MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL S E P T E M B E R / O C TO B E R 2 0 2 0
MBJ
WORKING IT OUT INDUSTRY OVERVIEW: HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
Burdell, George P.
r be ip m a sh Ch ber ct - m e pa s m Im er ak m
Reminder: Vote November 3
+ BIG THE
GIVE 2020
RECOGNIZING RIVER REGION NONPROFITS
er Volunte :00 y @2 Frida
10
CONTENTS SEPT/OCT 2020
THIS ISSUE:
10 Working It Out: Human Resources, Employment Services and Benefits Industry Overview
38 Going Up: Ad Valorem and Education 42 Now is the Time: Diversity Summit 2020 46 Plenty to Bark About: Pets are Big Business 53 The Big Give 2020: Recognizing Nonprofits 26 Investor Profile: Lance Hunter 30 Member Profiles: Lelar Wilson and Tasha M. Scott 32 Military Profile: Patricia Jones 36 #myMGM: Local Art Sold Here 80 Small Business Briefcase: Employee Engagement Supercharges Productivity
CHAMBER NEWS:
82 Connect: Chamber News 84 Connect: Chamber FAQ 90 Members on the Move 94 Members in the News 97 Business Buzz 99 New Members 102 Intel
Correction: I n t h e J uly iss ue’s M ilit ary P ro f i l e, we ac c id e nt ally re -ran s o m e info rm at io n ab o ut t he 4 2 nd Air B as e Wing in s te ad o f t h e c o rre c t info rm a t i o n rel a ted t o t h e 9 0 8 t h Airlift Wing. Ap o lo gie s t o b o t h gro u ps f o r o u r m is t ake and fo r any c o nfus io n it m ay h ave c aus e d.
S
MBJ
THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION
MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Anna B. Buckalew CHIEF ENGAGEMENT OFFICER Jina Miniard
exploreMedia PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn
MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay
ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy
DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird
CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Minnie Lamberth, Elizabeth Brasher, Arthur DuCote and Sharleen Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Nick Drollette, Nancy Fields, Robert Fouts, Donna Wallace King, David Robertson Jr. ON THE COVER Cover design by Erika Rowe Tracy. ADVERTISING Christina Bennett, exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 COMMUNICATIONS Kinsey de Torres MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Post Office Box 79, Montgomery, Alabama 36101 Telephone: 334-834-5200 • mbj@montgomerychamber.com © Copyright 2020 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT
The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce catalyzes business and community leadership to improve the economic prosperity and quality of place of Montgomery and the River Region. The Montgomery Business Journal (USPS NO. 025553) is published bi-monthly by exploreMedia for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 12, Issue 6. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.
CHAMBER NEWS
Events +
MA RK YO UR CALENDAR S FOR THE SE UP COMING C HAMB E R E V E NTS
WE'RE HERE FOR YOU! The fall is packed with some exciting ways
OCT
InnovateMGM – Virtual Event
20
InnovateMGM celebrates those
to build powerful connections. Register
who are seeding new ideas, meeting
now and engage with us like never before!
challenges head-on and thinking
For a full list of scheduled events, visit our
differently about how delivering for their
calendar of events online. montgomerychamber.com/events.
customers translates into delivering for their community. Presenting Sponsor: Troy Cablevision
OCT
21
22
Diversity Summit – 9am-12:30pm; Virtual Event
This year’s Diversity Summit goes beyond a simple understanding of what diversity means and why it matters. Hear from world-renowned speakers who have
PROGRAMMING & EVENTS Small Business Briefcase
State of the City & County
The Small Business Briefcase events
Connect with community
turn MBJ content into live events and feature
and business leadership, elected officials
local business experts who share their
and military leaders and hear from Mayor
insight, tips and tools for small businesses
Steven Reed and County Commission
and entrepreneurs to be more productive,
Chairman Elton Dean Sr. as they give a
efficient and ultimately, more successful.
comprehensive update on the State of the
In Partnership with Troy University Continuing
City and County.
Education & Outreach
Presenting Sponsor: Baptist Health
SEPT
DON'T MISS THIS
OCT
28
Conversations & Connections: Empowering Women
Connect and engage with professional women from around the River Region and
October 6 - How to Increase Productivity and Boost Engagement November 3 – How to Retain & Incentivize a Great Team December 1 - Legal Questions Small Businesses Don’t Know to Ask
hear from powerful leading ladies who lead with passion, grit and who inspire
experience and passion for building
those around them.
leadership capacity and culture centered
Presenting Sponsor: Massey Properties, LLC
around diversity, inclusion and equity. Presenting Sponsor: Martha’s Place
COMING SOON: EGGS & ISSUES VIRTUAL SERIES Watch for updates for the Eggs & Issues Virtual Series in our enewsletters or track updated events on montgomery.com/events. Presenting Sponsor: Balch & Bingham LLP
First Fridays Culture Builder and Social Hour, 3:30-5pm
Collaborate and network with local creatives and entrepreneurs during the Chamber's First Friday Culture Builder and Social Hour. Hear from local makers,
OCT
08
Chamber Golf Classic – 7am-7pm at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
Come build powerful connections on the course with fellow members, elected officials, community leaders and potential clients. Presenting Sponsor: Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Military Appreciation Week
November 8-14 Chamber Orientation November 10 Governmental Affairs Reception November 16 148th Annual Meeting December 8 Payroll Tax Update December 10
8 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
store owners, movers and shakers and creators who all have unique stories that have helped shape our community and tell the story of MGM. Friday, October 2 at Station #2 in
Cottage Hill; Sponsored by Stratice, LLC Friday, November 6 at Wishbone Café; Sponsored by Partners Realty
Friday, December 4 at Kru on Mt Meigs; Sponsored by KRU on Mt. Meigs
The River Region’s human resources, employment services and benefits industries have vital roles to play in the COVID-19 recovery and in the everyday operations of our local economy.
WORKING IT OUT
By Jennifer Stewart Kornegay
Industry Overview:
T
he countless negative impacts of COVID-19 on global, national and local economies are now old news.
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
GETTING BACK TO BIZ In this uncertain environment, the River Region’s Human Resources,
Very few businesses have been spared from
Employment Services and
at least some form of pandemic-related loss or
Benefits industries have vital
pain, pushing many to furlough and downsize,
roles to play in the recovery,
as Tara Hutchison, Alabama Department
according to several of its
of Labor (ADOL) Communications Director,
key members, including
noted. “Alabama, like every other state, saw
Beth Walker McBride, Vice
a significant increase in its unemployment
President of WorkForce
from March to April, entirely due to COVID-19
Walker Personnel, LLC. She
closures,” she said. “Years of economic
first pointed to the important
progress were reversed in a matter of two
functions her industry provides
months.” Hutchison’s department is responsible
in our community overall. “The
for paying unemployment compensation
employment services industry greatly benefits
claims, including the three new programs
the River Region by the many staffing services
passed by Congress under the CARES
it offers to the businesses in this area,” she
Act: Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
said. “We are able to provide businesses
(PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment
with a wide array of employees ranging
Compensation (PEUC) and Federal Pandemic
from very specialized skills to ones that are
Unemployment Compensation (FPUC). ADOL
more general in nature. We also benefit the
also assists those rejoining the workforce after
citizens by providing a venue for them to seek
losing their jobs.
employment opportunities with ease.”
The numbers speak for themselves. April’s
In direct response to COVID-19, the industry’s
unemployment rate for the state hit 13.8
role has become even more essential. “With
percent, with Montgomery County hovering
the employment crisis that the nation is
around 12 percent. As of mid-June, the
currently facing, it is our belief that the staffing
state had disbursed nearly $2 billion in
industry will play a major role in helping
unemployment benefits. The unemployment
Americans get back to work,” McBride said.
figures are now dropping; in June, the
“We have seen an increase in our clients’ need
statewide unemployment number dropped to
for staffing. With many businesses opening
7.5 percent, and Hutchison stressed that there
back up, there has been an increased need
is light at the end of the tunnel. The lingering
for extra personnel. Some of our clients are
question though: How long is the tunnel and
having to play catch-up while others have seen
will everyone reach the end? “As restrictions
shortages due to employees that are no longer
ease, and employers recall employees,
available.”
Interview with Sam @ 3:00
hopefully we will recover quickly,” she said. “However, it may not be an overnight recovery,
Patrick Hart, License Owner, Spherion Staffing,
as some businesses will delay reopening or
echoed McBride, noting that helping build a
be unable to open again at all. Consumers’
deep base of local talent is the “pinnacle” of
mindsets may also change regarding some
the pluses his industry brings the area. “From
businesses.”
assisting the next generation in entering the workforce, to working with local veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce, and on some occasions, recruiting and relocating talent to the area from out of state,
11 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
YOUR CHAMBER: #ATWORK
We asked our industry leaders how the Chamber has benefited their companies.
“I’ve been a Chamber member since 1991, and it has benefited me greatly, giving me visibility when I first got out of the Air Force and started my business. It then gave me so many ways to get engaged and to connect. I’ve been on the board, been an Ambassador and served on committees. In addition to networking, all of these activities gave me credibility, and that led to profitability. I would recommend membership in the Chamber to anyone.” - Stacia Robinson, Agency Principal at The BeneChoice Companies
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
of $151.8 billion in 2019 to $119.4 billion in 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak, a 21-percent decrease from the previous year,” he said. “We’ve all been affected. With the predicted decrease due to the outbreak, the staffing and recruiting industry will have an uphill battle. Our team in Montgomery is doing everything in our power to stay the course and support our clients during this time.” But the industry is also realizing some of the same positives that the virus forced many other industries to recognize, namely increased efficiency. “At the onset of the pandemic, we were affected similarly to most businesses due to the stay-at-home orders. However, the challenges of working remotely we are helping local businesses secure
actually made us look at our day-to-day
the talent they need to be successful,
processes, and we began to streamline
while also assisting the local workforce
procedures,” McBride said. “ COVID-19
in finding better career opportunities
has made us become much more flexible
that are personally, professionally and
and more efficient.”
financially rewarding,” Hart said. On
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
the COVID-19 front, Spherion worked with its parent company Randstad’s to
“When one business sector
Like McBride’s employees, millions of
safely transitioning people back into the
becomes less busy, there is always
Americans were forced to temporarily
workplace, as well as assisting displaced
another type of industry or business
work from home due to COVID-19
create a national task force focused on
workers. “At a local level, we also are providing COVID-19 screening solutions for our clients,” Hart said. Marcel R. McElroy’s companies, Marcel
sector that has a growing demand
shutdowns, allowing a lot of businesses to
for employees.”
find value in an arrangement they might
- Beth Walker McBride, Vice President of WorkForce Walker Personnel, LLC
not have tried otherwise. Even as cities and states “reopen,” work-from-home arrangements for some are becoming permanent. McBride says she believes the
McElroy’s Job Connection, LLC and Top
trend has staying power. “I think that like
Talent Recruiter, LLC, are outsourced by companies looking for professionals to
who are just furloughed employees,” he
our business, many are using the ability to
fill salaried openings in specific fields,
said. “We are also hearing from some
work remotely to become more efficient,”
including human resources, engineering,
companies who are wanting us to assist
she said.
IT, accounting, sales and marketing,
their employees where they are having
healthcare and more. But he’s seen the
cutbacks due to budget cuts.”
McElroy agreed, at least in part. “Working from home will increase with the larger
same trends stemming from the virus as his colleagues: people who’ve lost
And the industry itself is facing some
companies who employ a lot of your
jobs and companies whose employment
tough times ahead, as Hart explained.
white-collar professionals,” he said. “But
needs have shifted since the shutdowns
“On a larger scale, Statista [a provider of
with most of your smaller companies and
in March. “We are getting calls from
market and consumer data] reports that
manufacturing companies, I don’t see an
candidates whose jobs have been
the U.S. staffing and recruiting market is
increase.”
eliminated for good, as well as those
predicted to decrease from its market size
12 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
13 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
Hart also sees a mixed bag. “On
attract candidates and provide some
one hand, yes, there will be an
face-to-face interaction, while at the
increase in working from home. On
same time remaining conscientious
the other hand, many, after being
of the importance of following social
forced to work from home due to
distancing guidelines.”
the pandemic, found out that they miss the human-to-human interaction
The continued emphasis on some
with their colleagues
true, in-person
and co-workers,”
interaction is a constant
he said. With more
that Hart says will
people not working
never disappear. “We
in office spaces, he
work with all kinds of
pointed to possible
new and emerging
consequences for one
technologies on a
sector in particular. “There is no doubt that the commercial real estate industry will be impacted the most by
SMART STUFF The use of smart phones for job searches and application submissions is now standard —
this,” he said. “We’ve already witnessed REIT’s [real estate investment trusts]
WorkForce Walker Personnel’s process is 100-percent online and
drawing down their
mobile friendly.
credit lines.”
daily basis, which has helped professional recruiters operate more efficiently,” he said. “However, technology can’t replace the human touch, the creativity, the empathy and the engagement that customers prize, which drives innovation
and differentiation in an organization One large factor keeping the workfrom-home trend alive is how easy
or small business.”
it is today, thanks to advances
BEYOND THE VIRUS
in technology, and technology is
COVID-19 issues have dominated our
driving rapid evolution in the staffing
thoughts, but the pandemic is by no
services industry too. The use of
means the only threat the employment
smart phones for job searches and
services industry must contend with.
application submissions is now
Workforce readiness remains a critical
standard — WorkForce Walker
factor, according to McBride. “I think
Personnel’s process is 100-percent
one of the areas that will need to be
online and mobile friendly — and
addressed in the coming years is the
this came in handy when quarantine
need for more technical training,”
measures were at their strictest. “We
she said. “There is a shortage of
are now able to recruit, interview and
employees with specific skill sets.”
onboard applicants without having any physical contact. The pandemic has
And the “specific skills” we need
also forced the industry to become
in our workforce are constantly
more dependent on digital recruiting
changing; now these changes are
resources, such as job boards and
coming faster than ever. “Temporary
online resume databases, to source
workers will need to shift to different
qualified candidates,” McBride said.
industries and adapt as needed,” Hart
“We are also seeing a lot of agencies
said. “The most notable trend to watch
utilize outdoor job fairs as a way to
in my opinion, will be reskilling of
14 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
IND USTRY Leader | Human Resources, Employment Services and Benefits
Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc. When was your company founded? 1977.
Site clinics and are looking for ways to assist their clients with their
In addition to property and casualty insurance products, the
overall benefit strategy.
employee benefits department was added in 2004.
Milestones/Awards/Accomplishments: HDB was How many employees do you have in the River Region? 7 in benefits and 43 total What are your primary products and services? Harmon Dennis Bradshaw is a full-service risk
recognized as a 2019 Top Insurance Workplace by Insurance Business America. Specific to our employee benefits department, John Dorough joined HDB in 2008 with one goal in mind—to grow the employee benefits division. Dorough is the first employee benefits shareholder and with his expertise, the department has
management and insurance provider and employee benefits firm.
grown significantly over the years. In 2016, Bobby Trott joined the
HDB is able to assist employers in the design and implementation
employee benefits group of HDB and in his short time, has made a
of custom benefit packages for their organization and employees
considerable impact and became a shareholder in 2019.
as well as provide loss control/safety and human resources consulting services. Our goal is simple, we want to partner with you and your team in order to provide the best overall employee benefits package to your most valuable asset—your employees.
What sets your company apart? Benefits are much more than just medical, dental, vision, life and disability programs. Our experienced benefit professionals take time to understand your business and employer’s needs. Our professionals stay up to date on all the latest trends from Rx carve-out to Near Site/On-
P.O. Box 241667 / Montgomery, AL 36124 334-273-7277 / hdbinsurance.com
15 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
the workforce to meet the talent shortage
McElroy has identified an additional trend,
crisis that we are currently facing, and will
too: Companies are getting pickier and
continue to face, as we move forward. For
digging deeper when it comes to new hires.
these reasons, our team has worked to
“I see more companies wanting to see what
build business continuity solutions and
kind of social media presence that potential
develop plans addressing the business’s
new hires might have,” he said. “If they see
gaps, areas of opportunity and potential
something online where someone appears
solutions.”
to not be a fit because of their lifestyle, then some companies refuse to go any further in
Hart stressed that the ways companies
the interview process.”
search the available workforce have been altered too. “We’ve already experienced
At the same time, the struggle to attract
a huge shift in the way the hiring process
and keep good employees is getting
works in the last decade, and even more so
harder. “Companies are becoming more
recently with the commercial adoption of AI
competitive,” he said. “They are looking
and blockchain,” he said.
for top talent professionals who have the best skill set to help them provide the best
McElroy predicts increased use of video
product or service in their industry. Time
conference services in the future, as
is money, and they don’t have the time, or
companies have gotten more comfortable
the resources in many cases, to find top
with that technology. “You will see
professionals during low unemployment
more and more Zoom interviews before
as well as high unemployment times.” It’s
companies will fly someone in for a formal
an ongoing battle that businesses like
interview,” he said.
McBride’s, Hart’s and McElroy’s can help
Q:
“Technology can’t replace the human touch, the creativity, the empathy and the engagement that customers prize, which drives innovation and differentiation in an organization or small business.” - Patrick Hart, License Owner, Spherion Staffing
companies win.
What is the No. 1 HR question that COVID-19 has raised and what is its answer?
“What can I do to protect my employees (and my business) as they return to the workplace during the pandemic?” Some of the answers and solutions are: Communicate: Because your communication is a key indicator to what an employee experience might be like at your business, how your business communicates with your employees during this pandemic (or another crisis) will trickle down and could affect your ability to attract and retain top talent in the future.
clearly with everyone involved. Be empathetic with those anxious and reluctant to return. Listen to their concerns. Engage in interactive discussions with those requesting ADA accommodations. Have protocols established of what will be expected of HR and employees if an employee tests positive and share those protocols with your employees.
Follow your plan: Set expectations for all
Prepare your plan: Educate yourself. Get buy-in from your leadership team. Proactively plan how to bring your employees back safely. Seek feedback from department heads.
levels of employees and hold each other accountable. Don’t be caught in the “I didn’t know what to do, so I did nothing” category. Having a well thought-out plan showing you were proactive will make a difference should you have any future claims.
Communicate your plan: If your business is returning employees to the workplace, share your reentry strategy
- Marlo Saunders, Human Resources Consultant, Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc.
16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
IND USTRY Leader | Human Resources, Employment Services and Benefits
Career Personnel When was your company founded? 1959 How many employees do you have in the River Region? 75 What are your primary products and services? Career Personnel is an employment agency that
from former employers and co-workers, performing background checks, administering state-of-the-art skill testing, and providing drug tests upon request. We have a great staff of experienced and professional recruiters, and they take pride in getting to know the candidates. These recruiters work closely with our clients to ensure they provide the perfect match to meet their unique needs.
provides temporary, temp-to-perm and direct hire candidates to employers across the River Region. We provide top-notch clerical, administrative, technical, professional, information technology, legal, insurance and light industrial candidates for our clients.
What sets your company apart? Career Personnel maintains its edge and reputation for making the perfect match by doing in-depth, face-to-face interviews with each candidate (now that face-to-face is via video conferencing), obtaining references
4751 Berry Boulevard / Montgomery, AL 36106 334-277-2460 / careerpersonnelservice.com
17 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
JOBS WITH BENEFITS But even with the help of employment
Q:
services and recruiters, employers still have to make a compelling case to score the great employee, and as they vie for the best and brightest, salary may not be the deciding factor. “Going forward, I think employee benefits will become a bigger and bigger way to attract employees,” said Stacia Robinson, Agency Principal at The BeneChoice Companies.
YOUR CHAMBER: #ATWORK
“The Chamber has been a great benefit to our company from day one. They are the biggest promoters for the city of Montgomery. They are constantly looking to make Montgomery better by
PEOPLE ARE PRIORITY “My industry is still learning how to be high-touch using high tech, and that’s a key point. Because it always has been and will be about people and about connecting.” -Stacia Robinson, Agency Principal at The BeneChoice Companies
bringing in new industry to the community. They work just as hard to help new companies realize the potential they have by coming to Montgomery, with a strong workforce, logistics and lifestyle opportunities offered by living in the capital city. If you’re not a member of the Chamber, then you don’t
But not just any benefits will do; today’s workplace diversity means employees have varied wants and needs.
want to see your business grow, in my opinion.”
