spent 13 years serving her country. As a soldier, she moved numerous times and learned the importance of staying organized. She’s now sharing her experience and expertise with others through her Major Organizers business. “With Major Organizers, we bring order to each household by creating functionality in homes which ultimately liberates families from chaos and stress,” Johnson said.

2018 SEASON

giveaway courtesy of Auburn University Montgomery recognizing the military aviation history, present, and future of Montgomery with a dual figurine featuring the C-130 aircraft from the 908th Air-

FIRST

APRIL 5

PITCH!

NEW kids club FAN FAVES

MAX Capital City Classic Alabama vs. Auburn

Tuesday, March 27 Joy to Life’s “Pink Out the Park Night”

Friday, April 20

lift Wing and the newly announced F-35 Lightning II Jet. Members of the Biscuits

on Tuesday, March 27. “Joy to Life’s Pink

new, free “Kids Club” will receive special

Out the Park Night” on April 20 is a part-

giveaways throughout the season. In

nership with Joy to Life’s annual “Walk

addition to free admission on Sunday

of Life” with special ticket offers for

games, the first 500 kids aged 12 and

any participants, as well as the Biscuits

younger through the gates on Sundays

donning specially made pink jerseys on-

will receive a special giveway.

field, which will be auctioned off to fans after the game. Thirsty Thursdays will

Special Events:

have a new twist in 2018 as every Thurs-

The MAX Capital City Classic between

day night will see the Biscuits giving

Auburn University and the University of

away premium t-shirts to the first 1,000

Alabama returns to Riverwalk Staduim

fans aged 15 and older.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

HCS GROUP

HCS Group President/CEO Kent Hornsby

HCS Group has been providing electrical engineering and other energy-related services to the River Region and beyond for 10 years.

This year, the company will be broadening its reach in Africa and helping people in its rural areas receive electrical power.

WHEN WAS HCS GROUP FOUNDED? 2008 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, technical energy audits and power system studies.

WHO ARE YOUR PRIMARY CLIENTS? U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, State Department, U.S. Agency for International Development, USAF and Army Medical Command and the Veterans Administration.

HOW HAS THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING AND ENERGY BUSINESS CHANGED IN THE LAST DECADE, AND HOW IS YOUR COMPANY KEEPING UP? Technology and energy codes have changed dramatically over the past 10 years, not only in the products we engineer and design around, but the way we perform our designs and deliverables. Our engineering tools must operate on the most up-to-date platforms to model, evaluate and consider all options related to energy delivery and consumption. We have invested in and utilize among the best software programs available to assist in engineering energy efficient, resilient and reliable energy delivery systems.

WHAT IS YOUR COMPANY’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? We are a small business on a large mission worldwide. Our business model

than 85 percent of those living in rural areas that lack access. Having

has not changed from its original conception: to strive and provide

already worked in the program for over a year, HCS is expanding its

added value to a project as a small business. We say that, “Lead-

project base to cover more countries in 2018. We will be engineering

ership is our team’s greatest asset; integrity is our team’s greatest

and designing power plants, transmission, distribution, substations,

responsibility; and service is our team’s greatest privilege.”

micro-grids, renewable energy generation and more.

WHAT SETS YOUR COMPANY APART? In addition to our electri-

HOW DOES THIS GLOBAL PRESENCE AFFECT THE COMPANY

cal/energy engineering assets, HCS Group has a technical services division led by a certified Master Electrician to perform hands-on

HERE AT HOME? We still perform engineering support and technical services for local agencies and architects in our local area. And

power quality analysis, Level 3 IR Scans, forensic level studies and

although the majority of our work is not in Montgomery, we are still all

electrical network system models and analysis.

about supporting our local community. HCS Group has been a sponsor

WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR HCS GROUP? In 2018, HCS

for numerous community related activities and programs such as the Montgomery Biscuits Military Appreciation Night, Brantwood Children’s

Group is getting more involved with Power Africa through several

Home, Family Sunshine Center, the Montgomery Half Marathon and

opportunities. One is an effort to make power available to the more

numerous local 5k runs and charity events.

8401 CROSSLAND LOOP / 334-277-6737 / HCSGROUPET.COM 69

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

students will also use the block to learn more about engine assembly and adjustment. “Our commitment to Ingram State is strong and it is our responsibility to support them and help with training their technicians,” said Jerry Kocan, Four Star Freightliner Dealer Four Star owner Jerry Kocan, ISTC diesel mechanics instructor Randy Hull, Tony Snead Four Star service manager and Judson Colburn, Four Star parts manager.

