GOVERNMENT &INDUSTRY

UPDATE February 2015 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO The Daily Home 2A THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 What is progress?

According to most dic- Update 2015 tionaries, the word “prog- ress” has two primary defi- This edition is the result of the cooperative and combined efforts of The Daily Home staff. nitions: “forward move- ment toward a place or Publisher Retail Sales Manager goal” and “the process of Robert Jackson Sandy Carden improving or developing something over a period Associate Publisher Retail Advertising Sales of time.” Barbara Wilson Julia Nixon Within these pages, you Sherry Unger will find stories that fit Buddy Roberts both. Editor Kim Jones This is The Daily Jimmy Creed Shay Davis Home’s annual Update new businesses that have edition, and aside from opened and thrived during Assistant Editor Classifieds Sales Manager our editorial, sales and the past year. Stories about Lew Gilliland Ginger Staude production staffs’ usual existing businesses that efforts toward producing continue to be fixtures in Special Projects Editor Classified Advertising Sales each issue of the newspa- their communities. Buddy Roberts Brittany Morris per you’ve come to expect As you read these sto- Larissa Zampelli every day, it is our greatest ries, you’ll likely learn Photography Tommy Saksa undertaking of the year. things you didn’t know Bob Crisp Candee McCabe Why is this edition nec- before, remember things Jerry Martin essary? you’d forgotten about Advertising Clerk Because progress has and hopefully be remind- Staff Writers Nell Sinclair been made during the ed of some reasons you Zac Al-Khateeb course of the past year, and enjoy calling this area your David Atchison Graphic Design progress should be docu- home. They are brought to Shane Dunaway Fay Denton mented. you by our advertisers and In effect, this edition through the cooperation Gary Hanner Jennifer Mashburn updates the stories of we received from those Elsie Hodnett Geraldine Osburn Talladega and St. Clair whose stories we have Chris Norwood counties by recalling the sought to tell. Lavonte Young Administrative Support progress that was made Again, this edition is Rhonda Ledbetter during 2014. In these the culmination of months Contributing Writers Kennya Pointer pages, you will find stories of planning and hard Amanda E.H. Pritchard Debbie Bussie about how local compa- work by the entire Daily Daron Harris Charlene Walker nies have expanded and Home staff, which had to June Winters grown. Stories about what perform its regular daily Circulation local governments, schools duties in addition to work- Page Design Gerald Reed, Manager and institutions have done ing on this special issue. Catherine Foote Nelson Bates to improve the services We hope you enjoy read- Denise Sinclair Elijah King they provide. Stories about ing the stories, seeing the Janice Keith Greg Crim some of the people who photographs and review- have made the progress ing the advertisements it Marketing/Advertising Director This edition is delivered to you by one of happen. Stories about new has been our privilege to the more than 30 Daily Home route carriers. faces – and some familiar put together for you to Pam Adamson ones - on the local polit- detail the progress made in ical scene. Stories about our coverage area in 2014.

How to contact your legislators:

Rep. Steve Hurst (R) Rep. Ronald Johnson (R)

House District 35 House District 33 (Talladega, Coosa, (Talldega, Coosa, Clay Calhoun, Clay counties) counties) District District 155 Quail Run Road 3770 Sylacauga-Fayette Munford, AL 36268 Highway (256) 761-1935 Sylacauga, AL 35151 Montgomery (256) 249-9489 Room 627-C Montgomery 11 South Union Street Room 627-D Montgomery, AL 36130 11 South Union Street (334) 761-1935 Montgomery, AL 36130 File photo (334) 242-7777 Progress A construction worker from Clements Dean Building Company, of Wilsonville, uses a back- hoe to move bricks as part of a sidewalk renovation project at the courthouse on the square. The Talladega County Commission unanimously approved awarding the bid on the project, valued at $356,062, to the compa- ny during an Oct. 27 meeting.

Rep. Barbara Boyd (D) Rep. Randy Wood (R) House District 32 House District 37 (Talladega, Calhoun coun- (Talladega, St. Clair, St. Clair County ties) Calhoun counties) District District District Two 2222 McDaniel Avenue P.O. Box 4432 County Commissioner Anniston, AL 36201 Anniston, AL 36204 (256) 236-7423 (256) 237-8114 Montgomery Montgomery Room 525-D Room 424 Ken Crowe 11 South Union Street 11 South Union Street 165 5th Avenue, Suite 100 Montgomery, AL 36130 Montgomery, AL 36130 Ashville, AL 35953 (334) 242-7629 (334) 242-7700 PHONE: 205-594-2100 [email protected]

FAX: 205-594-2110 000209000r1 TPA Rep. Mack Butler (R) Rep. Del Marsh (R) District 30 (St. Clair, Senate District 12 (St. Etowah Counties) Clair, Calhoun counties) Talladega District District P.O. Box 7184 P.O. Drawer 2365 Rainbow City, AL 35906 Anniston, AL 36202 Pattern and Montgomery Phone (256) 237-8647 Suite 526-A Montgomery 11 South Union Street Room 722 Aluminum Montgomery, AL 36130 11 South Union Street (334) 242-7446 Montgomery, AL 36130 [email protected] (334) 242-7877 www.alprotem.com/contact 816 North Street E 000208777r1 Talladega, AL 35160 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 3A Rep. Rogers ‘very optimistic’ about 114th Congress

By BUDDY ROBERTS president has indicated he Special Projects Editor is likely to veto is the Save American Workers Act, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers approved by the House has said that he’s “very opti- last month. Rogers is a mistic” about the 114th co-sponsor of the mea- Congress, which convened sure, which would repeal last month, but he doesn’t the Affordable Care Act’s expect it to produce legis- definition of a full-time lation directly affecting the employee as one who Third District any more works 30 hours per week. than the rest of the coun- “A full-time employee try. should be someone who “Not in this backed-up is employed 40 hours a Congress,” the Republican week,” the congressman said as he started his fourth said. “Many employers term in Washington. “But have been cutting their with the same party con- workers back to less than trolling both the House 30 hours a week because and the Senate, some of the Affordable Care Act, things will start to get and that is grossly unfair to File photo done, which is something employees.” we haven’t seen in recent Congressional Congressman Mike Rogers talks with local education officials during a visit last year to Pell City years.” Republicans also remain at High School and the Center for Education and Performing Arts. Republicans occupy odds with the president 54 of 100 seats in the about his executive order blog charging the chief ter of priority to the new described the legislation Rogers said that much Senate and 246 of 435 in granting amnesty to illegal executive with making Congress. as “huge for Alabama, of his work with the sub- the House following last immigrants. conflicting statements One measure approved because a little over $70 committee “is classified, year’s general election, an “President Obama about his office’s ability to during the 113th Congress billion of the state’s eco- and it takes up a lot of indication, according to blames Congress for act without congressional was the Agricultural Act nomic activity comes from time, which means that Rogers, of voters’ dissatis- allegedly forcing him to approval. of 2014, although Rogers the ag sector, and the it’s time I can’t spend on faction with congressional take this extreme step “President Obama’s said it was “very difficult to Third District plays a key more parochial issues in gridlock. because Congress did not decision to essentially get it passed.” A member role in Alabama’s agricul- the Third District. But “I think that’s the rea- pass his proposed com- legalize up to 5 million of the House Agriculture ture economy.” I have an excellent staff son the elections went the prehensive immigration illegal immigrants by exec- Committee, he served on Besides Agriculture whose number one priori- way they did,” he said. reform bill,” Rogers said. utive order is nothing short the congressional confer- and Homeland Security, ty is to take care of the dis- “Very little was getting “This is nonsense. The of an unprecedented pres- ence committee that nego- Rogers serves on the trict and help constituents done. Four years ago, the American people want idential overreach,” Rogers tiated the final version of House Armed Services with their concerns. They American people wanted the president to work said. “This immigration the law, which endowed Committee and chairs do their job very well, and gridlock. It wasn’t artic- with Congress to solve crisis is of the president’s $200 million for an agri- its 18-member Strategic those concerns are import- ulated that way, but so our immigration crisis by own making, and…he has cultural research founda- Forces Subcommittee, ant to all of us.” much major legislation – securing our borders, not significantly escalated it tion and provided $15 which has oversight of the Affordable Care Act, to govern by executive further.” million to support the American nuclear weap- the Dodd-Frank Act, the action.” Another issue on which Rural Microentrepreneur ons, missile defense and How to contact stimulus bill – was passed A federal judge ruled the Republican-led House Assistance Program for space programs. Congressman Rogers so quickly and was so big in December that parts of has clashed with White small business develop- “I am honored to be and so impactful that vot- the president’s deportation House is the Keystone ment, $150 million for continuing my work as the Anniston office ers wanted it to stop for amnesty policy – aimed at XL pipeline. Proposed to water and wastewater infra- chairman of this subcom- 1129 Noble St # 104 a while. They divided granting tentative legal sta- stretch from Canada to structure, $800 million for mittee and plan to make Anniston, AL 36201 Congress, but now after tus to as many as 5 million the Gulf Coast, opponents energy programs, $250 sure we have the strategic Phone: (256) 236-5655 four years of absolute grid- illegal immigrants – are of the pipeline argue that million for the Emergency capabilities in place and Fax: (256) 237-9203 lock, they’re ready to see unconstitutional, a ruling it presents environmental Food Assistance Program available to provide for our things moving again.” that did not immediately risks, while proponents for food banks and food national security and that Washington office While incumbent invalidate the order but contend it will create more pantries, $72.5 million of our allies,” he said. “It 324 Cannon House Democrat President Barack has given Republicans fur- than 40,000 jobs and less- for Specialty Crop Block is Congress’ responsibility Office Building Obama has opposed con- ther incentive to oppose it. en American dependence Grants to promote fruit under our Constitution to Washington, DC gressional Republicans, “I Rogers, a member of on foreign oil. and vegetable production provide for the armed forc- 20515 believe we’ll start to see the the House Committee President Obama has and $62.5 million for pest es, and I intend to see to it Phone: (202) 225-3261 president begin to work on Homeland Security, attempted to block the and disease management that ours remain the best Fax: (202) 226-8485 with us in some areas, said in early January that pipeline’s completion, but and prevention. trained and equipped in http://mikerogers.house. such as trade agreements,” he expected Congress to the House, for the 10th The congressman the world.” gov/contact-mike/email-me Rogers said. “Now he will take some action toward time since 2011, approved have to either sign bills reversing “the illegal exec- a bill authorizing it early that come to his desk or utive order that President last month. The Senate he’ll have to explain to Obama said 22 times that was to consider the matter the American people why he didn’t have the power to later in January. Rogers he won’t, and that’s some- do but did anyway.” called the pipeline a proj- thing that has not hap- He referred to a Nov. ect that is of national eco- pened for six years.” 19 post at Speaker of the nomic benefit and said One Republican- House John Boehner’s he expects approving its sponsored proposal the blog www.speaker.gov/ completion to be a mat- McClendon: ‘I have some things to learn’ By Buddy Roberts we’ll see a move in that Special Projects Editor direction this year.” Local issues will share Dr. Jim McClendon the legislative agenda (R-Springville) has spent with statewide concerns, more than a decade in the including appropriations. Want a revolutionary career in the continuing to grow Automotive Industry Alabama legislature, but “The single biggest here in the Southeast? New South Express offers opportunities to associates he finds himself facing a thing looming over the who join the New South Express Team desiring to be a successful member of learning curve as this year’s legislature is the general session begins. fund budget,” McClendon the Automotive Industry in our facilities in Lincoln & Talladega, Alabama. “It’s a different place,” said. “It pays for Medicaid, Established September 13th, 2000, NSE is a “Just In Time” Consolidation he said of his new seat in prisons, troopers, services, Center servicing Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, with over 1 million the state senate. “The sen- everything but education. square feet of climate controlled and security protected Warehouse space ate has its own set of rules We’re hearing numbers as Dr. Jim McClendon operating between (2) two locations, (1) located in Talladega and (1) located and doing things, so I have (R-Springville) high as $250 million that some things to learn.” we’re in the hole and will Lincoln, Alabama. After three terms repre- every county in the state.” have to find a way to make NSE operates with Extensive Packaging, Sequencing, Shipping and Storage senting District 50 in the House District 50 now up this session.” Experience along with the capability of complete Labeling/RF Scanning/ House of Representatives, includes all of St. Clair Rising Medicaid care McClendon begins his County and is represent- costs, according to the sen- Inventory Control and EDI Capability. first term as a state sen- ed by former Presiding ator, have contributed to NSE offers not only Warehouse Operation opportunities for associates but ator when the legislature Circuit Judge Jim Hill. the shortfall. He co-spon- also offers opportunities for qualifi ed truck drivers with Local, Short and convenes March 3. His “When I was there, that sored a Medicaid reform Long Haul Transportation Service opportunities in North America with Yard new constituency is Senate district also had part of bill that was approved by District 11, which includes Shelby, but because there the legislature and signed Spotting Service opportunities along with provided Expedite Service, just St. Clair, Talladega and was an increase in pop- by Gov. Robert Bentley in minutes from I-20, 55 miles from Birmingham, 107 miles from Atlanta, GA Shelby counties. ulation during the past 2013, requiring the social and 90 miles from Montgomery. “The biggest chunk 10-year period, he will health care program to of the district is St. Clair represent only St. Clair,” enter into contracts with For Warehouse opportunities, contact Elwood Staffi ng at (256) 362-1952. County, making this the the senator said. “Jim and regional care organiza- For Transportation opportunities contact CPC Logistics at (205) 763-1565. first time St. Clair has had I have been great friends tions to provide services a resident senator since for decades. He’s a smart for patients at established the early 1960s,” he said. guy with a lot of experi- costs. McClendon’s House dis- ence and political savvy.” “Medicaid is taking an trict included Shelby, but During the upcoming increasingly large bite out he has not represented session, McClendon said of our budget, but a lot of Talladega County before. he expects legislation to people in the district are “I want folks in be proposed to allow the dependent on it for their Talladega County to know sale of alcoholic beverage health care,” he said. “It’s that I’m available to them. on Sundays in local cities. something that we’ve got Just because I live in St. “I believe we will see that to deal with. The gover- Clair County doesn’t mean bill. Some of the cities in nor said during his cam- that they are not high on the district have expressed paign last year that he was my list of priorities or interest in it, and there not in favor of expanding NSE Mailing Address are unimportant to me. I have been some resolutions Medicaid, but he has since welcome input from folks adopted for it among the modified that statement. P.O. Box 824 in Talladega County, and delegations. Retailers see There has been some dis- Lincoln, Alabama 35096 they can contact me at any not having seven-day alco- cussion about using block Main Phone Number: (205) 355-8200 time.” hol sales as a disadvantage, grants so that the federal McClendon chaired and cities like Pell City, government would fund the 2012 House commit- Riverside and Lincoln see 100 percent of it, but that NSE (Lincoln Site) Honda NSE (Talladega Site) tee assigned to redraw the themselves as destinations may be wishful thinking, 249-B Clover Road 200 Homer Road lines for Alabama’s 140 but unable to benefit from because some states have Lincoln, Alabama 35096 Talladega, Alabama 35160 legislative districts, a pro- the revenue seven-day sales cess that he said “affected would bring in. I think See Learn, Page 4A (205) 355-8200 (256) 362-1202 000208763r1 4A THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 Shelnutt wants to ‘make a difference’ By BUDDY ROBERTS Special Projects Editor

