Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce JUNE 2017 the

Record Shipments at APM Terminals Downtown Entrepreneurship Segway Tours in Mobile County from Spot of Tea We work for you. With technology, you want a partner, not a vendor. So we built the most accessible, highly responsive teams in our industry. Pair that with solutions o ering the highest levels of reliability and security and you have an ally that FOCUS ON never stops working for you. WHATFOCUS COUNTS ON O cial Provider of Telecommunication Solutions to the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Cypress EmploymentWHAT Services Enables COUNTS Employers To Focus On Productivity, Profitability and Staffing Flexibility by Re-Defining Cypress The On-Time, Employment Best-Fit Staffing Services Enables Solution ModelEmployers For Employers To Focus On Productivity, Profitability and Staffing Flexibility by ADMINISTRATIONRe-Defining & CLERKS The On-Time, Best-Fit Staffing Accounting, officeSolution administration, Model sales For personnel, Employers file clerks & legal personnel INDUSTRIALADMINISTRATION & TECHNICAL SKILLS & CLERKS Welders, pipe fitters, riggers, journeyman plumbers & crane operators/heavyAccounting, equipment office operators administration, sales personnel, file clerks & legal personnel CONSTRUCTION SKILLS Electricians, productionINDUSTRIAL labor, sheetmetal & mechanics,TECHNICAL SKILLS carpenters andWelders, safety personnel pipe fitters, riggers, journeyman plumbers HEALTHCARE& crane WAREHOUSE operators/heavy & equipment operators MANUFACTURING SUPPORT Warehouse & inventoryCONSTRUCTION staff, shipping & receiving SKILLS Electricians, production labor, sheetmetal mechanics, AVIATION,carpenters TECHNICAL and safety personnel & LINE STAFF Aviation, aerospaceHEALTHCARE & manufacturing support WAREHOUSE & MANUFACTURING SUPPORT MOBILE • BIRMINGHAM • Warehouse NASHVILLE & inventory staff, shipping & receiving www.cypressemployment.com AVIATION, TECHNICAL & LINE STAFF Aviation, aerospace & manufacturing support Leading technology. Close to home. business solutions MOBILE • BIRMINGHAM • NASHVILLE cspire.com/business | [email protected] | 251.459.8999 www.cypressemployment.com C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM are trademarks owned by Cellular South, Inc. Cellular South, Inc. and its a liates provide products and services under the C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM brand. 2 the©2017 business C Spire. All rights view reserved. JUNE 2017 We work for you. With technology, you want a partner, not a vendor. So we built the most accessible, highly responsive teams in our industry. Pair that with solutions o ering the highest levels of reliability and security and you have an ally that FOCUS ON never stops working for you. WHATFOCUS COUNTS ON O cial Provider of Telecommunication Solutions to the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Cypress EmploymentWHAT Services Enables COUNTS Employers To Focus On Productivity, Profitability and Staffing Flexibility by Re-Defining Cypress The On-Time, Employment Best-Fit Staffing Services Enables Solution ModelEmployers For Employers To Focus On Productivity, Profitability and Staffing Flexibility by ADMINISTRATIONRe-Defining & CLERKS The On-Time, Best-Fit Staffing Accounting, officeSolution administration, Model sales For personnel, Employers file clerks & legal personnel INDUSTRIALADMINISTRATION & TECHNICAL SKILLS & CLERKS Welders, pipe fitters, riggers, journeyman plumbers & crane operators/heavyAccounting, equipment office operators administration, sales personnel, file clerks & legal personnel CONSTRUCTION SKILLS Electricians, productionINDUSTRIAL labor, sheetmetal & mechanics,TECHNICAL SKILLS carpenters andWelders, safety personnel pipe fitters, riggers, journeyman plumbers HEALTHCARE& crane WAREHOUSE operators/heavy & equipment operators MANUFACTURING SUPPORT Warehouse & inventoryCONSTRUCTION staff, shipping & receiving SKILLS Electricians, production labor, sheetmetal mechanics, AVIATION,carpenters TECHNICAL and safety personnel & LINE STAFF Aviation, aerospaceHEALTHCARE & manufacturing support WAREHOUSE & MANUFACTURING SUPPORT MOBILE • BIRMINGHAM • Warehouse NASHVILLE & inventory staff, shipping & receiving www.cypressemployment.com AVIATION, TECHNICAL & LINE STAFF Aviation, aerospace & manufacturing support Leading technology. Close to home. business solutions MOBILE • BIRMINGHAM • NASHVILLE cspire.com/business | [email protected] | 251.459.8999 www.cypressemployment.com C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM are trademarks owned by Cellular South, Inc. Cellular South, Inc. and its a liates provide products and services under the C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM brand. ©2017 C Spire. All rights reserved. the business view JUNE 2017 3 the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce JUNE 2017 | In this issue

ON THE COVER What do you get when you match Mobile’s newest adventure with some of the state’s From the Publisher - Bill Sisson brightest students? Fun. Read about Spot of Tea’s Segway tours on page 9, and high school entrepreneurs on pages 13-14. Photo by Jeff Changing Communications and Technology Tesney. In today’s world, there is an communication. Within a ever-changing media landscape. few years, there will be an 5 News You Can Use Fake news sites, social media expectation of individualized 11 Small Business of the Month: and citizen journalism are communication of most Inspect Mobile LLC causing the public and the messages. For a membership 13 Entepreneurship Growing in Mobile business community at large organization like ours with 17 Partners for Growth Announces to develop apathy and in many members of various sized 2018-2022 Goals cases even anger. businesses in many different 18 Recognizing Outstanding Minority- There is no question business sectors, it’s even Owned Businesses information dissemination is more important to provide losing its traditional value as customized messaging. A 19 An Update on Legislation web sources multiply. Yet, in the midst of robust feedback loop will be vital. 20 Small Business Corner: Assessing all this change, there are so many economic It is no longer enough to tell members Cyber Security Risk and business stories to tell. what we think through an email or The 21 Guest Column: How to Encourage Here at the Chamber, we continue to see Business View Weekly or monthly magazine. Healthy Habits at Your Workplace double-digit percentage increases in our We must harness new technology to share, 22 Investor Focus: Franklin Primary Health social media, website and blog followers. in both directions. Merely hoping that a Center Inc. This is a great opportunity – but it requires message is received and understood will be 25 CEO Profile: Blair Fisher, St. Paul’s that we continue to direct our focus an increasingly risky proposition. More Episcopal School differently as we grow our communications intentional two-way conversation will be 27 Chamber@ Work and technology program. both possible and necessary. The Association of Chamber of You can look forward to these changes 28 Business Spotlight: PuroClean Commerce Executives’ “Horizons 2025” as we do our best to respond to these Emergency Services Initiative teaches us customization will communication and technological 28 Ambassador of the Month: continue to be key in effective advancements in the future. Phillip Moore 29 Board of Advisor Profiles: Marcus Neto, J. Travis Russell, Benjamin W. Taul, Ormand P. Thompson III 31 Calendar 7 32 Member News 34 Anniversaries 35 New Members

the business view (USPS 952-700) is published 17 monthly, except for the combined issue of December/ January, by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce 451 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602 251-433-6951 www.mobilechamber.com Subscription rate is $24 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Mobile, Alabama. POSTMASTER send address changes to Attn: Finance Department THE BUSINESS VIEW Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 2187 • Mobile, Alabama 36652-2187 or e-mail [email protected] ©2017 Publisher William B. Sisson 13 Executive Editor Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor Jennifer Jenkins Copy Editor Michelle Irvin Additional Writers and Editors Mike Herndon, Ashley Horn, Patty Howell, Susan Rak-Blanchard, and Carolyn Wilson Printing Services: Interstate Printing/Direct Mail Graphic Design: Wise Design Inc. Advertising Account Executive: René Eiland 251-431-8635 [email protected]

