Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce MAY 2016 the
Annual Chamber Chase Campaign Launches
New Company Announces Meet Our Three 125,000-square-foot Small Business of Warehouse the Year Nominees
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10623 CSpire CSBS PersonalService 9.25x12.indd 1 6/25/15 1:08 PM CB VIEW Ad-4-Losing_Not_An_Option.indd 1 11/12/15 12:08 PM the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce MAY 2016 | In this issue
ON THE COVER Mark Hieronymus, owner of Hieronymus CPAs, is leading this year’s Chamber Chase campaign. He’s pictured here at the Ronald McDonald House. See story on pgs. 20-21. Photo by Jeff Tesney
5 News You Can Use 9 State Trade Awards Presented 11 Finalists for Small Business of the Year Announced: B&B Pet Stop, FusionPoint Media and Karen C. Simmons PC 14 Small Business Conference 2016 16 Outstanding Entrepreneur: Grace Pilot 19 Small Business of the Month: e-worc 9 20 Hieronymus Heads Chamber Chase 22 A Culture of Giving 27 Investor Focus: Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc. 28 Chamber@Work 30 Business Spotlight of the Month: 27 Nationwide Skilled Trades 30 Ambassador of the Month: Mary Dean Wilbur 31 Emily Jerkins Promoted to Research Manager at Chamber 32 Board of Advisor Profiles 33 CEO Profile: Janet Cobb 34 Calendar 36 Member News 38 Anniversaries 39 New Members
the business view is published monthly, except for the combined issue of December/January, by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE 451 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602 251-433-6951 www.mobilechamber.com ©2016
Publisher William B. Sisson Executive Editor Leigh Perry-Herndon Managing Editor Jennifer Jenkins Copy Editor Michelle Irvin
Additional Writers and Editors 14 Kelli Dugan, Ashley Horn, Susan Rak-Blanchard, Danette Richards and Carolyn Wilson
Printing Services: Interstate Printing/Direct Mail Graphic Design: Wise Design Inc. Advertising Account Executive: René Eiland 11 251-431-8635 [email protected] 4 the business view MAY 2016 NEWS you can use Danby Group Announces Warehouse and Distribution Center in Saraland
Danby Products, a “Danby is a great manufacturer of appliances example of the positive announced it will open a impact that the Port of southern distribution Mobile has on new and warehouse in Saraland to serve expanding industry. customers located across the The new intermodal Southeastern U.S. in Alabama, and container Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, expansions at the Louisiana, Mississippi, Port will continue Oklahoma, South Carolina and to support industry parts of Texas. The operations growth and investment will be located in a 125,000- in the Mobile area,” square-foot facility that will said David Rodgers, ultimately include a small project manager factory outlet retail store. for the Mobile Area The new facility opened in Chamber. April and is located at 252 “This new business Jacintoport Blvd., in the Mobile opportunity will enable River Industrial Park. Once us to grow our business fully-operational, the company with our current and will employ 25 full time new customers located workers. in the southern United Eian Campbell, director of States,” said Campbell. operations with Danby said the “We are excited that Danby company evaluated the ability of has decided to add Saraland to numerous locations to receive the list of cities it calls home. Travel to beautiful inbound ocean containers in Mobile County and the entire conjunction with a review of region benefit from the diversity outbound transportation this distribution center adds to services – specifically road our business and industry transportation and intermodal profile,” said Mobile County rail service. They also evaluated Commissioner Merceria warehousing opportunities Ludgood whose district is coupled with a review of the where Danby will be located. with the Chamber in November skill sets of the local workforce. “Danby’s record of “The results of this study environmental stewardship determined that Mobile and the makes it a welcome partner as November 3 - 11, 2016 surrounding area was the ideal we work to maximize port Highlights of the trip include: San Jose, Coffee Plantation, Guanacaste, location for the Danby group operations while protecting our Monteverde Cloud Forest, Hanging Bridges Tour, Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal of companies to put its new water resources that we value Cruise, Cooking Demonstration,Cano Negro Refuge, Zarcero, National Theatre distribution warehouse,” he so much.” said. You’ll see this symbol with Enjoy the tropical Learn about Costa Rica's Danby will be utilizing the stories featuring Chamber initiatives. landscapes and unique vegetation on a guided Spot indigenous wildlife breathtaking scenery Port of Mobile to receive nature walk through while on a Cano Negro surrounding incoming merchandise in ocean the cloud forest. riverboat cruise. Arenal Volcano. containers, and with this expansion, will be able to extend Cost: $2,699 per person (based on double occupancy) current business relationships Includes: Airfare, hotel, tour guides, transportation, many meals, excursions & more with its transportation providers Contact Leigh Perry-Herndon at 251-431-8645 to utilize the readily accessible rail intermodal and transport truck over the road services.