Shay Shelnutt never had the goal of being a state senator, and even now he’s still a bit surprised to be one. “It kind of came out of nowhere,” the real estate agent and first- time officeholder said of his bid for election to Senate District 17, which includes Lincoln, Eastaboga, Ashville and Ragland, besides portions Sen. Shay Shelnutt of Jefferson and Blount counties that had been have it change me.” represented by former Shelnutt said improv- Sen. Scott Beason, who ing government efficiency vacated his seat to run for will be his top priority Congress. when the legislature con- “Until the day after he venes March 3. withdrew, I had no inten- “I’m a small govern- tion of running,” Shelnut ment guy. Government said. “But I had for some has overreached into too time wanted to do some- many areas, and it keeps File photo thing to make a differ- getting involved in every ence, and when this came aspect of our lives. I don’t Dr. Jim McClendon takes his oath of office as new state senator for District 11 from Judge Phillip up, it challenged me. I think that’s the role of gov- Seay. couldn’t come up with a ernment. Government is good enough excuse not not what has made our Learn to do it. I couldn’t remain country great. Alabama one of those guys who Republicans have done From Page 3A watches FOX News and a lot over the last four complains about the gov- years to make government ernment. A lot of folks more efficient, and I’m tried that with mixed success.” why we don’t do something to benefit from an industry started telling me I should looking forward to doing McClendon added that expanding Medicaid isn’t we receive zero tax revenue from, and it’s clearly on the put my name in the hat, whatever I can do to limit finding much support among voters. “Expansion of table for discussion.” and 10 months later, here government and make it Medicaid is the expansion of welfare, and I don’t have a So is a state-operated lottery. we are.” as efficient as possible.” lot of folks in my district saying they want to add to the “People are asking why they have to drive to states The political newcom- He expects the state welfare rolls.” around us to buy a lottery ticket. They’re asking what er effectually won the race budget to present some Even without expanding the program, lawmakers still a lottery would do for the state, so it will certainly be in last year’s Republican opportunities toward have the problem of the budget shortfall. “In the past, discussed. Historically, though, our legislature tends to primary, finishing at the making that happen. we’ve had some one-time money show up, but we don’t be made up of very conservative people who have taken top of a field of seven “We have a hole as big have any one-time money this year. That means we’ll a position opposed to gambling. It will be interesting to candidates. He survived as $270 million in the have to do it through the tax structure by cutting loop- see if that changes.” a run-off and was unop- general fund budget. The holes and downsizing government.” posed in the general elec- question is, where are we A state lottery has been proposed, as has an agreement How to contact Sen. Montgomery tion. going to make that up? with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians allowing the state McClendon Alabama State House “Some of my friends Where can we get the to benefit from the tribe’s gaming casino revenue, but 11 South Union have told me things extra revenue from? One McClendon said he has doubts about both. District Street like, ‘I didn’t see you as option is raising taxes, “There is no question that new source of money 361 Jones Road Montgomery, AL a politician. Don’t let which I don’t see hap- would help, but the question is, will the legislature take Springville, AL 36150 Montgomery change pening since everybody part in it and openly acknowledge what we already know 35146 (334) 242-7800 you.’ I hope to do some pretty much ran on not is present in Alabama? It is true that there is gambling (205) 467-2656 jimmcc@windstream. things to help change in Alabama, and it’s tax free. A lot of folks are wondering net. Montgomery rather than See Shelnutt, Page 5A SYLACAUGA UTILITIES BOARD

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Business Office 301 N. Elm Avenue 256.249.8501 After Hours 256.245.6402

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000196480r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 5A Jim Hill: ‘Government fascinates me’ By BUDDY ROBERTS issues lawmakers will deal with “I’m not a doctor, and I’m services for citizens, conve- Special Projects Editor when the legislature convenes not sure I understand Medicaid niences and having things close in March. that well, but I’m willing to that are beneficial to people. A conversation with freshman “If you follow the legislature listen to what people who do It also means more money for legislator Jim Hill (R-Odenville) at all, as I have for 40 years, you know about it have to say. I our city and county govern- is filled with throwbacks to a know that the budget is always realize it’s a major issue, and I ments. When people make Southern gentility that barely an issue. It’s not a matter of want to do my best to keep an more money, they spend more exists any more. this area is worthy of funding open mind about every issue. money, and most of the money It is punctuated with courte- and this one is not – they prob- When they have to do with the for our local governments comes sy titles, even when he’s speak- ably all are – but it’s a matter of judicial system, it’s easier for me from sales tax. ing with someone younger than allocating fairly based on what to have a view because I under- “Quality of life, jobs – there he is. It pauses occasionally we’ve got to work with.” stand that, and I’ve dealt with are so many good things eco- as he carefully contemplates Hill said he hopes to draw it my whole life. Other things, nomic development brings to his next words. And it ends on his judicial experience when I’ll need to listen to what people the forefront. All of these things with the hospitable invitation, addressing legislation addressing have to say.” are positive, and anything like “Come see us.” overcrowding in state prisons. The representative said he that I can help with, I want to It’s a style that has suited “It seems that during the late is aware of no plans for local be a part of it.” him well through two decades eighties and early nineties, we Rep. Jim Hill legislation to be introduced but as a lawyer and another 19 years adopted the attitude of, ‘Let’s (R-Odenville) pledged support for economic How to contact Rep. Hill as a jurist, the past 10 spent lock offenders up and throw development initiatives in his as St. Clair County’s presiding away the key.’ That may have a home, where the judicial system district. Phone circuit court judge. “I enjoyed good sound to it, but the truth may once again find itself hav- “We have been very much 205-640-2000 being a judge,” Hill said. “It’s a is that with the exception of ing to deal with them.” driven by economic devel- wonderful thing to be, but I was really violent criminals, we don’t As for Medicaid, Hill said he opment in St. Clair County, Email ready to retire from that, and I give a lot of people life with- has a lot to learn about the issue and that’s a really good thing. jimhill@stclairlawgroup. wanted to practice law with my out parole. That means they’ll from the perspective of state Obviously, economic develop- com. son here in Moody while I still be getting out and going back government. ment means jobs, which means felt able to.” He serves as Of Counsel for the firm of Hill, Weisskopf & Hill, in which his son James E. Hill III serves as a partner. “Government fascinates me and always has,” the retired judge said. “I always said we needed more lawyers and judges in the legislature, and if you say that, you ought to do it.” Hill was elected to repre- sent House District 50, which includes Argo, Springville, Odenville, Moody, a portion of Leeds, Cook Springs, Chula Vista and Cropwell in St. Clair County. A former city attorney for Moody and Leeds, he had no opposition in last year’s pri- mary and general elections and said he hopes to take a point of view to Montgomery that is not always expressed. “Nobody understands laws like a lawyer. It’s a different per- spective. That doesn’t mean it’s always right, but it’s a different way to look at things than can be beneficial.” The state budget, prisons File photo and “probably Medicaid,” he Judge Phillip Seay administers the oath of office to new state Representative Jim Hill, who was elected to his first term said, are likely to be the major without opposition. LEEDS WATER WORKS BOARD awarded “Best Tasting Drinking Water”