4 the business view JUNE 2017 NEWS you can use

Container traffic at the Alabama State Port Authority and APM Terminals - Mobile hit a record 277,307 TEUs (20-foot-equivalent units), boosting traffic by 19 percent in the last year. The news followed the improvements announced to accommodate the Walmart import distribution center under construction. In 2016, $47.5 million was invested for Phase 2 of the container terminal, expected to increase capacity to 500,000 TEUs. Previously, the port authority and APM invested more than $55 million in a new Intermodal Container Transfer Facility opening direct rail service to the Midwest and Canada. This month, APM will receive two super-Post Panamax ship-to- shore cranes and complete a 20-acre expansion. The expectation for record- setting imports and exports in 2017 is even higher, thanks to APM Logs added ocean carrier services from the Far East and Northern Europe; an expanded turning basin needed for larger vessels; Record Shipments and the new Intermodal Container Transfer Facility and Panama Canal expansion. Mobile Named Among ‘American Cities of the Future’ FDI released its American pleased that the city has a community partnership, an Cities of the Future 2017/18 – sound plan in place to international trade program spanning 12 pages in the April/ continue to build on its registering impactful export May edition of the magazine. strengths.” sales and job creation, Mobile landed in the No. 3 spot The report entrepreneurial and small in the Small Cities - FDI included data on business development programs, strategy category. 400-plus locations in and forward-thinking leaders “The city has a strong track North and South willing to make sure Mobile is record of attracting high-value America, analyzing relevant today, tomorrow and FDI [foreign direct investment] economic potential, in the future. projects, and our ranking business friendliness, To read the story, visit: suggests this should continue,” human capital and lifestyle, and The Mobile Area Chamber http://www.fdiintelligence.com/ said Courtney Fingar, the an independent category – FDI submitted the entry last year Locations/Americas/fDi- magazine’s editor-in-chief. strategy. “Small” locations, citing 40 international companies American-Cities-of-the-Future- “Mobile scored well in the according to the methodology, in Mobile, representing 18 2017-18-New-York-triumphs-again. subjective category of FDI refers to city populations countries, along with a strong You’ll see this symbol with Strategy with our judges being between 100,000 and 350,000. business and education stories featuring Chamber initiatives.

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Ascension Business View (Mobile Chamber of Commerce) Kyle ASHCOR17017 9.25x 12 Anne, Liz Primary Care 8.75x11.5 Marlo 6PHG1B 9.5x 12.25 LeighAnn Explore Mobile Festival to be Held June 4 What better reason than Museum of Mobile, experience African-American Heritage Delta Resource Center, Mobile Alabama’s bicentennial to get Colonial life inside the walls of Trail and more. Other venues Mardi Gras Trail, Gulf Coast out and explore your own city? the Fort of Colonial Mobile, participating in the festival Exploreum Science Center and That’s what organizers of gaze upon the period rooms of include: Historic Mobile Bragg-Mitchell Mansion. Explore Mobile are encouraging the Conde-Charlotte Museum Preservation Society, Mobile For more information on you to do on Sunday, June 4, in House, step back in time as they Medical Museum, GulfQuest Explore Mobile, contact Gavin downtown Mobile. navigate the Dora Franklin Finley Maritime Museum, 5 Rivers Snyder at 251-301-0273 or In conjunction with the gavin.snyder@historymuseum Alabama Bicentennial ofmobile.com. Celebration, the city of Mobile’s tourist attractions have come together to host the block party from 2 to 7 p.m. across from the History Museum of Mobile, with music, food, activities, as well as free admission to the city’s tourist attractions. Festival-goers will be able to explore 300 years of Mobile history inside the History

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All services, including DOCSIS 3.1 network, may not be available in all areas. Other charges, conditions, requirements and restrictions may apply. ©2017 Mediacom Communications Corporation. All Rights Reserved. 8 the business view JUNE 2017 Tony Moore, right, owner of Spot of Tea, made the decision to bring Segway tours to Mobile after his own experience with the motorized tours. Pictured with Moore is one of the tour guides, Christopher Kerkow. Would You Like a Tour With That? A longtime downtown staple in Mobile’s “When we got back to Mobile, I realized Conde-Charlotte Museum, Spanish Plaza restaurant scene is setting its wheels in a new the city was making the downtown sidewalks and more. Other points of interest, including direction, adding Segways, the two-wheeled, handicap accessible and thought this was the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception battery-powered vehicles, to its menu. the right time to do this.” and several downtown museums expand Three years ago, Tony Moore, owner He hired Nicole Rutherford and they the tour to 25 sites. The VIP package includes of Spot of Tea, and his son rented Segways spent months researching and developing brunch at Spot of Tea. to see Washington, D.C., and wanted to the business model. Earlier this year, Spot Recently, Moore invested in a custom bring them to Mobile, but the idea hit the of Tea launched its new endeavor with trailer to deliver the Segways to people who curb – literally, as the Segways couldn’t custom-painted vehicles, headsets and pre- want to use them at parties or gatherings in get up and down the curbs. The desire recorded segments for Mobile’s downtown other areas of Mobile, in hopes it will drive was re-fueled last summer when Moore attractions. the new business segment to success. returned to D.C. and took another tour. The main route has 10 points of interest, To rent a Segway, call 251-433-9009. “That’s the most fun we’ve ever had including Bienville Square, The Battle standing up,” Moore said. House Renaissance Mobile Hotel and Spa, Need to Sharpen Your Public Relations Skills? Working with your industry’s “These are topics you can take back influencers, incorporating video into your and apply to your pitch, whether your public relations/marketing efforts and audience includes customers, employees optimizing social media strategies – these or shareholders,” said Shellie Teague, are the three featured topics for this year’s PRCA Mobile’s Toolkit chairman. Toolkit, a half-day workshop presented by The price to attend for non-PRCA the Public Relations Council of Alabama members is $70 and $30 for students, and - Mobile Chapter (PRCA Mobile). includes breakfast and lunch. Registrations The annual professional development should be made online at http://ow.ly/ event is set for Friday, June 23, from O2ri30aQA9G. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Goodwill Easter For those interested in learning more Seals Building, located at 2440 Gordon about the organization, registration also Smith Dr. includes admission to an afternoon membership mixer following Toolkit.

the business view JUNE 2017 9 #PaddleattheBattle Set for June 10 More than 1,500 paddlers will take to the Teams of 22 from across southwest train, a gyro gym, jumpies, pony rides and waters of Mobile Bay on Saturday, June 10, Alabama are working to raise money and more. Admission to the festival is $5 per to help raise more than $250,000 for then race against one another by paddling person, and children under three are free. Baldwin and Mobile County kids. Fuse up Mobile Bay in 46-foot Hong Kong-style To learn more about the Dragon Boat Project’s Dragon Boat Festival will again dragon boats, parallel to the USS Alabama. Festival, or the work taking place at Fuse return to USS ALABAMA Battleship While the races take place, there is plenty Project, go to www.fuseproject.org. Memorial Park for the day-long family- for families to participate in, including food friendly, alcohol-free event. and fashion trucks, a petting zoo, a trackless

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10 the business view JUNE 2017 SMALL BUSINESS of the month

Apps, Drones and Rovers are Inspect Mobile’s High-Tech Tools

Doug Johnson opened Inspect Mobile at age 26, and uses drones to assist with home inspections.