“Sometimes, you have five generations of
- Marcel R. McElroy’s companies, Marcel McElroy’s Job Connection,
employees in the workplace,” Robinson
LLC and Top Talent Recruiter, LLC
said. “The youngest might not care about retirement benefits, but they might want a benefit that helps them pay back school loans. Someone else on staff might be more interested in pet insurance.” Cookie-cutter plans are out, and customization is king. “You can no longer rest on offering some basic health insurance,” she said. “And a great benefits package helps a company that is not paying as much attract the really great employees, places like nonprofits
Blue Cross has made many changes in health insurance coverage to further meet the needs of our customers and providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, we began waiving member cost-sharing for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, treatment and in-person or telehealth visits. We also began allowing for early medication refills. Lastly, we have expanded telehealth for physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners; physical, speech and occupational therapists; behavioral health practitioners; ophthalmologists and optometrists; chiropractors; dentists and dieticians. We will continue to work closely with state and local governments, as well as partners within the healthcare system, to address local needs
of incentive puzzles. “Working from home will be a key benefit for the future,” she said. “Remote work is cutting costs for employers, so if employees are being productive, I think we will see employers not only allowing work from home, but in some cases, even encouraging it.” It will also affect the application of more traditional benefits. “You will see people need different benefits based
Like those in the employment services
“So that goes back to being flexible and
work will be on the rise in coming years;
due to COVID-19?
from the COVID-19 outbreak.
and the public sector.”
industry, Robinson also believes remote
What changes in health insurance have come about
on their work location,” Robinson said. having a menu of benefits available for employees.”
she sees the option as an alluring piece 18 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
- Troy Maxwell, District Manager, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama
IND USTRY Leader | Human Resources, Employment Services and Benefits
Top row, left to right: LaTrecia Durrough, Development Manager; Maurice Robinson, Account Services; Jennifer Smith, Benefit Counselor; Stacia Robinson, Agency Principal; Emanuel Thompson, Account Representative. Bottom row, left to right: Poquina ‘Candie’ Vance, Benefit Counselor; Kimberly Robinson, Development Manager; Tracey R. Harris, Account Manager; Tarkenton Dillard, Benefit Counselor; Loraine Hobson, Benefit Counselor.
The BeneChoice Companies, LLC When was your company founded? 2000
What sets your company apart? We’re able to communicate, educate and enroll all types of employees in all
How many employees do you have in the River Region? 10 What are your primary products and services? The BeneChoice Companies is an insurance, financial and employee benefits provider, extending services to both employers and employees alike. The BeneChoice Companies specializes in benefits enrollment, benefits communication and group health and voluntary insurance. A few of the services offered to help companies retain and attract talented professionals include: assisting employers with employee benefits packages,; providing
work environments: in person, by phone and online, thereby increasing participation of benefits. Understanding all generations of employees and helping them financially protect their paychecks sets us apart. Personalizing benefits in today’s changing environment is a game-changer. The old way of just selling health and life insurance is outdated.
Milestones/Awards/Accomplishments: This is our 20th year in business, and we’re growing our customer base and our team. We consider ourselves “essential” for the longterm.
insurance and employee benefits to employees and their families; identifying and filling the gaps in insurance plans; providing stateof-the-art Wellness and Flexible Spending Account Programs; recommending appropriate and cost-effective benefits; alerting you to appropriate business continuation strategies; performing analytical, side-by-side comparisons of cost and benefits; developing communication material; and informing your firm on issues of compliance, ERISA and COBRA, pertinent to its fiduciary responsibilities as they relate to the firm's benefits.
6008 E. Shirley Ln, Ste F / Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 356-0243 / benechoicecompanies.com
19 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
HIGH-TECH & HIGH-TOUCH Benefits packages can be complex, and yet, it is crucial that employers and employees understand them. To ensure they do, many in the benefits business have long relied on relationships and as part of that, at least some face-to-face communication. “We are
HELP WANTED
in the business of educating employees about benefits and enrolling them,” Robinson said. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it pushed many to figure out how the latest technology can enhance — not detract from — customer service. “We were always capable of doing what we do using technology, but now, we’re doing that exclusively,” Robinson said. She shared the example of companies who’ve
these events have shifted to a platform that
and outs, letting the company prove it has
used online sign-up for benefits packages.
allows Robinson and her team to produce a
been compliant in educating its employees,”
“In these cases, very few employees
customized video explaining benefit plans
Robinson said. “It takes away a bit of the
participated in actually looking at what
for each company. It has several upsides.
‘high-touch,’ but it also has many pros, too.
their benefits were, and before COVID, we
“We can capture each employee’s sign-in
I think we’ll continue doing the briefings in
conducted in-person benefit briefings for
and their engagement with the video, which
this way.”
employees so they could understand.” Now,
confirms that they know their plan’s ins
20 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
Robinson is taking advantage of technology
downturn looming, one of the changes
and in Montgomery, for the most part,
to help employees when benefits change
could be companies cutting benefits to cut
we see very little impact as it relates to
too, working with them one-on-one,
costs. “I had a call from a nonprofit that
employee benefits,” Hicks said. He noted
remotely. “We used to do that in person,
had a platinum plan, and they’re already
that some doctors and dentists offices here
but now we’re doing it over the phone and
exploring switching to something less as
were hit hard by shutdowns, but many
using co-browsing and screen sharing so
they anticipate fewer donations coming
other industries, like construction and
we can talk to them and walk them through
in,” Robinson said. “But overall, I don’t see
manufacturing, were not. Most companies
their choices,” she said.
an easy shift there; I don’t see employers
took PPP and so kept benefits in place,
being able to stop offering these things.”
and even those that had to do furloughs
Despite it being easier than ever before
Mike Hicks, President, Alliance Insurance
also kept benefits in place. “Now, most
for Robinson and others in her industry to
Group, agrees; it’s hard to put the benefits
companies have gotten their people back,
inform employees on what benefits they
genie back in the bottle, and that bodes
so there was very little interruption,” Hicks
have access to and how they work, to
well for the benefits industry. “From an
said. “We also do COBRA administration
get the most from company benefits, all
industry standpoint, everyone here locally
[health insurance that employees have
individuals need to do their homework.
should weather the pandemic storm pretty
access to for a period of time after losing
“I think employees need to educate
well,” he said. “On the benefits side, we feel
their job], and we haven’t seen a big rush
themselves maybe more than in the past on
good.”
into that, so that is a good sign.”
she said. “As things continue to change in
The picture isn’t as rosy on the national
That’s now, but what the future holds is
this space, it’s really key that employees
stage. Agencies in areas where the
unclear. “What’s next is an unknown right
get informed on their own behalf and
shutdowns were more restrictive and
now,” Hicks said. “Outside of payroll,
understand their benefits.”
longer (like the Northeast and Western
medical insurance is probably the biggest
United States) are bracing for major impacts
line item for any business.”
what they really want and what they need,”
With the possibility of a longer economic
to revenues. “But for us here in Alabama
21 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS For years, many businesses have been
offense in this regard, looking at its clients
reducing this expense by taking on higher
cycling out of rate guarantee periods to
deductible plans and filling in the gap
see if it is time to make a move to another
with a secondary policy. Hicks says this
carrier, one offering a multi-year rate
will continue, and some companies may
guarantee.
go a step further. “We may start to see companies shift more of the deductible
Like any industry, the employment services
burden to employees to drive costs down,”
and benefits sectors go through ups
he said.
and downs. “When one business sector becomes less busy, there is always another
YOUR CHAMBER: #ATWORK
“We’ve been a Chamber member for a number of years, and the events, the networking, that is all invaluable to meeting new clients and building relationships, as is the access to leadership. The Chamber provides so many great opportunities.” - Mike Hicks, President, Alliance Insurance Group
There are also rate increases on the
type of industry or business sector that
horizon, some that were due to come
has a growing demand for employees,”
anyway, and some that are past due and
McBride said.
were put on pause during the worst of COVID-19. “A lot of insurance carriers put
The constant — people are still the priority.
some rate holds and rate guarantees in
“My industry is still learning how to be
place due to the virus,” Hicks said, “so a
high-touch using high tech, and that’s a
group that may have been getting a 5-7
key point,” Robinson said. “I think that will
percent increase this year, the carrier held
set benefits companies apart, the ability to
those temporarily.” But they will hit at some
combine both the caring relationship and
point. “If they were going to get a 5 percent
the convenience of technology. Because it
increase this year, and 5 percent more next
always has been and will be about people
year, they may see a 10 percent increase
and about connecting,” she said.
next year instead.” Alliance has gone on
22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
NOW TRENDING:
TELEMEDICINE & ASSOCIATION BENEFITS PLANS Telemedicine has been around for years, but COVID-19 shoved it into the forefront of healthcare. Gaining a better understanding of
Mike Hicks, President, Alliance Insurance
how well it can work has been one of bright
Group, pointed to association health plans as
spots in the pandemic crisis. “The wider
a one of the “next big things” in the benefits
use of telemedicine is great because it cuts
industry now that the Trump administration
costs without sacrificing quality, and that’s
made them easier to set up. “We anticipate
exactly what many companies feel the need
an increase in these plans,” he said. “Blue
to do in order to survive an unclear future,”
Cross Blue Shield of Alabama is now playing
said Stacia Robinson, Agency Principal at
in this arena and has embraced association
The BeneChoice Companies. “It has been
health plans.” Alliance is currently managing
a part of our benefits offerings for several
four of these types of plans, including one
years, and it has just become even more
for the Alabama State Bar, and Hicks outlined
important.” She stressed that while once,
their appeal. “This is an area where smaller
people were wary of it, today, many prefer
companies can come together to get the
it. “It’s convenient; it lowers risk of exposure
buying power of larger company,” he said.
to COVID-19 and any other sickness,” she
THE NEXT BIG THING “This is an area where smaller companies can come together to get the buying power of larger company.” - Mike Hicks, President, Alliance Insurance Group
said. “And again, for companies, it’s less expensive. I think as businesses tighten their belts, we’ll see the use of telemedicine grow.”
23 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Industry Overview:
HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND BENEFITS
COVID-19 IMPACTS ON COLLEGE-GRAD CAREER OPTIONS The COVID-19 pandemic is influencing trends in hiring and in higher education. Auburn University at Montgomery’s Career Development Center is where these two topics meet, so we asked its Director Brad Robbins about the
Q:
Do you think we’ll see an increase in students pursuing graduate degrees, operating with a kind of “I can’t find a job so why not stay in school” mentality?
impacts.
Robbins: Yes, I believe so. Data from a
MBJ: How is COVID-19 affecting employment opportunities for recent and soon-to-be graduates?
Center (NSCC) study on enrollment
Robbins: In response to the pandemic, the National Association of Colleges and Employers completed a June 2020 survey of employers to assess their employment strategies for new graduates. Some highlights included: A reported 7.8 percent of employers are revoking full-time job offers to new graduates. In comparison, during the 2008-09 recession, this number peaked at 9.5 percent. About 31 percent of employers are delaying full-time hires from the Class of 2020, with 73 percent of these employers stating the delay would be 1 to 3 months. Additionally, a majority of the employers stated the primary reason for delay was uncertainty about
recent National Student Clearinghouse trends at college and universities and the U.S. Census Bureau confirm that the demand for higher education has increased during every economic recession since the 1960s, including graduate programs. Similar to other economic downturns, students will be seeking degree options that offer the biggest return on their investment. One consideration is access to degree programs online versus in-person. Concerns about social interactions combined with an increased number of online graduate program options may grow graduate enrollment more than during a typical recession.
Might we see a decrease in enrollment at four-year colleges and an increase in enrollment at two-year and technical colleges as students try to get job-ready faster?
What new skills do job seekers need to have and/or are employers looking for in our COVID-19 world and in a post-COVID-19 world? During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, three major skills that job seekers need to have are adaptability, flexibility and effective communication. In a world and a workplace that is constantly changing, an employer needs to know that their team members are open and willing to accept the transition process that comes with change and can thrive and be innovative in a dynamic environment. Along with adaptability and flexibility, employers need team members that are effective communicators. Communicating effectively goes beyond basic verbal and nonverbal skills; it entails being able to communicate in someone else’s world.
- Tasha M Scott, Owner, Maximized Growth, LLC
local governmental regulations. A reported 58 percent of employers who
Robbins: It’s possible. While the
are hiring plan to start their new hires
NSCC study of enrollment trends
working remotely instead of in-person.
during the last recession indicates large increases in enrollment for
While the data represent challenges,
community and technical colleges, four-
my advice for students is to remain
year universities, such as AUM, saw
persistent in executing their job
higher retention rates. This translates
search strategy, while identifying and
that students are seeking four-year
contacting any personal or professional
universities to complete their degrees
connections that can be influential in
as economic conditions improve and
helping them finding job opportunities.
more universities convert to online degree offerings. Still, there will be some non-traditional students who may use two-year colleges as a way to “test the waters” during uncertainty.
24 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Employers are always looking for employees who are dependable and eager to work. These qualities are even more critical now as employers are having to be more flexible with work schedules, and even having employees work from home.
- Matt Rainer, President, Career Personnel
celebrating
WOMEN IN BUSINESS November 2020 Issue
celebrate and showcase your business with a special advertising section celebrating Montgomery Women in Business.
recognize the women in your business: CONTACT CHRISTINA AT (334) 221-4619 OR EMAIL CHRISTINA@EXPLOREMEDIA.ORG FOR MORE INFO. 25 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
VESTOR IN
PR
OFIL
PO WERHOUSE
Q&A
E
LANCE HUNTER According to CEO of Hodges Warehouse + Logistics Lance Hunter, the company’s services have changed dramatically in the last decade, yet there’s one constant: its people remain the key to continued success. How long have you worked for Hodges Warehouse + Logistics? 22 Years
I am a huge fan of our labor force. The future goal is to maintain
as well.
How many employees does Hodges have in the River Region? 125
that human advantage while trying to gain a technological edge
What is the main challenge facing your industry right now? COVID-19 is discussed below. Most businesses
What are the company’s primary services and who are its primary clients? We provide warehouse
in the world face that as the key challenge at this very
and logistics services (3PL or “third party logistics services”)
the warehouse and loading docks, our main challenges are
and regional full trailer trucking. We also own warehouses and
dealing with constantly implementing improved technology
offices that we lease, and we are a Commercial Real Estate
and analysis. There is a tremendous need for supply chains to
Broker.
become more easily visible. End users need to be able to look
farther back into that chain. We are the “last mile or two” of that
What are the duties and responsibilities of your position? I am responsible for all of the businesses
supply chain, and we need to be able to provide and obtain
mentioned above. Hodges is a family-owned company,
the trucking and warehouse equipment will be revolutionized
and I am the non-family CEO. There are approximately 43
by artificial intelligence in the next five years. We need to stay
shareholders. All are members of the Hodges family. I report to
up with the times.
a nine-member board of directors composed of shareholders
and family members elected by the shareholders.
What specific challenges is Hodges facing related to COVID-19? Our first challenge was to keep our
moment. But if you eliminate that elephant stomping around
data that allows the highest level of reliability possible. All of
How much has your job and your industry changed in the last decade? Ten years ago, trucking
employees safe. We are an essential industry, and we needed
was a very small part of our business; leasing warehouse space
essential industries. We had great success with office work
was our primary activity, and the 3PL activity was significant, but
from home, Zoom meetings and staggered schedules.
to be able to supply our customers, many who also were in
certainly not a leader. Today trucking and warehouse services dominate. We have grown within the automotive industry while
We have pushed that our employees be safe away from the
maintaining our traditional customer relationships.
workplace as well. I believe they have made personal sacrifices to ensure their own safety and the safety of their coworkers
The transition into more of a value-added service business
by practicing safe behavior away from the job. We have not
required us to focus more on information processing. B2B
experienced a case of COVID-19 so far, though some have
services are information intensive. That was always the case,
been tested.
fellow workers that now we were an information processing
We have provided masks and sanitizer and have pushed their
business that owns a few forklifts and trucks. That is an
use and social distancing wherever possible. Again, I applaud
exaggeration. Our key to success is the same as it has been
our workforce. For instance, it is hot work loading a truck and
throughout the last 10 years. The team member performing
a mask can be a hindrance. But our employees have used
the work, driving the truck, driving the forklift, loading and
their own ingenuity to load with social distancing. And then the
unloading trailers, that sort of thing is our key success factor.
masks come back on when appropriate. The types of solutions
26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS
but it has increased in the last 10 years. I joked with one of my
Horsing Around I live on a small hobby horse farm outside of town. That is one of the joys of Montgomery. I know we would like everyone to live in the city limits, but the ability to live so close to everything Montgomery has to offer and enjoy the rural lifestyle of my grandparents and my wife’s parents is something that is just not available in most cities. Especially cities that offer as much as Montgomery. So, I have taken care of inexpensive Alabama horses, taught myself and my daughters to ride, grown vegetables and flowers and enjoyed the clean air and the friendship of neighbors.
27 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
are best designed by the team members doing the work. They have done an excellent job. I made it clear what I
FAMILY MATTERS
wanted to accomplish. I wanted a safe work environment no matter how difficult that was going to be. Our team members have been successful so far. The main problem we have is predicting demand. At first when the auto plants shut down, we had to scramble for storage space as shipments arrived and production was closed. Trucking routes evaporated. With help from the government and demand from customers whose business were unaffected by COVID, we came through it well. But I am not confident in my predictions of demand in the third and fourth quarter. I don’t believe anyone has confidence in their own forecasts. We are making our best judgements and building market share with the goal of maintaining full employment. We have had no layoffs up to this point.
Paul Hodges is the fourth
core business, making their
What is your impression of Montgomery’s current business climate? I believe with the
generation of his family to
products. In 2010, we added
be involved in the family
our trucking operations and
company, Hodges Warehouse
now provide a full-service
+ Logistics. He shares a bit of
logistics solution for clients in
the history and explains what
a number of industries.
restart of the automotive industry, Montgomery has reason to be optimistic. I think we have a great business community that works together and some really great global, regional and local industries. I think they will do well competitively. However, this is a global pandemic, and I believe every business leader is concerned about how
its longevity and success mean to him.
What does the company mean to you and to your family? I have been
What’s the story behind Hodges Warehouse + Logistics? Hodges
involved in our family business
new information as it becomes available.
Warehouse + Logistics was
started at the stockyard,
an offspring of a 100-year-
working long hours at the
Why
old stockyard operation. In
auctions. I loaded trucks and
the 1960s, my father and
rail cars by hand in the hot
uncle purchased a cotton
summer sun and operated a
warehouse next to our
forklift. Most recently, I have
stockyard in Montgomery.
been involved in marketing
After securing a lease on
our properties and services
the space, they continued
and serving as the broker
to purchase properties in
for our Commercial Real
the area of north and west
Estate brokerage company,
Montgomery. Thirty years later,
Hodges Commercial Real
Hodges owned and operated
Estate. You could say as the
more than four million square
company evolved and grew,
feet of warehouse space.
so did I. I am proud to be
support, but we wanted to do our share.
Along the way, we added
involved in a family business
our handling of product
and its growth and success.
The Chamber has been an excellent partner. I do not
operations, where we provide
We continue to look for
personnel, equipment and
opportunities to expand and
inventory tracking systems to
build on what we have done
maintain customer inventories.
so far and hope someone in
By outsourcing the entire
the fifth generation will get
warehouse function, Hodges
involved.
global trends could develop. But I do not sense fear. I think most businessmen are planning for improved health and economic conditions, but at the same time, we are glued to
do you and Hodges Warehouse + Logistics choose to be so involved with and supportive of The Chamber and its work? When I came here 22 years ago, I was amazed at the kindness and caring of this community. I will not name all the business leaders who impressed me, but so many did. They were instrumental in making this a better community. It is a virtuous cycle. A better community is inviting to new business and more and better jobs make this a better community. We wanted to be a part of that. We understood we were going to be a huge beneficiary of Montgomery’s growth. We could not make the investments some of the larger businesses could in community and Chamber
believe Hodges would have been successful without the extraordinary efforts of the Chamber attracting new business.
clients can focus on their 28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
since I was in my teens. I
29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M EM BE R profile
LELAR WILSON Co-founder and co-owner of LNC Tax Relief Lelar Wilson is drawing on decades of experience working for the IRS to help River Region small businesses understand tax issues and find solutions to their tax problems.