the business view MAY 2016 5 MAAS Aviation Breaks Ground on Paint Shop to Support MRO Aerospace Industry
Just a week before the first growing aerospace sector,” said to the size of Airbus A321 and facility here at Brookley Airbus A321 painted in Mobile Troy Wayman, vice president of Boeing B757, and is expected to represents the largest single rolled out of a MAAS Aviation economic development at the be in service by the end of 2016. investment undertaken in the hangar, the company broke Mobile Area Chamber. “Their Once fully operational, it will history of our company,” he ground on a twin-bay paint presence will be key to our create 100 jobs. said. “Brookley will be our U.S. shop facility dedicated to the continued growth.” “This development at headquarters, and we look maintenance, repair and According to MAAS officials, Brookley presents an forward to providing world- overhaul (MRO) market. The the $13 million MRO facility can opportunity for MAAS to co- class levels of service to aircraft new facility will also support cater to all passenger airlines, locate our aircraft painting operators and owners located the company’s existing painting leasing company owners and operations with Airbus and VT throughout the Americas right operations at the Airbus final freight carriers from a single Mobile Aerospace,” said Tim here in Mobile from the end of assembly line. The paint shop aircraft to entire fleet rebranding Macdougald, vice president of 2016.” will be located at Mobile programs. It is being built to MAAS Aviation USA. MAAS Aviation, Aeroplex at Brookley. service the single-aisle, narrow- “These are momentous headquartered in Dublin, also “MAAS brings much- body aircraft market with times for MAAS Aviation, and has European facilities in The needed capabilities to the capacity of 90 aircraft a year up the construction of this painting Netherlands and Germany.
National Transportation Research Group Names Mobile’s Greatest Transportation Deficiencies
A new report identifies Alabama’s 50 most-needed transportation improvements to address deficient, crowded or congested roads, highways and bridges throughout the state. Released by TRIP, a Washington D.C.-based national transportation research organization, five of the top 20 projects in Alabama are located in Mobile. “Good infrastructure and economic development go hand in hand,” said Bill Sisson, president and CEO of the Mobile Area Chamber. “In Mobile, we’re blessed with an excellent transportation network – deep water, air, interstate and rail. But to remain competitive, it’s critical that improvements and expansion continue to be made to that network.” Making needed transportation improvements would enhance economic development opportunities throughout the state by increasing mobility and freight movement, easing congestion, improving safety and making Alabama an attractive place to live, visit and do business, according to the report. The top five projects in Mobile are: • Capacity improvements on I-10 from downtown Mobile across Mobile Bay; • Widening U.S. 98 from the Mississippi state line to Mobile; • Adding lanes on I-10 from the Mississippi state line to Mobile; • Adding lanes to I-10 on the Eastern Shore; and • Widening U.S. 90 in Mobile.
6 the business view MAY 2016 Free Digital Marketing Help for Chamber Members
Digital marketing can be out our new product possible. When consumers are challenging for any size now sold in-store!” searching for the products and business. Marketing costs • Social media services you provide, SLN will money. Email marketing costs sharing. The SLN help place your business higher money. Search engine platform allows and higher on search engines optimization and social media you to share like Google. management cost money. How business “Whatever the size of your do you compete? promotions to business, this benefit is available Save Local Now (SLN) is the your own social for you with minimal effort, Mobile Area Chamber’s media pages, and it’s free with your Chamber solution to all these challenges including membership,” said Carolyn and is free to all members. SLN’s Facebook, Golson, the Chamber’s vice mission, in conjunction with the Twitter and • Search engine optimization. president of membership. “If Chamber, is to support local Google+. SLN provides free search you aren’t already using this business by better connecting • Email marketing. Share engine optimization to each benefit, call the membership them to the people in their your business promotions member’s profile. When you department today at 251-431- community. through SLN’s free email sign into your SLN platform 8617 to get started.” SLN digital tools include: marketing. Keep in mind this is (SLN trainers are available to For more information, visit • Post publishing. This your email marketing; SLN does help you with a login and www.mobilechamber.com/ platform lets you publish not have access to your email list password to claim your page), save-local-now. promotions for your business, and reminds you that while make sure you have accurate such as: “BOGO for First Time social media is to reach more and up-to-date information, a Customers!” or “We’re open customers, email marketing is detailed business description late on Wednesdays” or “Check to generate more revenue. and as many keywords as
Pathway USA Leads Bishop and Faulkner State Graduates to South
The University of South Pathway USA will begin Bishop and Faulkner individual guidance on course Alabama’s (USA) new Pathway with the 2016 fall semester and students who enter the Pathway selection and map out degree USA program with Bishop is geared toward students who USA program will have unique plans; State and Faulkner State are not admitted to South as benefits, such as: • Reverse Transfer Community Colleges will be a well as students who may • Guaranteed admission to agreements that will allow vehicle for attendees to achieve simply prefer to begin their USA upon successful Bishop and Faulkner students a four-year degree. The college education at Bishop and completion of the associate’s who transfer to South without academic partnership will Faulkner. Students may choose degree with a cumulative an associate’s degree to enable more local community to have a copy of their USA grade-point average of 2.0 or complete that degree after college graduates to transfer to application and supporting higher; entering USA; USA and earn bachelor’s documents forwarded to either • A USA academic advisor • Special discounts through degrees, said USA President college for admission assigned to them who will USA’s Jaguar Productions; and Tony Waldrop. consideration. meet students at Bishop and • Complimentary admission Faulkner State and provide to USA athletic events.