Doug Johnson got into the home significantly advanced for the industry Club, Coastal Cleanup, Habitat for Humanity, inspection business almost by accident. here, as some inspectors were still using JaguarsCare and Bras for a Cause, an event “My best friend purchased a house and pen and paper or not including photos in that’s particularly close to his heart. asked me to do a few improvements to it their reports,” he said. “We also were an “I’ve been involved in that organization before he moved in,” Johnson recalled. “As early adopter of a drone to aid in roof going on three years now and it is a blast,” I was in the attic, I noticed one of his roof inspections. Now our claim to fame is a he said. “But the reason it is a success is rafters was damaged. I asked my friend crawl space rover that has bright lights and because the money raised goes toward local what his home inspector had said about it. a fancy camera on a remote-controlled car patients going through cancer treatments so We checked the report and found no chassis that fits under houses when I just they can cover their everyday needs – things mention of the item. After spending a few can’t fit.” like gas cards, rent and utility payments, minutes looking over the house, we found Inspect Mobile’s use of technology like new clothes when they lose weight.” a few other things we felt the inspector this allows them to deliver same-day Helping in the community helps missed. That event put the idea in my head reports, even during the times of the year improve the housing market, too. “By that I could do better.” that are busiest for home inspections. That volunteering at charities and serving in the Johnson researched the industry, found quick, thorough service has allowed the Rotary Club of West Mobile, I’m able to out how to gain training and become licensed, company to grow over the last five years to improve the community and make it a and started his own home inspection the point where Johnson is sometimes so better place to live,” he said. “Even just company at age 26. booked he has to turn away business. picking up litter or sorting canned goods Johnson’s business, Inspect Mobile LLC, “I would love to hire a second inspector makes a difference.” is the Mobile Area Chamber’s Small to grow the business,” he said. “One day, Business of the Month. the right candidate will join the Inspect What sets the company apart from Mobile team. But I’m not going to force it competitors, Johnson said, is its use of and grow too fast too soon.” Want to be featured here? Go to technology to provide a faster, better and Even with the long hours of running a mobilechamber.com to submit an application, more thorough home inspection. one-man operation, Johnson still finds time or contact Danette Richards at 251-431-8652 “From the beginning, we used a tablet to get involved in civic and charitable or [email protected]. on-site with a sophisticated app – this was pursuits, including the Mobile West Rotary the business view JUNE 2017 11 This is noT The ending.

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Zahrah Abdulrauf said the idea just through the knowledge she’s gained at “If we can teach a student in their popped in her head. YEA, however, she now is thinking bigger formulative years about entrepreneurship, She described the idea – Triple-A than just this competition. we can create a passion that (Accessible Academic Achievement) “I’m interested in If we can teach a extends to a lifetime,” said Learning Center – as “a nonprofit pursuing this idea further,” student in their Todd Greer of Exchange organization that offers standardized she said. “I feel like this is 202, this year’s YEA class Advanced Placement (AP) test preparation a project that I would be formative years about instructor. “It’s really for students in disadvantaged areas.” able to bring to fruition.” entrepreneurship, we helping them chart the Developed from her experience in tutoring YEA is a nationally can create a passion course: Giving them passion other students in AP test preparation, she developed, 30-week for a process that isn’t easy, and teammate Jake Bowden developed a program that immerses high that extends a lifetime. that involves a lot of hoops, business model for the idea and turned it school students into the Todd Greer but giving them a sense of into the winning entry in this year’s Young world of entrepreneurship, Exchange 202 understanding and Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) competition. encouraging them to think big structure that they can Abdulrauf and Bowden will now take and helping them understand the process really create the future that they want.” their pitch to national competition in for turning an idea into a business. Locally, it Continued on page 14 Rochester, N.Y. In developing her idea is organized by the Mobile Area Chamber.

the business view JUNE 2017 13 YEA is in its second year in Mobile, and incredibly bright, they’re passionate and fostered through YEA that have been this year’s class currently includes seven now they have a skill set they can take and beneficial. “You learn a lot of life skills students. All are from the Alabama School go with that.” from YEA, and I’m really glad I took of Math and Science, which funds their advantage of it,” he said. participation. Greer and Shelby Glover, Starting at Startup While YEA is currently only available project manager for the Chamber’s economic Abdulrauf was one of a few YEA to ASMS students, Greer said others development department, enlisted the help students who also competed in Startup are beginning to see the benefits of of a small army of subject-specific experts Weekend, a Google-sponsored event that entrepreneurship education, and he believes and mentors – accountants, marketers, tax condenses many of the same attributes of it’s only going to grow in the Mobile area in and insurance specialists, other startup YEA into a one-weekend pitch competition. the coming years. entrepreneurs – to help equip the students She was again part of the winning team, “Separate from YEA, we’re hearing with everything they need for every step of lending her web design skills to promote a from public and private schools in Mobile the process of starting their own business. teammate’s idea: Looga, a language and Baldwin County, with an interest in Students develop an idea that they learning app geared toward children. investing in entrepreneurship education for believe could be a viable business and they “Startup weekend was very different in their students and innovation education,” ultimately pitch that idea and a business the time frame – it was just so condensed he said. “It gives the students a framework, model for making it profitable to a panel of – but I feel like it took us through all the because it really is something that helps investors, similar to the ABC television show steps,” Abdulrauf said. “It led up more to them think through project management “Shark Tank.” In addition to advancing to the pitch, so there was a lot of pressure skills, it helps them think through project- regional competition, winners receive actual to kind of have a fully formed idea. based skills that we see as a huge piece in funding to begin development of their ideas. “I feel like YEA definitely helped contribute the workplace as a whole today. It also gives “We’re laying groundwork right now to my success in the startup weekend,” she them a sense of ownership, so they have that’s going to impact these students for added. “It’s fostered a love of learning and a that agency, they have that self-efficacy that years to come,” Greer said. “And truly we love of entrepreneurship, and I feel like it’s they can accomplish something. It does lead may be talking about the next Zuckerbergs created a new passion.” to a lot of positive things as a whole.” or Levchins or whomever that will come Bowden said it’s not just the business out of this, because these students are education, but the communication skills

A whirlwind 72 hours in downtown Mobile ended with a group of professionals, college students and high school students winning an intense pitch competition at Startup Weekend Mobile. Hosted in part by the Mobile Area Chamber, more than 100 participants, coaches, mentors, judges and volunteers took part in a three-day weekend that matched strangers together to create viable companies from a concept to reality. The winning team, Looga, was created as an app aimed at parents wanting their children ages 2-7 to begin learning a second language. The second place team was Piq Piq, an app to anonymously and quickly rate the better of two photos and/or logos before posting them on an individuals’ or businesses’ social media account. The third place team Scrubs for Change is a company formed to provide new employees in the medical field with gently-used scrubs to offset the high cost of new sets.

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16 the business view JUNE 2017 – The Next Five Years

Just over 30 years ago, the Chamber, the Mobile operations and, with them, 511 jobs. city of Mobile and Mobile County combined However, economic development is a job efforts to ramp up our industry recruiting that is never completed. A plan has been efforts to bring more jobs to the area and created to lead us through 2022, and a team significantly increase the amount of money of business executives is in the process of being invested here. raising the money needed to invest in this The Chamber’s current Partners for aggressive strategy. Growth (PFG) program of work concludes Co-chairs for PFG’s “Growing Global at the end of 2017, posting numbers that – Investing Local” campaign are: Elliot speak for themselves. In the last five years Maisel, Gulf Distributing Co. of Mobile; alone, Troy Wayman, vice president of Mark Nix, Infirmary Health; Mike Saxon, economic development for the Chamber, Alabama Power; and Brian Willman, announced 1,705 new jobs have been Regions Bank. These co-chairs will continue created, with average annual salaries of their efforts to secure $11 million to fund $47,103, along with $1.3 billion in capital put this five-year campaign from private in the ground. In addition, the Chamber investors, along with the city and county. helped several local companies retain

Elliot Maisel Mark Nix Mike Saxon Brian Willman Gulf Distributing Co. Infirmary Health Alabama Power Regions Bank of Mobile

Over the next several months, The Business View will detail each area of focus of PFG, and announce campaign investors. Areas of focus include:

1 New Business Recruitment and Investment Attraction GOAL: Aggressively recruit new industry, capital investment and high-paying jobs to the Mobile area.

2 Existing Industry Support, Innovation and Entrepreneurship GOAL: Expand Mobile’s existing industrial base and assist with opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs.

3 Workforce Attraction, Retention and Development GOAL: Expand the number of highly-skilled employees in targeted industry clusters necessary for companies to grow locally and compete globally.

4 Diverse Business Development GOAL: Grow the capacity and success of diverse companies through enhanced services and programming.

5 Business Advocacy and Quality of Place GOAL: Develop and support local, regional, statewide and federal policies that encourage and assist the growing area population and improve Mobile’s quality of life.

the business view JUNE 2017 17 Recognizing Outstanding Minority-Owned Businesses Award Applications Now Being Accepted

The Mobile Area Chamber is accepting applications and Chamber’s website, www.mobilechamber.com/small-business nominations for the awards through Friday, July 14. Eligibility or call 251-431-8607. All awards will be presented at the Gulf information and the applications can be found on the Coast Business Diversity Awards Luncheon to be held in October.