File photo New legislator Shay Shelnutt confers with Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey after being elected to the Alabama Senate. Shelnutt During the Annual Conference of the Alabama/Missis- sippi Section of the American Water Works Association From Page 4A at Point Clear Alabama, The Leeds Water Works Board was awarded the title of “Best Tasting Drinking Water: raising taxes. Another is eliminating mort- federal mandates are not the answer.” gage interest deductions, but I don’t think Shelnutt does support completion from the Section. It was the second time that the utility has that is going to get any legs, either.” of the Birmingham Northern Beltline, A third option involves either a state which he described as “big for economic won the award since the competition began ive years ago. lottery or taxing gaming casino revenue, growth and development in the area. The They competed against other public water supply systems or both, which Shelnutt said he opposes. first phase of the transportation project – “I do not want to do anything as far as a 52-mile, six-lane corridor that will con- from the two states of Alabama and Mississippi. gambling. I am not for gambling, I am nect I-59 in northeast Jefferson County to not for expanding it in casinos, and I am the I-459 interchange with I-20/59 near not in favor of a lottery. I think it is a tax Bessemer – began last year with construc- Bill Morris of the Leeds Water Works Board accepted the on the poor. I’d rather see us make up the tion of a 1.34 mile portion of the beltline budget deficit by looking at eliminating between State Routes 79 and 75. award during the Annual Sponsor Luncheon on October government inefficiencies and corporate “When you look at what the belt- 14, 2014 from Chairman David Stejskal and YP co-chairs tax exemptions that are not across the line has done for the southern parts of board. I’m definitely not in favor of tax- Jefferson and Shelby counties, you can LaQuoyah McDaniel and Chris Bryson. ing us more.” see that it’s really going to be huge for Another “hot button issue around here our area,” he said. “I think everybody in and everywhere that is going to be on the the district was on board with it from the The competition was sponsored by the Section’s Young table again is school choice,” according to start. There were some environmental Professionals Committee and took place the prior day Shelnutt, who was a teacher and coach for concerns, but if you go out there and look 10 years. “I’m for choice, and if I had to at what they’re doing and how they’re during the Strolling Lunch. Water samples were scored on make a choice because my daughters were doing it, you’ll see that it’s the cleanest in a school that wasn’t performing, I’d road ever built. They’re doing it right.” a scale of 1 to 10 by a panel of three judges in four cate - want to be able to make the choice to have Shelnutt said he has no immediate gories (Taste, Odor, Color and Clarity). The judges for the money following them to one that does. plans to sponsor legislation, “but I have I’m fortunate that I was at some great been talking with some of the counties competition were National AWWA Vice President Michael schools in Clay-Chalkville and Oneonta. and cities, and I’ve talked with Sen. (Jim) Simpson, Past Section Manager Ken McCool, and Past Everybody wanted to go there when I was McClendon, and we’re working on some there.” ideas. My goal, though, is not to create a AL/MS Section Chairman Sam McElroy (2010 Chair). The senator said his background in bunch of new laws. If anything, I hope education is among the “strongest” in the to help remove some bad laws and keep legislature. some unnecessary laws from happening.” The Leeds Water Works Board’s water is eligible to ad- “I’ve actually been there. I know what all the crazy paperwork and No Child Left vance to the “Best of the Best” Taste Test at the 2015 Behind actually does to teachers in the How to contact Sen. Shelnutt AWWA Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE’15) in classroom. And how successful Common Core is depends on who you talk to. Phone Anaheim, California in June. There, they will compete Ultimately, nobody wants the federal gov- 205-413-9022 ernment interfering with local education. Email against water providers from the 43 other Sections of Everybody wants higher standards, and [email protected]. AWWA from across the Country. it’s hard to disagree with that, but more 000208705r1 6A THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 Sheriff Kilgore talks election, crime, future plans BY SHANE DUNAWAY him while facing Davenport and They’ll just never know how Home staff writer the release of court documents much that meant to us.” detailing Kilgore and several Kilgore was officially sworn In the 2014 election, the county elected officials as defen- into office Jan. 16. Talladega County sheriff’s race dants in a federal lawsuit six days Sheriff’s department represented arguably one of the prior to the Nov. 4 election. launches new website most-watched local races within “I think the voters and good The department complet- the county. people of the county saw some ed its first official year with Incumbent Sheriff Jimmy of that for what it was,” Kilgore an established online presence Kilgore, who was appointed by said. “They chose us, and we’re courtesy of its first-ever web- Gov. Robert Bentley on March very humble and appreciative site, www.talladegasheriff.org, 18, 2013, to replace former of the confidence shown in us. which officially went live Dec. Sheriff Jerry Studdard, soundly We’re looking forward to serving 31, 2013. defeated his opposition at the the people of the county for the “It’s helped us try to main- polls in June and November next four years.” tain transparency in our oper- to earn his first elected term in He discussed what he con- ations of how we’re organized office. sidered to be one of the biggest and staffed as well as what ser- “It was my first time to be challenges faced during the cam- vices we perform,” Kilgore said. on the ballot – my first election paign process. “It’s a work in progress. We’re cycle experience with my name “When you’re in the midst still trying to do things. It’s not on the ballot,” Kilgore said. “It of the campaign, you try to be where we want it to be, but we’re was an eye-opening experience, everywhere, try to meet people working toward getting it there.” I guess I would say. This job and talk to people, trying to Kilgore said another positive doesn’t stop when you have carry out your message in the service the new website provides to do that. The workload and various communities,” Kilgore is it allows citizens to report demands of being the sheriff said. “Geographically, Talladega crime tips via email while still were ever-present.” is a large county, and it’s hard to maintaining anonymity. “We get crime tips on there,” During the June primaries, be at every event you want to be File photo Kilgore won in a landslide vic- at because some of them happen Kilgore said. “It’s another chan- Talladega Sheriff Jimmy Kilgore is congratulated by his tory versus Republican candi- at the same time. Some of them nel for information to flow in wife Toni after a landslide victory in November’s general date Dallas Davenport 4,764 to are happening up near Oxford and people like to take advan- election. 2,512. and then something’s going on tage of that method in commu- “He had been a deputy here you want to be at near Talladega nicating with us sometimes. We crimes, scrap metal crimes and within the sheriff’s department’s several years ago in the sheriff’s Springs.” monitor that continuously, and things of that nature. Overall, I proverbial toolbox served to edu- office, and had run numerous Kilgore commended his when we do receive information, don’t think there’s been a marked cate or aid the community as a times against Sheriff Studdard, employees for a job well done as it gets followed up on or passed or significant increase.” whole. my predecessor,” Kilgore said. he balanced his day-to-day oper- on to the proper people so it will One of the biggest busts for In August, the department “We were somewhat familiar ations and the campaign. be followed up on and proper- the sheriff’s department in 2014 collaborated with local first with him, and I’ll just say, that “My fortunate thing, and I’ve ly investigated when it requires came Jan. 11 when investigators responders to host an interactive race got quite interesting. We said this before, I’m very for- that.” arrested 47-year-old Leonard and realistic “Run, Hide, Fight” were successful and survived tunate in the fact I’d put the 2014 crime roundup Randall Kelly, who was respon- active shooter training scenar- some of the things that came up staff here up against anybody’s,” Kilgore said 2014 crime rates sible for a rash of RV break-ins at io at the Alabama Institute for during that.” Kilgore said. “We’ve got some for the most part within the Renfroe Economy Mini Storage Deaf and Blind’s E.H. Gentry In November, Kilgore’s cam- good, dedicated, professional county remained steady when during a two-week span. Technical Facility and Helen paign concluded with another people that have a ton of expe- compared to 2013 – though one “The investigators felt like Keller School. big victory against Democratic rience in their roles. They know area has seen a slight bump in he was going to return down Kilgore said the program has primary winner Tonta Draper. their jobs and they do their jobs activity. there to that location,” Kilgore been around for several years Kilgore won by a margin of well.” “Burglary and property said. “So they staked it out, and and the department was fortu- more than 4,800 votes. He credited the communi- crimes probably have increased of course he did (return). They nate enough to get some of its “Our Democratic opponent ty for their unwavering support a little bit, (but) certainly not to apprehended him and recovered staff certified in the program. was also someone we were very throughout his campaign. the degree one of my opponents a tremendous amount of proper- “They’re also our school familiar with because he, too, “I had a ton of support from wanted you to think,” Kilgore ty that was returned to the own- resource officers for the Talladega had worked here for a short time people in the community,” said. “It has increased a little ers, and put that gentleman in County Schools campuses and at several years ago as a deputy,” Kilgore said. “Friends, acquain- bit, and I think there are a lot of jail where he belongs. That was AIDB,” Kilgore said. “They do Kilgore said. “Again, a few inter- tances and business people who factors involved as to why that’s one of the rewarding moments, a great job of presenting that esting things arose in that race.” were so helpful and took to the happened. The investigating I think. Our folks did a great job material, not only to the faculty Kilgore kept his poise during streets, did a lot of work for us division here has done a good of resolving that issue.” and staff at the schools through- both phases of the election and helped us along the way. I’m job in my opinion. We’ve made Running, hiding, fighting out the county, but we also offer despite an anonymous email just eternally grateful for them several burglary arrests, several and saving lives smear campaign launched against for all their support and help. arrests on theft and property Several programs available See Kilgore, Page 8A

000208605r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 7A

In 1939, Coosa Valley Electric Cooperative started bringing power to rural communities. These days we are bringing jobs. We have partnered with several local economic devel- opment groups in our area and have helped develop multiple industrial parks, including the Coosa Valley Industrial Park adjacent to our facility. Altogether, we have helped attract more than 2,000 jobs to our area. We don’t do this just to sell more electricity. We do this to bring good paying jobs for our members and prosperity for the communities in and around our service territory. We are your Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

000208598r1 8A THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 Talladega government sees changes

By CHRIS NORWOOD scheme has also been identified Home staff writer as one that members of the pub- lic associate with law enforce- The year 2014 was one of ment.” many changes for the city of The next six new cars the city Talladega, including new buys will be painted the same employees at the tops of a few way. departments and several long- Patrol officers also started get- term projects meant to pay off ting new uniforms around the over the next several years. same time, switching from the Although there were major standard dark shirt with pinned- projects undertaken in several on badge and name plate to a departments during 2014, the less formal shirt with the badge File photo police department arguably saw and officer’s name embroidered Talladega police officers are now outfitted with new body cameras. more change than any with the on the front. purchase and training of a dog, The two school resource offi- new cars, new uniforms, funding cers started work at the begin- mind having trained personnel the side of a ball cap or on a shirt the last 30 seconds before being for two school resource officers ning of the current school year. in the system.” collar, among other options, activated in the saved video. and the addition of body camer- According to Muenger, the pro- Federal funding provides 75 with the sunglasses option prov- Here comes the flood as being a few of the highlights. cess of kicking off the SRO percent of each officer’s salary. ing the most popular. The city commissioned a The dog is Andor, a Belgian program actually started in May The city is responsible for train- No matter where the cam- massive storm water study that Malonois handled by Officer 2013 with former Police Chief ing and equipment costs, and era is mounted, it offers the was completed in late 2012, and Daniel Chesser. They trained Alan Watson. the board covers the remaining advantage of letting investiga- two projects somewhat related to 25 percent. tors, judges and jurors watch the that bookended 2014. City Schools Superintendent events unfold from the officer’s The first was a major reno- Donna King said she had dis- point of view. vation at Veteran’s Park, which cussed with police chief Jason Busby said the dash-mounted included replacing culverts and Busby “the importance of incor- police car cameras stayed in use shoring up the banks of the porating the SRO program into after the body cameras arrived, drainage ditch that runs through the curriculum guidelines and and that the two would comple- the park. That project was com- programs in our schools. We ment each other. pleted in the first half of 2014. certainly want that presence in The dash cams obviously More parking, a new pedestrian our schools to be positive.” cannot see inside a building or bridge, improved lighting, land- Also last year, Talladega ended around corners, and the body scaping and buried utilities were up somewhat ahead of the curve microphones some officers cur- also included and streets around in outfitting its police with body rently wear have a range of only the park were repaved. cameras. about 200 feet, and interference A ribbon cutting was held The camera system is made inside a building can reduce that Memorial Day weekend, but the by Tazer. The camera itself is a to almost nothing. park was closed again to get little bit bigger around than a The body cameras record con- the new LED lights put up and pen, but not as long. It can be stantly, but only save what they reopened for good in time for worn on a plastic band around record when the officer activates the head, clipped to the side of the camera. Once turned on, the See Changes, Page 9A File photo a pair of glasses or sunglasses, to camera will go back and include Andor, trained in tracking suspects, rescue and detecting narcotics, joined the TPD last year.

together in Indiana, with Andor Watson applied for a commu- getting certified in tracking sus- nity oriented policing (COPs) pects and lost individuals, appre- grant each year to hire an extra hending (biting/holding) fleeing patrolman, but with the number suspects and detecting narcotics. of calls, he decided to look into The dog was purchased and funding for an SRO. Most of trained thanks to donations from the other public schools systems various agencies and individu- in the area already had officers als, most notably the Talladega on campus, but Talladega City County Sheriff’s Office. Schools did not, and had not for The department also got four some time. brand new Dodge Chargers in The grant application was the fall, but these cars sported approved, but it still took a while a different look. In the past, the to get things rolling, Muenger city’s patrol cars were essential- said. ly white, but the new vehicles Officers Tanna Stephens and are mostly black except for the Nikia Garrett interviewed and doors, where the words “Police” trained for the school positions. and “Talladega” appear. Muenger explained that, According to City Manager “The goals are to make sure that Brian Muenger, “this change was our schools have the resources done primarily to allow for ease to prevent and deter violence, of identification of city units. as well as giving the officers an With both the Talladega County opportunity to bond with the Sheriff’s Office and the city uti- students and build trust and lizing white Dodge Chargers, cooperation with law enforce- File photo there have been instances of mis- ment. We also hope it will give The North Street repaving project was recently completed. The city planned to spend identification. The black/white parents some additional peace of more than $2 million on paving during the 2014-2015 fiscal year.