When and why did you start LNC Tax Relief? I retired in 2012, after a 34-year career with the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a Revenue Officer with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In January of 2013, I realized with my background as a Licensed Enrolled Agent with the IRS that I had acquired a wealth of knowledge that afforded me the opportunity to provide valuable services to my community. At that time, I established LNC Tax Relief, LLC.
How many employees does your business have? LNC Tax Relief is run by me and my husband, Clarence, who has more than 40 years of experience in tax preparation and accounting. We maintain that smaller is bigger because we thrive on providing intimate personal services to our clients.
What are LNC services? We deliver professional representation before the IRS as well as tax preparation and tax consultation. Some of our specialized services include but are not limited to: levies and liens, fresh start initiatives, installment agreements, currently not
Adding Up Accolades In 2019, Wilson was honored to receive a Senior Achievement award from the Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA). She is also an Alabama Goodwill Ambassador, and in 2016 along with her husband, she was honored for Outstanding of Foreign Officers. She and her husband are also past Chamber Ambassadors.
liabilities and seizure and sales.
What one piece of tax advice would you give a small business owner? To file and pay your taxes when due. However, I do realize that due to extenuating circumstances, this may not always be possible. This problem is why LNC was established: to provide clients with solutions and independent representation to resolve their tax issues with IRS.
What are your interests outside of work? I enjoy walking and planting in my garden. I also enjoy providing community services through my church, Maggie Street Missionary Baptist Church, and through Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc., Beta Nu Omega Chapter, where I am a Silver/ Life Member. And the icing on the cake is visiting and spending time with my grandchildren. lnctaxreliefllc.com
30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK DROLETTE
Support for serving 60 classes
collectable accounts, offer in compromises, trust fund
31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
M I L I TA RY profile
PATRICIA JONES In her leading role at the Defense Information Systems Agency in Montgomery, Patricia Jones oversees a multitude of technology, tasks and data. Yet in the end, her job is all about people: the more than 600 personnel she works with and the countless warfighters her team serves.
Where are you originally from? I grew up in Foresthill, California.
How long have you been with DISA and how long as Director? 24 years. I became the Implementation Line of Business Chief and Data Center Montgomery Site Director in May 2019.
What is DISA’s mission? DISA has a huge mission to provide, operate and assure command and control and information-sharing capabilities in a globally accessible enterprise information infrastructure in direct support to joint warfighters, national level leaders and other mission and coalition partners across the full spectrum of military operations.
What all does your work in this role involve? I am dual-hatted. My primary role is as the Implementation Line of Business Chief, overseeing the onboarding and integration of all new workloads for DISA’s Ecosystem, a unified computing structure across several locations operating under a single command. I am also the Site Director for Data Center Montgomery, ensuring the overall welfare of the DISA personnel assigned to our site. We have nearly 600
Ready, Willing & Able
civilian, military and contract personnel located here in
“During the ongoing COVID-19 efforts, DISA has been instrumental in supporting the Department of Defense with tools to support teleworking capabilities. DISA was able to rapidly identify key missions requiring onsite support, which allowed Data Center Montgomery to implement shrinking our footprint in our facilities during this time to minimize exposure and risk to our team. The fact that we have significantly reduced personnel onsite on any given day, given the critical missions supported out of Data Center Montgomery, is pretty incredible.”
What role does DISA play in our nation’s military operations? DISA is the Department of Defense’s premier information technology provider and is committed to being the trusted provider to connect and protect the warfighter in cyberspace. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have never stopped working. The data center has been instrumental in providing critical support to ensure the DoD networks are telework-ready and capable to fully support the missioncritical duties performed by the department every day.
MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL 32 32
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK DROLETTE
telework for the majority of our local staff,
Montgomery.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work? I love being able to tie back what we do in information technology to supporting the warfighters. Sometimes in IT, it’s easy to lose focus and forget what it really means to keep servers, networks or circuits up and functional, but with DISA, there is a direct correlation to serving our warfighters. The second most rewarding portion of my job is the people. I love the people aspect of being a leader. DISA’s ethos is “Mission first, people always!” DISA has a huge mission that’s not always easy and not always understood. DISA is hiring more people in Montgomery, including those without a military or federal government background, and we need to invest in our local schools and universities. This will build a talent pipeline of skilled professionals who understand how their work directly supports the warfighter. We’ve partnered with staff at local schools and universities who now invite us to job fairs and we’ve been fortunate enough to hire some of their graduates. I love that our Montgomery Data Center is in an area that supports our military and civil servants, knowing the challenging missions that are supported. I want to continue seeing the River Region flourish in ways that will allow my grandkids an opportunity to become productive and contributing citizens. To ensure that happens, we need to invest in our communities, whether that’s with the Chamber, our local AFCEA chapter, MGMWERX, Montgomery Information Technology Summit (MITS), Air Force Information Technology and Cyberpower (AFITC) Conference, or any other organization and event that is out there pushing the River Region forward to be a place people want to come, not just to visit, but to stay.
What’s your impression of Montgomery’s partnership with the local military, and why is a good relationship so essential? The River Region as a whole, and especially the Chamber, is an outstanding partner to the local military communities. When there are issues, they are there to assist in any way possible. It is clear how much the River Region values the bases, the employees who work on base, as well as the critical missions supported by Maxwell Air Force Base, Gunter Annex and Dannelly Field. Good relationships are critical to everyone’s success. We’re all intertwined in some way, and we
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What are your interests and hobbies outside of work? My husband El and I love spending time with our family. We have a granddaughter in Montgomery and a grandson in Trussville. We also have three granddaughters in Tennessee. I love reading. El and I also enjoy donating to the Montgomery Area Food Bank, and we just started volunteering at the Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) Annual Culinary Caper to raise money in support of MACOA and Meals on Wheels. disa.mil
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34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
M EM BER profile
TASHA M. SCOTT After Tasha M. Scott experienced the positive power of life coaching and leadership training firsthand, she knew she had to share it. Today, she does just that through her company, Maximized Growth.
When and why did you start Maximized Growth? Prior to Maximized Growth, LLC, I had a court reporting business (Scott Realtime Reporting). I hit a wall personally and sought the services of a counselor/ life coach. During my six-month period of sessions with her, I discovered a greater passion and purpose and I wanted to pay it forward. I saw my business double as a result of my personal growth. I knew I had to share. I became certified as a life coach and that led into my current services for leaders and organizations. I started Maximized Growth as a part-time business in 2014. But then I closed Scott Realtime in December 2018 and went full-time with Maximized Growth, LLC in January 2019.
What are your primary services? My services are designed to help my clients go from where they are to where they desire to be in communication, team building and developing leaders. I use leadership training, workshop facilitation, professional speaking, executive coaching and assessments as tools.
Who are your primary clients? Nonprofits, state agencies and organizations looking to develop or enhance their organization’s communication, strengthen leaders or unify teams.
When did you first get interested in helping others develop leadership and speaking skills? When I saw it work in my business, I became passionate about paying it forward to others. As a business owner since 2004 (earlier if you count the paper route that I had when I was in high school),
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.
I understand the plight of other leaders.
Leaders in the Lead
“I recently became approved by the
What’s your favorite aspect of your job?
Alabama Council for Leadership
Call me crazy, but I love the tough stuff. I love being
Development to become a Professional
“the connector” to help individuals learn to communicate
Learning Unit (PLU) provider. This past
more effectively in a way that leads to unity and
summer, I facilitated a class for a diverse
performance improvement and ultimately business
group of educators throughout the state
growth.
called “Stay Strong! Lead Well!” I was
tashamscott.com
also recently accepted into Leadership Alabama, Class XXXI.”
35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
MyMGM
LOCAL ART SOLD HERE
/ by MINNIE LAMBERTH
Photography by Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative.
A downtown shop is shining the spotlight on Montgomery’s vibrant artist and maker community.
Southern Art & Makers Collective includes various artists, including Cailin Kelley (left) and Ron Lazenby (right).
Southern Art & Makers Collective features and sells an array of work from local artists and other creators of handmade goods. The current location on Madison Avenue is the evolution of an idea that goes back to 2013, when Heather Parrish and Joe Birdwell opened a temporary location during the holiday shopping season. “We started out as a holiday popup in December 2013,” Parrish said. “We ran that every year until we became a brick and mortar in December 2017.”
their own setup. The number of vendors
“We wanted to create a place where artists felt like they had a support system,” Parrish said. “We really want to develop and foster community.”
tends to be fluid but typically ranges between 60 to 70 each month. The artists and craftspeople are generally local to the River Region or have a connection to Alabama. “Art has a way – even functional art – of connecting the community,” Parrish said. “This is a good representation of people who live here making what they make, doing what they do.” The art, she said, is part of who they are. “What are they
A former art teacher, Parrish said she
The original shop name, Product of
thinking? How are they responding to the
knew many people who had a side hustle.
Montgomery, was changed to the current
world around them?”
Art wasn’t their primary means of income,
name in 2019 when Birdwell decided
but they loved creating. The popup shop
to let go of his ownership role. Today,
She added that when she’s drinking a
and now the brick-and-mortar location
Parrish, a painter and mixed media artist,
beverage from a handmade mug, she
have given them a place to have their
shares ownership with Melody White,
feels good about her purchase. She
work seen. “They want to make the stuff –
a candlemaker and jewelry maker, and
also likes the practical aspect of helping
not worry about marketing it or selling it,”
Aleah Goode, a painter and jewelry artist.
someone pay their bills. “Being able to
Parrish said.
Vendors rent space within the shop for
support local people – that means a lot to
their displays and are responsible for
me,” she said.
36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Artist work clockwise from left: Sculpture by Vincent Buwalda; a variety of artists; Candles by Melody White; Wood art pieces by Nizhoni Thompson; Jewelry by Melody White.
The shop displays works created by painters, potters, woodworkers, authors, jewelry designers, as well as fiber and paper artists. “We do ask that it be handmade in some kind of way, that you have personally had some hand in
GO SEE YOURSELF
creating this thing. We don’t sell art that I don’t know who has made it,” Parrish said. The artists also have classroom space
Southern Art and Makers
where they can host talks and workshops.
Collective, located at 1228
“We wanted to create a place where
Madison Avenue, is open
artists felt like they had a support system,” Parrish said. “We really want to develop and foster community.”
Wednesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Currently, Wednesday openings are by appointment only. Visit
Janice Prescott, one of the shop’s first vendors, is a potter who displays a number of functional pieces, including
southernartmakers.com to see some of the inventory online, and follow on Instagram at
serving bowls, vases, place settings and
@southernartmakers.
mugs, as well as more unique or abstract pieces. Though she grew up in Alabama
Carl Calderone, a watercolorist, has been a vendor for about a year. His watercolor paintings feature a variety of subjects, including seascapes, hunting motifs, pets, hunting dogs, pointers, boats, pelicans and jazz musicians. “It’s a pretty good range of things,” Calderone said. He also displays hand-painted cigar boxes and book marks. In the latter case, he explained that if he messes up a painting, instead of wasting the water color paper, he’ll tear it into strips, paint it as a bookmark and add Bible verse or inspirational message on the back. Calderone is appreciative of the atmosphere at the collective. He noted
and has been back in Montgomery for a
place where you can show your wares,”
while, Prescott lived in New York City for
she said. It also gives artists a way to
30 years and worked as an editor. While
not pretentious or stuffy. “The folks at
develop a clientele. “Montgomery really
there, she took classes in pottery. “It’s a
Southern Art and Makers are really great
needed a place like that.” In addition, it
passion for me. I do it because I love it,”
people,” he said. Having worked as part
meets the needs of shoppers looking for
she said.
of the construction industry his whole
unique items. “There’s something special
life, being an artist is not his full-time
about things that are handmade,” she
profession. “It’s really a ministry,” he said.
said.
“All the money generated from any of the
She enjoys having this location to display her pottery. “As an artist, you need a
that the space is very welcoming and
paintings I do goes to charity.” 37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
VOTE ON AD VALOREM TAX
Election day 2020 holds immense opportunity for Montgomery’s future. Voters will not only select their choices for national offices, but an important local referendum
GOING UP?
will prove to be one of the most pivotal decisions in Montgomery’s history. For the first time in 30 years, voters will be offered a chance to take the essential next step of investing in public education, in our students and in our educators, paving the way for a more prosperous future for all of Montgomery and the River Region. This spring, the Alabama State
DID YOU KNOW? If the proposed referendum passes, a person who owns a home at the median value in Montgomery County ($127,500) would pay an additional
$12.75 A MONTH IN TAXES. That’s less than or roughly equivalent to:
Legislature authorized the Montgomery County Commission to include a property tax referendum on the November 3,
An oil change
2020 general election ballot. The referendum asks voters to vote to increase the ad valorem tax assessed on all taxable property
Your Netflix subscription or movie matinee with the family
in Montgomery County (except for properties located within the City of Pike Road) to 22 mills.
IN EARLY NOVEMBER, voters in the Montgomery Public School District will be presented with an important choice: to raise the county’s rate of ad valorem tax. If the property tax referendum passes, it will be a decision to invest in Montgomery’s public school system and to therefore, increase the quality of life for all in our area.
If approved by eligible voters, the total amount of ad valorem revenues would increase by an estimated $33 million, initiating a daunting climb out of the massive chasm in funding that Montgomery Public Schools (MPS) faces compared to systems of all sizes
Lunch at your favorite meat & three ad valorem dollars per student than Montgomery, as do Selma City Schools and Dallas County Schools. Even some of our state’s poorest counties — Bullock, Perry
across the state.
and Sumter — assess more millage
At 10 mills, MPS currently
Montgomery.
receives the lowest amount
in support of their systems than
by the state. Neighboring Pike
ACCOUNTABILITY & ACTION
Road and Auburn have well over
Voters should know that an
twice that much to fund their
increase in funding will come
schools. Birmingham, Huntsville
with very specific accountability
and Mobile all allocate higher
measures for MPS. If passed, the
of local funds legally allowed
38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
majority of the proceeds raised from the millage increase must be used on initiatives that directly support improved academic outcomes, and the legislation explicitly prohibits MPS from applying the proceeds from
JUST THE FACTS: What Does Ad Valorem Legislation Authorize & Who Does It Impact?
or acquiring, equipping, maintaining,
What the legislation authorizes:
State Legislature, beginning in Fiscal
constructing or repairing public school
An increase to the ad valorem
Year 2029, the total number of mills
facilities.
(property) tax assessed on all taxable
levied and collected for Montgomery
property in Montgomery County
Public Schools would decrease from
The system will also be required to
(except for properties located within
22 mills to 16.
adopt a detailed strategic plan with
the City of Pike Road) to 22 mills.
more than six mills for capital outlay
defined steps, assigned staff, financial
Sunset: Unless amended by the
implications, goals, deadlines and
If approved:
intended results to guide the MPS,
The total amount of ad valorem
which the Montgomery County Board
revenues would increase by an
of Education must approve by the end
estimated $33 million. It cannot be
of November.
levied before October 1, 2023.
MPS must identify ambitious, but
A majority of the proceeds raised from
Impact to property owners: • A person who owns a home at the
achievable performance metrics
the millage increase must be used
median value in Montgomery County
measuring progress towards the
on initiatives that directly support
($127,500) would pay an additional
vision outlined in this approved
improved academic outcomes.
$12.75 a month in taxes.
strategic plan and provide an annual
The legislation explicitly prohibits
report to the Montgomery County
Montgomery Public Schools from
• Properties located in the municipality
State Legislative Delegation updating
applying the proceeds from more than
of Pike Road would not be affected.
legislators on their progress. MPS
six mills for capital outlay or acquiring,
Chief School Financial Officer Arthur
equipping, maintaining, constructing or
• The referendum does not change
Watts has said in interviews, “We
repairing public school facilities.
current-use statutes for timberland and farmland.
are going to do everything possible to ensure that every tax dollar that comes to the Montgomery Board of Education is used for its intended purposes, and that’s the boys and girls of this school district.”
BENEFIT FOR ALL An unprecedented partnership of business, young professionals and elected leadership has been working directly with the leadership of Montgomery Public Schools to set strategic goals that include academic improvements and a facilities review
Montgomery County property owners are assessed less millage in support of MPS than property owners in the state’s poorest counties — Bullock, Perry, Sumter, and Wilcox — are assessed for their schools.
to ensure accountability for funding
39
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
BY THE NUMBERS: WHERE MPS FUNDING RANKS ACROSS ALABAMA Within Montgomery County, Pike Road City Schools — with only 2,182 students — assess 27 mills. Selma City Schools (2,769 students) and Dallas County Schools (2,901 students) have higher millage rates than MPS.
the referendum would provide. “In business, we work to make well-researched investments that are
THE PACE OF CHANGE:
nurtured and carefully tended to reap the highest rewards over time. Now is the time to invest in Montgomery’s future, and the business community is committed to seeing our students, educators and entire region reach its potential through quality public
MPS THROUGH THE PAST THREE YEARS
education,” said Chamber Chairman Arthur Ducote. Everyone in our region has a vested interest in the quality of our public education offerings as it has a direct impact on the ability of Montgomery’s economic development partners to successfully attract, retain and develop business for the region. The market for recruiting high-wage industry and businesses that create greater opportunity is highly competitive and demands that our public education system produce a workforce that is prepared to pursue a prosperous and
FEBRUARY 2017: MPS enters state intervention. MPS board votes unanimously to work collaboratively with the Alabama State Department of Education on intervention, which enabled it to receive additional funding and resources to address internal concerns. Major areas of concern were the district’s finances, (the lack
productive future.
of a CFO and failure to submit a state compliant budget on
If properly funded and managed, our public-schools
and the Child Nutrition Program.
time) as well as concerns with academics, transportation
have the potential to produce the scientists, developers and technicians needed to support UAB’s health care advancement programs in Montgomery or the squadron of F-35s that will be based at the 187th Air Wing at Dannelly Field in just a few years.
MAY 2018 : AdvancedEd (now Cognia) Places MPS “Under Review.” This status reveals the system is at risk of losing accreditation, leaving students unable to qualify for college
The entrepreneurs of tomorrow are ready to gain knowledge and skills in graphic design, technology, building science, electronics, industrial maintenance, welding and HVAC at Montgomery Preparatory Academy for Career Technologies (MPACT) — if those programs and opportunities are supported with the funding, direction and community engagement that they need to succeed.
entry or military service. Montgomery Public Schools was rated in 31 areas on a scale ranging from “needs improvement” to “exceeds expectations.” MPS ranked “needs improvement” in 19 areas, “emerging” in 11 areas and “meets expectations” in just one area. MPS was not ranked “exceeds expectations” in any area.
JULY 17, 2018 :
“Students graduating from our public-school system should be ready to enter the workforce, military service or to pursue additional education. This baseline performance is simply impossible if we continue to fund it the way we did 30 years ago,” said LaBarron Boone, Co-Chair of the Committee to Invest in Montgomery’s
Four New Members Elected to MPS Board After a groundswell of bi-partisan, multi-generational, grass-roots engagement across the community, four of five MPS board seats were turned over in the election, and a new season of involvement with MPS began.
Future, a group working to pass the ad valorem referendum. “The market has come a long way in that
SEPTEMBER 2018 :
time, and in order to reach our potential, we’ve got to
MPS Issues First Balanced Budget in a Decade
invest in our most important asset: the young people who will lead those companies, start new businesses,
Since his hiring in 2018, MPS Chief School Financial Officer
envision and build a more inviting and rewarding
Arthur Watts has systematically restructured the MPS
community and defend our nation in military service.”
accounting practices, balancing the budget, achieving more
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.EDUCATEMGM.COM
than one month’s operating expenses in reserves.
40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
TO BE NOTED:
AUGUST 19, 2019 : Montgomery’s First Charter School – LEAD Academy – opened its doors.
NOVEMBER 13, 2019 : MPS Board approves the Montgomery Educations Foundation’s Charter Conversion of three schools: Davis Elementary, E. D. Nixon Elementary and Bellingrath Middle in a 5-2 vote.
Since November 2018, Montgomery Public Schools under the leadership of the Montgomery County Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Ann Roy Moore have made MPS more accountable than it has been in recent memory.
JANUARY 15, 2020 : MPS Board approves LIFE Academy Charter Application to be housed in the St. Jude Academy facility in 6-1 vote.