the business view MAY 2016 7 Logical Computer Solutions
To our customers, we say “Thank You.” We are proud to be a part of your success. Our mission is to always exceed your expectations by: ■ Providing reliable and responsive IT systems ■ Permanently solving problems, making your staff more productive ■ Minimizing costs through efficiency and planning (3 to 5 year budgets) ■ Keeping you secure and in compliance ■ Providing fiber, voice and data center hosting
We also believe that our beautiful coastal environment and our quality of life draw and retain business to the Gulf Coast. We showcase these valuable resources at www.FlyTheCoast.com
Celebrating 30 Years in Mobile (251) 661-3111 www.Logicalus.com 724 Lakeside Drive W. [email protected] Mobile, AL 36693
8 the business view MAY 2016 Logical Computer Solutions Two Chamber Member Companies from Mobile Receive Trade Awards
Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey recently presented Trade Excellence Awards to two Mobile-based To our customers, we say “Thank You.” companies, Aker Solutions Inc., and MapuSoft Technologies. We are proud to be a part of your success. The Mobile Area Chamber nominated the companies based on international trade Our mission is to always exceed your activity and participation. expectations by: Aker Solutions offers energy companies a wide range of ■ Providing reliable and responsive IT systems expertise, including subsea production equipment and ■ Permanently solving problems, making offshore field design. The firm also performs maintenance and your staff more productive other services to extend the lifetime of oil and gas fields. ■ Minimizing costs through efficiency MapuSoft provides software solutions used in embedded Aker Solutions received a Governor’s Trade Award. Team members are pictured above with Lt. Governor Kay Ivey (third from right). and planning (3 to 5 year budgets) devices in the military/aerospace, ■ telecom/networking, medical, Keeping you secure and in compliance automotive and consumer ■ electronics industries. The Providing fiber, voice and data center hosting company’s tools are used to migrate embedded software to new operating systems and develop new applications that run on multiple computing environments. The International Trade We also believe that our beautiful coastal environment and Administration, a U.S. Department of Commerce our quality of life draw and retain business to the Gulf Coast. agency that promotes efforts of nonagricultural services and We showcase these valuable resources at goods, reports less than 1 percent of America’s 30 million www.FlyTheCoast.com companies export – a percentage significantly lower than all other developed countries. “We have a significant number of companies in the Mobile area that are exporting, but we do want to see that number grow,” said Christina Stimpson, director of the Chamber’s international Celebrating 30 Years trade program. “We hope this recognition in Mobile helps other companies explore international markets as a viable Members of the MapuSoft team received a trade award. The team is pictured above with Lt. Governor Kay Ivey (second from right). way to grow their business,” she added. “Many businesses (251) 661-3111 could benefit from learning Alabama’s 2015 exports, valued primary metals and machinery. Linden Lumber LLC, Linden; about international business at $19.37 billion, held steady at Other recipients of the 2016 MMI Outdoor Inc., www.Logicalus.com opportunities and what near-record levels despite Governor’s Trade Excellence Montgomery; Schreiber LLC, 724 Lakeside Drive W. resources are available to help.” headwinds in global markets. Awards were: GATR Trussville; and TriVector [email protected] Mobile, AL 36693 According to the Alabama Top exports included Technologies in Huntsville; Services Inc., Huntsville. Department of Commerce, transportation equipment, Life Data Labs Inc., Cherokee;
the business view MAY 2016 9 WHERE YOU EARN YOUR DEGREE SAYS A LOT ABOUT YOU.
Through Bama By Distance you can earn a college degree from one of the best schools in the country. You can complete courses around your schedule and from any location. When you finish, you will join a worldwide community of people who have done more than earn a DISTANCE LEARNING degree. They lead. Your diploma will say you are one of the many who Rise with the Tide.
10 the business view MAY 2016 BamaByDistance.ua.edu/mobile 800-467-0227 June 6-8 SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE Finalists Announced for Small Business of the Year
According to the judges for speaks strongly of future C. Simmons PC. Together, these During the Small Business the Mobile Area Chamber’s growth.” companies employ 59 people conference, the Chamber will 2016 Small Business of the Year • “The firm has taken a and have operated in Mobile 57 offer three valuable professional award, the finalists this year number of creative, innovative years. development opportunities to were an impressive bunch. and necessary steps to ensure On Wednesday, June 8, increase business growth. Topics Among their comments: future expansion.” during the Chamber’s Small include matching small • “They have a handle on the • “It appears they value Business Awards luncheon, the businesses and potential needs to expand their customer employees as well as customers.” winner will be revealed as well lenders, addressing critical legal base with creative campaigns • “Longevity of client as the Outstanding Entrepreneur issues and engaging employees and marketing.” relationships speaks volumes.” of the Year, E. Grace Pilot, in the innovation process. • “Their focus on developing Finalists for Small Business co-founder of Pilot Catastrophe (See more on pg 14.) a new line of business across of the Year are: B&B Pet Stop, Services. diverse, yet related, markets FusionPoint Media and Karen
B&B Pet Stop
Years in business: 35 A few years ago, the Number of employees: 44 expansion of big box Address: 5035 Cottage Hill Rd. competitors in Mobile and www.bbpetstop.com online sales dealt a blow to the company. The Trufant trio As a child, B&B Pet Stop buckled down and made 2014 founder Bill Trufant was so the “year of renovation,” fascinated with tropical fish that followed by 2015, the “year of when he was old enough to marketing.” work, he was paid in fish for B&B made improvements to the first few years. Spring Hill its store, introduced new College lured the Louisiana discounts, added inventory and native to Mobile, and after revamped its customer loyalty graduating he opened his first program. In addition, B&B store in 1981 in Saraland. Within organized a year’s worth of a year, he moved it to Mobile to unique events to draw people to be closer to his customers. the store – like Extreme Ferret In its 10th year, Trufant Races, Bunny Hop and pet expanded the business to a photos, donating the proceeds 14,400-square-foot superstore to local rescue groups. on Cottage Hill Road near B&B Pet Stop has 44 University Boulevard, and employees and is celebrating its recruited his sisters, Sally 35th anniversary this year. Trufant and Mary Trufant, to join the company.