Kilgore

From Page 7A the training in the private sector should that happen until law bracelets available to families “There are some challenges the table we want to do that we if business owners or managers enforcement arrives.” who have a need. that lie ahead of us,” Kilgore think would improve our level come to us and want us to come Another beneficial pro- “We can actually go out and said. “These are difficult times of services that we provide, but and present the materials and gram the department invest- interview them,” Kilgore said. for law enforcement. The they’re in the research stage right teach their employees.” ed in during 2014 was Project “If they qualify for the program, national scene has cast a light now. We’re looking forward to According to Kilgore, the Lifesaver, an initiative created you put a tracking device on on law enforcement, and there continuing to get in the commu- training doesn’t just benefit in 1999 by the 43rd Search them. Because Project Lifesaver are things we feel like we have nities to build relationships and those who play the role of victim and Rescue Company of the is a national program, the brace- to do to shine a positive light on a rapport so we can maintain a in the scenario. Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office in let doesn’t just benefit them here our role as public servants, what level of trust between the citizens “These realistic scenarios help Chesapeake, Va., which uses in Talladega County. If they go we do and the level in which we and law enforcement. us prepare for the unthinkable,” state-of-the-art technology in to California on vacation and perform.” He added the enhanced trust Kilgore said. “It’s something you assisting agencies who care for wander off, the family can notify Kilgore explained he would between citizens and law enforce- hope you never have to use, victims of Alzheimer’s, demen- law enforcement there and they face these challenges head-on as ment will greatly improve the but you have to prepare for it. tia, Down Syndrome and other can plug in the code of their he seeks out new programs and ability to thwart crimes in the There’s no way that you can illnesses causing the propensity tracking device and locate them innovative means to meet the community. prevent an active shooter event. to wander. anywhere.” public’s expectations. “Crime is not a police prob- What’s taught now is you just “When I became sheriff, this Kilgore said more than half a “We want to continue to pro- lem or sheriff problem – it’s a have to attack it immediately. was one of the programs we dozen bracelets have been issued vide the best level of service we society problem,” Kilgore said. The biggest thing that we would said we wanted to implement,” to county residents in need. can to our citizens – not just in “It’s going to take us all working do now is you want to mini- Kilgore said. “It’s a great pro- The road ahead 2015, but beyond,” Kilgore said. together to reduce it and elimi- mize loss of life or injury. We gram.” As he prepares to enter his first “We want to continue to strive nate it. We can’t be everywhere. try to go out and make people The department spent $4,000 year as elected sheriff, Kilgore to improve our training and the We have to depend on the eyes aware of their surroundings and to purchase equipment for the noted the task would not be a level of service that we provide. and ears of the people in our teach them what they should do program and several tracking simple one to undertake. There are a couple things on communities.” MIKE ~ BOWLING ALABAMA BAG JUDGE OF PROBATE COMPANY, INC. ST. CLAIR COUNTY

1815 Cogwell Ave., Suite 212 Pell City, Alabama 35125 QUALITY MONEY BAGS Phone (205) 338-9449 Fax (205) 884-1182 SINCE 1908

P.O. Box 220 Ashville, AL 35953 Talladega, Alabama Phone (205) 594-2120

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Email: [email protected] ~ 000196455r1 000196469r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 9A Industry in Talladega: small but good growth

By CHRIS NORWOOD Alabama, which moved into the Home staff writer location on Nimitz Avenue pre- viously occupied by Crimson Although the city of Talladega Fire, Quality Manufacturing, boasted only a small amount of Southeastern Apparatus and new industry in 2014, it could other manufacturers of firefight- not be said that there was not ing equipment. any. Most of the city’s industrial DeMil Alabama holds a gov- growth in the past year involved ernment contract to disassem- expansions at existing industries, ble Humvees and other recently and several were actually located decommissioned military equip- outside the city limits, but the ment. Miller explained that the growth was still there. company had not been eligible The biggest new develop- for any tax abatements because ment of the past year prob- they are not actually manufac- ably came at M-Tek, located turing any new products. in the Coosa Valley Electrical The owner of the company Cooperative Industrial Park in was traveling when reached for the city’s police jurisdiction. comment, and was unable to When the expansion project was supply employment and payroll announced in April, the plant numbers for the Talladega oper- already employed about 200 ation before press time. people with a payroll of about Talladega Fabrication has also $7 million. With the expansion recently changed hands and may complete, that number is set to be expanding. double in the next year. MGA Research’s new facility M-Tek is a Japanese company is not in the city or the police with North American headquar- jurisdiction, but is located in the ters in Tennessee. In addition Talladega Municipal Airport’s to the Talladega operation, they industrial park, which the city also have one other facility in owns even though it is not con- Bob Crisp/The Daily Home Alabama. tiguous. Located in the Coosa Valley Electrical Cooperative Industrial Park, M-Tek initiated a sig- The Talladega location man- The company moved into the nificant expansion project during the past year. ufactures parts for the Honda building that previously housed Odyssey and various Acura the Harley-Davidson test track motive industry, although the initially created five jobs, but into account. “This is a good models. They are located in a in 2014. company tests a wide variety of the company will continue to example of where we weren’t speculative building put up by According to Miller, the other consumer goods as well. grow, he said. Proximity to the really courting an industry, they the Talladega County Economic Talladega facility primarily con- The total capital investment Talladega Superspeedway was just found that we had what they Development Authority (EDA). ducts safety checks for the auto- came to about $2 million, and one factor Miller said was taken needed and got started,” he said. Two of the major new devel- opments in the city limits were in the Brecon Community. In late 2013, Weaver and Sons asked for, and was given, a tax abatement in order to pur- chase a new, $1.8 million laser cutting system. The new system was expected to create four new jobs and add about $190,000 to the annual payroll. Weaver and Sons is a metal fabrication company that has been in business since 1949. According to Talladega County EDA Executive Director Calvin Miller, the company changed hands during 2014, but has con- tinued to operate largely as it had before. Bob Crisp/The Daily Home The closest thing to a new The Weaver and Sons metal fabrication company has been in operation since 1949. industry in the city is DeMil

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File photo injury-free workplace is everyone’s business. We maintain world- The city of Talladega’s police department may have seen the most changes class standards and continuously measure and improve our safety of any municipal department during the past year, including the purchase of new uniforms. efforts and results. Changes Be accountable: We are accountable for our performance. The future of our company is in our hands. By empowering people, acting with From Page 8A integrity, setting goals and measuring progress, we deliver fi rst-class products and services to customers and create value for shareholders. July 4. Nelson as Fannin’s replacement. Police Closing out the year was another mas- Officer Mike Rauch was appointed to fill sive drainage project, this one impacting Nixon’s position. Ensure sustainability: We make decisions with tomorrow in mind. the Frazier Farms community in the west • Troy native Summer Ammons came end of Talladega. aboard as the city’s Parks and Recreation We know that our long-term profi tability depends on preserving the The project involved modifying ditch- Director in October, replacing Stacy natural resources in our care and being a responsible partner in the es along Baker, Elbert Davis, Moon, Lane, Jones. She brought a wealth of experience communities where we live and work. Long and Frazier Streets to improve drain- to the position, having worked in Troy, age in the area and benefitted 79 house- Athens and Prattville in various capacities holds and 124 residents. before coming here. Succeed together: We win together. Teamwork starts with a winning The project also involved widening • Finally, the city entered into a con- attitude and a true desire to support each other. We welcome ideas, and regrading a ditch on Frazier Street tract with HELP Disabled to take over that handles approximately 80 percent the management of the Municipal Golf communicate frequently and share best practices. of the storm water draining out of the Course, which the city still owns. The project area and relocating and using start-up non-profit is set to begin selling larger culvert pipes in the area. Inadequate memberships and day passes, with pro- driveway culverts were replaced and a ceeds going to help people with disabil- ditch from Davis Street to Rosa Street ities find work and shelter. Terry Hill is regraded and widened. The pipe under the founder and director of HELP, and Baker Street was also replaced. will be taking care of much of the work at In addition to the drainage projects, the golf course himself for the time being. the city is also budgeted to spend over Redevelopment all around $2 million on paving in fiscal year 2014- The year 2014 was also a good one for 15. In some cases, this involves moving redevelopment projects. utilities ahead of time, milling up the old On the square, Dega Brewhouse was pavement and then replacing it with new. renovated by the owners and opened to The repaving project on North Street is fanfare near the end of the year. a good illustration of this, as it was milled A rural development block grant was and torn up from utility work beforehand awarded to a building across the square, and recently completed. which will house a coffee shop, The New faces all around Square Cup, once the renovation is com- • During January, Robert Buyher was plete. appointed city planner, filling a position In December, the council also approved that had been vacant since the previous a revenue sharing agreement with a com- July. Buyher had previously worked for pany looking to redevelop the property Talladega County. formerly housing the Food World and • Talladega Municipal Court Judge Sav-A-Lot Grocery. The city agreed to Hank Fannin, who had been on the bench remit some of the tax revenue generated by for decades, and court clerk Rick Nixon new businesses locating in that shopping both announced that their retirements at center once a certain income threshold is Coosa Pines Mill the same time in early 2014. The coun- reached. If the threshold is not reached or 17589 Plant Rd. cil went through a lengthy vetting and if the buildings are not occupied, the city interviewing process before naming Mark is still not out any money. Coosa Pines, AL 35044 000208607r1 10A THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015

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000208597r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 1B St. Clair industrial development setting fast pace

By GARY HANNER Council, said Bentley has “It is always good to Home staff writer been a great partner for St. have industry expansion. If you are looking for Clair County. We are glad to have them a county in the state of “He is well-known in Steele.” Alabama that took the lead throughout St. Clair Moody Commerce in industrial advancement County, and we appreciate Park gets $10 in 2014, look no further all he has done,” Smith million facility than St. Clair County. said. Processor’s Choice, As Alabama Governor The signs of econom- Inc., a restaurant ingre- Robert Bentley put it, “St. ic and industrial growth dient and service suppli- Clair County is a great were evident throughout er, announced it would place, and there are a lot St. Clair County in 2014. expand to the Moody of great things going on Rain Bird expansion facility. here.” In the northeast cor- “We had the opportu- There were several ner, Steele saw Rain Bird nity to look at many build- groundbreakings, ribbon Corporation announce an ings and land and kept cuttings, and expansions $11.8-million expansion. coming back to Moody,” throughout St. Clair Steele Mayor John Processor’s Choice County in 2014, and Wilcox said Rain Bird President Kaylan Adams Bentley made a trip to St. makes irrigation systems, said. Clair County for one of and they just built an Processor’s Choice them. 189,000-square foot ware- offers ingredients from This past October, house. more than 150 suppliers. Bentley joined company “They added on 43 Services offered include officials at SKF Solutions new employees,” Wilcox See Growth, Page 2B Factory in Moody for the said. ribbon cutting ceremo- File photo ny of a new $4-million, HAWK PLASTICS CORPORATION 31,200-square-foot facili- Gov. Robert Bentley, second from left, joined SKF Solutions Factory 2x8.000 ty. officials in cutting the ribbon on their new 31,200-square-foot, $4 million SKF is a leading global facility in October. 000208997r1 supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrica- counties in the state of Moody Mayor Joe Lee concerned about our area.” tion systems, and services Alabama. said when Gov. Bentley St. Clair County which include technical “It’s a great county and comes to the county it Commissioner Chairman support, maintenance and a beautiful place to live,” gives him and other may- Paul Manning said Bentley reliability services, engi- Bentley said. “I am always ors the opportunity to talk has been involved in St. neering consulting and happy to be here.” to him about some of the Clair County. training. The company Lance Bell, Chairman needs they may have. “He has bragged on us provides supplies or ser- of the St. Clair County “He just wants to be all over the state about our vices to almost a dozen Republican Party, said here and be part of what economic development companies throughout Gov. Bentley has been very is going on in St. Clair growth,” Manning said. Alabama. “People work in other instrumental in bringing County,” Lee said. “We appreciate all the parts of the state, but there new industry to the coun- Pell City Mayor Joe work he does with each is a lot of industry that ty. Funderburg said it is member of the county we are getting here in St. “He supports St. Clair always great to have the commission and the eco- Clair County,” Bentley County, and he cares, governor visit your city nomic development coun- said. “The people are fan- and he remembers peo- and county. cil. He has always been so tastic, and I’ve had a great ple,” Bell said. “He knows “We certainly appreci- supportive, and I appreci- Organized in January of 1984, Hawk Plastics started relationship with them.” what’s going on in our ate all he has done for ate that.” production in October of 1985 in the former Beaunit Bentley said without a business community. He St. Clair County and Pell Don Smith, executive building on Plant Road. Now, 30 years later, by the grace doubt, St. Clair County is has made a big effort to City,” Funderburg said. director of the St. Clair of God, the Hawk is still lying. One of the oldest American Economic Development owned PVC pipe producers in the USA, Hawk Plastics has one of the fastest-growing help us.” “He has shown us he is operated with the same name for its total existence. Over the years, as many as 40 employees have manned the 3 shift operation. By the time this year is over, Hawk will have SUPERIOR MACHINE 5 employees that have been there for the whole 30 years. By the grace of God, Hawk has received an award from the & PATTERN, INC. State of Alabama for a record of consecutive days equal to 7 years and 2 months with no lost time accidents. Hawk Providing High uality Precision Machining manufactures PVC plastic sewer pipe with Integral Bell Gasketed joints and specializes in standard and custom and Fabrication Since 1980 PVC perforated pipe. Hawk produces other PVC extrusions, custom fabrications, core tubes and is the exclusive U.S. Manufacturer of patented molded plastic Ragglesticks. Marketed and sold by RAGGLESTICK Packaging, Ragglesticks are used to create compactness and stability in packaging and storing cylindrical High Precision CNC Machining objects such as pipe, tube, Supplier of Gray, uctile, Brass, rolls, drums and Aluminum Castings and barrels. Gary Hanner/The Daily Home Ragglesticks ALSO OFFERING was the invention Robert Bentley, left, shares a moment with newly arehouse Services, O-Shore Sourcing and 000209013r1 of the founders elected St. Clair County Commission Chairman Inventory Control Services of Hawk Plastics. Paul Manning during the governor’s visit to Pell City in late August 2014. It was at that meeting 38001 Alabama Hwy 21 • Munford, Alabama with fellow Republicans that Bentley character- 193 First Rd, Alpine, AL 35014 ized St. Clair County as one of the fastest-grow- 256-362-1385 or 256-362-1386 ing industrial areas in the state. www.superiormachineandpattern.com 1-877-525-7061 000208997r1 J&M TANK LINES, INC.