FEBRUARY 2020:
MONTGOMERY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAS: Obtained full accreditation,
Improved accounting practices reveal
without restrictions, for all MPS schools.
$700,000 in misappropriated funds.
Balanced the school system’s operating budget,
Upon discovery, MPS CFO Arthur alerted authorities
including putting in place the required reserves
and initiated a state audit to confirm his findings. He raised requirements of bookkeepers to obtain financial management certifications through the Alabama Association of School Business Officials. All employees
of emergency funding equal to at least one month’s operating expenses for the first time in more than a decade.
investigated for misuse of funding have been fired and are being prosecuted for their crimes. Two have been
Discovered inconsistencies in school finances,
convicted.
ordered an audit, uncovered the individuals who misused funds and prosecuted them. The perpetrators no longer work for MPS.
FEBRUARY 6, 2020 : MPS Board passes resolution to seek ad valorem increase for education funding.
Aggressively reduced administrative spending by more than $2 million. Currently, only three percent of school funds is spent on central
MARCH 2020 : MPS receives full accreditation from Cognia (formerly AdvancED).
office staff, which is consistent with similar sized systems across the state.
MPS showed improvement in all 11 areas of focus in
Created a community advisory committee
the “Leadership Domain” area; all the standards in the
to help prioritize and rein in maintenance issues
“Learning Capacity Domain” were ranked as improving; and
and began rehabilitating school facilities.
in the “Resource Capacity Domain,” all but one were also ranked as improving, and MPS was not rated insufficient— the lowest ranking — in any area.
Formed a community advisory committee to leverage technology to increase engagement and collaboration between schools
JULY 14, 2020:
and individuals, businesses and other civic,
MPS passes resolution to request ad valorem
community and social organizations.
referendum be put on November 3 ballot.
41 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
2020 DIVERSITY SUMMIT:
LEADERSHIP THAT TRANSCENDS
Diversity, Unity and Shared Prosperity
NOW IS THE TIME Don’t miss the valuable insight and information on offer at the Chamber’s annual Diversity Summit.
In recent years, more and more companies have realized that diversity and inclusion play key roles in business success. They create satisfied and productive employees, foster innovation and boost outcomes across the board, leading to a healthier bottom line. This year’s Diversity Summit goes beyond a simple understanding of what diversity means and why it matters with its theme “Leadership that Transcends: Diversity, Unity and Shared Prosperity.” The event will drill down on specific and actionable topics, including the impact and importance of leadership when it comes to:
• Managing and growing a business with diversity, inclusion and equity as core values
• Developing, attracting and retaining talent and workforce development
• Creating spaces and opportunities for diversity, inclusion and equity in communities, workplaces and spaces that are intentional in creating and spreading opportunities for prosperity
On the Agenda How can you increase and nurture diversity in your business? At the 2020 Diversity Summit, experts from a variety of backgrounds and fields will share wisdom and practical advice during speaking sessions, workshops and panel discussions.
The Equality of Opportunity. Rick Wade, Vice President, Strategic Alliances and Outreach, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, shares how to develop real, sustainable solutions to help close race-based opportunity gaps in four areas: education, employment, entrepreneurship and criminal justice.
Developing Your Future Workforce.
Educating the Workforce of the Future. Joylee S. Cain, Co-founder and CEO of WeeCat Industries and WildCat Industries and Director, Special Education, Enterprise City Schools, and Deborah Owens, Cofounder and President, WeeCat Industries and WildCat Industries, share how they’re developing positive workforce habits in preschoolers.
Charting the Course: Creating Your Roadmap to Success. Rodrigua Ross, District Executive Director of Operations and Diversity and Inclusion for the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas,
Brooks Harper, Author/Speaker/Career
leads this workshop that gives tools and
Expert, explains how to help your future
real-world applications for designing
workforce discover, develop, network and
and implementing strategies to support
sell their talents, skills and abilities that bring
organizational diversity, inclusion and equity.
tangible value to the workplace.
Panel Discussion: Navigating in a Disruptive World.
The 2020 event will also spotlight changes
CEO Session: Intentional Leadership.
in the wake of COVID-19, with discussions on
Carla Harris, Vice Chairman, Managing
Prevail Union Montgomery; Ashley Jernigan,
post-pandemic organizational flexibility that
Director and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan
Owner, JDB Hospitality LLC; and Felix
will explore how office location and remote
Stanley, outlines how to be an outstanding
Gilbert, Program Manager, Fearless, engage
work affect diversity and inclusion.
leader in today’s environment, asserting that
in a conversation to discuss how they’ve
if anyone chooses to sit in the leadership
each navigated a health crisis, civil unrest
seat, then they must be intentional about
and a generational shift in the workplace —
eight things in order to be a powerful,
all at the same time — without compromising
impactful and influential leader.
their values, employees or customer base.
42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Entrepreneurs Wade Preston, Co-Owner,
43 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
THE SPEAKER SPEAKS MBJ asked keynote speaker Carla Harris to give us a sneak preview of what this year’s Diversity Summit will provide participants. Please share your thoughts on the summit’s theme “Leadership that Transcends: Diversity, Unity and Shared Prosperity.” Why are these ideas important to discuss and promote? The professional environment has changed markedly in the last 20 years, and most people who are in positions of leadership today are leading the way they were led. That is not the leadership style that
SIGN UP!
2020 Diversity Summit. Tuesday, September 22 montgomerychamber. com/diversitysummit
What will your keynote address focus on/emphasize? I will discuss the pearls of intentional leadership and what it takes to be a powerful, impactful, influential leader in today’s environment.
Diversity can be a major
What do you hope summit participants take away from your address and from the event overall? I hope they leave with prescriptive advice and concrete tools on how to lead with today’s workforce of boomers, Xers and millennials, and how to drive and lead through change.
will motivate and inspire people to contribute
DID YOU KNOW?
difference maker for businesses of all types and sizes. Learn how embracing it can be beneficial. A full agenda, along with speaker bios, can be found on the conference website montgomerychamber.com/ diversitysummit.
and produce at the highest levels.
Meet the Keynote Speaker The Diversity Summit’s keynote speaker
Most Powerful Women in Finance (2009,
for 2020 is Carla Harris, a Vice Chairman,
2010, 2011), Black Enterprise’s Top 75
Managing Director and Senior Client
Most Powerful Women in Business (2017)
Advisor at Morgan Stanley. In her 30-year
and “Top 75 African Americans on Wall
career, Harris has had extensive industry
Street” and to Essence magazine’s list of
experiences in the technology, media,
“The 50 Women Who are Shaping the
retail, telecommunications, transportation,
World,” Ebony’s list of the “Power 100”
industrial, and healthcare sectors, and for
and “15 Corporate Women at the Top.”
more than a decade, Harris was a senior
She was also named “Woman of the
member of the equity syndicate desk and
Year 2004” by the Harvard Black Men’s
executed such transactions as initial public
Forum and in 2011 by the Yale Black Men’s
offerings for UPS, Martha Stewart Living
Forum. In August 2013, she was appointed
Omnimedia, Ariba, Redback, the General
by President Barack Obama to chair the
Motors sub-IPO of Delphi Automotive, and
National Women’s Business Council.
Carla Harris, a Vice Chairman, Managing
the $3.2 billion common stock transaction for Immunex Corporation, one of the
In her other life, Harris is a singer who has
Director and Senior Client
largest biotechnology common stock
sold-out concerts at the Apollo Theatre
Advisor at Morgan Stanley
transactions in U.S. history.
and released three gospel CDs. She has performed five sold-out concerts at
Harris was named to Fortune magazine’s
Carnegie Hall. Harris is also the author of
list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black
the books, “Strategize to Win” (2014) and
Executives in Corporate America” and its
“Expect to Win” (2009) (Hudson Press).
Most Influential List, U.S. Bankers Top 25
44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
45 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
PLENTY TO BARK ABOUT: PETS ARE BIG BUSINESS
We love our pets, and we’re proving it with our wallets. Meows and bow wows equal bigger bucks than ever before. BY JENNIFER KORNEGAY
The benefits of human friendships with the furry, four-
members make friends while at Camp” and “Pet parents”
legged set extend far beyond individuals and their pets.
don’t stop there. Many pull out all the stops to pamper their
Our collective pet ownership and deep devotion to these
pups, happily paying for add-on offerings like one-on-one
companion animals have created a booming sector of the
enrichment time or a blueberry facial.
economy. Businesses making and selling pet products and offering pet services now comprise a still-growing $75 billion
Dr. Cade Armstrong, who has been a veterinarian for 17
pet-care industry, according to a report released in May by
years, with 15 of those at his practice Montgomery Veterinary
Acosta, a consumer packaged goods sales and marketing
Associates, agreed with Gold. “I most definitely see people
agency. The study shows that 2020 pet food sales alone
being more willing to spend money on their pets,” he said.
were already up more than six percent over 2019 and also
“Pets are considered by most owners to be part of the family.
noted that currently, more than 75 percent of Americans own
I think pet owners’ love for their animals and our ability to
at least one pet.
provide high quality diagnostic and treatment options is driving this growth.”
In the last decade, expenditures on all of these animals have risen year over year, increasing the industry’s size from
Dr. Frank Aman has been a veterinarian for 10 years and
approximately $48 billion in 2010 to the $75-billion mark
started his practice, Partners for Pets with his partner, Dr.
cited in the Acosta report. None of this is a surprise to Lauren
Steven Sirmon, two years ago. He offered some insight on
Gold, owner of Camp Bow Wow, a Montgomery business
what — in addition to affection—is fueling the increased
that opened in December and provides luxury boarding, day
spending. “For one thing, the number of pets in America has
care and grooming for dogs. In just a few months, Gold has
definitely increased, but there is absolutely more willingness
witnessed firsthand River Region pet owners’ commitment to
to spend more on them, too,” he said. “With the development
high standards of care. “Dogs are no longer viewed as just
of online shopping, through Amazon, Chewy, etc., it is much
pets, they’re members of the family. We see this at Camp
easier to order things with the touch of a button. Also, young
Bow Wow in how particular pet owners are about the quality
adults now tend to own more pets, and they tend to spend
of care they expect for their dogs,” she said. “Owners watch
more on them.”
our live Camper Cams and enjoy seeing their furry family 46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS BUSINESS JOURNAL JOURNAL 46 MONTGOMERY
The cost of the care provided by Armstrong
We’ve learned that early exposure to pets
and Aman has also gone up, alongside vet
can decrease a child’s chances of developing
practices’ continually rising expenses. “Every
certain allergies and even asthma. Many pet
year there is an increase in the associated
owners enjoy a more active lifestyle, due in
costs with running a practice,”
large part to their pets’ needs and
Aman said. “The products we sell,
desire for activity, and therefore,
like heartworm prevention, always
have better heart health. The
have a percentage of increase.
unconditional love our pets give
Also, the new technology that keeps coming out gets more expensive.” He stressed the need for balance that these advances bring with them. “There is a challenge with trying to maintain excellent medical care and having the best equipment and keeping the prices affordable to the pet owner,” he said. Armstrong echoed Aman, calling the cost increases necessary for running a modern vet
In the last decade, expenditures on all of these animals have risen year over year, increasing the industry’s size from approximately $48 billion in 2010 to the $75-billion mark.
us has mental health benefits, too. Several studies have shown that stroking and playing with pets can reduce stress and anxiety, since, like any enjoyable activity, it raises
an increase in the associated costs with running a practice,” Aman said. “The products we sell, like heartworm
levels of serotonin and dopamine,
prevention, always
the chemicals in the brain that have
have a percentage
pleasurable and calming properties.
of increase. Also, the
This knowledge factors into many
new technology that
owners’ decisions to take good
keeps coming out
care of their pets, no matter the
gets more expensive.”
price tag.
He stressed the
The desire to give pets their best
these advances bring
practice “significant” and also
is what motivated Gold and her
pointing to the impact of online
husband to start Camp Bow Wow.
shopping trends. “With the
“Dogs have always been a passion
increase of online pharmacies, our margins
for my husband and me. To us, they’re family.
on heartworm and flea/tick medicines have
We wanted an all-day play facility for our
decreased,” he said. “The ever-increasing
pups that prioritized safety and had cameras,
prices on in-house lab machines, veterinary
allowing us to check on our fur babies while
specific computer software, and state-of-the-
we were away,” she said. “We wanted peace
art equipment have made our job easier, but
of mind that they were happy, healthy and
more costly.”
safe when we couldn’t be there with them. Since we couldn’t find a place like that in the
Advances in medicine have also taught us
“Every year there is
area, we decided to create it.”
how animals can positively affect our health.
47 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 47 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
need for balance that with them. “There is a challenge with trying to maintain excellent medical care and having the best equipment and keeping the prices affordable to the pet owner.” - Dr. Frank Aman, Partners for Pets
The Montgomery Humane Society:
HELPING THE HELPLESS For all the love we give our pets, there are thousands of homeless and abandoned animals that don’t have the care and protection of an owner. Since 1953, The Montgomery Humane Society has stepped in to fill that gap. Lea Turbert, MHS’ Marketing and Development Manager, explains how it works and why its work is so vital.
Tell us about a few lesserknown Humane Society programs. With our Pet Therapy program, we take our puppies to nursing homes, to hospice patients and or assisted living homes because animals can always put a smile on the residents’ faces. We also provide an Intervention program. When people are going through a hard time and are not able to get medical
The Shoppes at EastChase's annual Puppy Palooza event for all things dogs.
attention or food for their pets, we may be able to help. Our Community Cat program is where we help people trap feral cats living in their neighborhood by providing a humane trap. They then bring the cat(s) to us, and we will get them spayed or
What is the MHS’s mission?
BRING THE DOG ALONG
neutered and a rabies shot for free as
“There are so many more
long as the resident is willing to release
opportunities for people to
them back to their neighborhood and
take advantage of to involve
care for them on a daily basis.
their pets in everyday life.
The Montgomery Humane Society
Restaurants and event venues
prevents cruelty to animals by
Our Foster Program is where people
operating an animal shelter for homeless,
have slacked in a lot of areas
foster a pet at their home until it is ready
abandoned, and unwanted animals;
allowing people to take their
to be adopted. We receive numerous
by operating an adoption center for
pets, and thus dog parks have
kittens and puppies whose immune
healthy animals; by investigating cruelty
become abundant to surround
systems cannot handle our environment,
and abuse cases; and by educating the
those venues for socializing
so foster families take them until they
public in animal owner responsibility. We
and doggy breaks. I think
are ready to be spayed/neutered or
raise funds by four major events: The
people are relaxed at venues
recovered from an injury, heartworm
Dog U Tante Ball, The Catini, our Pet
and gatherings when they can
treatments or other issues. This is truly a
Photo Contest and gift wrapping.
socialize and bring their pets.”
life-saving program!
- Jessica Hoagland,
How can people help?
Our other programs I’m sure people are
First, by getting their pet spayed or neutered, adopting a pet from our shelter, participating in our events and donating monetary funds or materials like: bleach, newspaper, paper towels,
Sales & Marketing, Pet and aware of but that I would like to mention are our Lost and Found, Adoption Center and Humane Education programs.
toilet paper, laundry detergent, dish
What is MHS’ No. 1 need right now? Monetary donations,
soap, canned cat or dog food. The
since we had to cancel two of our major
community can also help by reporting
fundraisers this year, The Catini and the
any animal abuse.
Dog U Tante ball.
48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Playground Products
DON’T FORGET
FIDO
The capital city isn’t just cool for
people, it’s cool with canines too. Check out these pet-friendly places that are happy to accommodate your four-legged friend.
PLAY: The Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park is a five-acre area located at Blount Cultural Park for pooch playtime with special designated areas for both large and small dogs. Or check out the Rotary Dog Park located downtown. It’s also got large and small dog sections.
EAT: (Dogs allowed on dining patios.) These are a few Fido-approved favorites. Find a complete list at visitingmontgomery.com. The Tipping Point
Chicken Salad Chick
Capitol Oyster Bar
Vintage Café
Scott Street Deli
Café Louisa
Mellow Mushroom
El Rey Burrito Lounge
Taco Mama
Moe’s Original BBQ
Newk’s Eatery (Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19, some restaurants may have suspended their pet friendly amenity temporarily, so we suggest calling ahead.)
TODAY’S ANIMAL MD Today's veterinary medicine is dramatically different
Some corporate groups are better than others.”
than it was 50 years ago, with many of the biggest changes taking place in just the last decade. Dr.
Aman was formerly a part of a local vet practice that
Cade Armstrong explained what he’s seen in
was purchased by a corporate group and shared
the course of his career. “Over the last 17 years,
his thoughts on the pros and cons he experienced.
veterinary medicine has experienced so many
“Most of the large practices in Montgomery are
medical advances,” he said. “When I first started practicing, digital radiology wasn’t around yet. The
COVID-19 Crisis: Impact on Vets “
quality of ultrasound machines has also greatly improved. We even have access to MRI machines. The
still offer superb medical care for their patients. However, after going through one of these acquisitions
essential frontline workers
myself at a previous practice, the
because we are the first-line
treat animals is increasing their
defense between zoonotic
Dr. Frank Aman hasn’t been
said. “I believe that these practices
Veterinarians are considered
ability to diagnose and properly average life span.”
owned by corporate companies,” he
culture in these practices often changes.”
“Over the last 17 years,
from animals to humans.
Armstrong and Aman pointed to
has experienced
So, during the shutdown
how this trend affects the oldest and
diseases transferring
practicing as long as Armstrong,
orders, we remained open
the youngest vets. “The previous
but he’s seen multiple shifts as
to treat patients. However,
model of selling your practice to
well. “Technology has changed for
we did cut back on elective
your younger associate is virtually
sure. In-house bloodwork machines
procedures and had some
gone,” Armstrong said. “An individual
have changed things. We can now
clients cancel and reschedule
cannot pay nearly what a private
run certain tests in our clinic and
appointments. We went to
have immediate results instead of
strictly curbside service.
opinion, most younger veterinarians
sending samples to an outside lab,”
When you pull up, we walk
will have a very difficult time finding
he said. “This helps speed up the
out to the car and retrieve
ownership opportunities.” Aman
process of finding a diagnosis, plus
your pet and bring it in the
stressed the benefits for vets ready
hospital. After assessing
to retire, but agreed with Armstrong
the patient or completing
on the issues now facing a fresh-
In addition, the business side
vaccinations, we return your
from-school veterinarian. “For the
of operating a vet practice
pet to your car. We are able
older veterinarian, it provides an
has evolved too. According to
to safely maintain a six-foot
exit strategy,” he said, but added,
starts treatment earlier.”
Armstrong, a notable recent
distance with the owners.
equity-backed firm can. In my
“These large companies are making
development is the increase of
This has allowed our at-risk
it increasingly difficult for young
corporate or group ownership of
clients to still bring their pet
veterinarians to be able to buy an
practices instead of independently
to the hospital to be taken
owned practices. “Our practice
care of.” - Dr. Frank Aman
existing practice.”
is still independently owned, but
And starting one from scratch can be
corporate groups in all different
a scary proposition. “It is terrifying
shapes and forms have moved into our industry. It’s
to start your own practice with all the unknowns.
not really larger clinics purchasing smaller clinics.
Will the clients come in? Can I afford it? Can I pay
Corporate groups and private equity groups are
my employees?” Aman said. “However, starting a
buying up most of the larger clinics,” he said. “Some
business from the ground up also gives you a lot of
of these changes are good, and some are bad.
satisfaction.”
50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
veterinary medicine so many medical advances,” he said. “When I first started practicing, digital radiology wasn’t around yet. That has been a game changer. The quality of ultrasound machines has also greatly improved. We even have access to MRI machines. The ability to diagnose and properly treat animals is increasing their average life span.” - Dr. Cade Armstrong, Montgomery Veterinarian Associates
51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
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DOING DOING DOING GOOD GOOD GOOD DOING DOING DOING GOOD EGOOD GOOD BUS I NESS Y R JO UR M DOINGO DOING DOING GOOD GOOD GOOD DOING DOING DOING GOOD GOOD GOOD DOING DOING DOING GOOD GOOD GOOD DOINGR E CDOINGP R DOING N GOOD OGOOD GOOD GNIZING NO G
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River Region nonprofits are doing good, vital work in our community, addressing issues, providing assistance, improving health and increasing quality of life. Read on to learn how our nonprofit sector makes a significant positive impact on our area.