Eagle Awards The Rev. Wesley A. James The Eagle Award recognizes and celebrates outstanding minority-owned businesses that demonstrate business growth and Minority Business community commitment. Nominees must be:

• At least 51-percent owned, operated and controlled by Advocate Award African-American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian or The Rev. Wesley A. James Minority Business Advocate Award Asian-American; recognizes the efforts of a company or organization to support and utilize minority-owned businesses. Nominees must: • A Mobile Area Chamber member in good standing; • Be a Mobile Area Chamber member in good standing; • Operational at least three years; • Show a commitment to supplier diversity; • Exhibit revenue and/or employee growth; • Have three complete years of operation (as of Dec. 31, 2016); and • Have apparent solid financial base; • Have an office in Mobile or Baldwin County. • Be a for-profit company; and

• Show evidence of community service contribution or involvement.

18 the business view JUNE 2017 Legislative Update Key Bills to Know About

On Monday, April 10, following the ■ After debate, the House carried over ■ An increase to the cap of the Alabama resignation of Governor Robert Bentley, indefinitely the Alabama Road Jobs Act, SB 373, has been proposed by Kay Ivey was sworn in as Alabama’s 54th and Bridge Rehabilitation and Sen. Trip Pittman (R-Montrose). Industrial Governor. Through the turmoil of the Improvement Authority (HB 487), by incentive allocations are dangerously close to gubernatorial ethics investigation and Representative Bill Poole (R-Tuscaloosa). the cap amount set in the original legislation. process of staff and cabinet changes of a new If passed, the bill would establish a local Reaching the cap would effectively end the administration, the Chamber’s governmental and state road and bridge improvement pro- Jobs Act incentive that keeps Alabama affairs team remains focused on legislation gram, to be funded by additional gasoline competitive with surrounding states and that affects the region’s business interests. and diesel fuel excise taxes. In conjunction have a disastrous impact on our economic At the time of print, the legislative session with the large statewide coalition for in- development efforts. The bill is pending in is two-thirds of the way through its frastructure improvements, Alliance for the Senate. constitutionally-allotted meeting days. Alabama’s Infrastructure, the measure is The budgets have each only passed one supported by the Mobile Chamber. ■ The Mobile Chamber is on the defensive house and federal court-mandated against efforts to repeal two critical incen- redistricting is still to be addressed. The ■ Alabama Rural Broadband tives: Alabama’s New Markets Tax following measures are currently under Amendment to the Alabama Credit, SB 377 by President Pro Tem consideration during the 2017 legislative Renewal Act, SB253, by Senator Clay Del Marsh (R-Anniston) and HB 554 session and are being closely followed by Scofield (R-Guntersville), would offer an by Rep. P. Williams (R-Huntsville), the the Mobile Chamber. income tax credit for private investment in Alabama Entertainment Industry new broadband telecommunications net- Incentives Act of 2009 ■ Historic Tax Credit bill (HB345) . Both of these work facilities in non-municipal areas with by Rep. Victor Gaston (R-Mobile) was voted industry specific incentives mirror a federal less than 25,000 citizens. The bill has passed favorably out of the House on April 18. tax credit to provide for further investment the Senate and is pending in the House. Studies show the tax credit incentive has in Alabama. The New Markets credit targets

stimulated the redevelopment of 52 historic businesses and real estate projects in low- ■ “Crawfish Boil” bill (HB528 by properties in the state, including Mobile’s ) income communities and the Entertainment Rep. Margie Wilcox (R-Mobile) was The Admiral Hotel, Marine Street Lofts, Industry incentive brings movie-making introduced in the House and would prohibit and the Buick Building, and generated to Alabama. Both credits have generated the Mobile County Health Department $384 million in private investment. The tax increased private sector investments from regulating or requiring a permit for credit expired in 2016 and must be renewed throughout the state and are supported by intermittent food service establishments to incentivize further redevelopment. the Mobile Chamber. that otherwise do not prepare, sell, or The bill now goes to the Senate where distribute food in the regular line of the companion legislation, sponsored by business when that establishment prepares Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills) or distributes food in association with a was reported favorably from committee. regional celebratory event or custom. The The Chamber is a member of the statewide bill is pending in the House. coalition of organizations and communities working to see through passage of this critical redevelopment tool. the business view JUNE 2017 19 SMALL BUSINESS corner Assessing Cyber Security Risk: You Can’t Secure It If...

Editor’s Note: The Business You can’t secure it if... While inspecting a branch Did you know that snack/ View asked local cyber security You don’t know it’s there. office for one client, we drink vending machines often use expert Glenda Snodgrass, president As wireless technology has discovered a wireless access internet access to track inventory and lead consultant at the Net become more ubiquitous, point that was not previously and schedule deliveries? Not long Effect, to pen a series of columns. manufacturers are adding known to anyone in IT. The ago, we discovered a soft drink In the next several issues, she will wireless capabilities into devices device required no password machine on a client’s network. use case studies to help businesses we don’t typically think of as to connect, and encryption was It was installed in a customer address their cyber security risks. “computers.” As the price of not turned on. We learned that waiting area that had been consumer goods steadily this device had been installed office space prior to a remodel, At The Net Effect, in the decreases, employees are more by a sales but the data course of working with our likely to provide software or a manager who jack was still clients to improve their security Our perception device on their own, so they worked from connected to posture, we have come across won’t have to “bother” the IT this office of “computer network” a switch on several common themes that staff for something small. If periodically, the network, often limit a business’s ability you haven’t already set policies and wanted and how to secure and the vendor’s to assess and mitigate cyber for this in approved situations, wi-fi internet technician security risk. Here’s a look at it must adapt to these then security is often the loser, access for simply plugged some of these themes and real- with rogue devices on the his tablet. ever-changing in the machine world examples of how they network. He had circumstances. and got a apply. followed the working instructions network address. for configuring Glenda Snodgrass Our it without president and lead consultant perception of exposing the the Net Effect “computer local network, network” and but he did not realize that other how to secure it must adapt to offices on the corporate Wide these ever-changing Area Network (WAN) would circumstances. look like Internet addresses to There’s a reason that the very this device. So, while the local first of the 20 CIS controls for PCs weren’t visible to the wi-fi effective cyber defense is connection, every PC and server “inventory of authorized and at corporate headquarters was unauthorized devices.” You exposed, as well as every device can’t secure it if you don’t know at every other branch office. it’s there. Device inventory and Another client was surprised network diagrams are foundation recently when we discovered an documents required for unknown device on her wireless compliance with standard network – a thermostat. When security regulations of any the vendor was called to explain industry. why this was installed without Read more about the CIS the owner’s knowledge, he controls and how to apply them replied that he could no longer to your business at www. purchase commercial-grade cisecurity.org/critical-controls. thermostats without wireless Snodgrass can be reached at capability. The wireless option [email protected]. on the thermostat should have been either secured or disabled entirely, but no one knew it was there.