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By GARY HANNER Home staff writer

St. Clair County govern- ment has a different look as it moves into 2015, and that different look started at the top of the County Commission as Paul Manning succeeded Stan Batemon as chairman. Manning defeated Batemon in the June 3 Republican pri- mary in one of the county’s most anticipated races in recent history. Manning won nearly 60 per- cent of the county-wide vote, or 5,938 total votes. Batemon received 4,434 votes, good enough for nearly 40 percent. With no Democratic opposi- tion, Manning – a commissioner since 1978 — officially took office as chairman in November. “What a privilege in life I’ve had,” Manning said. “There have been a lot of good things, and there are going to be more good things. We’re going to work closer than ever, to make sure we complete our journey, make sure that we complete the economic development, make sure that we take care of the taxpayers and people who put us here, and are responsible for giving us their dollars.” Batemon had been a commis- sioner for more than 24 years and chairman for 16 years. Moments after he was sworn in by St. Clair County Circuit Court Judge Bill Weathington, Manning said this was an oppor- tunity he had long desired. “I look forward to leading this commission, working with this commission in economic File photo development and the developers The St. Clair County Commission welcomed a new member and a new chairman during 2014. From left are commis- in our county,” Manning said. sioners Tommy Bowers, Jimmy Roberts, chairman Paul Manning, Jeff Brown and Ken Crowe. “We want to make progress and have brighter days ahead of us in the future of this great county. We are recognized at this point, above those folks is an honor to announced it would receive a The U.S. Department of agreement that it was something but we want to be recognized in be appointed and represent the $400,000 grant for its down- Transportation will award they needed, especially after the the long run. We are going to do citizens of St. Clair County.” town beautification project. $820 million through the road problems the city had on what is necessary and best for St. Bowers’ position is for the Councilman David Jones said Transportation Alternatives Jan. 28, 2014, when ice and Clair County.” next two years under the current the city was able to secure the U.S. Program. The money is then snow fell across Alabama, strand- Commissioner Jeff Brown was system where terms on the coun- Department of Transportation distributed through the state ing motorists. also sworn in by Weathington ty commission are staggered. TAP (Transportation or Alabama Department of The Council authorized after being elected for his fourth The other two members Alternatives Program) grant Transportation. Jennings to spend up to $7,500 term as county commissioner. of the county commission are through the Metropolitan Jones said the grant money for the sand spreader, which will “This is one of the greatest Jimmy Roberts and Ken Crowe. Planning Organization, which will pay for the beautification attach to the new dump truck. honors I have ever had,” Brown Plenty of progress was made he was appointed to serve on. project of the Springville down- said. “It’s just a special honor for in other sectors of government Jones said he currently serves town district, near the old city Other progress made in 2014 me to see all these people here. across St. Clair County as well on the MPO’s advisory and pol- hall to the four-way stop sign at across the county included; It is the people who support us in 2014. icy committees. the intersection of U.S. 11 and • Moody hired Tracy Patterson and make us what we are today.” Riverside now a city He said because of his mem- Marietta Road. to fill city clerk position and The newest county commis- The Riverside City Council bership, the city was able to He said the beautification approved a contract to the buy sioner is Tommy Bowers, who passed a resolution in August secure the $400,000 grant project will include new side- the Civic Center site. was appointed by Gov. Robert changing the name from Town through that organization. walks, landscaping and new dec- • Ragland swore in new coun- Bentley to fill the commission of Riverside to City of Riverside. “They disperse a lot of state orative street lights. cil member Amanda Parsons and term of Manning. Bowers was Riverside was classified as a and federal dollars,” Jones said. Argo purchases worked hard to improve its city sworn in by St. Clair County city based on the 2010 Census Jones said the Springville sand spreader park. Circuit Court Judge Phil Seay. numbers as the town’s popula- grant was one of four approved In early November, the Argo • St. Clair County got a radio “It truly is an honor to tion exceeded the 2,000 mark, by the MPO. City Council was planning ahead through a Federal grant. have been appointed by Gov. making the former town a city. “It will go to the state for for cold weather as it authorized • The Springville fire depart- Bentley,” Bowers said. “There According to the 2010 census review,” he said. Mayor Paul Jennings to purchase ment received a Class 2 rating were a lot of folks who were up report, Riverside had 2,208 peo- He commended Louise a sand spreader for another of from ISO. to be appointed or asked to be ple living within its limits. Campbell, the city’s grant writer, the city’s new purchases, a 1-ton • A new ambulance contract appointed. For me to be chosen Springville received grant for having everything in order dump truck. was signed that mandated faster In August Springville for the grant application. Council members were in response. Growth

From Page 1B employment of food tech- in the Ashville Industrial nologists who can solve Park that was expected to process problems or devel- bring 10 to 15 new jobs to op new products, pro- the city. We all have our own ideas of what comfort is. viding vendor-managed The plant will process inventory, supply chain aluminum that will be sold Utilizing an array of styles and modular management and local to various clients from the components which appeal to the dreamer and the warehousing and consign- Ashville facility. realist in all of us, Legacy stock and semi-custom ment services. Grooms said the city of Processor’s Choice has Ashville was very helpful cabinetry helps us deine our sense of space. been in business more than to them. 30 years and started in “They wanted us to Birmingham then outgrew locate here, and we are that space and moved to happy to be building our Irondale. Now Phase I of new business in Ashville,” the Moody expansion is a Grooms said. 73,000-square-foot facility What follows are some -- almost twice as much as of the other signs of the current Irondale facili- progress seen in St. Clair ty – that will bring 21 new County in 2014: jobs to the county. • Yachiyo We “We will have expan- Manufacturing Company make sion capability for about in Steele changed own- another 50,000 square ership Oct. 1, becoming ideas feet,” he said. Unipres. come • The St. Clair County true! Grooms’ Aluminum Commission approved begins construction a $4.5 million facelift Grooms’ Aluminum project for the Village at Processing, a new ven- Moody. ture headed by Dwayne • Vulcan Industries in Grooms, began con- Moody held a ground- struction on a new breaking for a facilities 20,000-square foot facility expansion.

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000208956r1 (256) 831-4888 000197738r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 3B Talladega County looks at fresh faces

By SHANE DUNAWAY included a $3,377.869.50 widening Home staff writer and resurfacing project for Magnolia Avenue between U.S. 78 and Alabama Throughout Talladega County, par- 77 in Lincoln and a $1,053,515 effort ticularly within the Talladega County to replace substandard bridges at Isbell Commission, there has been a significant Circle over Town Creek, Coosa Street degree of turnover, with fresh faces in over Isbell Branch and West Street over new places. Isbell Branch.— all in Talladega. District 4 Commissioner Jimmy A $4.5-million project for a bridge Roberson announced during a Jan. 13, on Stemley Road over Choccolocco 2014, meeting he would not seek a Creek was scheduled to be let for bid seventh term with the Commission, con- in September, but Market and assistant cluding his 30-year journey in the realm county engineer Larry Roberson con- of public service, both as a commissioner curred the project will be pushed back a and a Childersburg city councilman. few months. “We have decided (as a family) when “We’re just trying to get the plans this term expires in November, we have finalized and trying to still get our per- chosen to spend some time on the lake mits for it,” Roberson said. with our new home and to continue Markert added a $6,180,454 exten- to spend some valuable time with our sion of Priebes Mill Road designed to two grandchildren and family,” Roberson connect Alabama 202 to Alabama 21 and said. “It’s been a tremendous honor to a repaving project for Fay S. Perry Road serve. I’m definitely not leaving tonight. in Childersburg have both been pushed I’m going to work with you guys 10 more back to 2015. months whether you like it or not.” Munford Farmers Market During the Oct. 13, 2014, Commission successful in second year meeting, Roberson announced he was For the second year in a row, Munford fighting aplastic anemia, a rare blood dis- Farmer’s Market has been bustling with order. He received one week of chemo- vendors and shoppers. therapy at UAB Hospital Nov. 4, 2014, The market, open from 7 a.m.-2 File photo p.m. every Saturday from mid-spring to Decades of planning and preparation paid off for the city of Lincoln, which followed by a bone marrow transplant completed two major projects during 2014, including the new library. Nov. 11, 2014. mid-October, got its start in May 2013 Republican candidate Malley after Wanda Jurriaans, county agent Limbaugh later won the District 4 seat coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative by besting Democratic contender Robert Extension System, informed the town “ManMan” Pope by more than 1,100 about the opportunity to start the mar- votes Nov. 4. ket. “I am really overwhelmed with all the “We had tried once before, just on support I’ve gotten,” Limbaugh said. “It’s our own, to have like a trade-day type really unbelievable. My wife, my friend, event,” said Becky Moore, a resident who Ken Wesson, and I went door-to-door all volunteers with the market. “Wanda said over the district, and although we might she had gotten a grant from Auburn, and have missed a few, we went to most, and that they could provide us with canopies, we were well received. It shows people chairs and tables if we were interested.” trust me, and I hope that trust is well- Jurriaans purchased canopies for earned.” the market since the town’s Recreation Roberson wasn’t the only commission- Department already had chairs and tables er to bow out of the 2014 election. readily available, and Moore informed District 2 Commissioner John Luker the public about the arrival of the mar- announced on Feb. 4, 2014, he would ket. not seek re-election for a second term, “We got the word out to our local citing the early qualifying deadline and farmers — and not necessarily just farm- spiritual concerns as key factors in his ers with big farms, but people who had decision. gardens,” Moore said. “Inevitably, when “It kind of put me in a position to you have gardens, you have enough for File photo make a decision before I was ready to,” you, your neighbors and everyone else. Luker said. We thought with that surplus, maybe Members of the Talladega County Commission are, from left, Greg Former Commissioner Tony Haynes they would want to sell it and make some Atkinson, Malley Limbaugh, chairman Kelvin Cunningham, Tony Haynes filled Luker’s shoes by defeating money.” and Jackie Swinford. Democratic candidate Randy Roberts, The market was originally located in 2,653 to 1,708. the Jack’s parking lot, but the summer “I am deeply appreciative of everyone heat forced Moore to relocate it adjacent that supported me,” Haynes said. “We to Big Daddy’s Barbecue. made some good friends, and I am look- Popular items sold at the market ing forward to serving again. We’re going include tomatoes, corn, okra, peas and to try and keep this county moving for- watermelons and locally-produced jams, ward. We’re going to hiring a new admin- jellies and honey. istrator, and I hope we’ll be able to keep “Fresh, local honey is a big thing,” going in a positive direction. I appreciate Moore said. “People are trying to get everyone who came out and voted.” away from sugar, and local honey is also District 3 Commissioner Kelvin good for your allergies. We have a young Cunningham commented on the turn- man from Eastaboga who has a honey over within the Commission and offered company. He comes up and sells every his perspective of how each candidate Saturday.” will perform. Lincoln completes “Mr. Haynes has served one term new library, fishing trail previously, so he has some experience,” The Lincoln City Council pushed Cunningham said. “He’s worked with forward two major projects for comple- many of those people in the Commission tion in 2014, one of which was backed office and elected officials throughout the by four-plus decades of planning and county, so I would say the learning curve preparation. certainly would be less for him than it The Blue Eye Creek Fishing Trail held would be for Commissioner Limbaugh. its first Youth Fishing Derby in May as TALLADEGA COUNTY He’s very familiar with what’s going on. part of the grand opening for the trail – a As far as Commissioner Limbaugh, in my dream envisioned by former Mayor Lew EMERGENCY opinion, he’s doing a fine job. I’ve known Watson and completed by the council him for many years, and he seems to be a and current Mayor Bud Kitchin. person who really thinks things through “I wanted a place where kids in wheel- MANAGEMENT and makes good decisions.” chairs would have the ability to fish the The Commission also lost County same way other kids can,” Watson said. Administrator Wayne Hall at the start of “I used to fish off this creek – you can see AGENCY fiscal year 2015 after he retired following the bass and bream.” more than seven years in the role. The handicap-accessible trail contains At Talladega County Emergency Management Agency, our “Things are better, but I’m reluctant five fishing stations on both sides of the guiding principles are communication, coordination, collabora- to try and take too much individual creek, with a bridge spanning the creek tion and cooperation which all aim at protecting, preparing and credit,” Hall said in regards to his impact and more than 3,500 feet of sidewalk within the county. linking the stations. serving all of our citizens. We strive every day to ensure that “I had a good experience. I worked Almost 14 months after breaking Talladega County’s citizens are served in the event of a disaster with many good commissioners, and we ground in May 2013, the new Lincoln worked it together.” Library officially opened in July. or an emergency. We are ready to act in a moment’s notice, and “We’re certainly going to miss Mr. Lincoln Library Director Melanie it is our job to make sure all citizens are protected and prepared Hall,” Cunningham said. Harris said the new library boasts space when that moment does happen. “I think one of his best skillsets is his for more than 50,000 books, audio ability to work with people as a whole. books, DVDs and periodicals. Of course, he was very good in the bud- “The new library is almost four times Talladega get process in making sure we stayed as large as the old library, and will have County EMA leads within our budgets as well.” room for us to expand and continue the charge to serve The Commission unanimously voted growing,” Harris said. in December to hire former Villa Rica, Operating hours for the library are the entire county Georgia, City Manager Patricia Lyle to from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesday, through emergency replace Hall. Thursdays and Fridays, and from 9 a.m. ATRIP project completed to noon on Saturdays. The facility is management and Talladega County Engineer Tim closed Wednesdays and Sundays. preparedness Markert explained during a Dec. 2 inter- Other happenings throughout the planning. view construction has been completed county and municipality governments on two county Alabama Transportation include: Rehabilitation and Improvement • The Commission hired former Program projects — a $2,169,998.42 Lincoln Chief of Police Travis McGrady repaving project for Speedway Boulevard to be the new director of the Talladega and a $472,567 repaving project for County Emergency Management Agency. Sylacauga Fayetteville Highway. • The Waldo Town Council approved “For ATRIP, the governor stressed spending approximately $3,800 on cap- helping the economy or industry,” ital improvement projects to build a Markert said. “Sylacauga Fayetteville, pair of retaining walls near the handicap there’s two new industries coming in access ramp and replace the broken tile on this exit road we built there. And flooring in the kitchen, water depart- Speedway Boulevard, of course, the race ment office and the foyer while adding track is up there, and there’s 80,000 peo- plastic molding plus indoor and outdoor ple trying to get in and out of there at a carpeting. time. It was in bad shape. We’ve also got • The Waldo Town Council approved Call 256-761-2125 a rock quarry and asphalt plant that uses purchasing four security cameras from that road regularly.” Tallatron at a total cost of more than for more information Projects within the municipalities $2,900. 26715 AL Highway 21, PO Box 43, Talladega, AL 35161 000209020r1 4B THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 CORE4 initiative signals ‘monumental shift’ By SHANE DUNAWAY area. Home staff writer “This effort is a contin- uation of the regionalism Nov. 11 marked a efforts we began last year,” monumental shift in local Segars said. “We want to economic development as make sure that we do our economic leaders from St. part to bring business and Clair, Talladega, Calhoun growth to east Alabama. and Cleburne counties We know that economic unveiled a new econom- developers and site selec- ic development partner- tion consultants are in ship, CORE4, during a favor of regions that work press conference held at together to bring in new Talladega Superspeedway. opportunities.” Julia Segars, vice pres- Segars pointed to exam- ident of Alabama Power’s ples of areas in northwest Eastern Division and Alabama along the I-22 co-chair of CORE4, corridor; Montgomery explained the strategic and Opelika along the alliance between the four I-85 corridor; and Mobile counties along the east and Baldwin counties Alabama Interstate-20 along the I-65 corridors corridor will be dedicat- as prime example of the ed to coordinating efforts success CORE4 hopes to to attract industry to the mirror. File photo Associates of Honda Manufacturing of Alabama produced more than 350,000 vehicles during 2014.