DOING DOING DOING
BEYOND BASIC VOLUNTEERS BY MINNIE LAMBERTH
Volunteers are often the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, but matching the right volunteers and their talents with the right tasks can prove crucial to nonprofits’ success.
IDEAS INTO ACTION The River Region United Way is an example of an organization with a successful history of tapping into the services of skills-based volunteers. Brenda Robertson Dennis is Vice President Of Resource Development and through her role works with about 50 volunteers, including executives loaned to United Way by their employers. These professionals assist the 380 workplaces in the River Region conducting internal campaigns to encourage employees to
Nonprofits have always sought extra
in the boards or committees where
give to the United Way. “Each company
hands to help them carry out their
we see it.” For example, marketing
has their own campaign kickoff, their own
missions, especially with tasks that almost
committees may oversee public relations
timeframe. We give time to each of these
anyone could do. However, as demand
and communications services for
companies,” Dennis said.
for services increases and resources
nonprofits. “They won’t really have the
are increasingly stretched, charitable
budget to hire that expertise or have it
The United Way benefits from the support
organizations may wish to tap into their
in house,” Preston said. In addition, she
of loaned executives in conducting
networks of trained professionals to go
also sees web design, IT and technology,
an effort that would be too large to
beyond what paid staff can accomplish.
and human resources provided through
manage with agency staff alone. In turn,
volunteerism.
during approximately 15 hours of time donated from August to December, the
Skills-based volunteerism draws on the skills, experience, talents and education
By leveraging the skills, knowledge and
loaned executives gain experience.
of volunteers and matches them with
expertise of volunteers, nonprofits can
“(The employer) will use our program to
the needs of nonprofits, according to the
expand their capacity to achieve their
provide professional development in their
Corporation for National and Community
mission. In one scenario, individuals
organization,” Dennis said.
Service. The term and intentional strategy
contribute their skills to perform a
may be a fairly recent development in the
specific function for the nonprofit. In
Ann Cooper, Vice President Of
nonprofit world. However, the concept
another, a corporation or professional
Community Impact at the River Region
has been around for a while.
organization takes on a project for the
United Way, works with 360 volunteers
nonprofit and assumes responsibility for
each year in her role. Among these, the
its development and management. “One
Community Impact Council is made up of
side of that is a corporate decision, a
20 members – mostly professionals from
company decision to give back,” Preston
businesses in the River Region – who
said. In the other, nonprofits are “looking
conduct an annual needs assessment.
for volunteers who have specific skills.”
“These community needs assessments
BY LEVERAGING THE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE OF VOLUNTEERS, NONPROFITS CAN EXPAND THEIR CAPACITY TO ACHIEVE THEIR MISSION.
help us know whether or not we’re By considering this concept, leaders
funding the right thing,” Cooper said.
can give thought to a different approach
“We consider ourselves problem solvers,
to fundraising and stretching budgets,
not fundraisers.” Accordingly, the
especially in times when giving is down.
needs assessment can help identify the
“When the economy starts to make a turn,
problems that allocations can be directed
we will see that trend in donated dollars,”
to solve.
Preston said. In some cases, needs are “Really smart directors and CEOs
increasing as budgets are shrinking. “If
Another volunteer group, the allocations
have been doing it a long time,” said
we can budget some donated skills in
team, is made up of 24 bankers and
Shannon Preston, CEO of the Alabama
there, it’s a great idea.”
CPAs. “They vet the organizations that
Association of Nonprofits. “It is typically
apply for these donations,” Cooper said.
in the fall, the allocations team works to determine if the organizations are healthy. Then, from January to April, the team conducts one-on-one interviews with the directors of the agencies. “I couldn’t do it without them,” Cooper said. One of the most important things when working with volunteers is being mindful of their time, Cooper noted.
River Region United Way volunteers serving as loaned executives. (l to r) Loaned Executives Josie Young, Director of Marketing and Sales at Russell Construction of Alabama; Anthony Poellnitz, Engineer I with Alabama Power; and Jamie Brown, VP Relationship Development with MAX Credit Union.
“Because they’re professionals, they’re in demand at their
Dennis added that it’s important
work.” When scheduling
to remember that volunteers
meetings, she said, “If I tell
are not employees. “Be very
them we’re going to get out in
clear in your expectations
an hour, we’re going to get out
upfront,” she said. Part of that
in an hour.” Also, welcome their
is respecting the word no. “Our
input. “If they have ideas, I want
role is really heavy. You want
to hear them,” Cooper said.
to be clear right up front, and
“Give them an opportunity to
be clear if the answer is no.” It
give you feedback.”
may turn out that the volunteer is not in the right role and could be a better fit somewhere else.
55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
INTRODUCING RIVER REGION NONPROFIT LEADERS
financial forms and budgets
THE UNITED WAY BENEFITS FROM THE SUPPORT OF LOANED EXECUTIVES IN CONDUCTING AN EFFORT THAT WOULD BE TOO LARGE TO MANAGE WITH AGENCY STAFF ALONE.
DOING GOOD:
By reviewing applications,
BIG GIVE
IN THE LEAD
BY THE NUMBERS
Wellness Coalition Ghandi Daniels
We asked some of the River Region’s
That's My Child Charles Lee
nonprofits to share the statistics outlining their impact. Added all together, the numbers clearly show that serving community counts.
IN ONE YEAR: Number of people served:
311,250
Number of volunteers:
9,423
Number of employees:
529
Volunteer hours:
274,800
Charles Lee is a local business owner, community Ghandi Daniels has been with
activist, motivational speaker,
TWC for 17 years, first as a
husband to his beautiful wife
Case Manager, and served
Mohana Lee of 19 years with
for years as the Wellness
whom he has three beautiful
Programs Coordinator
children. Lee is dedicated to
before being named as the
be the change he wants to
Executive Director in 2020.
see in Montgomery. Growing
She earned her Bachelor’s
up in the rough, gang-riddled
in Social Work at Alabama
streets of Chicago inspired
State University (2001) and
Lee to donate his time and
Master’s in Social Work at
effort to create a family-like
Troy University Montgomery
support system and a “way
(2019). She enjoys being
out” for less fortunate youth.
an active member of her
This led to the creation of
community by serving on
That’s My Child, which was
community boards and
founded in 2012. Lee is also
being involved in community
the founder of That’s My
activities surrounding
Dog Jr., which is the first
wellness.
ever restaurant operated by teenagers only.
CLAS Vic Wilson, Ed.D. Vic Wilson is the Executive Director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools. He joined the CLAS staff in July of 2017. He has 28 years in public education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, superintendent and now as the Executive Director of CLAS. Wilson is married to Felecia Dailey Wilson, and they have three children. Aside from spending time with his family, he loves reading, sports and the arts. 56 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
RR United Way Ron Simmons
The information in
Ron Simmons, IOM, joined
is approximate and reflects the following
“By the Numbers”
River Region United Way as president and chief executive
nonprofits:
officer in July 2020. A native
Child Protect Jannah Morgan Bailey
of Montgomery, Simmons is
Triumph Services
a 1983 graduate of Sidney Lanier High School. As a graduate of Auburn University
AUM ROTC program in 1987.
at Montgomery, he received
Simmons joined United Way
a bachelor’s degree in Liberal
after serving 10 years with the
Arts with an emphasis in
Montgomery Area Chamber of
Marketing and Military Science.
Commerce, most recently as
Simmons was commissioned
the Vice President of Sales for
as a second lieutenant in the
the Destination Montgomery
U.S. Army Reserves from the
Convention and Visitor Bureau.
Central Alabama Aging Consortium Health Services, Inc. COSA MACOA The Learning Tree Salvation Army
A Montgomery native,
Friendship Mission
been the executive director
COSA Shereda Finch
of Child Protect, Children’s
Shereda Finch has served as
Advocacy Center since
the Executive Director at the
April 2001. In her position,
Council on Substance Abuse
she is responsible for
since 2013. Under her leadership,
overseeing the day to
the organization has expanded
day management of the
alcohol and substance abuse
agency, public speaking
prevention and recovery support
and awareness, fundraising
services in various counties
and forensic interviewing
across the state.
Jannah Morgan Bailey has
The Wellness Coalition River Region United Way Brantwood Children’s Home Service Dogs of Alabama Faith Radio
of alleged child abuse
Rotary Club
victims. In 2019, Bailey Montgomery Public School
Faith Radio Billy Irvin
Hope Inspired Ministries
Board District 5. She is
As Director of Ministry
also an active member
Relations, Irvin is responsible
CLAS
of the Montgomery
for developing the ministry of
Sunrise Rotary Club,
Faith Radio through prayer,
and a graduate of
fundraising, speaking and
Leadership Montgomery
emceeing at public events,
and Leadership Alabama.
while also making personal visits
In 2018, she received
to churches and individuals
thousands of people each
the Leading Lady Award
throughout the community.
day. Irwin is also involved in
for Professional and
While leading Faith Radio in
many community organizations,
Community Service from
over $800,000 in annual gifts,
serving as President of the
the Girl Scouts of Southern
Irwin participates in the on-air
YMCA Hitchcock Memorial
That’s My Child
Alabama.
team, regularly sharing stories
Award, as well as Board
of God’s faithfulness. He also
member of the Kiwanis Club of
leads the station’s social media
Montgomery and Montgomery
The Alabama Kidney Foundation
communications, which touch
Medical Outreach Ministries.
was elected to the
Baptist Foundation Kiwanis
57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center The Cancer Wellness Foundation
Central Alabama Aging Consortium Susan Segrest
Health Services, Inc. Gilbert F. Darrington Gilbert F. Darrington is a native of Montgomery and
IN THE LEAD
holds a M.A. degree in human resources development, B.S. in occupational education, B.S.O.E. in Business Administration/ Healthcare Administration, A.A.
Susan Segrest has worked with the Central Alabama Aging Consortium since
Triumph Services Beth Zaiontz
November 1994 and is a certified Ombudsman and State Health Insurance Assistance Program Counselor. She has been
in General Studies and an LPN
of Health Services Inc., he
certification. After retiring from
continues to work closely with
20 years of service in the U.S.
healthcare providers, legislators,
Army, Darrington returned to
elected officials and other
Montgomery, where he worked
community partners to provide
at Jackson Hospital for 10 years
residents of central Alabama
as Director of Human Resources.
greater access to quality health
He became Chief Executive
care.
Officer of Health Services, Inc. in October 2015. As the CEO
Executive Director since June 2014. She is a recipient of the State of Alabama Senior
HOLIDAY MAGIC
Citizens Hall of Fame Golden
Every Christmas, through its Angel
Eagle Award and currently
Tree program, Montgomery’s
serves on the Board of the
Salvation Army helps 500 families
Southeastern Association
brighten the season by providing
Beth Zaiontz has been
of Area Agencies on Aging.
Executive Director since
She is also a charter member
January 2019. She graduated
of the Alabama Council
from Auburn University in
for the Prevention of Elder
Montgomery with a B.S. in
Abuse and chairs the
business and The University
Community and Professional
of Alabama at Birmingham
Outreach Committee.
The Ivy Foundation Dawn Ellis-Murray
with a master’s in business
Segrest was appointed
Dawn Ellis-Murray is Chairman
administration. Prior to
to the Alabama WINGS
of The Ivy Foundation of
working in the nonprofit
(Working Interdisciplinary
Montgomery, Inc. She is also
sector, she worked for
Networks of Guardianship
Executive Director of the
Protective Life Corporation,
Stakeholders) task force by
National Association of Social
where she had many roles.
Chief Justice Lyn Stuart and
Workers Alabama Chapter
Zaiontz has a personal
continues to work with the
and a practicing Licensed
passion and understanding
group to improve the state’s
Independent Clinical Social
Foundation, Ellis-Murray has
for those with developmental
guardianship system, avoid
Worker within Central Alabama
been charged with leading
disabilities due to her
unnecessary guardianships
Veterans Health Care System.
distinguished Alpha Kappa
daughter facing these
and to prevent and address
She is a Member of Alpha Kappa
Alpha women who serve on its
challenges daily. She has also
elder abuse.
gifts for approximately 1,200 kids.
Alpha Sorority, Incorporated,
volunteer Board of Directors to
been very active supporting
Beta Nu Omega Chapter,
positively impact quality of life for
nonprofits across Alabama.
and is engaged in supporting
deserving individuals and families
development of young adults
throughout Montgomery and the
for personal and professional
River Region.
achievement. Through The Ivy
58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
FUN FUNDRAISING In 1954, The Kiwanis Club of Montgomery began its
Jackson Hospital Foundation Patrick N. Wood
annual fundraiser by founding the Alabama National Fair. Each Kiwanian is required to work four shifts at the ANF, and Kiwanians and their spouses provide more than 5,000 hours of service each year at the Fair. Over the last 65 years, the Kiwanis Club, through its Kiwanis Club of Montgomery Foundation, has given almost $9 million to local charitable organizations. As part of its 100th Anniversary in October 2019, the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery gave the Montgomery Zoo $100,000 for a new train.
A lifelong Montgomery resident, Wood graduated from Huntingdon College in
The Learning Tree Dr. Marc Williams
1988 with a B.A. in Finance while also playing on the
Brantwood Children’s Home Gerald Jones
Cancer Wellness Foundation Carol Gunter
golf team. He earned individual All-American status in ’85 and was a member of the three (’85’87) national championship golf teams. Upon graduation, he spent 1988-1991 playing professional golf. In January 1992, he joined the Jackson
Dr. Marc Williams, Ph.D.,
Hospital Foundation.
BCBA-D has worked for The
Throughout the past 28
Learning Tree for more than
An Opp, Alabama, native,
Wellness Foundation as
years, he has held several
15 years and has been the
Gerald Jones graduated Cum
Executive Director in January
positions at the Foundation
Executive Director since
Laude with a B.S. in Criminal
2020, Carol Gunter retired
and was named President in
2011. Williams received his
Justice from Alabama State
from the City of Montgomery
July 2018. During that time,
bachelor’s and master’s of
University. He started his
after 22 years. She brings
several initiatives have been
arts degrees in psychology
career with Brantwood in
a wealth of knowledge and
created to generate millions
from Auburn University.
June 1994 as a Childcare
experience in corporate
in philanthropic dollars, most
He received his Ph.D. in
Worker, working directly with
sales, marketing, event
notably the Touchstone
psychology from Auburn
the youth. In 1999, he was
management, and, most
Society, Corporate Partners,
University in 1998 and is a
voted Childcare Worker of the
importantly community
Scholarship programs and
Board Certified Behavior
Year for the State of Alabama.
involvement and outreach.
the Healing Arts Collection.
Analyst. Williams is an active
He was promoted to House
She’s also active with the
member of the Alabama
Parent Supervisor in 2000.
Montgomery Area Chamber
Association for Behavior
In 2009, he was promoted
of Commerce and the
Analysis and the Tallassee,
to Youth Service Director.
business community.
Alabama, Rotary Club.
He has served as Executive
Before joining the Cancer
Director since 2015.
59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
IN THE LEAD
Service Dogs Alabama Frances McGowin, MA
MACOA Donna Marietta MACOA Executive Director Donna Marietta has more than 30 years of experience managing nonprofit organizations in Montgomery and Daytona Beach, Florida. Since coming to MACOA in
Baptist Health Care Foundation Tommy McKinnon
2012, Marietta has brought
programs to accomplish the
financial stability and a
organization’s important
business approach to the
mission. While in Daytona
organization as well as raised
Beach, she was the CEO of the
Frances McGowin, MA, is
revenue through fundraising
Children’s Advocacy Center
Co-Founder and CEO/
and fund development. She has
of Volusia & Flagler Counties
Executive Director of Service
been responsible for driving
and then the CEO of the
Dogs Alabama. She lived in
and inspiring passion for the
North Coastal Division of the
New York City and worked
organization with increased
Children’s Home Society.
with Ralph Lauren in New York from 1978-1982. In 1982, she moved to Atlanta With 25 years of
to work as a Marketing and
experience in strategic
Sales Associate with Conde
marketing, public relations
Naste fashion publications.
and communications,
After returning to Alabama
McKinnon serves as the
in 1997, she worked with
Vice President of External
the Alabama Department
125,139 meals. Its Retired and
Affairs for Baptist Health
of Youth Services, Tutwiler
Senior Volunteer program
and the Executive Director
and Kilby prisons, the
has 1,259 active volunteers
of the Baptist Health Care
Alabama Department of Human Resources, and the
providing 144,713 volunteers
Foundation. He oversees the establishment of
Alabama Department of
integrated strategies, plans
Postsecondary Education
and programs designed to
to develop therapeutic and
ensure that all advancement,
educational programs for at-
communication, marketing
risk and incarcerated youth,
and public relations efforts
children with special needs,
Hope Inspired Ministries John Bowman
are cohesive, consistent and
Foster Care children, and
John Bowman was named
effective in supporting Baptist
incarcerated adults. McGowin
Executive Director of Hope
Health’s mission and goals.
founded the Dogs On Call
Inspired Ministries in January
He believes in giving back
Therapy Dog program in
2020. He was born and raised in
to the community through
2008, where she met Ashley
Montgomery and graduated from
past and present service on
Taylor. The two co-founded
Carver High School in 1992. He
several local and regional
Service Dogs Alabama in
joined the Montgomery Police
boards, including Centerpoint
2010. McGowin is an avid
Department in 1994 to serve
served as a volunteer with Hope
Fellowship Church, Medical
animal lover and has trained
the citizens of Montgomery.
Inspired Ministries, mentoring
Outreach Ministries, the
dogs and horses most of her
He served in many capacities
many male students through
Wellness Coalition, Girl Scouts
life; she is also an artist and
including patrolman, detective
the program and beyond. He
of Alabama, YMCA Camp
writer.
and Chief of Staff. While a
also served on the Board of One
Chandler Board and Junior
member of the Montgomery
Place Family Justice Center and
League Advisory Board.
Police Department, he faithfully
River Region Chaplain Service.
FEEDING THE NEED In FY2019, MACOA served 834 clients for Meals on Wheels and the Frozen Meals program by providing
hours with a value of $3.4 million in services.
60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
KEEP GOOD GOING
IN THE LEAD Friendship Mission Tara Johnson Davis
Alabama Kidney Foundation David Reeves
In 2018, Tara Davis became
David Reeves joined the
the Executive Director of
Alabama Kidney Foundation
Friendship Mission. She
(AKF) in 2018 after 30 years
has been an advocate for
of working with the YMCA
the rights and needs of
in Tennessee, Louisiana,
victims of domestic violence,
Mississippi, Georgia and
severely abused and
Texas. Having worked
neglected children, those
for the largest nonprofit
suffering from and living with
organization in the nation, he
HIV/AIDS and those who
has successfully operated
have been underserved in
budgets up to $8 million,
various capacities. Previous
established effective
roles include assisting
programs and initiatives, and
underserved landowners
created and implemented
as State Outreach Director
strategic business plans for
for the Alabama Forestry
several YMCA organizations.
Commission and being a
Before beginning his 30
voice for abused children
years serving the YMCA,
as State Director for the
he lived in Guam for a year
Alabama Network of
working for the DOD.
Almost all nonprofits depend on support from businesses and individuals in the community to provide their important services and fulfill their missions. We asked a group of area nonprofits how their funding was faring due to the COVID-19 economic downturn. Of those we asked:
24% 23% reported donations were up.
reported donations were about the same.
53% reported donations were down.
Children’s Advocacy Centers.
Now, more than ever, all nonprofits need our continued support. Please check out the “How to Give” sections on the following pages to see how you can be a part of our nonprofits’ positive impacts.
Salvation Army Lieutenants Bryan and Tonya Farrington Both were ordained as ministers of the gospel and as Salvation Army officers in June 2016. Their first two years were spent in Birmingham, and they are currently in their third year serving as the Corps Officers of The Salvation Army in Montgomery. God’s call to serve in ministry has been forefront in both of their lives, and as Salvation Army officers, the Lieutenants Farrington seek to make radical followers of Jesus Christ, who love inclusively, serve helpfully, and disciple effectively in the communities where they live. 61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
RIVER REGION UNITED WAY Mission: The mission of River Region United Way is to improve lives and strengthen our communities by identifying needs and solving critical problems.