the business view MAY 2016 11 SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE June 6-8 FusionPoint Media by being accessible all hours of Years in business: 16 Number of employees:5 the day. That personal response Address: 4356 Midmost Dr. to the growing cry of “I need www.fusionpointmedia.com it ASAP” is the heart of FusionPoint’s success and The team at FusionPoint customer growth. Media knows “it’s never the And in keeping with their cookie-cutter approach that wows “Yes, we can” attitude, after the crowd.” To stay relevant the purchasing a 6,000-square-foot company must produce a fresh building last year, the 16-year- mix of videos, graphic design, old company’s five employees web design and photography took on some of the needed to capture attention-getting renovations themselves, results for both local clients strapping on their tool belts and and Fortune 500 customers. getting out their paint brushes. The founding members, led The new in-house studios by President Brian Jordan, have will provide another revenue roots back to QMS (now Konica stream for the company. One Minolta) as members of the is currently being rented to a QMS marketing team and a client producing a nationally former QMS client. syndicated reality show They strive to take customer broadcast on the Oxygen service to unprecedented levels channel. Karen C. Simmons PC
Years in business: 5 Number of employees: 10 Address: 712 Oak Circle Dr. E., Ste. A www.ksimmonscpa.com
When it comes to handling a client’s financials and/or taxes, the margin for error is zero. And that’s a truism that applies to the majority of Karen C. Simmons PC’s customers – small businesses. Before starting her own company five years ago, Karen Simmons was a partner in a larger firm. In the past year, she has implemented new technologies, offering clients 24/7 access to tax records, the ability to export file backups and live, one-on- one assistance. season down to one. Employees a Payroll Vault franchise. The her family-friendly policies Despite crediting increased participate in continuing move is saving her customers make the difference. technology with making her education and adjust hours to time, money and liability, and “Employees who are more efficient, technology also stay ahead of the timeline as expanded her services to include encouraged to actively presents one of the company’s much as possible. payroll, timekeeping and human participate in the things they greatest challenges, Simmons Last year, Simmons took resource functions. enjoy tend to have an even said. Delays in releasing tax advantage of the decreasing While retaining employees greater drive to be successful season software reduce an number of firms offering at a small company can be in their jobs,” she said. industry-wide four-month busy payroll services by purchasing challenging, Simmons believes 12 the business view MAY 2016 We start by extending our hand, not forty-two forms for you to sign.
the business view MAY 2016 13
FCBK_40727-04_2016_LenderPrintAd_ChamberOfCommerce_9-25x12_Forms.indd 1 3/2/16 3:58 PM SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE June 6-8 Small Business Conference 2016: Information You Need to Make Your Business Grow
The Mobile Area Chamber’s Small Business Conference offers networking and professional development seminars designed to “Critical Legal Issues Impacting arm business owners and entrepreneurs with critical knowledge, Business Growth” tools and strategies. During this conference, participants will meet experts who will provide business advice and consulting, business Program: Facilitated by David Hannan, shareholder, Maynard development and growth strategies, and lenders to assist with Cooper & Gale PC financing needs. Sessions include: Legal headaches and the danger of crippling litigation and liability can take you by surprise and severely hurt your business’s bottom line. Leading attorneys and professionals will address June 6 timely topics of new rules relating to independent contractors, the joint employer rule, workplace violence, cyber liability, social media, “Where’s the Money?” non-compete agreements and how to protect your company from Matching Businesses and Lenders for costly litigation. When: 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Business Growth Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. Program: Facilitated by the Alabama Small Business Development Cost: $20 members or $25 nonmembers. The first 20 Chamber Center Network (SBDC) members to register will receive a $5 discount. One of the most pressing challenges to managing and expanding a small business is having or finding sufficient resources for capital. “Where’s the Money?” kicks off with presentations from June 8 financing experts providing capital from $500 to more than $2 million. You’ll learn what financing options are available and Mobile Area Small Business whether you should use debt, equity or alternative sources of Awards Luncheon funding. After lunch, attendees will have access to one-on-one meetings Program: The awards luncheon recognizes and celebrates with the financing experts to discuss specific needs and questions. entrepreneurship and small businesses. The Outstanding Entrepreneur and Small Business of the Year will be presented. When: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Professional speaker, author and entrepreneur Rob Hackbarth Where: American Red Cross, 35. N. Sage Ave. will share one of the most powerful stories of his life – a baseball Cost: $20 members or $25 non-members, and includes lunch. game he pitched when only 10 years old. Throughout that game, three major principles that served as the cornerstone to the success of his company, were captured, along with the importance of the June 7 “centerfielder concept.” A storyteller at heart, Hackbarth reveals simple tools for success based on the timeless principles of attitude, “The Power of Innovation” teamwork, passion and enthusiasm, to encourage and inspire others to believe in themselves for life-changing results. Engaging Employees for Business Growth When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Program: Presented by Dale Carnegie Training by Emerald Coast Where: Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel, 64 S. Water St. Leaders tap into the power of human potential. They accept that Cost: $40 Chamber members or $50 nonmembers/$400 Chamber they alone don’t have all the answers, customer knowledge, and member tables of 10 new ideas needed to move an organization forward. The innovation process provides nine important steps to achieving continuous
innovation in your business resulting in new discoveries, better s ways of doing things, reduced costs and improved performance Contact Information for the Small Business and bottom-line. Conference and Awards Luncheon When: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Contact Brenda Rembert at 251-431-8607 or Where: Mobile Area Chamber, 451 Government St. [email protected] Cost: $20 members or $25 non-members. The first 20 Chamber Reservations are required by Wednesday, June 1, and payment is members to register will receive a $5 discount. due at time of registration. No refunds after that date. Visit events.mobilechamber.com for more details on all of the slated events.