“These interstate cor- detailed the primary ben- we’re a smaller area, and County when Honda ridors get it,” Segars said. efit from being involved in we already have one large came to the area is bene- “They’re working together, the CORE4 collaboration. project,” Miller said. “If ficial when implementing and there’s no reason we “Talladega County they just looked at our the partnership through can’t do the same thing. would specifically benefit area alone, it would be CORE4. We’re doing this to sup- from this because we’re not difficult for a consultant to “Honda actually is the port our economic devel- listed as a metropolitan sta- look at us and say that we largest employer of St. opment professionals as tistical area, and neither is could equip another facili- Clair County citizens, they work together to Cleburne County,” Miller ty. Now working together, even though it’s not in St. bring jobs and industries said. “So sometimes our we increase our chances of Clair County,” Smith said. to our larger area.” statistics do not show up getting a larger project and “So by working together She also recognized on the radar of site selec- also more projects in the back in 1998, the citizens local examples of growth tion specialists because we meantime.” of St. Clair County were in the region, includ- don’t have enough people. Don Smith, execu- able to benefit, the citizens ing the presence of “This will help us in tive director for the St. of Talladega were able to Honda Manufacturing of that way, also. It will also Clair County Economic benefit and all of these sur- Alabama and Talladega help us participate in Development Council, rounding areas were able Superspeedway. regional marketing efforts, stressed the importance of to benefit. Grant Lynch, Talladega something we wouldn’t be smaller communities out- “So what we’re trying Superspeedway chairman, able to participate in by side of metropolitan areas to do is something similar, raved about the potential ourselves and take advan- banding together in order but get it on the front end of CORE4 for the sur- tage of the access we have to accomplish growth. to have this alliance work- rounding areas. here.” “They all came together ing together on the front “This is a tremendous According to Miller, understanding that it’s not end instead of having to thrill for us to have this the partnership becomes about zip codes and it’s not scramble and try to make group get together because advantageous when work- about boundaries,” Smith things work last minute.” there is strength in num- ing as a whole to draw in said. “It’s about opportu- He added while it’s bers,” Lynch said. more economic develop- nities for growth and for great to have an industry File photo Executive Director ment projects. wealth creation.” as large as Honda nearby, Local officials have praised the CORE4 initiative for the Talladega County “It would allow us Smith said having the as a significant partnership. Economic Development to actually attract larger previous experience of col- See Shift, Page 5B Authority Calvin Miller projects, simply because laborating with Talladega

000208786r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 5B Industries in Pell City continue to grow, prosper

By DAVID ATCHISON ed the Existing Industry al recruitment success has Home staff writer Seminar at the Pell City actually been more suc- Center, which brought cessful when the indus- Don Smith, the exec- together local businesses, tries expand than when utive director for the St. industries and educators originally recruited.” Clair County Economic to learn about available Months following Development Council, resources and how to bet- the Existing Industry said through cooperation ter help one another so Seminar, educators left between county and city Pell City and St. Clair the classrooms to tour and governments, local com- County continues to learn more about local panies and schools, Pell prosper. industries. City industries continue “I feel blessed that “We are connecting to grow and prosper. our company resides in education and economic “To me, the growth of a county that takes a development,” said Dr. companies that are already continued interest in the Michael Barber, super- here is as important as welfare and development intendent of Pell City File photo the recruitment of a new of its existing industries,” schools. company,” Smith said. said Jennifer Brown with Teachers, counselors Continued demand for Odyssey, Pilot and Acura vehicles kept HMA asso- Smith said a number of Riverside Refractories and school administra- ciates busy at the Lincoln facility last year. companies that are pillars Inc., who attended tors traveled to the Pell in the Pell City commu- the Existing Industry City Industrial Park to nity expanded in 2014, Seminar. get a closer look at what Shift and officials want to make In 2014, Riverside is available for students sure these and other com- Refractories expanded it when they graduate and From Page 4B panies have the workforce operations in Pell City. decide to go into the needed for expansions. “We are experiencing workforce. bringing in smaller projects is just as big trust that 20 million customers have “Our goal is to create a lot of expansion in our “I didn’t know what a benefit. placed in our products, and we appreciate a business environment existing industries, and was here,” said Susan “It’s just as important for us to be able their support over the past three decades,” in St. Clair County that as our industries expand, Graham, a counselor at to be competitive with those companies said Hidenobu Iwata, president and CEO encourages the growth of new management people Duran South Junior High that are going to hire 200 to 300 employ- of Honda of America Mfg. and head of our existing companies,” come in,” former St. Clair School. “I had no idea.” ees as well,” Smith said. Honda’s North American manufacturing. Smith said. County Commission Teachers talked with Miller said since the initial press con- “We also value the commitment made by In 2014 there was Chairman Stan Batemon leaders in the industri- ference, the economic leaders in each tens of thousands of associates at Honda much focus on connect- said during the Existing al sector of the city and county have been collaborating to cre- and our hundreds of suppliers in the U.S. ing educators with local Industry Seminar event. heard of their wants and ate a master list of assets available in who build products of the highest quality industries, so educators “This seminar has been needs for qualified skilled each region and they plan to meet with for our customers.” know the needs of local a great opportunity to workers. all economic leaders during the annual Honda Odyssey achieves industries, and local share the services of the “You hear students say, winter conference to communicate the excellent rating industries know what is different agencies that ‘Why are we doing this?’ four-county contingency plans to work The Honda Odyssey EX-L minivan available to them. can help those industries’ Or, ‘How am I going to as a team for future projects under the received the highest rating among min- This past year, the St. expansions be successful. CORE4 banner. ivans and wagons in the April issue of Clair County EDC host- Almost all of our industri- See Prosper, Page 6B Honda Manufacturing of Alabama “Consumer Reports” magazine. end-of-year production figures The Odyssey, one of four minivans Representatives from Honda or wagons receiving a recommendation Manufacturing of Alabama announced by the publication, bested the Nissan the facility produced an estimated Quest XL as well as the front-wheel-drive 361,948 Odyssey minivans, Pilot sport and all-wheel-drive versions of the Toyota utility vehicles, Ridgeline pickups, Acura Sienna XLE in the overall road-test score MDX luxury sport utility vehicles and the by more than five points. The minivan V-6 engines that power all four models also led the pack in miles-per-gallon, in 2014. coming in at 21 mpg. Preliminary figures including the pro- In the cost-per-mile rating catego- duction run completed Dec. 23, 2014, ry, the Odyssey’s 78-cent cost-per-mile show HMA built 144,382 Odyssey trailed only the front-wheel-drive Sienna’s File photo minivans, 133,692 Pilot SUVs, 10,015 cost-per-mile by three cents. Amtech, American Metal Technology, expanded and added new jobs to Ridgeline pickups and 73,859 Acura Retail price comparisons showed the its operations in Pell City. MDX luxury SUVs at the Lincoln facility. Odyssey, valued at $38,055, was the sec- “Continued customer demand for the ond-most expensive minivan or wagon Odyssey, Pilot and Acura MDX provided reviewed. our team with a very rewarding year for Positive feedback included in the THE FORD METER BOX COMPANY, INC. the more than 4,000 associates at our report praised the vehicle’s handling, ride, Lincoln facility,” said HMA President Jeff powertrain, fuel economy, interior size, Pipe Products Division Tomko. “It is the teamwork and dedica- comfortable seats and safety features. tion of each associate that has enabled us Very few negative notes appeared, as Pell City, Alabama to provide high quality products for our the magazine cited only a “confusing” Honda and Acura customers.” uplevel radio, fit and finish as problem The facility’s flexible production sys- areas for the product. tem offers the automaker the opportunity “We are very pleased to have the Manufacturing products for to quickly adjust production to meet cus- Alabama-manufactured Honda Odyssey tomer demand for each of the products rated highly and recommended by the distribution of water worldwide. that HMA builds. the editors of ‘Consumer Reports,’” During the past three years, HMA Honda North America Public Relations has announced investments totaling more Representative Sara Pines said. “We strive than $508 million to improve produc- to produce a fun-to-drive, safe, fuel effi- tion flexibility, enhance build quality and cient, reliable and versatile minivan to increase vehicle production. meet the needs of our customers and their Included in the investments of the past families, and this recognition is a wonder- three years is $71 million for construction ful confirmation of those efforts.” and equipment of a highly-automated engine assembly facility, which started Other notable major industry mile- limited production in late 2014. stones in Talladega County in 2014 Additionally, in early 2014, HMA included: brought its third stamping press on-line • The Talladega County Commission at the 3.7-million-square-foot facility. approved a tax abatement on a $71.8 mil- Honda as a whole celebrated a monu- lion Honda expansion project. mental milestone in 2014, producing its • Preliminary figures released by the 20 millionth vehicle. Alabama Tourism Department (ATD) in More than 30 years in the making, March 2014 indicate visitors to Talladega the tally officially began when the first County spent more than $73 million and Honda vehicle rolled off the assembly line were responsible for nearly 1,100 jobs in at the Honda of America Manufacturing’s 2013. Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio Nov. 1, • The Munford Town Council 1982. approved an extension of a previously-ap- Since HMA opened its doors in 2001, proved $4.4 million tax abatement for its associates have produced approximate- Alabama Specialty Products. ly 3.1 million automobiles. • The Talladega County Commission Honda of America Manufacturing’s unanimously approved a lease contract East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio and authorizing Lee Perryman with Marble Honda Manufacturing of Indiana con- City Media LLC to rent equipment space tributed to the remaining 5.5 million at County Line Tower at a cost of $500 share of vehicles built in America. a month to bring an FM radio station, “We are deeply aware that our ability WYEA, to Sylacauga and the surrounding to reach this milestone results from the area.