Principal. “This Cummins Engine is current technology, so their students will

Local Trucking Company Donates Equipment

have practical knowledge

First semester diesel me-

liner. In December, diesel

and training with engines

chanics students at Ingram

mechanics instructor Randy

in trucks operating today.”

State Technical College in

Hull took delivery of a Cum-

Hull said the engine block

Deatsville will have a new

mins ISB, 8.3-liter midsize

is one of many benefits

place to practice their preci-

engine block donated by

the program has received

sion measurement skills,

Four Star. In addition to

from the company in recent

thanks to Four Star Freight-

precision measurement,

years.

Agape Fundraiser Features Southern Writer Agape of Central Alabama held it 4th annual Connecting Hearts event on February 27 at the Alley Station Warehouse in downtown Montgomery. The evening featured special guest Sean Dietrich (“Sean of the South”), a columnist and novelist known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, Good Grit, The Tallahassee Democrat, South Magazine, The Mobile Press Register and many other outlets. A self-professed “mediocre sailor and fisherman, biscuit connoisseur, and barbecue competition judge,” Dietrich is the author of eight books. V.I.P. ticket holders were invited to a “meet and greet” with Dietrich. Funds raised by the event support Agape’s adoption and foster care ministries for children and crisis pregnancy services.

CONVERSATIONS Roundtables for Professional Women

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

11AM - 1PM @Wynlakes Country Club, 7900 Wynlakes Boulevard

Guest speaker: Valorie Lawson, Anchor, WSFA Join us as we focus on women in business who wish to build a strong network intent on inspiring one another to achieve individual potential.

Enjoy lunch, meet other local businesswomen, and bring plenty of business cards for networking.

Registration deadline is Friday, April 20, 5 PM. Register at montgomerychamber.com/events or contact Bonnie Evans at 334-240-9299.

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

ENCOMPASS HEALTH Using the latest technology and innovation in its rehabilitation therapies, Encompass Health helps patients get better and get back to their lives.

WHEN AND WHY DID HEALTHSOUTH BECOME/TRANSITION TO ENCOMPASS HEALTH? As part of a long-term plan to position HealthSouth for future success in the evolving healthcare delivery system, we acquired Encompass Home Health & Hospice in 2014.

We found that keeping two separate names limited the overall awareness of us as a post-acute care provider. The name change is part of a broader rebranding process—including a new logo, company values, and updated visuals and messaging—designed to help us communicate what sets us apart as we deliver connected care and superior outcomes. The company name and NYSE ticker symbol legally changed on January 1, 2018. Although the company’s name

Dr. Jeffrey Eng, Medical Director and Randy Thompson, CEO

has officially changed, the first group of locations will begin migrating to Encompass Health on April 1, and we expect the full migration to Encompass Health to be completed by Jan. 1, 2019.

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES (MONTGOMERY): 299 WHAT ARE ENCOMPASS HEALTH’S PRIMARY SERVICES? Our core focus is on delivering high-quality, post-acute rehabilitative care distinguished by intensive, individualized physical, occupational and speech therapy and advanced technologies. We offer inpatient rehabilitation in hospitals as well as home-based services through home health agencies and hospice agencies. Our teams apply the most innovative and advanced technology to ensure that patients receive the best care for their needs.

WHAT SETS ENCOMPASS HEALTH AND ITS SERVICES APART FROM OTHER SIMILAR COMPANIES? At Encompass Health, we deliver high-quality integrated inpatient and home-based care, seam-

Physical Therapy Department.

Dr. Felix James Allen, Internal Medicine and members of Encompass Clinical Team.

lessly connecting with providers across the healthcare continuum.

We differentiate ourselves based on our broad platform of clinical expertise, the quality of our clinical outcomes, the sustainability of best practices and the application of the most advanced technologies.

WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR ENCOMPASS HEALTH? The healthcare industry continues to present new opportunities, and we are poised for success. We’ll continue our strategy to expand our network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and home health and hospice agencies, further strengthen our relationships with healthcare systems and other partners in order to connect patient care across the continuum, and to deliver superior outcomes.

RECENT MILESTONES AND AWARDS: We were included in the 2017 Modern Healthcare Best Places to Work listing for 2017.