14 the business view MAY 2016 June 6-8 SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE Meet Rob Hackbarth, Small Business Awards Lunch Speaker
A Birmingham native, Chamber. The couple has also newsletter and work on his Rob Hackbarth established served on the boards of the second book, The BET, set for his dream company, Hackbarth Customized Logistics and release later this year. Delivery Service (HDS), in 1975. Delivery Association, the In 2014, Hackbarth established Headquartered in Mobile, the professional association for the a new company, Mondays are company has grown from a transportation industry; and Great LLC, as the foundation for one-vehicle startup to 26 L’Arche Mobile, working on his writing and speaking locations in 10 Southeastern behalf of the mentally ventures. Lecture topics include states. challenged. They have also leadership, overcoming adversity, Hackbarth will give the worked with other local teamwork, time management keynote address at the Mobile nonprofit organizations. and positive thinking. As the Area Chamber’s Small Business As the second edition of his premise for his first book Awards luncheon on Wednesday, first book, There are No Small supports, Hackbarth believes June 8, at 11:30 a.m. at the Moments, was being released two that a single moment in time Renaissance Mobile Riverview years ago, Hackbarth passed the may be the most important in a Plaza Hotel. baton as CEO of HDS to his person’s life, encouraging others Over the past 40 years, daughter, Kelly Picard, so he to live expecting something great. Hackbarth and his wife, Carol, could concentrate on speaking have been active with the engagements, write a weekly
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the business view MAY 2016 15 SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE June 6-8 Outstanding Entrepreneur Grace Pilot “Our company was built on parents. “They taught us to faith.” That’s what Grace Pilot work hard. Something not says about Pilot Catastrophe everyone learns today.” She Services, the company she and adds, that her family her husband Walter started in didn’t have a lot growing up, their kitchen 33 years ago. A but what they did have her few months later, Hurricane father shared with others. Alicia struck Galveston and Pilot adjusters have worked Houston and gave the fledging every major disaster including business, created to help people Hurricane Katrina, earthquakes in times of tragedy, the security in California, fires in Malibu the couple needed. Today, it is and tornadoes in the Midwest. one of the largest independent At press time, the company has insurance adjusting firms in the a team deployed in response country. to those affected by the spring The Mobile Area Chamber is floods in Mississippi, recognizing Grace Pilot as the Louisiana and Texas. Outstanding Entrepreneur While the direct employee Wednesday, June 8 at its Small number is tied to the number Business Awards luncheon. of adjusters in the field and Grace credits the success of fluctuates, the company including all of Grace and made through Pilot Catastrophe Pilot Catastrophe to principals consistently employs hundreds Walter’s children. In addition to that have impacted hundreds of she learned from her Christian locally and thousands nationwide, its Mobile headquarters, Pilot thousands of disaster victims has training centers in Dallas throughout the nation as well and Hudson, Ohio. as many right here in our Grace serves as chair, community,” said Bill Sisson, secretary and treasurer of Pilot the Mobile Area Chamber’s Catastrophe. Recently celebrating president & CEO. “She her 80th birthday, she still comes exemplifies the spirit of to the office several entrepreneurialism, days a week and ...the value and and she and the collaborates with contributions made company are models fellow board for excellence when through Pilot members on it comes to giving Catastrophe have corporate strategies back to our and oversees impacted thousands community.” operations of disaster victims Among her many and training. throughout the philanthropic Her selection nation as well as endeavors, the as Outstanding many right here in E. Grace Pilot Entrepreneur came our community. Foundation supports from a committee efforts to create a of business leaders Bill Sisson positive change in using guidelines Mobile Area Chamber the communities in such as a president & CEO which she serves, substantiated providing financial history as an established support primarily in the areas entrepreneur, the impact of the of education, economic business on the local job market community needs and and innovation. Christian ministry. “Grace is a long-time leader and philanthropist. The committee talked at length about the value and contributions
16 the business view MAY 2016 the business view MAY 2016 17 18 the business view MAY 2016 SMALL BUSINESS of the month
The team at e-worc consists of (from left to right): Justin Johnson, Blake Howe, Matthew Cox, Michelle Crowe Ritter, Michelle McCaskill, Melinda Evans and Amber White. Managing the Digital Marketplace Mobile-Based e-worc Still Growing After Nearly Eight Years
Things are moving quickly people on our team this year. • Working with local months, which Ritter called a these days for e-worc Web & The question is always ‘Which broadcast television and radio “little surprising” after nearly New Media, and that’s exactly modality?’” she said. to establish an online presence eight years in business. how the full-service, Mobile- At its core, Ritter said e-worc on local media websites; “The end of the year usually based digital media agency’s develops and delivers custom • Hosting company website slows down, and then we get chief decision maker says it websites that meet client needs and email accounts on a secure, traction again in mid-January. should be. while communicating their HIPAA- or PCI-compliant Nothing slowed down in 2015, “Because we work in a messages “in a way that environment; and but 2016 ramped up as usual. digital environment, things consumers, search engines and • Assisting with e-commerce We’re seeing that in our happen quickly