Background: For 97 years, River Region United Way has been “Making Life Better for Everyone.” United Way fights for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of every person in every community. We battle for all of our neighbors across the River Region – in Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon and Montgomery counties. United Way is committed to solving our communities’ most critical problems as we bring together diverse groups of volunteers, donors and community partners. We strive to be an innovative driver of community dialogue by engaging our communities through partnerships and collaboration. RRUW identifies community needs and finds the resources needed to address them. Every year, River Region United Way directly impacts the lives of nearly 130,000 people in our communities (1 out of 3 people).
Leadership: • Ron Simmons, IOM, President and CEO • Dr. W. Rhea Ingram, Chair of the Board of Directors • Bonnie Evans, Community Impact Council Chair • Mike Hart, 2019-20 Campaign Chair • Drew Moore, Allocations Committee Chair
Contact Us: 334-264-7318 RRUW.org This ad was generously sponsored by Russell Construction of Alabama, Inc.
62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
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Mission: The Cancer Wellness Foundation
provides supportive services, educational services and assistance to cancer patients in 30 counties throughout central Alabama, including those patients who lack the resources necessary to otherwise receive comprehensive healthcare.
Background: The CWF was founded in 1997 by three oncologists who saw a need for support of cancer patients and their families once they received a cancer diagnosis and the need for funds to directly support the patient.
How We Help: The foundation serves patients
with compassion while providing financial assistance to obtain transportation or providing gas vouchers to and from chemotherapy and radiation treatments; obtaining prescription medications for free or at a low cost; giving Chemo Comfort Care bags to all new patients; and advocating on behalf of patients while they negotiate insurance issues and government programs such as Social Security, disability, Medicaid and others.
Brag Lines: The CWF is like no other organization. We are not involved in testing or research. We are dedicated to providing direct patient support once a diagnosis has been made. In 2019, through the patient advocacy program, the foundation provided $15.8 million of medication assistance, 5,500 (unique) rides for patients without transportation to their treatments, more than $80,000 in gas vouchers and almost 900 Chemo Comfort Care Bags. We are a small nonprofit with a limited budget, but we are thankful for the donations and grants and for our business partners and community support that allow us to assist those cancer patients who need our help.
Upcoming Events: • October - Beat the Odds Virtual Drawdown and Silent Auction
HOW TO GIVE: Wishlist: Chemo Comfort Care Bags (thermometers, tissues, hand sanitizer, crossword puzzles, hard candy, socks, blankets, pill boxes, small lotions, lip balm) gently used wigs, cases of Ensure or Boost and monetary donations.
• December - Holidays of Hope
CANCER WELLNESS FOUNDATION of Central Alabama
Contact Us: 334-273-2279 cancerwellnessfoundation.org
THE JACKSON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION, INC.
Mission: The Jackson Hospital Foundation, Inc. is organized to serve as an instrument to assist, advance and strengthen Jackson Hospital in its ministry of healing; in its service as a health center for its community; in its provision of the best education possible for students in the various health fields; and in all related health and humanitarian endeavors.
Brag Lines: Jackson Hospital recently celebrated 20 years of providing cardiac surgery in the River Region with a $1.1 million recent addition of four post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) recovery bays, which will give the hospital more flexibility to utilize its six CVICU patient rooms for additional open heart volume. This four-bed unit will provide better continuity of care and careful monitoring of these critical patients.
Contact Us: 334-293-6940 jackson.org/foundation
SERVICE DOGS ALABAMA
Upcoming Events: • September: Montgomery 5K Mustache Run • October 30: Blasting Through P.A.D. Sporting Clay Shoot
•M ay 6, 2021: Midtown Gets White Haute at Wynlakes
Mission: Service Dogs Alabama (SDA) is dedicated to providing fully trained medical and psychological assistance dogs to children, adults and veterans with disabilities, as well as Facility Intervention Dogs in Alabama schools and youth facilities.
Background: The organization dates back to 2010 when Frances McGowin and Ashley Taylor founded the K-9s 4 Kids Service Dog training program. Due to the overwhelming demand for service dogs, the program quickly grew into Alabama’s largest nonprofit specialized dog training organization focused on children and veterans with a broad range of disabilities.
Brag Lines: We have many powerful testimonials from recipients of SDA dogs. Gaige and Emma
Sgt. Wilson (ret) and Toby
Contact Us: (334) 676-3733 servicedogsalabama.org
64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
• “Emma (service dog) held the key to unlock the imprisoning power of autism where Gaige was hidden. In the process, she gave us our son back.” – Gaige’s father
• “I had given up hope until I received Toby (service dog). Toby changed everything.” Sgt. Wilson (ret.)
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Mission: The mission of Child Protect is to interview, counsel and be an advocate for children when there are allegations of abuse.
Brag Lines: In spite of the COVID-19 challenges, Child Protect continued serving the child abuse victims in Montgomery. To ensure the children continued with their counseling sessions, Child Protect received a grant from the Central Alabama Community Foundation and the River Region United Way to support the cost of the Zoom video conference program. The transition was seamless and has been vital for the healing process of the children. April is Child Abuse Awareness Month, and usually, Child Protect holds its annual special event, Barrel of Blues. The agency had to cancel the event, which meant a loss of income of approximately $40,000. With the support of the community, Child Protect raffled off a bottle of 20 Year Double Eagle Very Rare bourbon, and the agency raised $38,450! The lucky winner, Chuck James, took home the big prize. We are grateful for the event sponsors (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Auburn University at Montgomery, River Bank & Trust, United Heating & Air, MAX Wealth Management, Jackson Thornton, WSFA-TV, County Commissioner Doug Singleton, Kendall & Samarria Dunson) whose support is helping Child Protect fulfill its mission in these most uncertain times. Child Protect also partnered with Montgomery Public Schools, the YMCA and Mercy House to provide snacks and information to the children, since they were homebound.
Upcoming Events (in person or virtual): • October 24 - Harvest Jam with The Shoppes at East Chase
HOW TO GIVE: Financial donations of any size
• November 6 - Swingin’ Fore Kids Golf Tournament at RTJ Capitol Hill
help Child Protect with the dayto-day operation, but in addition, the agency needs: Clorox wipes, Lysol, toilet paper, paper towels, individually packaged snacks, bottled water, juice boxes, coffee K-Cups, new stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books
Contact Us: 334-262-1220 childprotect.org
THE COUNCIL ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE Mission: COSA’s mission is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of the disease of alcoholism, other drug addiction diseases, and related problems.
Background: The COUNCIL ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE (COSA) is a 501 (c)(3) private non-profit organization founded in 1973 to promote the understanding that alcoholism and other drug dependence are preventable and treatable diseases. As a member of the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA), COSA’s programs and services are designed to:
• Prevent or delay the onset of substance use disorders and related behavioral health issues.
• Educate and inform the public on substance use disorders and related behavioral health issues.
• Encourage and support proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment and long-term recovery for individuals with substance use disorders and their families.
Brag Lines: COSA Cares about the behavioral health needs of individuals, families and communities across Alabama.
Upcoming Events: • September is Recovery Month. Find details on our website.
HOW TO GIVE: Cash donations to purchase face masks and printing costs for prevention and recovery tool kits Gift cards Van to transport members
Contact Us: 334-262-1629 cosancadd.org
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Background: Since 1972, the Baptist Health Care Foundation has assisted Baptist Health in providing comprehensive healthcare for the citizens of Central Alabama. Gifts received have also touched lives in other meaningful ways including scholarships, hospice care, employee emergency benevolence and more.
Impact: The role of our caregivers and all those who make our essential services possible has never been more crucial. The Baptist Health Care Foundation has seen the tremendous support of our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Baptist Health Team Member Assistance Fund provides immediate financial support for our employees experiencing unexpected challenges. Our team members are working tirelessly to keep our communities safe and serve the most vulnerable during this public health outbreak. We are honored to create a means for our community to show appreciation for the work our healthcare heroes commit to each day. This is an opportunity to honor healthcare professionals who are on the front lines supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities.
Brag Lines: As a part of an ongoing effort in 2020 the Baptist Health Care Foundation has assisted more than 250 healthcare workers with basic needs totaling more than $270,000.
HOW TO GIVE: 334-747-4567 baptistfoundation.org Your gracious support and donations during this time of need will go toward supporting our healthcare heroes as they tirelessly care for our community.
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MONTGOMERY AREA COUNCIL ON AGING Mission: The Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) assists senior citizens by providing services to promote independent living, offering opportunities to enhance quality of life, and increasing awareness of senior issues.
Background: MACOA is Montgomery’s only nonprofit dedicated solely to serving seniors. Meals On Wheels is MACOA’s flagship program, and it meets the growing need to serve food insecure homebound seniors. MACOA delivers 404 hot meals each weekday to client doorsteps. In addition, MACOA serves Autauga, Elmore, Coosa, Montgomery and Tallapoosa counties through a sponsorship program with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for these five counties. A total of 144,713 volunteer hours were provided
Contact Us: 334-263-0532 macoa.org macoa@macoa.org
by 1,250 RSVP volunteers in 2019. At the Archibald
Upcoming Events:
Senior Center and its second location, MACOA
October 21 - 19th Annual Swinging
East, 4,043 active and mobile seniors attended
Fore Seniors Golf Classic
educational and enrichment activities.
THE SALVATION ARMY Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Brag Lines: We’ve been serving the River Region community for more than 120 years and still going strong.
• • • •
Number of persons housed: 1,336 Total lodgings: 16,212 Nights Meals served: 62,849 Meals V ouchers (includes food, clothing, furniture and hygiene kits): 2,543 filled
• Volunteers: 3,350
Contact Us: 334-265-0281 salvationarmyalm.org/Montgomery 68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Upcoming Events: • S eptember 11 - 3rd Annual First Responders Luncheon to say “Thank You”
• S eptember 14 - Angel Tree registration
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Brag Lines: • CLAS is the only Alabama association founded by administrators for administrators. We provide professional learning, legal services, communications, advocacy, networking and rewards/recognition programs for close to 4,000 members statewide.
• CLAS is the premier professional organization for school leaders in Alabama. With 11 affiliates, CLAS offers a professional organization for every type of school administrator.
Upcoming Events: • CLAS Lunch & Learn Webinar Series – begins September 3 and runs monthly throughout the school year.
•
CLAS Leadership Institute Series –
begins September 9 and runs monthly throughout the school year.
•
CLAS New Principals Institute –
September 15-16
•
CLAS Secretaries Conference –
December 1-2
•
CLAS Aspiring Administrators
Conference – January 23 or February 23
•
CLAS Assistant Principals Conference
– January 27-28, February 17-18 or February
24-25
•
CLAS Culture Training –
Two-day event on February 4 and March 4
• •
CLAS Law Conference – March 3 CLAS Convention –
the largest gathering of more than 1,000 Alabama school administrators occurs June 13-16
•
Affiliate Conferences –
offered throughout the year
HOW TO GIVE: Join our Corporate Partnership program to gain valuable access to the education community through events, networking opportunities and specially designed sponsorship programs.
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THE WELLNESS COALITION Mission: The mission of The Wellness Coalition is to provide health and wellness programs to businesses and residents in Montgomery, Macon, Lowndes, Elmore and Autauga counties.
Background: The Wellness Coalition was established by a group of healthcare providers to improve healthcare for persons with chronic diseases and little or no health insurance.
Brag Lines: Established the River Region’s first CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program and helped 70 percent of program participants meet or exceed the program goal of losing 5-7 percent of their body weight. In our most recent fiscal year, we provided Wellness Case Management/Community Health Worker services to 1,383 clients. We also assisted more than 500
Contact Us: 334-293-6502 thewellnesscoalition.org
medically uninsured patients to decrease their use of the ED for primary care and provided 3,824 chronic disease education individual sessions.
THE LEARNING TREE, INC. Mission: The mission is to provide a warm and loving environment with individualized, empirically validated services and supports for children with significant educational, medical and behavioral challenges, helping them develop and maintain a quality of life expected by non-disabled members of their family and community.
Background: The Learning Tree was founded in 1983 to provide educational, clinical, consultation and residential services for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, including autism. Today, more than 700 children and families are served each year from across Alabama.
Upcoming Events: • October 10 – 7th Annual “Angling for Autism”
Contact Us: 334-252-0025 learning-tree.org sweldon@learning-tree.org 70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Bass Fishing Tournament at Wind Creek State Park
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Mission: Our mission is to develop, coordinate and support services in the communities in our service area that promote an active and independent lifestyle where those we serve can live and thrive.
Background: CAAC is the Area Agency on Aging for Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties. The agency was formed in 1975 and is part of a statewide aging network that provides a variety of home- and community-based services. CAAC provides advocacy, in-home services, community services, education and information.
Brag Lines: During the first eight months of this fiscal year, CAAC has:
• Provided 132,504 meals to 1,214 elderly individuals in Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties
• Provided case management for 480 elderly and disabled individuals through the Medicaid Waiver Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program
• Provided Medicare counseling to 2,469 Medicare beneficiaries
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, CAAC, in partnership with the Alabama Department of Senior Services and the USDA, has distributed 6,720 boxes of food (through August) to those in need in our service area.
Upcoming Events: • October 15 – December 7: CAAC will be hosting Medicare Open Enrollment events.
HOW TO GIVE: Monetary donations to our organization and
Contact Us: 334-240-4680 centralalabamaaging.org
cleaning supplies for our low-income elderly clients
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Mission:Â to mentor the youth through arts, education and workforce development to end hopelessness and generational poverty.
CONTACT US: (334) 239-7434 / THATSMYCHILDMGM.ORG
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NONPROFITS IN THE RIVER REGION Get connected with nonprofit chamber members
21 Dreams Arts & Culture
Alabama World Affairs Council
21dreamsmgm.org
alwac.org
A+ Education Partnership
Alzheimer's Association
aplusala.org
alz.org
A-KEEP (Alabama-Korea
American Cancer Society
Education and Economic
cancer.org
Partnership)
akeep.org
American Heart Association
heart.org/en/ AGAPE
affiliates/alabama/
agapeforchildren.org
montgomery
Air Force Sergeants
Arthritis Foundation
Association-Chapter 444
arthritis.org
hqafsa.org
HOPE INSPIRED MINISTRIES
Camellia Bowl Alabama Center
camelliabowl.com
for Dispute Resolution
alabamaadr.org
Central Alabama Aging Consortium
Alabama Institute
centralalabama
for Deaf and Blind
aging.org
aidb.org Central Alabama Community Alabama Kidney Foundation,
Foundation
Montgomery Chapter
cacfinfo.org
alkidney.org Central Alabama Crime Alabama Network
Stoppers
of Children's Advocacy
215stop.com
Centers, Inc.
Mission: Hope Inspired Ministries (HIM) serves low-skilled, poorly educated and chronically unemployed men and women by preparing them to obtain and maintain employment. We do so in a manner that develops individual worth, encourages personal responsibility and promotes the value and honor of work.
CONTACT US: 334-649-4330 HOPEINSPIREDMINISTRIES.ORG
alabamacacs.org
Central Alabama Works!
centralalabamaworks.com Alabama Technology Foundation
Child Evangelism Fellowship of
alabamatechnology
Central Alabama
foundation.org
cefcentralalabama.org
Alabama Technology
Child Protect
Network
childprotect.org
atn.org
Common Ground
Montgomery AFCEA Chapter
Montgomery
afceamontgomery.org
FRIENDSHIP MISSION
cgm.life Montgomery Area Business Coosa-Alabama River
Committee for the Arts
Improvement Association, Inc.
mabca.org
caria.org Montgomery Area Food Bank Council on Substance Abuse
montgomeryarea
cosancadd.org
foodbank.org
Dexter Avenue King Memorial
Montgomery Bicycle Club
Legacy Center
mgmbikeclub.org
dexterkingmemorial.org/ about/legacy-center
Montgomery CARES-100 Black Men Connection
Disability as an Ability Toward
montgomery100.org
Success: Moms on the Move
datsmom.org
Montgomery Education Foundation
Disabled American Veterans
montgomeryed.org
dav.org Montgomery Humane Society Family Sunshine Center
montgomeryhumane.com
familysunshine.org
Mission: Demonstrating love and compassion in action, Friendship Mission is a refuge for the homeless and hungry, offering shelter for men as well as women and children, and assisting our clients to become self-sufficient.
CONTACT US: 334-356-6412 / FRIENDSHIPMISSION.ORG
Montgomery Rotary Club Friendship Mission, Inc.
montgomeryrotaryclub.com
friendshipmission.org Muscular Dystrophy Gathering of Eagles Foundation
Association, Inc.
goefoundation.org
mda.org
Girl Scouts of
NAMI Alabama
Southern Alabama Inc.
NAMIAlabama.org
KIWANIS CLUB OF MONTGOMERY
girlscoutssa.org National Association of Social Goodwill Industries
Workers - Alabama Chapter
of Central Alabama
naswal.org
algoodwill.org Nikki Mitchell Foundation Hispanic Outreach
nikkimitchellfoundation.org
Leadership & Action (HOLA)
holamontgomery.org
Pens Up Guns Down
pensupgunsdown.org Hope Inspired Ministries, Inc.
hopeinspiredministries.org
Public Relations Council of Alabama-Montgomery Chapter
Joy To Life Foundation
prcamontgomery.org
liveheregivehere.org
Mission: For 100 years, the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery has empowered communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children.
Renascence, Inc. Liberty Learning Foundation
libertylearning.org
halfway-home.net
CONTACT US: 334-260-7996 /MONTGOMERYKIWANIS.ORG
THE ALABAMA KIDNEY FOUNDATION
River Region United Way
The Learning Tree, Inc
riverregionunitedway.org
learning-tree.org
S.A.F.Y. of America, Inc.
The Wellness Coalition
safy.org
thewellnesscoalition.org
Salvation Army
Triumph Services, Inc.
salvationarmyalm.org/
triumphservices.org
montgomery Tukabatchee Area Council/
Mission: The Alabama Kidney Foundation serves kidney patients by providing financial assistance, education and support services. The Foundation provides public education to promote organ donation awareness and prevention of kidney disease.
CONTACT US: 334-430-8716 / ALKIDNEY.ORG
Serquest
Boy Scouts of America, Inc.
facebook.com/myserquest
tukabatcheebsa.org
Service Dogs Alabama
United Cerebral Palsy of
ServiceDogsAlabama.org
Central Alabama
ucpalabama.org Shepherds Ministries, Inc.
facebook.com/
United Methodist
ChaplainHolly
Children's Home
umch.net Sun Belt Conference
sunbeltsports.org
VOICES for Alabama's Children
That's My Child
alavoices.org
thatsmychildmgm.org Women of Refined Gold, Inc. The Arts Council of
THE IVY FOUNDATION OF MONTGOMERY, INCORPORATED
Montgomery
artscouncilmontgomery.
Y.E.S. Inc.
org
yeseep.org
The Baptist Foundation
YMCA of Greater
of Alabama
Montgomery
tbfa.org
ymcamontgomery.org
The Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama
cancerwellness foundation.org The Dannon Project
dannonproject.org
Mission: We strive to improve communities and quality of life throughout the River Region area by commitment to sisterhood, scholarship and social equity.
The Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute
thejohnsoninstitute.org The King’s Canvas
thekingscanvas.org
CONTACT US: 334-544-0796 IVYFOUNDATIONMONTGOMERY.ORG
womenofrefinedgold.org
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Faith Radio’s mission is to serve the Christian community and strengthen the local church and family unit as we provide spiritual encouragement and a personal challenge with a Christ-centered focus through Biblical teaching, relevant information and uplifting music to the Glory of God.
Brag Lines: We often hear testimonials like: “Listening to Faith Radio is like being at a Christian concert all day, with a great mix of Christian music and Bible teaching programs that help me grow spiritually and closer to God.”
WISHLIST: • Financial gifts to support our commercial-free
89
.FM1
WLBF
MONTGOMERY
broadcasts
Contact Us: 334-271-8900 faithradio.org
TRIUMPH SERVICES
Mission: Our mission is twofold: to assist individuals in their efforts to live independently and to educate the public on the gifts and strengths of people who have developmental
• Special gifts in memory or honor of someone special
• Donation of an old vehicle you no longer need
BRANTWOOD CHILDREN’S HOME
Mission: Our mission is serving youth through a caring, therapeutic environment where hurts are healed; hope is nurtured.
disabilities.