20 the business view JUNE 2017 How to Encourage Healthy Habits at Your Workplace By Dr. Robert Lightfoot, executive medical director, Victory Health Partners

As the climate of our nation’s healthcare Here are a few recommendations to For your employees in need of affordable continues to change, substantial coverage encourage healthy practices that will, and quality healthcare, Victory Health gaps affect many people in our region. hopefully, motivate and provide the tools Partners is a nonprofit medical clinic Currently, more than 55,000 adults in for you and your employees to start moving serving uninsured adults on the Gulf Coast. Mobile County fall within those gaps towards wellness: The full-service clinic provides primary and do not have an affordable option for • Rethink your drink. Cut down on care, medication assistance, specialty health insurance. your sugar intake by drinking water clinics and referrals to more than 150 According to the Kaiser Family throughout the day. specialists. Specialty clinics include Foundation, 71 percent of uninsured adults • Move more. Try to get up from dental, women’s wellness, neurology, are self-employed or work for companies your desk to stretch or take a short walk audiology, pulmonary, home sleep studies, that do not offer health benefits. Individuals every 15 to 30 minutes. smoking cessation, nutrition, wound care, often remain uninsured, even if their • Ditch the doughnuts. Trade out minor surgery, counseling, optometry, company offers health insurance, due to the sugary sweets in the breakroom with diabetes education and diagnostic tests. the high cost of premiums. fruit and low-fat alternatives like popcorn, Co-payments range from $25 to $45 based Many small and large business owners nuts and vegetables. on family size and income. face difficult challenges associated with the • Create a corporate challenge. Dr. Robert Lightfoot is executive medical director of high cost of providing healthcare coverage Create a “Biggest Loser“ competition to Victory Health Partners. If you’re interested in learning for their employees. Even with those support your employees’ efforts towards more about how Victory can be a resource for your company, challenges, though, encouraging wellness attaining a healthy lifestyle. This creates contact Kim Garrett at 251-460-2928 or kgarrett@ and good health practices within companies an environment of accountability and victoryhealth.org. translates to positive morale and increased encouragement among your employees. productivity.

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the business view JUNE 2017 21 INVESTOR focus

Cruise and Explore the Danube River in October 2018 with the Chamber Welcome aboard the MS Amadeus Brilliant for a 7 night cruise visiting 4 European countries Franklin Primary Health Center Inc. along the Danube. Ports of call include: Passau, Melk, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Linz. From left to right are Charles White, CEO; Judy Mitchell, chief operations officer; Prince Uzoije, chief medical officer; and Matthew Lursen, chief financial officer. October 15-24, 2018 Company Officers: Charles chronic care case management, Approximately 15.3 percent of What do you see as Mobile’s White, CEO; Dr. Prince Uzoije, diabetic health education, Mobile County’s population greatest potential? “Mobile chief medical officer; Matthew behavioral health/substance is uninsured. At present, 55 is poised to continue to grow Visit Austria’s largest baroque abbey – Lursen, chief financial officer; abuse and fitness and wellness. percent of our patients are and develop opportunities for Melk Abbey. Stroll down Vienna’s Ring Judy Mitchell, chief operations Franklin is a certified primary self-pay, 25 percent are on more economic development Boulevard, the City of Budapest, and officer care medical home and is Medicaid, 9 percent on Medicare and become a major tourist accredited by the Joint and 11 percent on private destination,” said White. explore the streets of Slovakia. Years in business: 42 Enjoy beautiful architecture, fine Shop local markets for spices Commission and the National insurance. We provide quality “Mobile is ideally situated for culture, daily onboard musical Brief company description: Committee for Quality care to everyone, no matter who both economic and recreational and artwork. Enjoy old world craft Franklin Primary Health Center Assurance. In 2016, Franklin they are or what they have.” growth.” performances and the annual and folk dance demonstrations. is a private, not-for-profit served 34,502 patients and Why do you support the Length of continuous Oktoberfest celebration. community health center with generated more than 117,000 Mobile Area Chamber of Chamber membership: 23 locations in six Alabama encounters. This year, Franklin Commerce’s Partners for Since 1987 counties. Eleven sites are located is on track to see at least 10,000 Growth (PFG) initiative? Cost: Starts at $3,849 per person (Based on double occupancy. Cabin prices vary based on category.) in Mobile County. Franklin is more patients and will open “Mobile County has a thriving one of the largest and most another site by year’s end. Includes: Airfare from Mobile, many meals, excursions and a bonus night in Munich. and diverse economy,” White comprehensive providers of said. “Vast arrays of industries primary care services in Mobile Why are you located in Mobile? are investing in our area. The and Alabama. Services include “There is a tremendous need Contact Leigh Perry-Herndon at 251-431-8645 Partners for Growth initiative Partners for Growth (PFG) internal medicine, family practice, for affordable, quality primary has played a major role in is the Mobile Area Chamber’s pediatrics, OB/GYN, dentistry, healthcare in Mobile County,” our economic growth and long-term economic and optometry, rheumatology, said White. “Of Mobile’s community development program. contributed greatly to the endocrinology, pharmacy, population, 41.8 percent have For more information, contact creation and retention of jobs physical therapy, lab, X-ray, incomes below 200 percent of Katrina Dewrell, the Chamber’s which, in turn, has improved mammography, nutrition, Ryan the federal poverty level investor relations coordinator, our business.” White HIV program, Healthcare according to the Alabama at 251-431-8611 or for the Homeless program, Department of Public Health. [email protected].

22 the business view JUNE 2017 Cruise and Explore the Danube River in October 2018 with the Chamber Welcome aboard the MS Amadeus Brilliant for a 7 night cruise visiting 4 European countries along the Danube. Ports of call include: Passau, Melk, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Linz. October 15-24, 2018

Visit Austria’s largest baroque abbey – Melk Abbey. Stroll down Vienna’s Ring Boulevard, the City of Budapest, and Enjoy beautiful architecture, fine explore the streets of Slovakia. Shop local markets for spices culture, daily onboard musical and artwork. Enjoy old world craft performances and the annual and folk dance demonstrations. Oktoberfest celebration.

Cost: Starts at $3,849 per person (Based on double occupancy. Cabin prices vary based on category.) Includes: Airfare from Mobile, many meals, excursions and a bonus night in Munich. Contact Leigh Perry-Herndon at 251-431-8645

the business view JUNE 2017 23 French Consul Visits Mobile On April 11, the Mobile Area honoring de Corail was held Chamber hosted the French that evening for the Chamber’s American Chamber of Commerce Partners for Growth investors of the Gulf Coast, located in New and board of directors at the Orleans, and the French American GulfQuest Maritime Museum. Chamber of Commerce of the It was the third time de Corail Southeast, located in Atlanta. visited Mobile since he took The groups/representatives his post Aug. 15, 2016. The came to Mobile for a joint reception was sponsored by meeting and tour of the Airbus Air Liquide, Alabama Power, U.S. Manufacturing Facility. Alabama State Port Authority, Jimmy Lyons, Alabama State Port Authority; Maxanna Nichols, Honorary Consul to Twenty-one members of their APM Terminals - Mobi le, BBVA France; Louis de Corail, Consul General of France – Atlanta; Mike Lee, Page & Jones respective chapters participated, Compass, Hancock/Whitney as well as the Consul General Bank, Hand Arendall, Lexus of of France in Atlanta, Louis de New Orleans, Page & Jones and Corail. A networking reception Regions Bank.

Laurent Blattner, Airbus Military Aircraft; Maxanna Nichols, Photos by Alabama State Port Authority Honorary Consul to France; Bill Sisson, Mobile Area Chamber Mike Lee, Page & Jones; Brian Willman, Regions; Bill Kraus, Page & Jones; Liz Freeman, of Commerce Long’s Human Resources Services; and Claire McCarron, BBVA Compass

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24 the business view JUNE 2017 CEO profile Blair Fisher

Company: St. Paul’s Episcopal School Title: Headmaster Hometown: West Point, N.Y. Education: Fisher earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s in curriculum development from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., as well as a master’s in education leadership from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Ga. First job: At a very young age, Fisher cleaned neighbors’ stables for $1 per day. Previous experience: A lifelong educator, Fisher began his career as an instructor at The Walker School in Marietta, Ga., where he taught for 18 years and served as an administrator for 12 years. In 2012, he was appointed head of the Charlotte Preparatory School, an independent school for 400 gifted and talented students from the southeast Charlotte, N.C., area. Accomplishments: During his tenure at Charlotte Preparatory School, Fisher implemented new and expanded curriculum in multiple areas, including math, language arts, social studies, foreign language, fine arts, STEM/technology, character development and leadership. Fisher also implemented an extremely successful “learning coach” program in multiple grade levels and a 1:1 laptop program. He increased school enrollment by 35 percent while raising admission standards and significantly reducing both student and staff attrition. These are just a few of the accomplishments under his administration. Secret to success: “Show up, work hard, learn from your mistakes, play nice and put others first.” Brief company description: St. Paul’s Episcopal School is an independent, parochial, co-educational preparatory school in Mobile for students from preschool to 12th grade.

the business view JUNE 2017 25 Member Appreciation Day

In April, the Mobile Area Chamber held its annual Member Appreciation Day. Attended by more than 200 people, members enjoyed live music by The Tommy Morse Band and a fish fry catered by Alec Naman Catering. Event sponsors were: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Quality Valve, Roberts Brothers and Seabulk Towing. Product sponsors were: Blue Bell Creameries, Budweiser-Busch Distributing Co. Inc., Buffalo Rock- Pepsi, Gulf Coast Containers and Mobile Popcorn.