4465 NARROW LANE ROAD, MONTGOMERY, AL 36116 /334-284-7700 / HEALTHSOUTHMONTGOMERY.COM 71

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES

CENTURY CHURCH

MARQUIRETTE’S EXQUISITE JEWELRY

37 Bridge Street, Pike Road, AL 36064 334-801-9080, www.century.church Patrick Quinn-Pastor “Churches/Ministries”

8163 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-270-0074, www.marquirettes.com Lyle Fields-President “Jewelers/Jewelry”

LOGOLAND MARKETING & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

CARING TOUCH COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CLEANING

882 Plantation Way, Suite A, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-850-7645, www.logolandmarketing.com Linda Gleason-President “Advertising Specialties”

4010 Greenacres Drive, Montgomery, AL 36106, 334-498-5168 www.caringtouchcommercialandjanitorialresidentialcleaningservices.com Laventrence Underwood-Owner, Yolanda Groce-Owner “Cleaning Services”

MAJOR ORGANIZERS

AFFORDABLE ENTERPRISES, LLC

600 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-213-9602, www.majororganizers.com/Montgomery Marche Johnson-Owner “Residential Organizing”

180 West Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36108 334-262-6225 Melody Thomas-Alexander-Owner “Automobile Repair Services”

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

WORKABLE SOLUTIONS During his years serving in the military, Chief Tyron Works gained valuable experience in security and investigative work. Through his company Workable Solutions, he’s now bringing his knowledge and expertise to the service of River Region residents.

WHEN WAS WORKABLE SOLUTIONS FOUNDED? October 2009 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 30 WHAT ARE WORKABLE SOLUTIONS’ PRIMARY SERVICES? We provide security guards and patrol services, investigation, special events security, background investigations, CCTV monitoring, loss prevention, home watch, protection/bodyguard services and security/law enforcement training.

IS THE NEED FOR SECURITY SERVICES GROWING? Yes. With the recent terror attacks on individuals and institutions and acts of violence displayed daily, our services are needed now more than ever.

HOW HAS THE SECURITY AND INVESTIGATION BUSINESS CHANGED IN THE LAST 10 YEARS, AND HOW IS YOUR COMPANY KEEPING UP? Threats from foreign and domestic sources are leading to more spending in the security industry. This has also resulted in advancements in technology in operational and IT private security sectors, changes in weapon laws and the creation of security regulatory boards in most states, which licenses the state’s security officers (armed and unarmed) and sets the requirements for obtaining these licenses. With an increasing number of states passing regulations that focus on businesses having better trained security officers, our company is providing continuous officer training and maintaining excellence in the services we provide.

WHAT IS WORKABLE SOLUTIONS’ BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? Your safety, property and best interests are always our priority. We are dedicated to providing services that enrich the lives of the community, inform the public and guide our clients to success.

WHAT SETS YOUR COMPANY APART? We take pride in our personal appearance, and everyone is responsible for conveying a professional image by adhering to the company’s grooming standards. We encourage the best ideas to surface from anywhere within the organization. And we operate as a team. We also take training seriously. Our officers are trained by former and current law enforcement APOST instructors on the following: basic security laws, fire prevention, crisis management, crowd control, laws of arrest, use of force, situation awareness, detention techniques and procedures, firearms training and more. Our officers are also required to qualify using the 50-round APOST Firearms Qualification Course.

5925 CARMICHAEL RD., SUITE D /334-262-0432 / WORKABLE-SOLUTIONS.ORG 73

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT IN G N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES

JET POLYMER RECYCLING, INC.

THAT’S MY CHILD

4290 Alatex Road, Montgomery, AL 36108 334-288-5002, www.jetpolymer.com Ed Traylor-Owner, Jace Traylor-Director of Marketing Brian Denton-Vice President, Bob Mest-General Manager “Recycling”

2414 Lower Wetumpka Road, Montgomery, AL 36110 850-380-2378, www.thatsmychildmgm.org Charles Lee-Executive Director “Associations/Non-Profits”

FRIOS GOURMET POPS

ALDRIDGE BORDEN & COMPANY-100TH ANNIVERSARY

36 Dexter Avenue, Suite 120, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-451-4589, www.friospops.com Troy Stubbs-Owner “Restaurants-Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt”

74 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-834-6640, www.aldridgeborden.com Dane Floyd-President “Accounting-Certified Public”