and sometimes site readers can understand.” setup. business and in our clients’ areas grow without warning,” In turn, that means utilizing “e-worc is large enough to businesses. I think the growth said Michelle Crowe Ritter, every digital marketplace tool at take care of our clients, but we of our city is having a very who founded the firm in 2008. their disposal to maximize client are still small enough that we positive effect on us all,” she Although e-worc more than exposure and profitability. can be agile and adaptive,” she said. doubled its workforce from That could mean: said. “We work with companies three to seven between 2014 and • Optimizing websites for of all sizes and in multiple 2015, Ritter said the field’s pace organic search results; industries, and we understand makes it difficult to plan for • Managing paid online that every client needs Want to be featured here? employee expansion, so she search campaigns; something different and is in Go to mobilechamber.com plans simply to “react to the • Building and managing different phases of growth.” to submit an application, or contact market as necessary.” social media profiles; In fact, e-worc has Danette Richards at 251-431-8652 “Business does continue to • Designing and managing experienced about 35 percent or [email protected]. grow so there will be new email marketing campaigns; revenue growth in the past 12
the business view MAY 2016 19 Chamber Chase is successful thanks to volunteers who work to recruit new members and solicit Chamber event sponsorships and advertising. Pictured here at the Ronald McDonald House are several Chamber Chase volunteers. They are: Saty Putcha, Murphy Business and Financial; Linda Faulkner, Evonik Industries; Ryan New, BBVA Compass Bank; Campaign Chairman, Mark Hieronymus, Hieronymus CPAs; and Sharon Murrill, Alabama Power. Photo by Jeff Tesney Hieronymus Heads Up Volunteers in Chamber’s Total Resource Development Campaign
Each year, the Mobile Area all need to get involved to make their customers know about the Chamber is an essential Chamber organizes a total Mobile a quality place to live opportunities available at the driver of economic development resource development campaign and work.” Chamber and can also use their in our community, which with volunteers and staff Hieronymous is encouraging involvement with the campaign directly results in more jobs, recruiting new members, prospective members to join to open doors with potential better salaries and ultimately a securing sponsorships for with the Chamber’s customers.” higher standard of living in our Chamber events and more to 2,000 members, When asked community. I also enjoy the help the Chamber continue its representing why she participates camaraderie that is the mission of being a progressive 110,000 employees, each year, Sharon foundation of Chamber Chase.” business advocate. to continue Murrill with The Chamber Chase As part of the campaign, the making the area Alabama Power Co., campaign officially kicks off group is led by a leader in the strong. Members said: “I participate with a breakfast on Thursday, community. Mark Hieronymus are the life blood to enjoy the May 5, with a goal of $1,130,000 of Hieronymus CPAs agreed to of the Chamber. friendship with in memberships, sponsorships, serve as chairman for 2016. “Teams benefit CHAMBER fellow Chamber advertisements and in-kind “The Mobile Area Chamber from the exposure CHASE ‘16 Chase volunteers, sponsorships. has been a catalyst to a majority and networking to network with To volunteer, participate of the growth and changes we with other volunteers and it’s employees of other companies, with a company team, donate a are seeing in Mobile,” said a link to developing stronger and help grow the Chamber. door prize for the volunteers or Hieronymus. “With the relationships with customers,” Mobile has so much to offer and to get involved, contact Golson Chamber’s leadership and said Carolyn Golson, the I want to be a part of the growth.” at 251-431-8622 or cgolson@ vision, Mobile is becoming a Chamber’s vice president James Alexander of mobilechamber.com. prominent place on the map. To of membership. BancorpSouth added: “I continue this momentum, we “The volunteers can let participate because I believe
20 the business view MAY 2016 2016 Chamber Chase Teams
Alabama Power International Shipholding Corp. Arkema Jeff Tesney Photography How can the business community be a part of BancorpSouth LLB&B Inc. Real Estate the Mobile Area Chamber’s annual total resource BB&T Mobile Area Chamber of development campaign, Chamber Chase? Commerce Ambassadors BBVA Compass Bank Visit the campaign website, www.chamberchase.com, Mobile Area Chamber of Blue Cross/Blue Shield for ideas. of Alabama Commerce Board of Directors • Join the Mobile Area Chamber. C Spire Mitternight • Raise your visibility by joining the Chamber’s board of advisors. Century Bank Mobile Gas, A Sempra Co. • Gain exposure for your company by sponsoring an event. Community Bank Regions Bank • Promote your business with an advertisement in a Roberts Brothers Inc. Crow Shields Bailey PC Chamber publication. Evonik Industries ServisFirst Bank • Contact Carolyn Golson at 251-431-8622 for details. Hancock Bank Trustmark National Bank iBERIABANK Young Professionals As of 4/1/16
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the business view MAY 2016 21 A CULTURE OF GIVING
In January, the Mobile Area Chamber named Mark Nix with Infirmary Health as board chairman. During his remarks at the Chamber’s annual meeting, Nix issued a challenge to every member business. He said, “We - as business owners, presidents, CEOs, marketing specialists and salesmen - should challenge our employees and employers to rally around projects and agencies that focus on serving Mobile’s neediest.” Over the course of this year, The Business View is committed to promoting successful community service efforts and sharing resources that will help companies create volunteer programs. On the following pages, The Business View explores “A Culture of Giving” and hopes it will spur some ideas on how you can volunteer in your community.