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26 the business view JUNE 2017 Trustmark - Business View 8 x 5.25 HP4C CHAMBER@work

Third 1702 Class Begins National Bank; Keith Sherrill, BRE Committee Meets and TuffShed. For more 1702, a Chamber-sponsored, Haint Blue Brewing; Steve Members of the Chamber’s information on attending invitation-only program, aims Travers, Travers Consulting; business retention and upcoming events, or to schedule to build community among Scott Tindle, Gulf Coast Ducks; expansion committee heard one for your business, contact the area’s top entrepreneurs, Gia Wiggins, Morale Resource from Glenda Snodgrass with Dawn Rencher at 251-431-8649 or fostering innovation, LLC; and Chris Yoakley, The Net Effect LLC, who spoke [email protected]. collaboration and mentorship CigarClub.com. Graduation is about cyber-physical systems among peers. The program’s scheduled for Dec.7. security for manufacturers and Chamber Names New mission is to strengthen how the line between computer Ambassadors networks, build long-term Mobile Represented at systems and physical systems is Heather Chestang with Top successful companies and World’s Largest Subsea becoming increasingly blurred. Talent Recruiter and Cameron provide direct access to Oil and Gas Conference Also, Vince Perez with the Coppejans with Renaissance recognized advisors and Several Chamber-member Alabama Department of Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel thought leaders. Members of the businesses along with Steve Commerce spoke on new job were named new Chamber class of 2017 are Trevor Boehm, Russell, the Chamber’s director creation and investment credits ambassadors. Ambassadors are Gulf Coast Containers; Adam of business retention and and incentives available for a group of volunteer members Chronister, Pelican Point expansion, attended the Subsea manufacturer expansions who assist the Chamber with a Advisors; Christine Cumbie, Tieback Forum & Exhibition, in outlined in the Alabama Job variety of projects, including Exscien Corp.; Christopher March. The event, considered Act Incentives 2015 law. event registration, member Davis, Davis Transportation; the largest oil and gas global visits and attending ribbon Larry Dorsey, Dorsey & exposition and conference Recent Grand Openings cuttings. To learn more about Dorsey; Taylor Engerson, Safety devoted to the subsea market, and Ribbon Cuttings this group, contact Dawn Plus; Adrienne Golden, Fuse provided an opportunity to Chamber staff and Rencher at 251-431-8649 or Project; Todd Greer, Exchange meet industry professionals and ambassadors helped cut ribbons [email protected]. 202; Clark Kelly, L&M Welding learn more about oil and gas and celebrate grand openings at Supply; Willie Malone II, Uber companies in the Mobile area 701 South Apartment Homes, Tech; Jenny McCall, Wesco Gas and learn about current American Hyperbaric Center, and Welding Supply; Stephen industry trends. Elegant Beginnings, Fuzzy’s Potts, PMT Publishing; Jacquitta Taco Shop, Infiniti of Mobile Powell-Green, Commonwealth

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the business view JUNE 2017 27

1135 Corporate Drive North • Mobile, AL 36607 Toll Free 1-888-670-7377 • Ph 251-476-3302 • Fax 251-476-4072 E-mail: [email protected] www.interstateprinting.net BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT of the month

AMBASSADOR of the month Photo by Jeff Tesney

Phillip Moore enjoys welcoming new businesses to the Mobile area as a Chamber ambassador. A leasing agent/ Realtor with AHI Properties, Moore manages residential rental properties for individual homeowners and investment groups in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. He has been an ambassador for five years and is the Chamber’s Ambassador of the Month. PuroClean Emergency Services Ambassadors are volunteers who support the Mobile Area Chamber by visiting members, assisting PuroClean Emergency Services provides 24-hour property emergency services, including water and fire with events and ribbon-cuttings. To learn more, damage clean up, mold remediation services and biohazard services. In addition, the company offers odor contact Dawn Rencher at 251-431-8649 or control and carpet cleaning services. The company’s clients are primarily in the Mobile area, with others in [email protected]. the Moss Point, Daphne, Fairhope and Foley communities. Located at 733 Lakeside Dr. W., the company boasts a 60-minute “onsite” time, working seven days of the week. Pictured, from left to right, are Jerry Hamilton; Hunter Jones, president; and Chris Lockett.

28 the business view JUNE 2017 BOARD of advisors Sign Up Now!

Marcus Neto founded Blue Fish, an advertising agency located in downtown Mobile, in 2006. Serving as creative director, Neto guides clients through identity branding, website development and marketing. He has built websites since 1997, when he created his first website using nothing more than Paint and Notepad. Originally from Washington, D.C., where he worked as a consultant to various alphabet agencies, he now calls the Eastern Shore home. Thursday, August 24 Noon to 5 p.m. J. Travis Russell is director of sales Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center administration for Masland Carpets, Exhibit Hall where he has been employed for 18 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in operations management from Auburn $5 General Admission University, and a master’s in business administration from the University of Presented by: Tennessee at Chattanooga. Russell also serves as captain in the Alabama National Guard 711th Brigade Support Battalion.

Benjamin W. Taul is manager for Merchants Transfer Co. He graduated Sponsored by: from the College of Charleston in Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama communications. Upon returning to BugMaster Exterminators Inc. Mobile, he worked with Point Logistics, before beginning his career with Cintas Corp. Merchants Transfer in 2008. Taul is C Spire a graduate of the 2011 Leadership Springhill Medical Center Mobile class. Merchants Transfer Co. Print Sponsor: is a Partners for Growth investor. The UPS Store - Schillinger Road

Ormand P. Thompson III is president of Thomas Hospital, and has served Expo Luncheon Infirmary Health in hospital operations 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and physician practice management since Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center 1991. Thompson has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Featuring the Chamber’s 2017 Outstanding Entreprenuer South Alabama. He serves on the boards Andy Newton of the Eastern Shore Chamber and President & CEO, Southern Light Baldwin County Economic Development Reservations required by calling 251-431-8607 Alliance, and volunteers for the Angel or visit events.mobilechamber.com Ride Foundation. Thompson is a graduate of Leadership Mobile class of Cost is $35 for members or $350 table of 10/$40 for non-members 2006. Infirmary Health is a Partners for Growth investor. Sponsored by:

Visit events.mobilechamber.com For more information about the Chamber’s board of advisors, contact or call 251-431-8649 to reserve your booth today Katrina Dewrell at 251-431-8611 or [email protected].

the business view JUNE 2017 29 Military In April, the Mobile Area Chamber held its annual Military Appreciation Day luncheon at USS ALABAMA Appreciation Day Battleship Memorial Park. Attended by more than 320 people, civilians, active military men and women, and members of the Mobile County Public Schools (MCPSS) JROTC all received awards. The Chamber has an active military affairs committee, chaired by Brad Israel of 68 Ventures LLC. Pictured here are Luncheon members of the MCPSS JROTC receiving their awards for outstanding service.