CONGRATULATING OUR ASSOCIATES FOR WORKING OVER 2.3 MILLION HOURS (NINE YEARS)

File photo Honda associate Ted Pratt talks with U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby during the WITHOUT A LOST-TIME ACCIDENT. lawmaker’s tour of the Lincoln manufacturing facility last year. 000208537r1 6B THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 Prosper

From Page 5B use this?’” Andy Robertson, a the recent expansion will cre- future.” teacher at the Pell City High, ate more than 120 new jobs. Riverside Refractories, said after the tour. “It’s good Eissmann produces interior which is headquartered in to get out and see.” parts for automobiles. Pell City, is a manufacturer The math and pre-engi- Amtech to expand, of specialty refractory prod- neering teacher said he saw install new equipment ucts. The company supplies practical uses of math a work Amtech announced a $2.4 refractory products to many in the industries teachers vis- million expansion in 2014 industries throughout North ited back in October. to their current facility and America including the iron “I want to stress how for- the installation of new equip- and steel industry. tunate we are to have these ment. Riverside Refractories was industries in our communi- “Amtech has continued to founded in 1929. The com- ty,” Barber said. grow since we first located pany has continued to expand Smith said the partner- here in Pell City 20 years its product lines and today ship between the local indus- ago,” said Jim Davidson, has facilities in Chicago, and tries and school system is president of American Metal Nanticoke, Ontario, in addi- becoming stronger. Technology, which is add- tion to Pell City. “From his first day, Dr. ing 30,000 square feet to Industrial Park named Barber has made it a prior- their current operations in AdvantageSite ity to make sure he under- the Pell City Industry Park. The Cogswell Industrial stood what skill-sets our local “Our decision to expand here Park Expansion received an industries need in this mod- again was due to Mayor (Joe) Alabama AdvantageSite des- ern day and also partner with Funderburg and the incredi- ignation by the Economic our community college to ble team he assembled during Development Partnership of provide more opportunities the decision-making process. Alabama in 2014. They acted quickly and pro- “We are very excited to to the students in Pell City,” vided us detailed information Smith said. receive the AdvantageSite and support in gathering the designation for the Cogswell There have been positive information needed to make strides in the industrial sector Expansion,” said Bob our decision. The local sup- Barnett, chairman of the Pell of Pell City, including the port we received made the expansion of several indus- City Industrial Development decision much easier for us.” Board. “It is our belief that File photo tries. Amtech is an international “As long as site develop- achieving the AdvantageSite company specializing in tube designation will be very ment and future economic fabrication and assemblies. City officials and Pell City Library Guild members tour the development continues to be attractive to prospective CenturyLink building, which will house the new public library for The company makes tubing companies looking at Pell the focus of the leaders in for the automotive industry, the city. Pell City, I expect 2015 to be City as a possible location as well as for heat exchanges for their operations.” another positive year,” Smith in heating and air units. said. The expansion also includ- The AdvantageSite pro- Pell City boasts new library Here are a few of the ed the 25 additional jobs for gram requires that commu- industrial highlights for the the local economy. nity economic development past year. Riverside Refractories organizations provide docu- space, other achievements Eissmann Automotive adds new mentation specific to a pro- announces more processing line posed industrial site, includ- expansion Riverside Refractories ing a set of standard data By DAVID ATCHISON signed the necessary documents to Eissmann Automotive recently expanded their pro- related to ownership/control, Home staff writer purchase the 55,000 square-feet, North America Inc. has con- duction capabilities with the environmental and geotech- two-storied building. “I feel that the tinued to grow since opening installation of a new process- nical conditions and infra- For more than a decade library CenturyLink building will certainly its operations in Pell City, ing line, a $3 million project. structure status. Sites must patrons had asked for a new library, meet the needs of the city.” and the company announced “As we continue to also meet size, zoning and saying the old one was too small The building was appraised for yet another expansion last improve our products and accessibility requirements. for the growing city – in 2014 they $4.5 million six years ago, and city year. processes, we are excited to The 125-acre site is with- finally got their wish. officials believe they got a great Eissmann announced announce the installation of in the Cogswell Industrial The $1 million purchase of the deal on the 25-year-old structure. the construction of a our new processing line,” said Park in Pell City, less than former CenturyLink building high- The city will lease out part of the 3,500-square-foot ware- John Morris, president of three miles from Interstate lighted 2014 for the city, not only building to CenturyLink but main- house, so it could free up Riverside Refractories. “The 20, with easy access from providing space for a new library tain control of the facility, which space for $2.8 million in new new line will allow us to sup- exits 158 and 162. The site but for the Pell City Chamber and will provide a place not only for equipment at their facility in port growth in production is owned by the Pell City other city offices. city offices and the new library but Pell City’s Industrial Park. and allow us to pursue addi- Industrial Development “It’s officially ours,” Mayor Joe An Eissmann official said tional opportunities in the Board. Funderburg said shortly after he See Boasts, Page 7B

000208859r1 Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 7B Boasts

From Page 6B

meeting and banquet rooms for also earmarked to bring Lakeside said Paul Webb of Talladega, who large gatherings, easing some of Park up to compliance with the is chairman of the Pell City Garden the traffic at the Pell City Civic American Disabilities Act and for Club Committee, which is over- Center. other park improvements, includ- seeing the planning for the native The city has allocated about ing a splash pad and possibly a plant walking trail. $1.2 million for renovations to the pool. The trail is next to the Kiwanis facility, and they are expected to Finally a portion of the bond Amphitheater and the LMLPA wet- begin soon. money will pay for renovations to lands boardwalk. The native plant “I think this is something the the civic center. walking trail is being built at no people of Pell City will be proud Lakeside Park undergoes cost to the city. of,” Funderburg said. “I think it improvements Major exhibit, triathlon is something they can look at with There were many improve- come to town pride.” ments to Lakeside Park last year, The city saw two events in 2014 The Council hired Williams including the construction of the that attracted people to the Pell Blackstock Architects for the archi- Logan Martin Lake Protection City. tectural services for the renova- Association (LMLPA) wetlands A Smithsonian exhibit “The tion of the CenturyLink building boardwalk and the Chapel in the Way We Worked,” which includ- and other projects that the city is Pines Amphitheater, both gifts to ed a local exhibit, “The Way We expected to start with a $5 million the people of Pell City. Worked in Pell City” was shown bond issue secured in 2014. The LMLPA held its official alongside the national Smithsonian The CenturyLink building was ribbon cutting ceremony for the exhibit. the biggest purchase for the city new wetlands boardwalk, which The national exhibit came from in 2014, but the year was also will also serve as an educational tool the National Achieves, showing highlighted with several events and for schools, in May. various aspects of the American projects to promote and move the “This is a grand occasion for worker during the 1940s, 50s and city forward. us,” said Mike Riley, the former 60s, while the local exhibit focused Here are a few highlights for the LMLPA president. on the worker of Pell City, includ- city during the past year as the city The $31,000 boardwalk and ing special emphasis on the old continues to grow and prosper. observation platform joined the Avondale Mills factory, which was $5 million bond secured park’s non-motorized trail and is a part of the community for a The Pell City Council secured next to the Kiwanis Amphitheater. century. a $5 million bond issue in 2014 to The First United Methodist The local exhibit not only show- complete several capital improve- Church in Pell City held its first cased the history of Pell City, but ment projects for this upcoming Christmas Eve service in the newly the national exhibit spotlighted the completed Chapel in the Pines city for others to visit and see. year. Pell City was the first of six stops The city held public meetings Amphitheater. The amphitheater will have in the state for the national travel- to see what the public wanted for ing exhibit. the city, focusing on quality of life many uses and is available to the Another event to shine a spot- File photos projects, which much of the $5 public. light on Pell City in 2014, was the million is being used for. “It’s a great time for us, for the Toughman Alabama Triathlon held The city purchased the former Avondale Mills site, The purchase of the church, and, hopefully the commu- in August. along with other Avondale property, for $1 million. CenturyLink building for a new nity,” said First United Methodist The event brought more than library was one of the items high Church Senior Pastor Bryon Vance. 350 athletes from 16 states to com- on the public’s list. Chapel in the Pines Sunday sun- pete in a half-triathlon - swimming, Part of the $5 million, about rise services will be held during the cycling, and running. $1 million, will also be used to summer months, but the $40,000 The event was a warm-up pay back the city for the purchase amphitheater with a large stage and for the Ironman competition in of the former Avondale Mills site. seating for 300 people can also be Chattanooga and participants said The city used money in reserves used for special events, outdoor the course in Pell City compared to pay for the property. The city concerts, and fishing tournament well with the course in Chattanooga. plans to turn the 28-acre tract into weigh-ins. “For the first year, the event was a park, preserving the building on Construction of a new Native a homerun,” said Emily Rollins of the property as a museum. The Plant Walking Trail is also on the Brentwood, Tenn., who participat- Avondale property will provide the horizon for Lakeside Park. The new ed in the competition. city with green space in the middle trail, more like a small botanical The city is slated to hold its sec- of the historic area of the city. A garden with native plants, is a Pell ond Toughman Alabama Triathlon master plan for the park is still City Garden Club project, with competition in 2015, and city being developed. community involvement. officials are expecting even bigger A portion of the bond money is “This is a community project,” crowds for this year’s event. The Talladega County Economic Development Authority Welcomes Atlas Rooing ® and IKO Shingles 2071 Sylacauga-Fayetteville Hwy. | Sylacauga AL 35151 Phone: +1 256 245 1777 | Fax: +1 256 245 0606

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Website: http://www.omya-na.com (256) 245-8332 000209107r1 000208758r1 www.tceda.com 8B THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015 ‘Exciting’ changes in industry for Childersburg, Sylacauga