A Culture of Giving, Team Unity at Infirmary Health By Mark Nix, Infirmary Health and Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman
Having been fortunate to often extends well beyond evaluate all requests for been improved through the work alongside healthcare their basic job requirements. assistance from our organization volunteer efforts of total providers for most of my career, I Over the years, I have and make recommendations to strangers. have always admired individuals noticed this interest in helping our management team. They During my comments at the who have chosen caring for others often extends beyond also identify opportunities for Chamber’s annual meeting in others as a career path. the workplace. Employees across our team members to volunteer January, I issued a challenge to My observation is that most our entire organization are at events in support of other organizations and their healthcare providers, when always participating in numerous community needs. leaders to encourage volunteerism choosing their profession, community This among their employees. followed an inherent desire to events that process has Additionally, I asked that give of their time and talents to raise money Over the years, I have not only the heads of organizations help others improve their lives and provide noticed this interest in helped many throughout our community in some way. I have seen resources to helping others often organizations choose a community nonprofit countless examples of nurses, help others in extends beyond the and organization their company and others, going well above some way. individuals in and employees could adopt and beyond their normal job It was this workplace. need, it has for the benefit of others. responsibilities to help others, individual, yet also created a Several stories in this issue of including patients and their common, behavior of so many culture of giving and team The Business View focus on family members, friends, co- that led to our organization unity throughout our opportunities to get involved workers and even former creating our iHelp Committee. organization. This is a culture and serve others, be it through patients they have cared for. This committee, made up of and team unity we could not our Chamber Chase efforts or I routinely receive employee volunteer members, have purchased or dictated. It another project. I appreciate recognition letters from conducts polls of our employees develops when you provide those of you who are already patients and family members to determine the community opportunities for people to engaged in this process, and I of patients recognizing our needs and nonprofit organizations help others. ask that others consider joining team members for their care, they would like to see our Along the way, many people’s us in making our community a compassion and service that organization support. They lives in our community have better place for all of us.
22 the business view MAY 2016 Your Small Business CAN SMALL BUSINESS corner Make a Big Impact on Our Community
Philanthropy isn’t just Southern Alabama as well as something big business does. sorting, inspecting and stocking Throughout the county, small food donations for Feeding the businesses are making “giving” Gulf Coast (formerly Bay Area a part of their culture and Food Bank). mission. And with the variety of Chamber staff also planned opportunities to give back, no a meal, purchased the company is too small to make a ingredients, prepared and difference. cooked for the Ronald McDonald There are many reasons to House families. During their incorporate giving into your time of medical uncertainty, a business culture. It’s the right hot meal prepared at the house thing to do. It raises your is greatly appreciated by the Volunteers serve a meal to families staying at the Ronald McDonald House. company’s visibility and families at the end of a long day reputation in the community. at the hospital. It improves teamwork and Community involvement and make a donation to a local volunteering typically involves morale and decreases turnover. also plays a significant role in charity when checking out. The contributing personal or And it can make a positive the eyes of the judging panel designated charity changes each professional expertise pro bono, impact on your bottom line. when selecting any of the month and is always a local but there are other ways Giving back is an important Chamber’s small business group helping local people. individuals and companies can mission for the Mobile Area award recipients. Throughout the city, make a difference – from Chamber. Each year we have a An example of this comes innovation is changing how playing live music or painting team for United Way Day of from one of the Chamber’s Small locals give back. And there is a faces at a weekend fundraising Caring. Some recent projects Business of the Year finalists. new initiative in Mobile for event to providing the legal, including yard work and Since March 2007, B&B Pet Stop individuals and companies accounting or marketing landscaping for St. Mary’s has been encouraging customers looking for ways to engage in support to help get a new Home and the Girl Scouts of to “round up” to the next dollar the community and make a nonprofit off the ground. difference – One Mobile. Taking One Mobile can work with its name and inspiration from whole departments or entire Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s idea companies to discover the project that “we are One Mobile,” the that would benefit most from group has no formal ties to the your company’s unique skills city. for the greatest community One Mobile encourages local impact. It’s proving to be a great ideas and helps residents and way for local small businesses organizations collaborate via a to partner and have a greater custom web platform (www. impact. onemobile.org) that lets users For more on the skills-based reach beyond their immediate volunteerism movement, check networks to find support for out www.taprootfoundation.org, their projects. This menu of www.catchafire.org and opportunities for “skills-based” www.createathon.org.
Ronald McDonald House Top 10 Needs The Ronald McDonald House relies on donations of these items and more to offer the comforts of home to its families with children at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. To schedule a drop-off time, call 251-694-6873. 1. Fruit 7. Chips and salty snacks 2. Plastic spoons 8. Snack cakes and sweets 3. Band-aids 9. Microwavable meals/soups 4. HP 78A or 78L printer toner 10. Sweetener packets (sugar, Splenda, Sweet & Low) Chamber staff participated in the United Way Day of Caring by serving at 5. Mr. Clean Magic Erasers Feed the Gulf Coast in 2015. 6. Swiffer refills (wet and dry)
the business view MAY 2016 23 In Their Words The Business View surveyed a group of members to learn more about how they prefer to donate their time and money to local charities. Results from it are included on the infographic (far right). Also, read what a couple of the survey respondents had to say about their personal experiences volunteering in Mobile.