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30 the business view JUNE 2017 MobileCOCQtrPgAdJun2017.indd 1 4/10/2017 4:49:11 PM CALENDAR

JUNE 2017 For information on Chamber events, visit events.mobilechamber.com. Sponsors:

membership 101 8 Come meet other members and Chamber staff to learn about gulf coast technology council lunch the many ways to benefit from your membership. 14 A bimonthly lunch hosted by the Gulf Coast Technology Council

When: 8 to 9 a.m. When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Where: University of South Alabama Technology & Contact: Alison Unger at 251-431-8617 or Research Park, Building #1 [email protected] Moderator: Brent Hutfless, IT director with Austal USA No charge, but seating is limited. RSVP requested. Free parking. Panelists: Eric Nilsson, CTO, The SSI Group; Monty Hamilton, CEO, Rural Sourcing Inc., John Enriquez, VP of IT, Wind Creek Hospitality; and John Calagaz, VP/CTO, CentraLite Systems U. S. Trade policy in the new administration Topics: Business intelligence, cybersecurity, workforce outlook, data management and more 13 A panel of experts will examine the trade policy priorities of the Cost: $20 for Chamber members/$25 for potential new administration. members/$5 for students and includes lunch When: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Contact: Steve Russell at 251-431-8654 Where: Battle House Hotel, Moonlight Ballroom Reservations required. Cancellations after June 9 not Moderator: Ellyn Ferguson, Policy Writer at CQ Roll Call reimbursed to cover lunch cost. Panelists: Josh Meltzer, Senior Fellow at Brookings Sponsors: Institution; Bryan Riley, The Heritage Foundation Contact: Kaley Edwards at 251-431-8629 No charge, but seating is limited. RSVP requested. Sponsors: Catering by Georgia Roussos Catering

executive roundtable *Members Only coffee with the chamber 20 A monthly forum exclusively for Chamber-member small 14 Start your day with the Chamber and network with other business owners and managers.

business attendees. When: 8 to 9 a.m. When: 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: Sean Costello, assistant U.S. district attorney Where: Stone Ridge Apartments Clubhouse, 1200 Somerby Dr. Topic: “The Changing Landscape of Privacy in the Digital Age” Contact: Alison Unger at 251-431-8617 or Contact: Brenda Rembert at 251-431-8607 [email protected] or [email protected] No charge. Reservations are not needed. No charge, but seating is limited. RSVP requested. Free parking. Sponsor:

WOMEN’S roundtable *Members Only 28 A bimonthly forum for Chamber-member women business owners and managers. When: 8 to 9 a.m. Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Speaker: L. Jane Davis PhD, director of staff development at Springhill Medical Center Topic: “Positive Energy in the Workplace” Contact: Alison Unger at 251-431-8617 or [email protected] No charge, but seating is limited. RSVP requested. Free parking. Sponsor:

the business view JUNE 2017 31 MEMBER news

district attorney in Mobile and manufacture Tuff Shed Montgomery counties and a buildings sold at its locations in former attorney general for the Tallahassee and Pensacola. state of Alabama. ✱ ✱ Providence Hospital recently opened the Beth M. Rouse Rehabilitation and Williams Reed Wellness Center. Membership is open to the public. In addition Rodgers Payne to fitness equipment, the center Better offers a variety of fitness classes Homes and for all abilities, including water Gardens Real Jones Russo classes, yoga and Pilates. The Estate - center is also home to the Generations hospital’s cardiac and pulmonary welcomes new Barnett Randelson rehabilitation program for those with heart and lung disease. agents, KaLeah Berkshire Hathaway Maniaci The wellness center was Rodgers, Alicia HomeServices Cooper & Co. renamed to honor Mobile Payne and Adrianna Maniaci to Inc. Realtors added new attorney Rouse, a longtime its Mobile office. associates Toby Williams, ✱ Phillips Lehman supporter and advocate of the Tyler Reed, Jenny Barnett and The team at Bellator Real Roberts hospital and its mission. Andreda Randelson. ✱ Estate & Development added ✱ Brothers Inc. welcomed five The Krystal Co. recently realtors Darryl Tripp, Former Mobile County Circuit new agents opened a new restaurant at commercial division; Mike Judge Charlie Graddick joined Charles Jones, 110 S. University Blvd. It is the Hamm, Eastern Shore office; the City of Mobile as senior Nick Russo, eighth location in the Mobile and Gary Downey, West judicial advisor. Graddick Mary Kate area, with 19 locations along Mobile office. previously served as a circuit Phillips, Toby Hammond the Gulf Coast. judge in Mobile County since Lehman and Robin ✱ 2004 and as presiding judge Hammond. Franklin Primary Health since 2006. He is a former ✱ Center opened a South Mobile University Family Dental Center at 13040 S. of Mobile Wintzell Ave. in Bayou La Batre. promoted Troy Henderson Ph.D. to full professor of Thompson mathematics Engineering in the College of Henderson announced Arts and Sciences. Henderson Jay Morgan has a doctorate of philosophy in earned the HEAVY HAULING mathematics from Texas A&M Designated University, and a master’s Design-Build degree in mathematics and a Professional Morgan bachelor’s degree in electrical (DBIA) certification from the FLATBED • HEAVY HAULING • BOAT HAULING • CONTAINER HAULING engineering, both from The Design-Build Institute of Agent since 1993 Specializing in Tanks, Pipes, University of Alabama. America. DBIA certification ✱ demonstrates mastery of the Heavy Equipment and Machinery, USA Mitchell Cancer best practices associated with and Over-Dimensional Boats Institute hired Dr. Tad Beeker the design-build process, from Serving 48 States and Canada. as staff medical oncologist and project procurement through professor of interdisciplinary post-award. clinical oncology. Additionally, Abdulai Abdul-Majeed earned Tuff Shed Inc. expanded its certification as Call anytime! footprint to coastal Alabama a Professional If you’re working, so are we. with a factory at 3450 Armour Traffic Ave., east of Interstate 65, north Operations Abdul-Majeed 7040 McDonald Road Irvington, AL 36544 of the Moffett Road exit. The Phone: 800-242-9212 or 251-653-7348 Fax: 251-653-1199 Engineer E-Mail: [email protected] www.wonderlandexpressinc.com location includes a sales and (PTOE), a demonstration of design center, and will requisite knowledge, skill and

32 the business view JUNE 2017 MEMBER news ability in the specialized requirements relating to certification for enhanced application of traffic operations education, testing, experience, commitment to high safety standards and ongoing engineering. understanding and ability, and The Thompson Engineering engagement with continued In other news, Thompson abides by the Appraisal Foundation awarded $55,800 to training and education in Engineering and recently Institute’s Standards of 26 charitable organizations and industry best practices. GSS retired safety director Alex Professional Appraisal Practice institutions of higher learning. is a nonprofit organization Napier were honored by the and Code of Professional Ethics. The foundation is funded ✱ committed to improving public Mobile Section of Alabama through company and employee safety and the continued Association of General Wilkins contributions and two employee- integrity of buried infrastructure. Contractors. Thompson Miller LLC, organized fundraisers. The ✱ Engineering received an an accounting most recent fundraiser, the 2017 USA Mitchell Cancer excellence in safety award in and advisory Funky Monkey 5K, raised Institute researcher Gary A. the engineering firms category firm, $15,500 for the foundation, and Piazza, Ph.D. was inducted as with one million or fewer annual announced awarded a $1,000 grant to Girls a Fellow of the National hours worked. Napier was W. Allen on the Run South Alabama, Academy of Inventors. Piazza honored with the organization’s Carroll Carroll Jr., a winner of the Funky Monkey was one of 175 members lifetime achievement award. partner with the firm, was Charity Challenge. ✱ appointed to the board of inducted worldwide and the Joey directors for the University of first-ever Fellow from the Vegliacich, South Alabama (USA) University of South Alabama. Submission deadline for Member owner of Foundation. The foundation Piazza is a graduate of The News is two months prior to publication. Premier supports the university, University of Alabama at News releases should be one or two Appraisals, balancing current contributions Birmingham, with postdoctoral brief paragraphs. Photos must be was awarded with future growth. Carroll training from Fox Chase Cancer professional headshots, labeled with the Appraisal graduated from USA with a Center and Brown University. the person’s last name, and must be Vegliacich Institute’s bachelor’s degree in business NAI Fellow status is the highest 300 dpi at full size and saved in an eps, prestigious A1-GRS designation administration. professional distinction tiff or jpg format. Send your information (Appraisal Institute – General ✱ accorded solely to academic to [email protected]. Review Specialist). Vegliacich G.A. West & Co. Inc. received inventors and is based upon a met the professional the Gold Shovel Standard (GSS) nominee’s patent portfolio.

the business view JUNE 2017 33 ANNIVERSARIES

Members are our greatest asset. Please show your support through the patronage of these businesses.