ENCORE REHABILITATION

GARRY S. MCANNALLY, LLC

9427 Vaughn Road, Suite A, Pike Road, AL 36064 334-523-8999, www.encorerehab.com Mary Lauren Luke-Physical Therapist “Rehabilitation Services”

1943 Berry Chase Place, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-676-3210 Jon Moody-Associate Attorney “Legal Services-Attorneys”

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MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS New Members WELCOME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS

MARCH NEW MEMBERS A DV E R T IS IN G - O U T D O O R

NewSouth Outdoor, LLC Neil Bell 2710 Fernway Drive, Montgomery, Alabama 36111 334-377-3746, www.newsouthoutdoor.com C A N D IE S , CO O K IE S & CO N F E C T IO N S

Waterfront Sweets Kimyatta Moss 22 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 334-416-8598, www.waterfrontsweets.org CO N V E N IE N C E STO R E

Love’s Travel Stops Michael Jones 1127 Tyson Road, Hope Hull, Alabama 36043 334-280-0009, www.loves.com FO O D S - S P E C IA L IZE D, R E STAU R A N T - IC E C R E A M /F R OZE N YO G U R T

Frios Gourmet Pops Troy Stubbs 36 Dexter Avenue, Suite 120, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 334-451-4589, www.friospops.com H OM E CARE BU S I NESS Home Care Assistance of Montgomery Kristy Butler 7742 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-593-3988 www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com H O M E H E A LT H S E RV IC E S

Right At Home-Montgomery Metro Susie Ezell 7121 Halcyon Park Drive, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-517-1045, www.rah-alabama.com

I NDIVIDUALS

Lisa Ann Williamson 4121 Carmichael Road, Suite 501 Montgomery, Alabama 36106 914-772-0710

Sherrie Myers 2340 North Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL 60614 847-682-5493

I NFORM AT ION TE C H N OLOGY F I R M S

Plaric IT, LLC Michael Pruett 182 Boykin Lakes Loop, Pike Road, Alabama 36064 334-440-6933, www.plaricit.com I NSUR ANC E COM PA N I E S / S E RV I C E S , I NSUR ANC E-COM PA N I E S / A DV I S OR

The Clay Carroll Agency, LLC Clay Carroll 2531 Bell Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-272-4745, www.insurewithclay.com LEGAL SERVIC ES - ATTOR N E YS

Garry S. McAnnally, LLC Jon Moody 1943 Berry Chase Place, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-676-3210 M ANUFAC TUR ED H OM E COM M UN I TY

Evergreen Estates Michelle Belcher 4590 Troy Highway, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-288-5629, www.meritusmhc.com M OR TGAGE ORIGI N ATOR , M OR TG AG E / F I N A N C E

Pathway Lending Brian Denney 1500 1st Avenue No., Suite 62 Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205-527-0878, www.pathwaylending.org PUBLIC RELAT ION S

Lou Hammond Group Lou Hammond 145 King Street, Suite 411 Charleston, South Carolina 29401 843-722-8880, www.louhammond.com

Numbers reflect 2017 over 2016.

Economic Intel

BIG NEWS!

MGM

WINGS UP:

23ta,l 0MG5M1

DCA

MONTGOMERY REGIONAL

To ers Flight Passeng in 2017

REAGAN NATIONAL

Starting June 7, 2018, the Montgomery Regional Airport will be offering an American Airlines direct flight to Washington D.C.'s Reagan National (DCA)

HOUSING TOURISM

+ .6%

YEAR-TO-DATE 2017

64% OCCUPANCY RATE

SUPPLY FOR 2017

+ 4.0% TOTAL HOME SALES

LODGING

TAX ALL-TIME HIGH

$9,583,421.58

+9.5M

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

IN 2017

YEAR-TO-DATE 2017 LODGINGS TAX COLLECTIONS

Source: Smith Travel Research Report, City of Montgomery

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

$169,315 AVERAGE SALE PRICE

EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR

LABOR FORCE

MINING, LOGGING, CONSTRUCTION

EMPLOYED

LABOR FORCE

LABOR FORCE

170,194

164,520

- 2.3% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate MGM Area

SECTORS GOING UP

CIVILIAN

+ 5.5

EDUCATION & HEALTH SERVICES OTHER SERVICES LEISURE & HOSPITALITY TRADE

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

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MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

+ 1.6% + 1.6% + 1.3% + 1.2% + 1.0%

MBJ

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101