CONTACT US: 205-581-1000 WWW.TRIUMPHSERVICES.ORG
CONTACT US: 334-265-0784 BRANTWOODCHILDRENSHOME.ORG 75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Location, location, location! You often hear this
have any loans against it. Also, keep a copy of
phrase in real estate, but the same principle
the original documents, and keep track of your
applies to vital pieces of your estate plan. If
representative and the effective date of your
you are like most women, estate planning is
policy. Since companies may be bought and sold
not something that crosses your mind often in
over the years, keeping a record of the original
the midst of our busy lives of family, work and
company who issued your policy is helpful for
navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. However,
beneficiaries down the road.
if something happened to you or your spouse, would either of you know where to find the necessary information to handle legal affairs or
3 . W H E R E A R E YO U R E S TAT E D O C U M E N T S ? Know where original copies
continue running your household? Or, if you are
of your Will, Power of Attorney and Advanced
a single woman, do you have a person, or entity,
Healthcare Directive are kept, and share copies
designated to handle your affairs?
of these documents with your designated person or entity. Communicating the location of these
CO M M U N I C AT I O N I S K E Y:
important documents will help give you peace
After organizing your important information, ask
of mind, help make an emergency situation less
your significant other for information they control
chaotic and can help prevent delays in legal
and help your designated person or entity by
processes.
communicating where to find the following estate planning pieces.
1 . W H E R E I S YO U R M O N E Y ? Keep a current list of bank and investment
MEET THE EXPERT
accounts. It’s common to hold accounts at different financial institutions for a variety of reasons, so be sure to keep a current master list of accounts and passwords for each institution so you can accurately account for these dollars in your estate planning, and so your designated person can access these accounts if you are otherwise unable. The same principle applies to any monthly bills or automatic payments. Know how to access these accounts. Additionally, be mindful of your retirement accounts so that you can make beneficiary updates as necessary and assess where those assets remain housed.
2 . W H E R E I S YO U R L I F E
Elizabeth Brasher, JD, CWS serves as a Client Consultant with Warren Averett Asset Management. She works with individuals, families and the firm’s Women’s Wealth Connection to implement financial planning,
I N S U R A N C E ? It’s important to not only know
estate planning and investment planning
where your life insurance policy is located but
strategies. Contact her at 205.747.3945 or
also to know the policy value and whether you
Elizabeth.Brasher@waasset.com
77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
ACCOUNTING
BY E L I Z A B E T H B R AS H E R , J D, C WS
E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W
D O YO U K N O W W H E R E V I TA L P I E C E S O F YO U R E S TAT E P L A N A R E LO C AT E D ?
From the big idea to the smallest detail, Regions means business. Trusted business expertise – it’s at Regions. We’re here to help your business thrive in ways you might not expect. At Regions, you’ll find one of the industry’s most complete suites of business tools along with the insight and personal service you need to accomplish your goals. For a broad range of product offerings and a local presence for everyday business needs, you don’t have to look far. Just take your next step with Regions. Arthur DuCote | Market President Executive Vice President | Commercial Banking 201 Monroe St., Suite 200 | Montgomery, AL 36104 Office: 334.240.1280 | arthur.ducote@regions.com
78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL © 2020 Regions Bank. Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.
More than ever, businesses across the River
a cadence for your workers to expect to hear
Region need an effective policy for managing
from you. Reach out proactively, outside of
local and remote workers while keeping
that cadence, to check in and see how they’re
productivity up. The whirl of changes in the
doing. Reiterate their importance to the team’s
workplace following the outbreak of COVID-19
performance and show consistent appreciation
will likely have a lasting impact on workplace
for their work.
culture. Some businesses are opting to keep many — or, in some cases, all — of their
BEING A TEAM
employees in remote working arrangements.
Maintaining a strong company culture
And moving forward, job candidates may be
is important — even more so when your
more likely to expect robust work-from-home
employees are physically distant. Develop
policies from potential employers. Regardless,
creative opportunities for team discussions
having processes in place to manage
that go beyond the regular tasks and business
employees, wherever they are, is a necessity.
objectives. Use them as a chance to publicly praise good work. Consider a virtual game
Whether you intend to keep more workers
night through the use of videoconferencing.
remote or bring some of your team back into
Show your team that you’re being intentional
one space, these three recommendations can
about keeping everyone connected, even in
help manage performance.
these uncertain times.
C L E A R C O M M U N I C AT I O N
While managing remote workers isn’t a new
Coordinating with remote workers is a bit
task for all businesses, having a strategic
more complicated than walking over to an
approach is crucial. Find additional resources
employee’s desk for an in-person conversation.
for implementing a work-from-home policy for
Internal instant messaging systems and
your business at regions.com/Insights/Small-
videoconferencing platforms help reduce the
Business.
distance barrier. Make sure your employees are equipped in their remote workspaces with a microphone, webcam and any other necessary tools to help facilitate easy communication.
MEET THE EXPERT
Encourage all employees to use the same communication platforms so others aren’t left out of the loop.
S TAY I N G E F F I C I E N T A potential detriment of remote work is employees may feel as though they aren’t part of a team. That can impact productivity. Clear performance benchmarks, such as transparent and reasonable deadlines, can help. Also, people should have consistent check-ins with managers, and bringing the group together, even virtually, for frequent touch-base discussions, can help keep efficiency up. Set
Arthur DuCote is the Montgomery Market Executive for Regions Bank.
79 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
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BY A R T H U R D U C OT E
EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S IN THE KNOW
M A N A G I N G YO U R E M P LOY E E S , WHEREVER THEY WORK
Small Business Briefcase +
PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT SUPERCHARGES PRODUCTIVITY Happy, satisfied employees make dedicated, productive employees, but what are the “secret do’s” that you can enact to ensure your employees are truly engaged? BY SHARLEEN SMITH
At first glance, it may seem that productivity and employee engagement are two very different things. They are. However, they complement one another: If a company boosts engagement, it will increase productivity. But we must begin with a true definition of employee engagement. Employee engagement does not mean only a fun place to work, an employees “make the rules” environment nor Googleor Facebook-type employee perks such as nap pods or onsite hair salons.
7
STRATEGIES TO INCREASE EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY:
Employee engagement is the emotional commitment the employee has to the organization and its goals, and leadership actions and initiatives toward engagement can create this commitment.
7
1 Encourage autonomy by not micromanaging. Robby Slaughter, a productivity
WAYS TO BOOST EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT:
expert, said, “The most effective tool for increasing team productivity is having managers back off. The best way to encourage productivity is to encourage individuals to take ownership over how they manage their own time and resources.”
1 Make sure employees feel valued,
be promoting the “why.” Managers
just as valued as your best customers.
should support the “how.” Then
2 Focus on the future with clear
Be genuinely interested in who they
employees can create the “what.”
communication. Communication is the key to success. Without effective, two-
are as a person, not just as a worker. Build in time for connectedness with
5 Provide time and energy for
way communication, relationships end and
each employee if possible. Hold
collaborative discussions within
businesses fail. Managers who effectively
“touchpoints” with each employee.
teams regarding projects, processes,
communicate clear expectations and
organizational changes and more.
responsibilities to their employees will be rewarded with a productive workforce.
2 Be responsive to issues. Listen to employees and help them solve their
6 Allow autonomy of work.
According to CRM Learning, most of the time (80
work challenges.
Micromanagement kills engagement.
percent), managers focus on past work or results of employees. Fifteen percent is spent on what
3 Demonstrate that you appreciate
7 We cannot forget that during this
is happening now. And the amount of time spent
their work in a meaningful way.
time, remote work is certainly a factor to
discussing future solutions and possibilities?
Connect with each employee’s intrinsic
examine when talking about employee
Only 5 percent. Talking about and planning for
needs of meaning from their work.
engagement. There are several ways
the future brings the positive outcomes desired.
to engage remote workers, but leaders 4 Help employees find meaning in the bigger picture of the company
must be diligent and consistent to have a positive effect.
3 Get more done with remote work. Remote workers are more productive, they log more
vision. As the book “Start With Why” by
hours, take less sick leave, perform better and in
Simon Sinek indicates, leaders should
general, are more engaged at work.
80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
4 Do not lock down social media. Some employees are using it to take a mental break, others are using
MEET THE EXPERT Sharleen Smith is the Director of Continuing
social tools to support professional connections, and
Education and Outreach of Troy University.
sure, some are goofing off. But cracking down on social
She has more than 30 years of experience in
media platforms to encourage productivity can be
organizational consulting and training, including
a serious morale killer. An Evolv study found that social
the development of human resource policies
media “power users” were better multi-taskers, more productive overall, and happier in their jobs.
and procedures, strategic planning, performance
5 Provide professional development for employee
pay systems, interviewing and onboarding
management systems, classification and processes, change management, talent
growth, and offer career growth opportunities. 6 Influence and take actions to create a great organizational culture. Improve cultural fit by recruiting new employees who complement the existing culture,
management and more. Her training includes more than 250 topics, and she has presented to more than 300,000 people at 15,000 conferences, workshops and seminars. Contact her at gssmith@troy.edu.
if the culture is strong and healthy. 7 Empower your employees by allowing them to set their own goals rather than being dictated by a
LEARN MORE Intrigued by this topic? Join us at the next
supervisor. When employees are shown the bigger
Small Business Briefcase on October 6 to discover five more ways to boost
vision, they can, if allowed, set goals and strategies that
employee engagement and five more ways to increase employee productivity.
will progress the company’s overall goals and achieve
And the panel will also share the three keys to create engagement with
greater outcomes.
remote workers. Register now at montgomerychamber.com/events.
81 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Connect
RECOVER TOGETHER MAYOR’S ECONOMIC IMPACT TASK FORCE SPARKS “RECOVER TOGETHER” INITIATIVE
RECOVER TOGETHER SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF FUND AWARDS $445,000+ IN GRANTS
Led by the work of Mayor Steven
a new grant fund that would be made available for
Reed’s Covid 19 Economic Impact Task
local small businesses affected by COVID-19. The
Force, the City, County and Chamber
fund is to provide working capital to local small
partnered to bring help to small and
businesses as they work to continue or resume
minority-owned businesses drastically
operations following COVID-19-related impacts.
impacted by the pandemic. The
So far, the fund has awarded more than $445,000,
Small Business Hub, a clearinghouse
which has provided direct relief to 135 local small
for assistance and counseling, has
and minority owned businesses. The fund was
connected with more than 900 small
made possible by the generosity of our corporate and philanthropic funding partners.
In late May, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced the creation of
businesses and entrepreneurs and provided more than 500 consultations
If you’re a small business in need, visit montgomerychamber.com/hub to complete the Hub
since its launch in late April.
form or call 334-226-7529 and a member of the Recover Together Small Business Hub will contact you personally, as soon as possible, to share information about available resources and connect you with relief.
82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Connect
ECONOMIC NEWS CHAMBER EARNS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HONORS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MID-YEAR UPDATE: RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION BY THE NUMBERS
The Chamber was named one of the Top 20 official Economic Development Organizations in the Nation by Site Selection magazine. The Chamber is the official EDO for Montgomery and has a long-standing track record of national recognition. Site Selection magazine also
19 NEW PROJECTS
named Montgomery a Top 10 Metro in
341 NEW JOBS ANNOUNCED
the United States in its annual ranking of economic development projects
$71.8M CAPITAL INVESTMENT ANNOUNCED
announced, and the city received an honorable mention in the Mid-Market of the Year (250,000-749,999 population)
2,552 EXISTING JOBS RETAINED 59 ACTIVE PROJECTS
category from Southern Business and Development magazine. Rankings were based on 2019 project announcements that met or exceeded 200 jobs and/or $30 million in investment.
400 MGM INDUSTRIES DIRECTLY CONTACTED 137 EXISTING INDUSTRY VISITS AND DIRECT SUPPORT
POWERFUL BENEFITS & TREMENDOUS VALUE Remember: Your Chamber membership is packed with exclusive member benefits, and most of them are free! Let us help you fuel your business with the resources it needs to grow and thrive.
RECOVER TOGETHER SMALL BUSINESS HUB: A free, one-stop clearinghouse that connects small and minority businesses to the resources and information they need most as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis. Call 334-226-7529 or visit montgomerychamber.com/hub A member of the Recover Together Small Business Hub will contact you personally as soon as possible to share information about available resources and connect you with relief.
THE CHAMBER’S CHARISSE STOKES APPOINTED TO GOVERNOR’S ADVISORY COUNCIL ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION
ONLINE RESOURCES:
Montgomery’s growing TechMGM
of Stanford
sales promotions
initiative, led by Chamber team member
University’s
Non-Profit Calendar - Post fundraisers
Charisse Stokes, will be playing a
Hoover
and events
pivotal role in guiding entrepreneurial
Institution, Dr.
Member-to-Member Discounts - Offer
and innovation strategies for Alabama.
Condoleezza
exclusive discounts to fellow Chamber
The Alabama Innovation Commission,
Rice.
members
created by Governor Kay Ivey, is charged
Job Board - List your job openings Member Calendar - Post events and
Member Information Center - Pay
with examining policies to increase
“Charisse is
invoices, update company records and
entrepreneurship, spur innovation and
an incredible
your employee list and message other
enhance technology accelerators, while
part of our
members
addressing challenges for start-ups.
economic development team, and we
Montgomery Business Journal - The
are so fortunate to have her heading
MBJ is always collecting member
The group will present a comprehensive
up TechMGM,” said Anna Buckalew,
news to share and with six issues a
policy agenda to the governor and the
Chamber President & CEO. “Being named
year, there’s plenty of room to get your
legislature, with input from a six-member
to the governor’s Commission speaks to
business maximum exposure.
Advisory Council, led by Alabama Power
Charisse’s talent and expertise and shows
• 7,000 mailed and distributed locally
Executive Vice President Zeke Smith and
that Montgomery has the best of the best
• Send all news and announcements
Alabama native, former Secretary Of State
leading our tech initiative.”
for member news sections to
of the United States and incoming Director
jminiard@montgomerychamber.com. 83 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
CHAMBER NEWS Member FAQs D ISCOV ER W H AT YO U R C H AMBER CAN DO FOR YOU AN D YOUR BUS IN ESS .
Q: A:
How Does the Chamber Impact the Local Community?
Your Chamber catalyzes leaders to improve the economic prosperity and quality of
place for the region. Because we link the public and private sector around a shared vision,
Image by Eric Salas.
we achieve far greater results at a tremendous value to our investors.
DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED TIME, the Chamber’s mission and focus has not changed. In fact, our mission and our focus have been more intentional, and we’ve shone as a beacon of light and hope through the fog of the pandemic.
We the Chamber… ADVOCATE FOR CRITICAL RESOURCES: We’ve been monitoring and disseminating vital information as well as working daily with our Congressional delegation to advocate for key legislation regarding
COVID-19-specific Chamber initiatives We also launched two new COVID-19-specific initiatives, the Recover Together Small Business Hub (Helping Unite Business) and the Recover Together Small Business Relief Fund.
THE SMALL BUSINESS HUB, a clearinghouse for assistance and counseling, connected with more than 900 small businesses and entrepreneurs through more than 500 consultations.
THE SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF FUND, an initiative of the Montgomery Area Chamber of
YOUR PARTNERSHIP FUELS
relief and recovery for our local business
ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR
community.
Commerce Foundation, received
LEVERAGE PARTNERSHIPS: By
has awarded $445,000 in grants
THE REGION AND ALLOWS THE CHAMBER TO:
• Recruit major industries • Sell Montgomery as a destination • Fuel small and minority business growth • Work together to grow the River
pooling our resources and connections, we’ve been able to provide the critical infrastructure needed to establish
to transform education
FULFILL A CRITICAL MISSION: As we move through this uncertain time together,
through the business studio
know that the Chamber is here for you
and co-space
now more than ever. Connecting people
• Advocate for issues and infrastructure • Build a strong and competitive workforce
80 percent of which are minorityowned.
crisis, while also serving as a clear concise voice for relief and recovery efforts.
• Connect, innovate and empower
to 135 small businesses to date,
processes and protocols to manage the
Region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Partner with new leadership
more than 650 applications and
to people and people to resources is what we do best, and we will continue to do that now and far beyond this crisis.
GET STARTED: If you’re a business in need, please visit montgomerychamber.com/hub or call 334-226-7529 to speak to a Hub Specialist.
84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
85 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
SPONSORED CONTENT
Strong Financial Partnership Leads to Hospitality Optimism Robust client relationships help business continue during challenging times In mid-March, Americans stopped road-tripping with family. They stopped attending work conferences. And they stopped going out of town to attend sporting events. This shutdown of travel has been especially hard for hotels. RAM Hotels, which owns 25 hotels in Alabama and Georgia, including five in Montgomery, went from about 70 percent occupancy across its hotels before the COVID-19 crisis to about 24 percent. No one was traveling. “We went from having 30 to 35 staff running each hotel to essentially four individuals,” said
help businesses keep paying their
As things trend up, safety remains
Rinkesh Patel, CEO of RAM Hotels.
workers’ salaries and keep them off
a top priority for RAM Hotels. Of the
unemployment, Hardy helped Patel get
company’s 25 hotels, 10 are Hilton
Still, with travel stopped, the hotels were
applications completed for the funds.
branded hotels, seven are Marriott
not coming close to making enough
“We were getting emails past midnight
branded hotels. According to Patel, both
money to cover payroll cost and utilities,
from our bankers,” Patel said. “There
companies worked quickly to share
let alone service debt payments. Right
were constant changes, advisories being
new cleaning procedures, institute new
away, Chase Hardy, a Montgomery-
sent out, changes in the application.”
safety guidelines and provide access to industrial-grade cleaning products. RAM
based business banker who manages the RAM Hotels relationship for Valley
By the first week in May, their PPP
Hotels is also working to upgrade its
Bank, RAM’s biggest lending partner,
money had come in. From the
technology to be more touch-free.
called Patel. “They were the first to reach
applications they made through Valley
out to us,” Patel said. “They showed real,
Bank, they got $796,200 and were
Patel says he feels good about what his
genuine concern for us.”
able to bring back 100 percent of their
business has accomplished during the
associates. Those associates now have
crisis. “We are going to be more efficient
Hardy and Patel talked about how to
more reservations to take and rooms
in the future as a result of this,” he said.
defer some payments, how to use
to clean. RAM Hotels isn’t back to
And Valley Bank will be there with him
reserve funds strategically, and how to
70 percent capacity yet, but they are
every step of the way.
maximize cash flow.
approaching 60 percent, Patel said.
As soon as the federal government
Contact Chase Hardy at Valley Bank to talk about how Valley can help your business grow while meeting challenges along the way. He can be reached at chardy@valley.com or 334-301-5918.
launched the Paycheck Protection Program, which was designed to VALLEY BANK IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER.
86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
87 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM
SPONSORED CONTENT
Innovation to Improve Workplace Health A non-contact kiosk offers screening efficiency in a cloud-based environment For fans of the classic television show “Star
With any new technological advancement,
Trek,” there is a famous quote associated
there are challenges and WeScan was no
with the show: “The needs of the many
exception. To address this, CTE conducted
outweigh the needs of the few.” Some of
multiple tests over a sustained period
those needs in today’s climate include
of time to ensure that the device and its
addressing the demands of improving
software operated at maximum efficiency
health and safety procedures within the
within a secured cloud-based environment.
workforce, while screening employees for any potential illnesses.
Although WeScan was developed to be a non-contact operational kiosk, it does
With the unforeseen impact of COVID-19,
provide the capability for authorized
that phrase can be considered extremely
personnel to customize the temperature
applicable in 2020, with many organizations
threshold for employee screening, while
across the globe doing their part to combat
also implementing the usage of fingerprint
this pandemic. At Certified Technical
inputs for employees to gain building
Experts, Inc. (CTE), our efforts to combat
access. All data obtained will be stored on a
COVID-19 have led to what may possibly
secured database within a cloud server.
become a forward-thinking technique in improving workplace health.