“I am on the board of the American Red Cross. We have a pet therapy program that visits VA facilities in the Southeast. The first event I attended with the therapy dogs made a HUGE impression on me. It was amazing to see how these patients reacted to the touch and feel of a furry animal. The unconditional love and tenderness these pets gave the patients was truly inspiring. They knew which patients they could be more active with and which ones they couldn’t. The way the patients looked up and responded to these wonderful pets was wonderful. The American Red Cross does not choose what disasters or needs to respond to – they are there for all of them. No one calls them – they simply know where to go and then show up. The number of services the American Red Cross provides is incredible and I don’t believe our community knows how much and what the Red Cross provides to its citizens. I am proud and thrilled to be a part of such an amazing organization.” Ana Arango JW Legacy Group
24 the business view MAY 2016 How Do You Give?
Responders were...
53% ages 22-39 33.3% age +50 60% male / 40% female 13.3% ages 40-49
Did you give money and/or volunteered your time to charities?
& 13% 6% 80% volunteer only donations only volunteer and donations
About work time and charity work...
How did you learn about the charity you gave to? How do you prefer to volunteer? 66% 53% 46% on my own with nonprofit 80% work friends/family 46% directly impacted by the charity 73% work 53% with friends/family “One charity I support is Light of the Village. Their mission is to help at-risk youth and give people who live Does your job give allow paid time off to volunteer? Does your job give you opportunities to volunteer? in under-privileged areas access to jobs. They give them YES NO YES NO faith-based direction and help them realize that where 40% 46% 60% 26% they are now isn’t where they have to stay. I help with events such as the Fall Festival, Christmas block party and the Spring block party. It feels good Would you give more if you could? helping others and showing some of the youth even though it may seem like no one cares, there are people out YES 80% NO 20% there like me who do care. We also helped deliver Salvation Army Angel Tree presents to those on the list. We chose this charity as a What’s stopping you? 100% 66% company because the children didn’t choose their life; it time money was handed to them. We can make it a bit better by delivering them presents at Christmas.” What are some areas of interest that you would like to donate your time? Tyler Brenes Safe Archives LLC
environment children/education homelessness animal care
the business view MAY 2016 25 2016 Corporate Community Service Award
Is community volunteerism winners range in employee size Tricentennial Room, 451 an important part of your from six to 675. Government St. Past winners company’s corporate vision, The CCSA will be presented will be present to walk through policies and operations? If so, at the Mobile Area Chamber’s the application process and then apply for the Mobile Area Annual Meeting in February share their strategies for Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 2017. The winner will join the submitting a winning Corporate Community Service ranks of previous winners application. Award (CCSA). including Roberts Brothers, Printable versions of the Given in partnership with Makeda Nichols State Farm guidelines and award The Junior League of Mobile, Agency, Airbus Americas application are available at the Corporate Community Engineering, Thompson mobilechamber.com. Service Award recognizes a Engineering, The SSI Group, Applications are due Oct. 7. Mobile Area Chamber member Hargrove Engineers + If you have any questions, company that has gone above Constructors and others. contact Carolyn Hunt at (251) and beyond in encouraging and If you are interested in 431-8621 or chunt@ facilitating employee volunteer applying, attend the application mobilechamber.com. efforts. Any sized company is workshop on Thursday, Sept. 8, eligible to apply, and past at 4 p.m. in the Chamber’s
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26 the business view MAY 2016 INVESTOR focus
Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc.
Based in Mobile for the past 60 years, Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc., provides general construction services to numerous industries, including a dock the company recently completed for Austal, pictured above.
Company official: Ben M. Why are you located in success does not dictate future Mobile that make things happen.” Radcliff Jr., president and CEO Mobile? “(The company) was success. The Partners for Length of continuous Years in business: 60 years founded in Mobile, and Mobile Growth Initiative allows us to Chamber membership: Since is an integral part of the be a part of and invest in the 1962 Brief company description: company culture,” said Radcliff. current and future economic Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc., “Radcliff prides itself on being development that will continue is a Mobile-based full-service a family- and community- to move Mobile forward, both general contractor. Radcliff oriented company with a with economic success and a provides general construction continued commitment to better quality of life.” services to a multitude of markets, improving the economic and What do you see as Mobile’s including manufacturing, social well-being of Mobile and greatest potential? maritime, healthcare, “I think Partners for Growth (PFG) surrounding communities.” is the Mobile Area Chamber’s institutional, municipal, the greatest potential of Mobile long-term economic and educational and historic Why do you support the is the character and capability Mobile Area Chamber of of our people,” said Radcliff. community development program. renovation. Radcliff is licensed For more information, contact in Alabama, Mississippi, Commerce’s Partners for “Mobile has a great quality of Growth initiative? “We are life, low cost of living and Katrina Dewrell, Louisiana and Florida. the Chamber’s investor relations proud to have been a part of abundant natural resources, but coordinator, at 251-431-8611 or Mobile’s success since 1956,” when it comes down to greatest [email protected]. said Radcliff. “However, past potential, it is the people of
the business view MAY 2016 27 CHAMBER@work
Chamber Lends Support and (2) the CPP violates federal Department of Commerce-led High Attendance at to Public Policies law by upsetting the balance Spain and Morocco trade mission Monthly Executive By signing letters of intent, between federal and state in March. The focus of the trip Roundtables the Chamber joined other regulatory authority. was promoting Alabama exports The first quarter Executive business groups around the BRE Sets Focus and investment into Alab