By ZAC AL-KHATEEB material in the world in places IKO opens in Sylacauga tries totaling the amount of ship with Talladega County and Home staff writer like China, Italy and Dubai, as Sylacauga also became home $16.4 million. the city of Childersburg to build well as U.S. cities like Orlando, of the largest IKO manufac- One of the tax abatements a $49-million re-refining plant, The year 2014 marked an Fla., and Las Vegas. turing plant in the world, with went to Blue Bell Creameries, which would provide 25 people exciting change for the industry Michael Landers, a Sylacauga the opening of a 330,000-square one of the most well-known with full employment. of the Marble City. resident who represents TBGS foot facility in October. industries in Sylacauga. The construction would Production of the city’s for Baker Donelson law firm in The Canada-based company, The $5.3 million abatement take place in the Childersburg unique and perhaps most valu- Birmingham, expects TBGS to which manufactures and distrib- will last 10 years and will go Industrial Park and would recy- able resource – its pure-white do a good job of marketing the utes roofing and tiling, made toward the construction of a cle used motor oil that comes to marble – came under new marble worldwide. Sylacauga the first Southern city new production area, truck the plant. The plant’s purpose management in 2014, with big “What it does for the city to host one of its manufacturing shop and warehouse, the result- will be to return the used oil to changes planned for the future. specifically, is folks in that indus- plants as it had previously only ing expansion of which should base oil, a fundamental building The Sylacauga Marble try know Sylacauga pure-white,” had distribution centers in the introduce up to 17 additional block of oil lubricants. Quarry, as it is now known, came Landers said. “And they know region. jobs in the area. Seventy percent of the mate- under the control of U.S. TBGS the quality, and they know the The opening created 60 Two weeks later, the coun- rial that would be reverted to Holdings LLC, which gained durability, and they know the new jobs in Sylacauga, with the cil again unanimously approved base oil, 15 percent as light control of the quarry from the purity of that stone. The other potential to add as many as 20 a 10-year tax abatement, this distillate fuel and 15 percent as Alabama Marble Company in thing that it does, as more and more, depending on supply and time for Heritage Plastics Inc. asphalt flux, all of which can be November. more sculptors use that prod- demand. Though the plant is as the company embarked on an used at the plant or sold to other TBGS is a partnership uct – and it’s in high demand still reaching full production, $11.1 million expansion for new re-refining plants. between the Swindal fami- in more and more sculptors – it can produce hundreds of production lines. The expansion Construction of the plant is ly, which own Masonry Arts obviously, the pieces that get thousands of shingles in a busy could result in eight jobs for the expected to be complete by mid- in Bessemer, and a consortium out there are going to become month. city. 2015. of Chinese investors headed by more and more noteworthy for Derek Fee, Director of cor- In July, the council approved JX Nippon Oil expands businessman Chang Yan Tan, Sylacauga.” porate communications at IKO, a 10-year, $4.6 million tax in Childersburg who wish to meet a growing While their plans could result said this is a positive step for abatement for Fleetwood Metal Ten miles away, the nearby demand in China for some of in Sylacauga becoming the both Sylacauga and IKO. Industries. Two months prior, city of Childersburg approved the best marble in the world. American equivalent of Carrara, “It was exciting for us,” Fee it approved a $22.6 abatement its own 10-year, $15 million tax Efforts to clean up and orga- Italy – another city known for said. “It represents a step for- for Imerys, which, although not abatement for JX Nippon Oil nize the quarry are still ongoing, its flawless white marble – the ward for us now and our abil- in Sylacauga city limits, is well and Energy USA Inc. but Roy Swindal, whose family ownership could result in a huge ity to serve the southeast and within its police jurisdiction. The abatement is going runs Masonry Arts, hopes to economic impact in the city. our ability to serve the entire “Obviously (industry is) on toward expansion of its produce three or four blocks of After all, someone will need to U.S. We were excited to open the uprise right now,” Sylacauga Childersburg plant – tank addi- Sylacauga pure-white by the end help retrieve the stone from the as well.” Council President Rocky Lucas tions, warehouse space and the of 2015. quarry, an endeavor that could Local industries given said. “We don’t just give abate- associated equipment necessary Where the previous tenants result in 30 to 40 jobs created in opportunities to grow ments just to help out with to increase production. All of used the marble extensively in Sylacauga. Sylacauga did more than just what they’ve currently going on. the expansions will increase its the calcium carbonate business, ”The people of Sylacauga are welcome new industries and new We give tax abatements because output of industrial lubricants the new owners plan to mar- the ones that are going to be ownership within its city limits. they’re expanding or they’re by 50 percent. ket the unique mineral on a pulling it out of the ground for It also allowed already-existing brand new.” In the meantime, the expan- national and international scale. us,” said Swindal. industries to expand. AGL announces new plant sion will result in 50 to 100 Indeed, TBGS intends to intro- “This town is known as The Sylacauga City Council in Childersburg temporary construction jobs and duce the marble as some of the Marble Town for a long, long approved several tax abatements In February, Alabama Green 14 permanent positions once best architectural and sculpting time, and it still is.” for local and surrounding indus- Lubricants announced a partner- construction is complete.

File photo

The largest IKO manufacturing plant in the world, comprised of 330,000 square feet, is now open in Sylacauga.

File photo Alabama Marble Company’s name changed to the Sylacauga Marble Quarry during 2014, and more changes are in the works.

File photo JX Nippon Oil benefited from a $15 million tax abatement from the city of Childersburg during 2014, boosting an expansion creating as many as 100 new jobs. Sunday, February 22, 2015 THE DAILY HOME 9B

Sylacauga, Childersburg Local governments get face lifts

By ZAC AL-KHATEEB At that time, police could as an opportunity for the police for reliability reasons. We want it’s hard to know exactly where Home staff writer only be recruited within the cor- to better understand community proven, tried and true equip- everything’s at,” White said. “So, porate limits of the city, and 30 concerns. ment.” with this, there’s not going to be While Sylacauga saw growth minutes’ driving time of city Whetstone said he was more The fire department also a question of anybody not going. and progress in its government hall. Now, the city can recruit than impressed with all the received $70,000 in grant Both parties are going to go.” in 2014, perhaps no department police officers within an hour’s attempts at outreach Carden has money from the 2013 Assistance Sylacauga offices made more concerted efforts at drive of the city. implemented in just 2014 alone. to Firefighters program, admin- get face lift expanding than the Sylacauga Two weeks later, the coun- “That needs to be conveyed istered by the Federal Emergency The Sylacauga Municipal Police Department. cil approved a recommenda- to the citizens more,” Whetstone Management Agency. The Complex also saw considerable While the rest of the country tion by Carden to purchase 28 said. “And that hopefully will be money went for a major tech- improvement in 2014, as the criticized the police departments body cameras and two stand- brought out in this event: ‘Oh, nology upgrade, including new building underwent a $987,000 in places like Ferguson, Missouri alone hard drives for a total they are? Oh, they are reaching computers and software for fire renovation, which began in May, and New York City, Sylacauga cost of $11,492. The purchase out?’” department vehicles. as well as a $1.2 million energy Police Chief Chris Carden was another effort by Carden It is work, Carden said, that Sylacauga wasn’t the only city efficiency upgrade by Trane. worked to ensure his police force to ensure accountability in his will ultimately create a stronger to come up with a new fire Some of the other enhance- would never be faced with such officers. relationship between his police engine, either. Childersburg was ments included more structurally scrutiny. “I think body cameras are force and the Sylacauga com- also able to finance a $650,000 sound windows, handicap acces- Carden decided to con- now going to be used by every munity. truck for no more than $32,500, sible entrances and increased sult other chiefs in a roundta- agency everywhere in the coun- “We’ve been really well-re- thanks to a grant from the efficiency among ventilation and ble event to discuss numerous try and I think that that level ceived in the community,” Firefighters Assistance Fund. The air conditioning equipment in topics, including the impor- of transparency is where we’re Carden said. “The biggest issue truck, which will arrive in May, the Municipal Complex. tance of having a more diverse going to be and I think we will is making sure the people in is expected to raise Childersburg “We were about to the point police force and the means in never be able to back up from Sylacauga know who the police homeowners’ insurance ratings where we had to do some- which police departments could it,” Carden said. “And you know, are and that the police knows by one point. thing,” Sylacauga Mayor Doug improve their images and rela- as far as I’m concerned, that’s who the public is. We aren’t Perhaps the most progress Murphree said. “They pretty tions among the communities fine with me ….” strangers and we don’t want to shown among the cities in the much told us we had to do they serve. Carden did more than simply treat others like strangers.” southeastern part of the coun- something before it deteriorated. A.C. Roper, Shane Denham confer with his peers and work Local fire departments ty was a mutual agreement The Sylacauga police and fire and Doug Wesson, police chiefs from within the police depart- partner up, get between Sylacauga, Sycamore, departments also saw notable of the Birmingham, Anniston ment to create change, however. new engines Childersburg, Fayetteville and upgrades. The former jail at the and Childersburg police depart- He, along with Mayor Doug The fire departments in Oak Grove to fight structural police department was made to ments, respectively, all attend- Murphree, have worked with Sylacauga, Oak Grove and fires within the gray area of look more like administration ed the event, as well as Greg community partners to increase Childersburg all came into new blurred city lines. offices. The $287,000 allocation Townsend, co-chair of the understanding and knowledge fire trucks in 2014. Because of Sylacauga’s central to the police department will Birmingham Metro Diversity between the police and the Sylacauga’s department came location to the aforementioned move all police operations to one Coalition, and Rev. Hugh members of the community they into a new, $491,000 truck, that communities, it only made sense side of the building, with admin- Morris, president of the Alabama serve. features a stainless steel body, for two cities to respond to a fire istration now across the parking State Conference of the NAACP. Carden and his officers 8-foot extendable light tower, when it was unclear whose juris- lot from the records office. Nearly a month later, Carden attended an event on Jan. 11, safety enhancements, a 1,500 diction a fire fell under. The Fire Department also followed up on his efforts to spearheaded by Terranne Borden gallons-per-minute water pump Oak Grove Mayor Tony received about $153,000 in increase the diversity in his and Mike Whetstone, adminis- and the ability to carry 1,000 White, himself a member of the upgrades in the form of two police force: In early December, trator and pastor at Refuge IV gallons of water and 50 gallons Sylacauga Fire Department, said new offices and bathrooms, new the Sylacauga City Council Church, respectively, to address of foam. it was an excellent idea, cour- flooring and renovations to the approved a recommendation by community members – partic- “Everything on this truck is tesy of former Sylacauga chief living quarters. Carden to extend the city’s res- ularly young, black males – to proven,” former fire chief Matt Missildine. “I think it was time to do it,” idency requirement for police help them understand how to Missildine said. “There is noth- “The city limits and town Murphree said, “and it makes a personnel. deal with police. It also served ing cutting edge on it, and that’s limits are cut up so much, that difference with the employees.”

File photo Sylacauga’s fire department obtained a new truck last year, as well as a $70,000 grant to upgrade More functionality. technology used by firefighters. With fewer parts. For less money. Impossible? 301 North Broadway Ave. Sylacauga, AL 35150 One company can. 256-401-2400 One process can.

A progressive community where all the pieces fi t. From our business and industry to the families and individuals who make their home here, the diversity of our town Locally Owned and Operated is evident.Sylacauga has state of the art medical services, outstanding schools, Since 1997 exceptional library, multiple recreational File photo opportunities, and a strong business and Manufacturing Aluminum industrial base. Roadway Progress Lost Foam Castings for

The Alabama Department of Transportation SYLACAUGA Original Equipment installed new caution lights at one of the more dangerous intersections in Talladega County MARBLE Manufacturers during 2014. The caution lights were put in place at the intersection of the 275 Bypass FESTIVAL 1014 Wynette Road • Sylacauga, AL and Jackson Trace Road. All four of the lights are solar powered, and new road stripes were 256-249-8400 also put in place at the intersection. APRIL 8 -19 , 20 14 000196477r1 www.americanfoamcast.com 000209079r1 10B THE DAILY HOME Sunday, February 22, 2015

In closing Significant advancements made in local govern- ment and industry sectors during 2014 include (top photo) a change in ownership at Sylacauga Marble Quarry, which could result in a large eco- nomic impact; (middle photo) efforts to devel- op the former Avondale Mills property in Pell City; and (bottom photo) the completion of road improvements on Interstate 20 in St. Clair County.

THE CITY OF Childersburg, Alabama Childersburg, Oldest City in America...1540

Mayor James D. Payne Robert M. (Bubba) Cleckler, Jr., Council Member / Ward A Michele N. Whisman, Council Member / Ward B Angesa Twymon, Council Member / Ward C Billy Lester, Council Member / Mayor Pro Tempore /Ward D Ralph R. Rich, Council Member / Ward E

CITY HALL City Council Meetings held on First and Third Tuesdays of each month at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall Whether you are here to live, work, study or play, you will find a great sense of energy, enthusiasm and excitement in all aspects of the community. From residential to business development, you will discover that Childersburg is truly a community which is doing things. A great spot to vacation. 000209135r1 ABB TT AGE, INC. Specializing in providing precision performance in dimensional and electronic metrology, sales, and service of precision measuring instruments. Our key strategy is to handle all the details of calibration, certication, sales, and service, allowing you to focus on the core competencies of your business, The following are just some of the tools and instruments that we service and certify Surface Plates Gage Blocks Indicators Calipers Micrometers Torque renches Thickness Gages epth Gages Height Gages Protractors End Standards Radius Gages Inside Micrometers Clamp Meters Pressure Gages elders And MORE e are a faster, more lexible company, tailoring our services to our customers requirements. Regardless of your needs... dimensional, electronic, pressure or torque Abbott Gage, Inc. is here for you 000209023r1 www.abbottgageinc.com 40 Industrial Park Childersburg, AL 1.800.481.4243