35 years FIGG Bridge Engineers Firehouse Subs Years America’s First Federal of excellence FitnessPro Inc Credit Union GeoTerra Engineering 30 years Grainger Industrial Supply Lott Ship Agency Inc. Greg’s Professional Barber & Beauty Salon Inc. Gulf Coast Shows 20 years HDR Engineering Inc. Nicholas Insulation Holiday Inn Mobile West I-10 Services Inc. Hydroprocessing Associates LLC 15 years Inspect Mobile Jay Reed - Associated Builders Namita Inc. d/b/a Port City Inn & Contractors of Alabama Original Oyster House Our 20th Season opens in September LCM Motorcars New memberships on sale June 26 Liberty Learning Foundation 10 years Little Sisters of the Poor Home Bender Real Estate Group for the Aged www.MobileSymphony.org Commercial & Marine LLC Make-A-Wish Alabama 251.432.2010 Mosley’s Meat Market Inc. Master Boat Builders Inc. Merrill Lynch/The 5 years Thompson Group Dreamland BBQ Phoenix Restoration Services Inc. L.A. Fotographee (Photography) Polysurveying of Mobile Inc. – “Frenzy Foto Booth” SAISHO Japanese Gastropub Southeastern Surgical The Business View – 1-4 years Specialists Inc. SouthWest Mobile County an easy and economical Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund Chamber of Commerce way to get your company Anders Boyett & Brady PC The Retreat at Schillinger in front of the Mobile area Bayer CropScience Apartments business community. Breakout Mobile T-Mobile – Government Blvd. Colonial Life-Mobile District Copasetic Engineering and Design Services LLC Cowart Hospitality EDSCO Fasteners Inc. Elite Logistix Engineering Design Technologies Inc.

Contact René Eiland to discover how advertising in The Business View can complete your marketing plan at 251.431.8635 or e-mail [email protected]. www.mobilechamber.com/view/media_kit.pdf

34 the business view JUNE 2017 new MEMBERS

Know a company interested in benefiting from Chamber membership? Contact Emily Hatcher at 251-431-8619 or [email protected] or Jackie Hecker at 251-431-8642 or [email protected]. Also, you’ll find a complete membership list at members.mobilechamber.com.

American Heart Association Coastal Imprints Pro356 Consulting LLC South Alabama Volunteer Bridgett Dunn Mark Andrews Rick Miller Lawyers Program 2029 B Airport Blvd., Box 235 4318 Downtowner Loop N., Ste. T 6009 Rutherford Ln. Ariana Moore Mobile, AL 36606 Mobile, AL 36609 Fairhope, AL 36532-6984 56 St. Joseph St., Ste. 312 800-257-6941, Ext. 5314 251-679-6169 251-472-5629 Mobile, AL 36602 www.americanheart.org www.coastalimprints.com www.pro356consulting.com 251-433-6693 Nonprofit Health Agency Advertising Specialties Consultant www.savlp.org Nonprofit Organization Bella Sera Gardens E. J. Saad Law Firm Public Relations Council Robin Gregorious E J. Saad of Alabama Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe P.O. Box 238 6207 Cottage Hill Rd., Ste. G Donna K. Glover Mark Hemby Daphne, AL 36526 Mobile, AL 36609 P.O. Box 66416 9 Du Rhu Drive, Ste 300 251-327-7571 251-660-0888 Mobile, AL 36660-1416 Mobile, AL 36608 www.bellaseragardens.com Attorneys 251-391-2378 251-378-2678 Weddings Services www.prca-mobile.org www.tazikiscafe.com Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Professional Organizations Restaurants Belt & Bruner PC Heath McClure Katie Backovski 5713 Old Shell Rd. Pull A Part Used Auto Parts Team Share the Road Alabama 2051 Dauphin St., Ste. A Mobile, AL 36608 Jeff Garren Doug Sims Mobile, AL 36606 251-422-2118 3600 Desirrah Dr. P.O. Box 6 251-243-0445 www.fuzzystacoshop.com Mobile, AL 36618 Mobile, AL 36601 www.alabamainjurylawyer.com/ Restaurants & Bar 251-454-6433 251-654-6121 mobile www.pullapart.com/locations/ www.teamsharetheroad.org Attorneys General & Marine Sheet Metal mobile Nonprofit Organization Matt Stallworth Automobile Parts Supply-Used-Rebuilt Carmax Auto Superstores P.O. Box 180443 TEKSystems Inc. Jason Colbert Mobile, AL 36618 Renasant Bank Warren D. Gibbs 965 E. I-65 Service Rd. S. 251-452-9500 Mark Fillers 7437 Race Rd. Mobile, AL 36606 www.jmsminc.com 165 W. I-65 Service Rd. N. Hanover, MD 21076-1112 251-476-9922 Contractors-Sheet Metal Mobile, AL 36608 850-837-5883 www.carmax.com 251-421-1355 www.teksystems.com Auto Sales Gulf Coast Beads www.renasantbank.com Employee Staffing Chuck McKay Financial Services Cats Climb 5017B Cottage Hill Rd. Tower Loan Bremda Faye Williams Mobile, AL 36609 Sheila Yarborough - Roberts Brothers Gary Davis 251-622-6306 251-308-1234 Sheila Yarborough 229 Cedar Ridge Rd., Apt. F6 Retail www.gulfcoastbeads.com P.O. Box 33 Mobile, AL 36608 Retail Mobile, AL 36575 251-345-0940 www.towerloan.com CCS 251-753-2826 Financial Services College Relations - Joe Peyton Paint & www.sheilayarborough. Marketing Department Sandblasting Inc. RobertsBrothers.com Real Estate Whistler Machine Works Inc. Kevin Lake Lynn Peyton Chris Warren P.O. Box 870388 P.O. Box 44 Signius Communications 3036 W. Turner Rd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 St. Elmo, AL 36568 Emily Rogers Whistler, AL 36612-2099 205-348-8259 251-865-1357 251-452-0070 Marketing Painting Contractors 1201 Montlimar Dr., Ste. 500 Mobile, AL 36609 www.whistlermachine.com MG’s Unique Treats 251-342-2599 Machine Shop Mary Green Telecommunications P.O. Box 161222 As of 3/31/17 Mobile, AL 36616 251-301-6223 Gourmet Shops

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX CONNECT Alabama Power...... 15 Interstate Printing & Graphics Inc... 27 with the Chamber >> @MobileChamber Mobile Area Chamber BancorpSouth...... 16 Lagniappe...... 33 Business Sales & Asquisitions, Mediacom Business ...... 8 William Bruce...... 20 Mobile Symphony Orchestra...... 34 C Spire...... 2 Page & Jones Inc...... 16 The Mobile Area Chamber was awarded Coastal Alabama Community Providence Hospital...... 6 College...... 12 a five-star rating by the U.S. Chamber of Regions Bank...... 21 Commerce, the highest designation given. Coast Safe and Lock...... 33 Renasant Bank...... 28 Of the 6,936 chambers in the U.S., only 203 Community Bank...... 10 Service 1 Federal Credit Union .....30 are accredited, and of those only 103 have achieved five-star distinction. Cypress Employment Services...... 3 Trustmark ...... 26 The Mobile Area Chamber has been accredited by the U.S. Chamber since Gwin’s Commercial Printing...... 30 the designation’s inception more than 40 years ago. Wonderland Express...... 32 Hancock Bank...... 24

the business view JUNE 2017 35 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Mobile, AL Permit #346

believe in mobile belong to the chamber

grow mobile … grow your business

Your business thrives when you operate in a strong economy. That’s why the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce has one of the best economic development programs in the country. Working with city, county and state officials, we’ve landed some of the most sought-after industrial projects and helped dozens of companies expand – bringing new jobs and customers to the area. When you join the Chamber, you’re taking an active role in making Mobile fertile ground where your business can flourish. Believe in a strong future for Mobile. Belong to the Chamber – because it’s good for business and good for Mobile.

www.MobileChamber.com