Since it is proprietary software, CTE will provide all technical support, updates
Called WeScan, it is the latest proprietary
and upgrades to WeScan for up to five
software that has been developed and
years, with extended software support
implemented under CTE’s Attendance
and updates to be reviewed on a case-by-
Software portfolio, which has supported
case basis. Additionally, WeScan will be
previous Air Force-affiliated events. WeScan
available for both commercial and military/
is a non-contact temperature screening
government organizations, with no required
kiosk featuring infrared thermal imaging and
minimum number of kiosks.
rapid temperature detection that helps to identify symptoms of contagious illnesses,
For CTE and other organizations
such as the coronavirus.
contributing to the fight against COVID-19, providing a safe and healthy workplace
Early development of WeScan at CTE
with a peace of mind to employees, and
can be traced back to 2014 with the
especially the general public, is the ultimate
implementation of its core features.
priority during this time of uncertainty. We
However, with the rise of COVID-19, WeScan
hope WeScan plays its part in not only being
has been ready for use, tracing back to
innovative, but also in helping eradicate
March of this year.
COVID-19.
88 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Eugene Tinker, CEO, Certified Technical Experts
Learn more at wescannow.com
89 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
Ashley Robinett to Lead Alabama Power Public Relations
Spencer, who recently retired as EDPA
Ashley Robinett has been named
as Alabama Power Executive Vice
President. Most recently, Barker served
Alabama Power’s Vice President of Public
President of Customer Services, and
Relations. Robinett will oversee the
he is a veteran leader in economic
company’s corporate communications
development, with more than 35 years
and brand management, providing
of experience leading recruitment,
strategic communications counsel that
expansion and innovation efforts in the
ensures messages reach employees,
Southeast.
customers and key stakeholders. Robinett most recently served as Vice President of Corporate Real Estate, where she was responsible for managing the
Laura Hicks Joins Palomar Insurance
company’s land holdings in support of business objectives
Laura Hicks joined Palomar Insurance in June as the
through land management, acquisition and sales.
Communications Director. With 19 years of experience and a strong background in digital media, Hicks brings strategic
Alabama Power Names Executive VP of Customer and Employee Services
multi-channel programs to life. She will manage corporate communications,
Alabama Power has named Jeff Peoples
digital strategy and media relations
Executive Vice President of Customer
for campaigns in transportation and
and Employee Services. Peoples will
trucking insurance.
oversee customer services, marketing and economic development strategy and operations, as well as the company’s
ABA Welcomes New Chairman
six geographic business divisions. He
The Alabama Bankers Association welcomed Jimmy Stubbs
will continue leading the company’s
as the new Chairman of its board of directors during its
labor relations and human resources products as well as the
board meeting held in June. Stubbs
services, safety, wellness, health and disability management
is a founding director and the CEO of
functions for Alabama Power employees. He will retain his
River Bank & Trust, headquartered in
system responsibilities in Southern Company Operations
Prattville. Stubbs serves as a board
Services and HR West.
member of the Montgomery Area Committee of 100, the Montgomery Area Committee for the Arts,
Gilpin Givhan PC Welcomes New Attorney
the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and the YMCA of
Gilpin Givhan welcomed Charles C.
Montgomery Endowment Foundation.
Smith as an Associate in the firm’s Tax, Corporate, Estate Planning and Tax Controversy practice groups.
New Waters Realty Continues to Grow
The addition of Smith is part of the
Jennifer Atkins, Qualifying Broker and Vice President for New
firm’s ongoing commitment to the
Waters Realty Company, announced a
development of new attorneys. In his
new addition to the New Waters Realty
role, Smith advises clients on a broad spectrum of federal and state taxation, regulatory compliance and estate planning matters.
team, Realtor® Kelly Carlton. Carlton’s background in insurance sales and human resources has given her the skills needed to provide customers and clients with a stress-free real estate
EDPA Names New President Greg Barker has been named President of the Economic
transaction.
Development Partnership of Alabama. Barker succeeds Steve 90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Jacobs Adds Two to Its Alabama Team Mia Welch, PE and Nina Williams, PE recently joined Jacobs. Welch brings 22 years of engineering, project and client relationship management experience to the team and will be responsible for leading the growth and development of the company’s infrastructure portfolio in Alabama, Mississippi and Northwest Florida, including water, wastewater, water resources, transportation, aviation and ports. Williams brings more than 20 years in the water industry and will be responsible for project management and delivery of infrastructure solutions for a variety of our public utility, state/local government and private sector clients.
New CEO & Surgeon Join Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons Jenna Roton was appointed as the new CEO at Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons. Dr. Thomas Sellers will also be joining the practice in September. Roton has more than 14 years of combined experience in public accounting, accounting and practice management consulting for healthcare organizations. Sellers specializes in disorders of the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. He has advanced training in minimally invasive techniques, including arthroscopy of the shoulder, elbow and wrist, as well as open surgery of the hand and upper extremity, including peripheral nerve and microsurgery.
SPECIALIZED. IN YOU. At Alabama Orthopedic Specialists, our doctors are dedicated experts specializing in the bone, joint, and muscle care you need. Serving as the only subspecialty-trained orthopedic group in Montgomery and Wetumpka, we are proud members of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, and our advanced specialists are all experienced, fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors with focused expertise to offer next-level treatment solutions in: • • • • •
Back, neck, and spine care Foot and ankle care Hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder care Sports medicine Total joint care, replacement, and revision
Call (334) 274-9000 to make an appointment today!
Main Campus 4294 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Wetumpka Office 277 Huntress Street, Suite 202 Wetumpka, AL 36092
w alorthospecialists.com
92 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S
Warren Averett Promotes 103 Employees Warren Averett recently promoted 103 employees across the firm, 18 of whom sit in
Montgomery County Commission Appoints New County Administrator Florence Cauthen has been named County Administrator for the
the Montgomery
Montgomery County Commission.
office. Michael
Cauthen is the first woman to hold
Andrews,
the position for the county and comes
CPA, has been
with more than 35 years of supervisory
promoted to
and managerial experience. Cauthen
Senior Manager
joined Montgomery County in October
(estate); Kaleigh
2014 as Deputy Administrator. She has
Flatt has been
also served as the Montgomery County Circuit Clerk and as U.S.
promoted
Marshal for the Middle District of Alabama.
to Director, Client Services & Regional
Montgomery Eye Physicians Announces New Primary Care Optometrist
Marketing (South Alabama and Florida markets); and two employees were promoted to Manager: Susan Barnes, CPA (accounting services) and Elizabeth Finley, CPA (audit). Both Heather Pugh, CPA and Wil Clowdus, CPA were promoted to Supervisor in the audit department. Jenna Horn has been promoted to Software Consultant II at Warren Averett Technology Group.
The Montgomery Eye Physicians team announced the arrival of Dr. Amanda Duty. Duty is seeing patients at the Zelda Road and Sturbridge locations. Prior to joining Montgomery Eye Physicians, she served seven years as an active duty optometrist in the United States Air Force and continues
Eleven employees promoted to Senior Associate include: Sherby Reese (document processing), Elizabeth Flournoy (audit), Susan
to proudly serve in the United States Air Force Reserves.
Key (daily money management), Jamie League (daily money management), Alvin Kwon (Korean business services), Mark Lee (Korean business services), Morgan Shaver, CPA (tax), Natalie
Mayor Reed Taps City Employees For Cabinet
Noles, CPA (tax), Zack Chanthongphio (Technology Engineer, Warren Averett Technology Group), Pete McKee (Technology Engineer, Warren Averett Technology Group) and Anneliese Roemer (Senior Client Service Associate, Warren Averett Asset Management).
Mayor Steven L. Reed appointed three to his cabinet: Stacy
EAMC President Laura Grill Named Director at AmeriFirst Bank
Bellinger as City Attorney, Kay McCreery as Director of Parks and Recreation and Betty Beville as Director of Finance. All three were officially confirmed in May.
East Alabama Medical Center President and CEO Laura D. Grill has joined Amerifirst Bank's Board
+
of Directors. Grill was named one of the top five hospital administrators
Word document and include a high-resolution headshot (at least
during the COVID-19 pandemic in a study and has been affiliated with EAMC for 26 years prior to being named President and CEO in 2019.
SUBM IT T IN G N E WS? Submit information to Jina Miniard at
jminiard@montgomerychamber.com. Attach press releases as a 300 dpi). An accompanying headshot is required for “Members on the Move� announcements.
93 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS
Achievements
Cecil Batchelor Named to Alabama Business Hall of Fame for 2020
Beasley Allen Earns Multiple Honors Beasley Allen lawyers W. Daniel “Dee” Miles, who is head of the firm’s Consumer Fraud Section, Leslie
Cecil Batchelor, Chairman of CBS Banc-Corp and Chairman Emeritus of CB&S Bank, was one of seven named to the Alabama Business Hall of Fame for 2020. Batchelor is the Chairman of
Pescia and Tyner Helms were recently
CBS Banc-Corp and Chairman Emeritus of CB&S Bank, based in
recognized by Law360 as “Legal
Russellville, Alabama. His 56-year banking career is one defined
Lions” for their work on behalf of two
by success in establishing and leading banks throughout the
counties suing Volkswagen over an
state.
emission control cheat device. Beasley Allen lawyer Clay Barnett also worked on this case. And Beasley Allen lawyer Joseph VanZandt was included in the Law360 Rising Stars rankings. Law360’s Rising Stars profiles the top legal talent nationwide, younger than 40. In addition, Beasley Allen lawyer Navan Ward Jr., has been selected
Harmon Dennis Bradshaw Risk Advisors Recognized
to serve as President-Elect of the
Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc. had two Risk Advisors, Alexander
American Association for Justice;
H. Carothers III and Charles Humphrey, recently acknowledged as
Laura Reaves, Paralegal to Beasley
Top Producers of 2020 by Insurance Business America Magazine.
Allen Atlanta Managing Attorney Chris
Each year, the magazine identifies the top-performing producers
Glover, was awarded the National
across the country based on their prior year’s success.
Association of Legal Assistants – The Paralegal Association’s (NALA) Affiliate
Awards
Award; Beasley Allen lawyer Leslie Pescia was elected Secretary of the
Two Bradley Arant Boult Cummings Attorneys Receive Alabama State Bar President’s Award
American Association for Justice (AAJ) New Lawyers Division; and
George R. Parker and Davis H. Smith, partners in Bradley Arant
Beasley Allen lawyer Leon Hampton Jr. was sworn in as the 47th president of the Alabama Lawyers Association during the group’s virtual annual conference. Hampton joins other Beasley Allen lawyers who have helped lead the ALA, including LaBarron Boone, Kendall Dunson, Larry Golston, Danielle Ward Mason and Navan Ward.
Associated General Contractors (AGC) Alabama recently in Construction. New Waters Realty REALTOR® Josie Russell Young made the list. AGC’s Top 40-under-40 recognizes 40 stellar individuals a year who demonstrate a high level of leadership, professional excellence and commitment to the construction industry throughout the state of Alabama.
recipients of the 2020 President’s Award given by Alabama State Bar President Christy Crow. Parker serves as co-chair of the Member Benefits Committee, and Smith serves as co-chair of the Insurance Committee.
ASU Faculty Member Earns Award
New Waters Realty Agent Honored announced its 2020 Top 40-under-40
Boult Cummings LLP’s Montgomery office, were among the
An Alabama State University faculty member has earned a Teaching Excellence Award, which is given by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ASU’s Dr. Sara Bliss Kiser, Professor of Management in the Dr. Percy J. Vaughn Jr. College of Business Administration (COBA), is the regional recipient of the 2020 ACBSP Teaching Excellence Award for exemplifying teaching excellence in the classroom. She was recognized at the Council’s recent virtual conference with both a crystal medallion and a monetary stipend. Kiser, whose deep roots with the University extend all the way back to her attending kindergarten on campus, first joined ASU’s faculty in 1996.
94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
95 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
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YOUR TARGETED MEDIA SPECIALISTS 96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
AUM Adds New Certificate AUM has added The Professional and Technical Writing Certificate, which provides students with experience in writing concise technical documents. The first of its kind in the River Region and one of the few in Alabama, the AUM Professional and Technical Writing Certificate will allow each student to focus on the specific kind of writing that will be required in their career.
Huntingdon Receives Grant Huntingdon College will receive a Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) Vocation Across the Academy
Faulkner University Purchases Local Shopping Center Faulkner University recently bought the Montgomery East Plaza Shopping Center, which will become the new site for the University’s College of Health Sciences. The purchase was in late June. Once renovation is completed, the facility will house all of Faulkner's health science programs including Speech and Language Pathology, Physician Assistant, Physical Therapy
Grant, allowing the College to expand its Vocation and Calling Initiatives to an exploration of race and justice.
Rotary Club Presents Donation to Faulkner Pre-K Program
and Occupational Therapy. The Physician Assistant program will began this fall, while Physical Therapy is scheduled to begin in 2021, followed by Occupational Therapy in 2022.
Montgomery Regional Airport Enhances Safety & Dannelly Field Project Completed
new phase of ongoing efforts to improve
Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM)
Work included milling, paving and surface
has implemented strong measures to
improvements. The $1.2 million project
keep passengers safe. In accordance
was largely funded through a grant from
with guidance issued by the Centers for
the Federal Aviation Administration’s
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Airport Improvement Program.
Members of the Montgomery Rotary Club University’s Pre-K program to provide
employees are required to wear masks.
Beasley Allen Filed The Most Product Liability Lawsuits from 2015-2019
All airport visitors are strongly encouraged
Product liability cases in the U.S. federal
teacher Mila Stevens and Director of the
to wear facial coverings. For additional
court system reached an eight-year
Faulkner University Pre-K program, Dr. Leslie
protection among employees and
high last year, maintaining an upward
Cowell.
passengers, plexiglass shields have been
trend that started in 2015, according to
installed throughout the airport at ticket
a new litigation report by Lex Machina.
counters, rental car counters and the MGM
Lex Machina’s 2020 Product Liability
Phi Beta Sigma Chapter Earns Charter at Huntingdon
customer service desk.
Litigation Report also shows Montgomery’s
Huntingdon College Greek Life added a
the airport has introduced a number of changes to help protect passengers from the transmission of COVID-19. Airport
aviation infrastructure at Dannelly Field and to support air service development.
Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & The airport has also completed the
Miles handling the second-largest volume
rehabilitation of Taxiway Alpha, its main
of product liability lawsuits, with 6,470
taxiway. In July 2019, airport leaders
cases from 2015-2019, just behind Weitz &
announced the start of the project as a
Luxenberg. 97 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
presented a generous donation to Faulkner students with new books. The $500 check was presented to Faulkner Pre-K lead
chapter earlier this month as a charter was granted for the Gamma Rho Mu chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. The fraternity joins seven other national fraternities and sororities at Huntingdon.
CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Montgomery-Based Small Businesses Launch New MGM Beer
BIG, FUN NEWS!
Montgomery’s Common Bond Brewing and The Montgomery Biscuits baseball team have collaborated on a special craft beer, “Crafty Lefty Ale,” a light lemon shandy-style beer that’s named after the term for a lefthanded pitcher who uses everything in his arsenal to get outs.
MGM LOVES THE BISCUITS
Biscuits COO Brendon Porter, General Manager, Mike Murphy and Common Bond’s Andrew McNally share the “common bond” of loving both baseball and beer, and their idea was to create a beer that was refreshing for a hot day at the ballpark. The conversations about creating a Biscuits and baseball branded beer began shortly after the three first met, but when the pandemic hit, the conversations were accelerated, and the new brew was released in late July, timing just right with the start of the Major League Baseball season.
98 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
ASSOC IATION/NON -P R OF I T
L A N D S C A P IN G /L AW N S E RV ICES
D.A.T.S.M.O.M (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move) Tametria Conner Dantzler 3015 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111 334-669-6590 datsmom.org
Village Lawns, Inc. Eddie Sullivan 1119-B Perry Hill Road Pike Road, AL 36109 334-270-9597 villagelawns.com L E G A L S E RV IC E S - CO U R T R E PORTI N G
B AKERY
Cake Designs Sandra McGhar 3651 Debby Drive Montgomery, AL 36111 334-288-6900 CHURCHES/M INIST R I E S
Alabama-West Florida Conference of The United Methodist Church Celeste Eubanks 4719 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 334-356-8014 awfumc.org
SEPTEMBER 2020 NEW MEMBERS
CITE, LLC Jeff Snider 1521 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106 205-545-5155 citedepos.com
D E N TI ST
Katrice L. Thomas, D.M.D., P.C. Dr. Katrice L. Thomas 3845 Interstate Court, Suite 2 Montgomery, AL 36109 334-462-6085 katricethomasdmd.com
M A R K E T IN G /M A R K E T IN G R ESEARCH
Dogwood Media Solutions Brian Harris 19 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-425-0009 dogwd.com
E L E VATO R S - SA L E S /S E RV IC E CO MM UNIT Y SERVIC E S / AG E N C I E S
Parents Advocating Love and Support Consultants LLC. Inell Billups 450 Bean Road Pike Road, AL 36064 334-603-2189
Otis Elevator Company Colton Campbell 2194-B Parkway Lake Drive Birmingham, AL 35244 205-982-8000 otis.com
M E D IA CO M PA N Y
Alex & Dylan Photo & Video Dylan Vires 3 Mystic Moss Street Pike Road, AL 36064 678-877-9739 alexanddylanphoto.com
H E A LTH S E RV IC E S CO N SULTING SERVI C E S
J.A. Consultants and Training Solutions Alana N. Williams P.O. Box 240976 Montgomery, AL 36124-0976 334-721-3970 solutionsJA.com Kay Wolff Kripchak Coaching and Consulting Kay Wolff Kripchak 119 Jackson Trail Wetumpka, AL 36093 330-207-7971 KayWolff.com
Cool Compressions, LLC Gabrielle Smith P.O. Box 830872 Tuskegee, AL 36083 678-270-7276 Reclamation Center of Alabama, Inc. Amy Anderson 4720 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36016 334-676-3773 rcofal.com I N D I V I DUA L S
Dr. Stefan Eisen, Jr. Bill Havron
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P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Grace Photography Studio Grace O’Connor 8807 Wellston Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334-538-0516 gracephotographystudio.com P R IN T IN G S E RV IC E S /G R A P H I C DESI GN
Postnet John Hasan 7806 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334-593-0433 Postnet.com/al109
CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS
S ECURIT Y SERVICE S
STOR AG E
Floe Security Willie Towles 1945 54th Ave SW Lanett, AL 36863 706-773-4280
ExtraSpace Storage @ South Boulevard David Millo 854 W. South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36105 334-239-0819 extraspace.com
RETAIL SHOPS/DI STR I B UTI ON
E&S Suit Warehouse Hanna Dabit 6604 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334-273-0884 esclothingwarehouse.com
NEW MEMBER?
NOW WHAT?
Being a member of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce is more than
R E STAU R A N TS - S O U T H E R N
Selvin’s Soul Food & Sports Cafe Sonya Satterfield 1240 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 334-324-3633
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just paying dues and getting a decal. We provide connections, resources and solutions that help you grow your business and help grow Montgomery’s economy! GET CONNECTED TODAY. www.montgomerychamber.com/events
www.gotscrap.com 334-272-0767 430 Air Base Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36108
Our recycling services include: ✓ Manufacturing Scrap Services ✓ Appliance Recycling ✓ Automobile Recycling ✓ Certified Destruction ✓ Demolition Scrap
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Numbers reflect June 2020 over June 2019. CHAMBER NEWS
Business Buzz
CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS
Economic Intel Recover Together Small Business Fund • FIVE ROUNDS OF AWARDS •
• HOUSING NUMBERS • WE'RE HERE FOR YOU.
+32.1%
HOUSING
TOTAL HOME SALES
+7.2% AVERAGE SALES PRICE
135 LOCAL
$445,000+
SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESSES
AWARDED SO FAR
Source: Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
LABOR FORCE CIVILIAN
LABOR FORCE
170,538
154,348
TOTAL HOME SALES
$206,656
TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE
-11.1% AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET
AVERAGE SALE PRICE
EMPLOYED
LABOR FORCE
1,271
597
88 DAYS DOWN FROM 99 DAYS Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area
TOURISM 9.5% Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
SECTORS GOING UP
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
+ 2.7%
TRADE, TRANSPORTATION, WAREHOUSING & UTILITIES
- 1.7%
PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES
- 5.1%
OTHER SERVICES
- 5.3%
LODGING TAX
49.9% $462,664.24
OCCUPANCY RATE
JUNE 2020
JUNE 2020
+ 3.5% SUPPLY
Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area
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#FLY MGM
6,409
PASSENGERS Source: Alabama Tourism Department
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MBJ
MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101
104MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL