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April 2006 - Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce

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initiatives<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>april <strong>2006</strong>on the coverDriven to SucceedForeign-based automotivemanufacturers grab the wheelin <strong>Huntsville</strong>Page 20Cover photo courtesy <strong>of</strong> Toyotaf eatures<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>, Alabama is located in the middle <strong>of</strong> the southeasternUnited States, with more than four million people within a 100-mile radius.The <strong>Huntsville</strong> community is the primary economic hub <strong>of</strong> the northernAlabama/southern Tennessee region. <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>’s economy isone <strong>of</strong> the strongest in the South, with low unemployment, strong job growthand income levels leading theregion. Business growth and investmentfrom U.S. and internationalcompanies have made it one <strong>of</strong> thecountry’s top “hot spots” for growinga business and raising a family.Exporters Start Your Engines 11<strong>Huntsville</strong> makes world headlines 14Foreign Affiliated Companies 16Do you know NAMEADSMA? 18Foreign Exchange 23International Services Council 29Panoply Arts Festival Global Village 31Y.E. Spotlight: Mark Spencer 35d evelopmentsTRC: The Amazing Race 4<strong>Chamber</strong> Board Listing 8<strong>Chamber</strong> Staff Listing 10Community pr<strong>of</strong>ile 24HREGI investors 25Membership Happenings 34editorial staffPublisherBrian HilsonmissioncontactThe mission <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong> /<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>is to prepare, develop and promote our community for economic growth.<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong> /<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>225 Church Street<strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35801256.535.2000on the webPhotos by Dennis Keim (inset) and Rod Reilly<strong>Huntsville</strong>AlabamaUSA.comExecutive EditorEditorial DesignerContributing WritersPhotographyAdvertising SalesHolly McClainKristi SherrardAmanda P. BerkeyHolly McClainLoren TraylorMike WardAndrea WilliamsHolly McClainunless otherwise creditedCassandra DarbyThe <strong>Huntsville</strong> Times7Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong>Board <strong>of</strong> Directors andExecutive Committee <strong>2006</strong>Executive CommitteeDave Hargrove, ChairBrad Jones, Chair-ElectJim Link, Immediate Past ChairEvans Quinlivan, Secretary/TreasurerIrma Tuder, Vice Chair Economic DevelopmentDear <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> Investors, Community Leaders and Friends:Very soon the <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> will kick <strong>of</strong>f this year’s Total ResourceCampaign, which in 2005 was a phenomenal success. Under the leadership <strong>of</strong><strong>2006</strong> TRC Chair Scott Seeley <strong>of</strong> Regions Bank, over 100 <strong>Chamber</strong> volunteers willmarket a variety <strong>of</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> services to member companies. The theme <strong>of</strong> thisyear’s TRC is The Amazing Race, with volunteers working to reach a goal <strong>of</strong>$600,000 in revenue by mid-year.Why is the financial success <strong>of</strong> this campaign important to the <strong>Chamber</strong> and ourcommunity? As the lead economic development organization for the <strong>Huntsville</strong>area, the <strong>Chamber</strong> is directly responsible for performing a variety <strong>of</strong> economicdevelopment services which are critical to the stability and growth <strong>of</strong> our localeconomy. The <strong>Chamber</strong> coordinates the recruitment and expansion <strong>of</strong> localemployers, and our first responsibility is to ensure a pr<strong>of</strong>essional response toevery economic development opportunity we work. In each situation, our workmust be on time and it must positively influence the consultant or the companyto be impressed. This work requires technology, marketing materials and apr<strong>of</strong>essional staff that are second-to-none. The <strong>Chamber</strong>’s financial stabilityenables us to provide this level <strong>of</strong> service. That’s exactly why the success <strong>of</strong> theTotal Resource Campaign is essential for our community to remain competitivein economic development. In essence, the TRC complements other <strong>Chamber</strong>programs by providing additional resources to effectively carry out the mission<strong>of</strong> the <strong>Huntsville</strong> Regional Economic Growth Initiative.Much <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>’s success in economic development for thelast half century has involved the recruitment <strong>of</strong> foreign-based employers.Companies like Toyota, Siemens and 39 others collectively provide 8,000 jobsfor local employees. Additionally, international trade and transportation servicesand foreign relations are important to our community’s global presence.This edition <strong>of</strong> Initiatives focuses on <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s international business andcommunity programs. You’ll also find other interesting articles on localentrepreneurs and business successes.As <strong>Huntsville</strong> continues to make headlines, our global outreach is continuing topositively influence our community’s image and economic success!Brian HilsonPresident & CEO<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>Joe Ritch, Vice Chair Governmental AffairsCharley Burruss,Vice Chair Image DevelopmentGerald Toland, Vice Chair Investor RelationsBill Watson, Vice ChairResearch & Information ServicesDr. Dorothy Huston, Vice Chair Small BusinessJim Bolte, Vice Chair Workforce DevelopmentTommy Beason, <strong>Chamber</strong> Foundation ChairJoe Austin, Chair-AppointedChairman Mike Gillespie, Chair-AppointedBill Gurley, Chair-AppointedMayor Loretta Spencer, Chair-AppointedBrian Hilson, President/CEOElected BoardJoe Alexander, Camber CorporationPete Apple, Torch TechnologiesJoe Austin, <strong>Huntsville</strong> HospitalScott Averbuch, Averbuch Realty Co., Inc.Clayton Bass, <strong>Huntsville</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> ArtJim Bolte, Toyota Motor ManufacturingAlabama, Inc.Frank Caprio, Lanier Ford Shaver & PayneJohn Cooper, Avocent CorporationDick Fountain,Fountain, Parker, Harbarger & AssociatesDr. Frank Franz, UAHDr. Greg Gum, Radiology AssociatesBill Gurley, SAICLinda Hait, The Boeing CompanyJeff Hamilton, The Orthopaedic CenterTharon Honeycutt, MSB Analytics, Inc.Dr. Eric Janssen, SportsMedDr. Robert Jennings, Alabama A&M UniversityCharlie Kettle, First Commercial BankRon Klein, BelzonDan Montgomery, Northrop GrummanCaroline Myers, Foreign Language Services, Inc.Jim Owens, AmSouth BankJerre Penney, Bill Penney ToyotaPete Sch<strong>of</strong>ield, SPARTA, Inc.Scott Seeley, Regions BankKaren Stanley, Stanley Construction Co., Inc.Sandra Steele, Enfinger Steele Development, Inc.Paula Steigerwald, <strong>Huntsville</strong> Botanical GardenHerman Stubbs, Colonial BankAl Sullivan, COLSA CorporationGerald Toland, Redstone Federal Credit UnionIrma Tuder, Analytical Services, Inc.Gail Wall, Beason & Nalley, Inc.Bill Watson, WachoviaJohn Wilmer, Wilmer & Lee, P.A.Tom Young, Qualitest Pharmaceuticals8 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


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<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>Staff <strong>2006</strong>▲Movingto NorthAlabama?Check out one <strong>of</strong>“America’s 50 Hottest Cities”We think <strong>Huntsville</strong> is a great place to live, work,play and raise a family. And others must, too.Expansion Management, a business magazine forexecutives <strong>of</strong> companies actively looking for a placeto expand or relocate their facilities within the nextone to three years, has released its 8th annual ranking,published in the January-February <strong>2006</strong> issue.<strong>Huntsville</strong> MSA ranks #22!At Compass, we know there's more to life thanbanking. Like earning the trust and respect <strong>of</strong> thosearound you. And taking pride in our community. Ifthis sounds like abank you want todobusinesswith, give us a call and let us help with yourtransition to one <strong>of</strong> the “Hottest American Cities"!7 <strong>Huntsville</strong> banking center locationsCommercial Banking 256-532-6226Executive Private Banking 256-532-62361-800-COMPASSwww.compassbank.com/go/northalabamaMember FDIC10 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives00375964Brian Hilson, president & CEOHolly McClain, communications directorLaura Kendrick, executive assistantto the presidentEconomic DevelopmentEthan Hadley, VP, economic developmentSteve Finnell, director, industrial developmentRick Davis, director, Cummings Research ParkAmy Locke, industrial development assistantGovernmental AffairsMike Ward, VP, governmental affairsTina Leopold, program assistantInvestor RelationsLoren Traylor, VP, investor relationsJenni Jeffers, director,small business/membership servicesDebra Dunbar, director, Launch ProgramDonna McCrary,investor relations coordinatorLillie Ben, events coordinatorDavion Walker,workforce development coordinatorTerrie Ledbetter,membership sales representativeBeverly Carthen,membership retention coordinatorResearch & Information ServicesKen Smith, director,research & information servicesKristi Sherrard,publications/graphic design specialistHiroko Sedensky, research assistantJudith Short, information services assistantCheryl Crowe, resource desk coordinatorFinance & AdministrationKen Williams, director,finance & administrationDesman Holt, network administratorLindsay Southard, financial assistantGinny Buie, financial assistantJoe Watson, facilities supervisorAssociated Organizations & StaffLeadership <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>Sarah Savage, executive directorTodd Cannon, program managerMary Stewart, program coordinatorAllison Harbin, administrative coordinatorAnna Swain, alumni relations assistantNortheast Alabama RegionalSmall Business Development CenterDr. David Billings, interim director, SBDCCarrie Davis, assistant director, SBDCBrenda McBride, procurement counselorHanson Howard, business counselorPatsy Nayman, executive secretaryFelita Flores, secretary<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>225 Church Street<strong>Huntsville</strong>, Alabama 35801(256) 535-2000www.<strong>Huntsville</strong>AlabamaUSA.com


Exporters, continued from page 11networking forum, trade education andinternational business preparation.The Race for GC2 Is On:Focus on Trade & Infrastructure12 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives00375985International trade development is paramountto addressing key factors <strong>of</strong> a globallycompetitive community. Export developmentis a significant element <strong>of</strong> businessdevelopment that helps companies learn,innovate and stay competitive. Infrastructuredevelopment and international trade developmentwork as a team to connect communitiesand companies to the world. The Port<strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>, a vital international tradedevelopment partner, contributes significantlyto the success <strong>of</strong> global firms as astate-<strong>of</strong>-the-art transportation hub for thesoutheastern U.S. and a global port for theworld. According to executive director RickTucker, the Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong> has long beeninvolved in stimulating economic growthand jobs with features that assist importersand exporters, such as Foreign Trade ZoneNo. 83 and the International IntermodalCenter.The Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>, NAITA and the<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Commission’s ITDC havebeen the driving force <strong>of</strong> a regional economicdevelopment initiative – The North AlabamaRegion: A Globally Competitive Community(GC2) – to build a sustainable, globallycompetitive region. With <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> as its economic core, thisregion extends across 14 counties in NorthAlabama (Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman,DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale,Lawrence, Limestone, <strong>Madison</strong>,Marshall, Morgan, and Winston) andLincoln <strong>County</strong>, Tennessee.In 2005, two regional economic summitswere held, each engaging approximately 100regional economic developers, business andcommunity leaders, and education leaders todiscuss four key focus areas critical to a globallycompetitive community – education/workforce development, business development,civic/cultural relationship development,and infrastructure development.Participants from across the area identifiedkey regional issues to address, includingstrengthening K-12 educational curriculaimpacting workforce development, regionalvisioning, creating a positive external image<strong>of</strong> North Alabama, and strengthening infrastructureresources (highways, waterways,Coldwell Banker Commercial McLain Real EstateProperty Management Department ReceivesAMO AccreditationColdwell Banker Commercial McLain Real Estate is pleased to announcethat it has received the prestigious AMO TM accreditation awarded by theInstitute <strong>of</strong> Real Estate Management IREM TM to exceptional real estatefirms that have demonstrated “Experience, Stability, and FinancialAccountability.”AMO TM firms must abide by a rigorous Code <strong>of</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Ethics that isstrictly enforced by the Institute, and must have a CERTIFIED PROPERTYMANAGER TM (CPM TM )directing the real estate management team.Built upon 30 years <strong>of</strong> experience, the firm’s collective knowledge,experience and service orientation combine to satisfy the commercialreal estate needs <strong>of</strong> purchasers, sellers, developers, investors, tenants,and landlords.Coldwell Banker Commercial McLain Real Estate is the only <strong>of</strong>fice north<strong>of</strong> Birmingham, west <strong>of</strong> Atlanta, south <strong>of</strong> Nashville and east <strong>of</strong> Memphisthat has received this recognition. It is the first organization in the stateto have received the recognition in fifteen years.Please contact us if we can assist you with your business.McLAIN REAL ESTATETel: 256-533-3414 Fax: 256-533-345400377602


and the information highway) includingsecuring funding for the Memphis-AtlantaHighway. Integrating international visitorsand residents in our communities, using artsand education to understand and celebratediversity, expanding international trade educationand networks, and regional strategicplanning were also flagged.Participants also discussed regional stewardshipand the methodology other regionshave used to bring leaders together for collaborationon important issues. DougHenton, president and founder <strong>of</strong> CollaborativeEconomics in California, addressedthe GC2 Summit on October 25. Doug andhis partners were instrumental in the startupand continued success <strong>of</strong> the regionalinitiative in the Silicon Valley, Joint Venture:Silicon Valley Network and have workedwith similar regional efforts across thecountry. At the same meeting, Rep. JeffMcLaughlin, District 27, Alabama StateLegislature, enlightened participants on thecritical issue <strong>of</strong> inter-basin water transfersfrom the Tennessee River and how this canadversely impact our water supply andregional economic development.Individual local governments and communitiescurrently set visions for their ownfutures and work toward these goals, but aregional strategic plan is needed to focuscollaborative energy on common issues andefforts that will enhance the global competitiveness<strong>of</strong> North Alabama. Efforts continueto move forward in developing a processfor regional collaboration beyond politicaland geographic boundaries. This achievementwill indeed put North Alabama in thewinner’s circle.Further information related to a GloballyCompetitive Community and presentationsfrom the GC2 Summits are available atwww.naita.org/globalcommunity.htm. Forfurther information on the <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>Commission International Trade DevelopmentCenter or NAITA, please contact AnneBurkett at 256.532.3505 or trade@co.madison.al.us.Source: The Globally Competitive South(Under Construction), Southern GrowthPolicies Board, June 2004Written by Amanda P. Berkey,Senior International Trade Specialist,<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> CommissionHUNTSVILLEIS WIRED!Over 80% <strong>of</strong> <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>residents have internet access and theirfavorite local website is al.com, withover 550,000 unique visitors per month.Put your business front and center onal.com with turnkey advertisingcampaigns for all budgets.Call 800.701.0898 oremail sales@al.com for a freeconsultation.0037597300375971Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>13


<strong>Huntsville</strong> “has been reborn as a center <strong>of</strong>cutting-edge technology and <strong>of</strong> automotiveand space aeronautics industries.”– Munhwa Daily<strong>Huntsville</strong> makes world headlinesthanks to proactive media outreachBBad news travels quickly, while good news –particularly positive reports about the economy– rarely receives ink or airtime, letalone equal coverage. That is why the<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> launched a proactive efforta few years ago to reach media from aroundthe world with stories about the city’s thrivingbusiness climate.The effort is paying <strong>of</strong>f in positive headlinesand stories about <strong>Huntsville</strong> in newspapers,magazines and broadcast outletsspanning the globe from England to SouthKorea. Most recently, the influential LondonbasedFinancial Times published a glowingreport in its February 17, <strong>2006</strong> issue, trumpeting“<strong>Huntsville</strong>’s growing reputation asthe technology and engineering capital <strong>of</strong>the South.”To help secure positive international pressabout <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s vibrant economy, thechamber engaged the services <strong>of</strong> DevelopmentCounsellors International (DCI), anagency that specializes in economic developmentmarketing and is located in New YorkCity, the media capital <strong>of</strong> the world. DCIworks closely with the Foreign Press Centersin New York and Washington D.C., and hasextensive contacts with the large cadre <strong>of</strong>international media based in both cities.00375978Plus, to further enhance positive mediacoverage for the area, the chamber strategicallyteamed with the <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong><strong>County</strong> Convention & Visitors Bureau and the<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Airport Authority.The result? More opportunities for DCI toleverage new and continued interest fromregional, national and international media.Carefully arranged press tours are amongthe techniques used to stimulate storiesabout <strong>Huntsville</strong>. The chamber, for example,hosted four foreign journalists in a three-daytour <strong>of</strong> the region in May 2004. Correspondentsfrom German, French and Koreanmedia visited and interviewed executives atmore than a half-dozen local companies, aswell as the U.S. Space & Rocket Center,Redstone Arsenal and the Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>.“Foreign media love press tours becausewe can arrange a very efficient itinerary,jam-packed with visits and high-level interviewsat a broad range <strong>of</strong> manufacturing,technology and defense companies, universitiesand organizations,” said Andrew T.Levine, president <strong>of</strong> DCI. “There is no substitutefor a journalist visiting a communityfirsthand – the resulting press can helpshape positive perceptions about a businesslocation for years to come.”Indeed, the spring trip resulted in numerousarticles reinforcing <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s perennialranking by Forbes as one <strong>of</strong> America’s“Top 10 Cities for Business.” A tri-part seriesentitled “Lessons from <strong>Huntsville</strong> USA – AGreat City for Business” appeared, for example,in Munhwa Daily, the only nationwideevening newspaper in Korea. In one article,the reporter focused on the virtues <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong> as an international air logisticsbase, noting that the city has “establishedadvantages such as low cost, quick cargohandling and an expansive site that connectsthe flows <strong>of</strong> air, rail and highway to methodicallypull in companies.” In another dispatchlauding the city’s workforce, theKorean reporter recalled marveling at themanufacturers he saw along the avenue14 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


What the Foreign Press is Saying about <strong>Huntsville</strong> . . .Financial Times: “<strong>Huntsville</strong>’s growing reputation as the technology and engineering capital <strong>of</strong> the South was underlined last week when EADS becamethe latest in a series <strong>of</strong> international manufacturers to establish a presence in the city.”Le Figaro: <strong>Huntsville</strong> “has all the advantages <strong>of</strong> a high-tech metropolis, without the drawbacks <strong>of</strong> Silicon Valley.”“The spirit <strong>of</strong> conquest that motivated the NASA scientists is still alive.”German Public Radio: “The Apollo program brought the small town to world fame, however, the Rocket City continues to boom.”“…a well established business community, outstanding support from local tax authorities and at 3,840 meters, the second longest take-<strong>of</strong>f and landing stripin the American Southeast.”leading from the airport to the city center, “Itwas almost as though we had come upon agigantic showroom <strong>of</strong> global manufacturers.”Le Figaro, the second largest newspaperin France, and German Public Radio alsocarried in-depth pieces about <strong>Huntsville</strong>’shigh-tech economy following the press tour.The French reporter noted <strong>Huntsville</strong>’sposition as the second largest research centerin the United States and wrote that thecity “has all the advantages <strong>of</strong> a high-techmetropolis without the drawbacks <strong>of</strong>Silicon Valley. The local universities and thepeople who retire from the armed forcesand NASA ensure an influx <strong>of</strong> brains at areasonable price.”Andrew Ward, the international businesscorrespondent for the Financial Times whoDCI arranged to visit <strong>Huntsville</strong> lastDecember, also took note <strong>of</strong> the brainpowerin <strong>Huntsville</strong>. He reported on <strong>Huntsville</strong>’sgrowing reputation as the technology andengineering capital <strong>of</strong> the South and that“other high-value industries, such asbiotechnology, are emerging.”In addition to arranging for journalists tovisit <strong>Huntsville</strong>, DCI has also orchestratedmeetings <strong>of</strong> chamber <strong>of</strong>ficials with foreignmedia on their own turf. Case in point ispress appointments arranged in October2005 when chamber vice president <strong>of</strong> economicdevelopment Ethan Hadley and other<strong>Huntsville</strong> executives were in Japan andKorea on business. The contingent met inSeoul with The Wall Street Journal-equivalent– Korea Economic Daily – and spent thebetter part <strong>of</strong> an afternoon with the presidentand managing editor <strong>of</strong> Munhwa Daily.When <strong>Huntsville</strong> delegates participate intrade shows overseas, DCI makes a point toarrange interviews with foreign and trademedia. Following the Farnborough andParis air shows, for example, Flight DailyNews ran a complimentary story under theheadline, “U.S. Rocket City Zooms intoFarnborough.”continued on page 36Celebrates GroundbreakingFor New Jones Valley LocationL to R: Vernon Bice, Stan Bailey, Mayor Loretta Spencer and Jim Link.Representatives from Superior Bank Senior Management, members <strong>of</strong>Superior Bank Board <strong>of</strong> Directors and City Officials were on handOctober 18th for the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Jones Valleylocation, which is planned to open in the spring <strong>of</strong> <strong>2006</strong>.Jones Valley is one <strong>of</strong> three new branches Superior Bank plans to constructin the <strong>Huntsville</strong> area that will bring over 20 new jobs to <strong>Huntsville</strong>. Thetwo other locations planned for construction are Hampton Cove and theHighway 72 area.Each <strong>of</strong> the <strong>of</strong>fices will provide state <strong>of</strong> the art convenience to thecustomer and will also provide mortgage lending, investment andinsurance services. For more information, please come by our <strong>Huntsville</strong>Branch at 300 Clinton Avenue West or contact us at 532-2690.More information on Superior Bank Corporation and its subsidiaries may be obtainedover the internet at www.superiorbank.com0037599715Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


Foreign Affiliated Companiesin <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>CanadaCinram International Inc. manufacturesand distributes pre-recorded DVDs, VHSvideocassettes, audio CDs, audiocassettesand CD-ROMs for motion picture studios,music labels, publishers and computer s<strong>of</strong>twarecompanies around the world.Epic Data Corporation <strong>of</strong>fers Bar Code datacollection systems for manufacturing environments.Future Electronics markets and distributessemiconductors and passive, interconnectand electro-mechanical components.Matsu specializes in the stamping <strong>of</strong> metalproducts that are integral in automotive formanufacturers including Honda and GeneralMotors.MD Atlantic Technologies, Inc. providesgeospatial information services includingdigital photogrammetry, GIS/LIS, AM/FM,data base design and attribution, topographicmapping, GPS surveying, digital ortho photos,LiDAR, and stock aerial photography.Mitchell Plastics ia a manufacturer <strong>of</strong> injectedmolded components/assemblies for theautomotive industry.Neocon, a division <strong>of</strong> Exco AutomotiveSolutions (formerly TecSyn PMP, Inc.), makespowdered metal for use in manufacturingprecision metal parts.Nortel Networks delivers networking andcommunication services and infrastructure toservice providers and enterprises.FranceSaint Gobain manufactures abrasives andrefractory zirconia.GermanyAviagen North America develops breedingstock for the chicken industry using geneticselection techniques.Johann A. Krause, Inc. develops, designs,manufactures and delivers turn-key aggregateassembly systems including testing equipmentfor the automotive industry.KÖMMERLING USA, Inc. manufactures andsells rigid PVC foam sheets.Mems Optical (parent co.: Jenoptik) is aleading supplier and manufacturer <strong>of</strong> bothrefractive (microlens arrays) and diffractive(beam shapers, beam splitters, etc.) microoptics and <strong>of</strong> MEMS devices such as scanningtilt micro mirrors and deformable mirrors.Siemens VDO Automotive produces highvolume PC board-based electronic automotivecomponent products.Turner Universal (parent co.: Hochtief)provides building services to institutions whorecognize the value <strong>of</strong> a partner who worksdiligently and creatively to find the best possiblesolution for each project.Z/I Imaging Corporation (Intergraph) pro-0037760416 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


vides open Windows ® -based imaging solutions,including aerial cameras, photogrammetricscanners and workstations, stereo s<strong>of</strong>tcopyand geo-data management, processingand distribution s<strong>of</strong>tware.JapanFutaba Corporation manufactures, sells anddistributes electronic systems and components.Green Metals, Inc. provides scrap-metal disposal;process and markets both ferrous andnonferrous metals; meets the scrap disposalneeds <strong>of</strong> its customers and the ecologicalneeds <strong>of</strong> the environment.Hokuriku USA, Ltd. supplies passive electroniccomponents, including fixed and variableresistors, potentiometers, thermistors,sensors, PC boards, tactile switches andTCXO/VCXO products.Japan Communications Inc., Japan’s premierprovider <strong>of</strong> mobile data and voice communicationsservices for corporations and pr<strong>of</strong>essionals,purchased <strong>Huntsville</strong>-based Arxceo,which develops security devices for computernetworks in Feb. <strong>2006</strong>.JPC (USA), Inc. supplies filtration and washingsystems. Provides industrial equipment,parts and service to automotive and relatedmanufacturing operations.Nalux Nano Optical, LLC provides customersupport for their ultra-precision opticalequipment.Okaya (U.S.A.), Inc. integrates suppliers forToyota, Alabama. Manages inventory levelfor all cutting tools to maintain efficient butnot excessive stock.TDK designs and markets analog and mixedsignalintegrated circuits for communicationsproducts.Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc.produces engines for Toyota’s Tundra andTacoma pickup trucks.Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. is an internationaltrading firm with numerous interests insupply-chain activities, intermediate goodsproduction and manufacturing-related services.KoreaLG Electronics handles customer service andparts distribution for LG Electronics andZenith products in North America.Expression Genetics develops proprietarynon-viral biocompatible polymeric gene carriersystems for internal products and forcontinued on page 30Money Maker or Headache?Your technology should beimproving your ROI.If it’s just giving you headaches,call us.Office Technology Consulting,Server and Workstation Support,Networking, and more…Cutting edge solutions that make sense!256.541.296400375958Urgent Care is just around the corner.• <strong>Madison</strong> Urgent Care for minor injuries and illnesses• No appointment needed• In <strong>Madison</strong> Medical Park on Hwy. 72 near Balch Rd.• Open everyday from 9am to 8pm• Highly trained physicians & nurses• Full service Imaging Center (CT & MRI)• On-site laboratory servicesComing Soon…♥FirstHeart Chest PainAssessment Center on site** In the event <strong>of</strong> severe lifethreatening illness or injury,call 911 immediately.Dr. Joe Sharp and Shari Duke, RN, lead the team.Urgent care for minor illnesses and injuries.0037598317Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


D REAM A BOUT…00376000Do you knowIn a town full <strong>of</strong> acronyms,Trade Masters5 Piece Bedroom$1295Queen Bed, Dresser,Beveled Mirror, Door Chest,Night StandAll drawers are dove-tailedBlack’s Furniture City256.586.5725124 N. Brindlee Mtn. ParkwayArab, AlabamaSitting in the waiting area outside the <strong>of</strong>fice<strong>of</strong> the general manager for the NorthAtlantic Treaty Organization Medium ExtendedAir Defense System ManagementAgency (NAMEADSMA), I would have beendisappointed had I not overheard conversationsin a mix <strong>of</strong> languages. The bustle andbuzz suited my notions <strong>of</strong> an internationally-manned<strong>of</strong>fice. At the prompting <strong>of</strong> anassistant, however, I abandoned my ineffectualeavesdropping and accepted an invitationinto the <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> Dr. Steven Messervy.Seated in Messervy’s <strong>of</strong>fice which overlooksthe western section <strong>of</strong> CummingsResearch Park, I soon learned from the generalmanager that the NATO MEADS ManagementAgency in <strong>Huntsville</strong> is one <strong>of</strong> only 12such NATO organizations worldwide. Locally,he remarked, “some people know who we areor even that we’re here, some don’t.” Henoted that part <strong>of</strong> the NATO agencies are productionand logistics organizations and theirtask is developing and sustaining weapon systems.“For instance, in Munich, Germanythere is a NATO agency responsible for afighter project, but another European agencydevelops a helicopter. We happen to be onethat develops a missile system.”MEADS is a tri-national program to developan air and missile defense system thatmeets current and future air defense needs forGerman, Italian and U.S. forces. It is plannedto replace the 30-year-old Patriot system.Why MEADSSuperior battlefield capabilities■■■■■360-degree capabilityGreater lethality against weapons <strong>of</strong>mass destructionEnhanced strategic transportabilityBetter tactical mobilityEntire threat suite countered00375970Unprecedented flexibility■Netted and distributed BMC4I (BattleManagement Command, Control,Communications, Computers andIntelligence)■ Plug-and-fight capability■ Tailored/scalable battle elementsSignificant homeland defensefor EuropeReduced life cycle costs“Cornerstone <strong>of</strong>Future Air Defense”MEADS International, Inc.18 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


Put “WOW”in window treatments!NAMEADSMA?NAMEADSMA can be an enigma“Our location is <strong>Huntsville</strong> because <strong>of</strong>the expertise <strong>of</strong> this community in thedevelopment and sustainment <strong>of</strong> missilesystems,” said Messervy. “We work veryclosely with the U.S. Army because for us tobe successful, it must be a parallel effort,” heexplained. NAMEADSMA is the only productionand logistics agency outside <strong>of</strong>Europe and has been established in<strong>Huntsville</strong> for nine years. The agency completedthe risk reduction phase <strong>of</strong> the programlast May and then initiated an eightyeardesign and development phase.According to Messervy, the developmentphase is about a $ 4 billion program.“The memorandum <strong>of</strong> understandingbetween the three nations says that whenwe start the development program, a U.S.general manager is called for, instead <strong>of</strong>European,” said Messervy. Italian andGerman generals had previously led theorganization. Messervy, working as a civiliandeputy to Brigadier General MikeCannon, U.S. Army, program executive <strong>of</strong>ficerMissiles and Space, Redstone Arsenal,was asked to accept the NATO post.At that point, the agency employed justover 50. Current figures stand at 65 and thegeneral manager anticipates figures to riseto 95 by summer.The development phase <strong>of</strong> the programis funded by all three nations, with the U.Sproviding 58 percent <strong>of</strong> the budget and 58percent <strong>of</strong> the workshare, Germany about25 percent and Italy at 17 percent. “Thecompany developing this is MEADSInternational which is a consortium <strong>of</strong>Lockheed Martin, MBDA out <strong>of</strong> Italy andEADS out <strong>of</strong> Germany,” noted Messervy.“They have the same workshare requirementsas I do on the agency side.”The U.S. military is keen to reduce thetime it takes to integrate MEADS technologies.Using a development and acquisitionstrategy called spiral development, theyplan to field the system incrementally to getcontinued on page 26-27with Beason & Nalleyit’s a team approach –your team working with our team!00375965Providing accounting,business, financial andconsulting servicesBlindsShuttersShades• Roman• Cellular• Pleated• RollerWoven WoodsDraperyWallpaper for WindowsFaux Iron SolutionsTAKE A LOOKwww.randsblinds.com2 56.650.0465Aesthetically Pleasing Interior Window TreatmentsBeason & Nalley providesfinancial and consultingservices to all businesssectors, with a focus on thegovernment contractor.We have extended thehand <strong>of</strong> dedicated customerservice and assembleda team <strong>of</strong> consultants toprovide unrivaled financialand business services.Beason & Nalley, Inc.101 Monroe Street, <strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35801Tel: 256.533.1720, Fax: 256.534.8558www.beasonnalley.com0037598919Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


Driven to succeed in <strong>Huntsville</strong>Foreign-based automotive manufacturers grab the wheelOr in the case <strong>of</strong> Alabama, foreign-basedauto industry manufacturers may be grabbingthe golden ring. A survey released inthe first quarter <strong>of</strong> <strong>2006</strong> by the AlabamaAutomotive Manufacturers Association(AAMA) revealed a 44 percent increase inthe state’s automotive-related manufacturingjobs since 2003, equating to a total <strong>of</strong>almost 45,000 auto manufacturing jobs.The increase was expected, since assemblyplants Mercedes-Benz U.S. International inVance and Honda Manufacturing <strong>of</strong> Alabamain Lincoln underwent expansions andthe Hyundai assembly plant in Montgomeryopened in the last two years. Toyota MotorManufacturing Alabama (TMMAL) in<strong>Huntsville</strong> also executed an expansion andannounced a second expansion during thattime.well as Tacoma pickup trucks made inFremont, California and Baja California,Mexico. The second expansion, announcedin September 2004, will nearly double thesize <strong>of</strong> the current facility. “After this nextexpansion is finished, we’ll have the capacity<strong>of</strong> 400,000 engines [annually], V6 and V8,for the Tundra, the Tacoma and the Sequoia[SUV].” Production is scheduled to begin inDecember. Once complete, the plant willhave 800 team members and the investmentwill total $490 million.“We are continuing our growth because<strong>of</strong> the dedication <strong>of</strong> our team members. Iknow we will have continued success as weapproach our newest expansion project,”said Kunihiko Ogura, president <strong>of</strong> TMMAL.Toyota and local team members are alsovery dedicated to their communities.<strong>Huntsville</strong> mayor Loretta Spencer said,“Toyota has become an important additionto our city since the moment they arrivedhere. They are a wonderful corporate neighborwho gives back to the community.”Well before the first engine rolled <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong>the production line, Toyota gave a half milliondollars for distance education andteacher training at area schools. Accordingto Stephanie Deemer, external affairs forTMMAL, more than $1.5 million has beengiven to support education, the environment,arts, health and human services andorganizations such as Junior Achievement<strong>of</strong> North Alabama. Employees have madeToyota one <strong>of</strong> the top contributors to UnitedWay in <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> and staff and managementalike have gathered together toclean up natural resource areas and buildHabitat for Humanity houses.“We found a quality workforce but alsopeople who are really willing to give back totheir communities. We are very proud <strong>of</strong>that,” added Deemer.Perhaps it’s the combination <strong>of</strong> qualitypeople and proven work concepts – theToyota production system (TPS) carrying“We love being in <strong>Huntsville</strong>; I say thatevery chance I get,” remarked Jim Bolte,senior vice president for TMMAL. The companybegan turning out V8 engines for theTundra full-size pickup produced inIndiana in May 2003. “This is the onlyToyota plant outside <strong>of</strong> Japan that builds V8engines,” Bolte emphasized.“The biggest advantage we’ve seen so faris the workforce; very impressive in terms <strong>of</strong>work ethic and in terms <strong>of</strong> how quicklythey pick things up,” he said with a nod.The love affair with area residents appearsto be reciprocal. Bolte noted the companyreceived 10,000 applications, rangingthroughout a 50-mile radius, for 350 availablejobs. “We’ll be hiring people all the waythrough the fall,” Bolte added.A majority <strong>of</strong> those available jobs is aresult <strong>of</strong> TMMAL’s second expansion. Thefirst expansion, launched last summer,introduced the V6 engine to new productionlines. The V6 is used for the Tundra, asMountUp.us©2005Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (TMMAL) broke ground last <strong>April</strong> for another plant expansionthat will bring more jobs and an additional $250 million investment.20 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


When Toyota built its first V8 engine facility outside <strong>of</strong>Japan in 2003, the company chose <strong>Huntsville</strong>, Alabama.Over the last 10 years, the automotive industryhas invested nearly $7 billion and createdmore than 38,000 new jobs in Alabama.– Economic Development Partnership <strong>of</strong> Alabama (EDPA)over into employees’ personal lives. “It’s notonly team concept,” noted Bolte, “there area lot <strong>of</strong> facets to TPS: mutual respect, teamwork,a constant pursuit <strong>of</strong> kaizan; theprocess is just as important as the product.We try to build in a foolpro<strong>of</strong> process,checkpoints if you will, so when the productcomes <strong>of</strong>f the end <strong>of</strong> the assembly lineyou are assured <strong>of</strong> high quality and goodvalue.” Cost man-Importantly, kaizenmust operate with threeprinciples in place:process and results(not results-only);systemic thinking(i.e. big picture, notsolely the narrow view);and non judgmental,non-blaming (becauseblaming is wasteful).Source: Wikipediaagement, notedBolte, is also a keypart <strong>of</strong> the system.“Toyota wantsto provide goodchoices and goodvalues in all <strong>of</strong> themarket segments,”said Bolte. “Wetest 100 percent<strong>of</strong> our engines;fire them upbefore they leave,”he remarked. Ensuringperfection and customer satisfactionis surely the basis <strong>of</strong> Toyota’s charm andpopularity. To many inside and outside theindustry, the Japanese automobile companyseems almost invincible.Likewise, <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s economy is becomingincreasingly stronger from foreigninvestment and diversification. “The presence<strong>of</strong> over 40 foreign-based companies in<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>, combined withour global trade and transportation infrastructure,is a source <strong>of</strong> pride for our community,”stated Brian Hilson, president andCEO for the <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>. “Since the arrival<strong>of</strong> the von Braun rocket team,<strong>Huntsville</strong> has recognized the importanceand advantages <strong>of</strong> doing business internationally.”Hilson remarked one <strong>of</strong> the keysto recruiting foreign-based companies is tomaintain a positive business environmentand to always understand the importance <strong>of</strong>international relations and cultural awareness.“As the book says, ‘the world is flat,’”said Hilson. “We’ve recognized that for along time and will continue to emphasizeinternational business development in oureconomic growth strategy.”“I think this is a very pro business community,”added Bolte. In large part, heattributed the climate to the progressiveness<strong>of</strong> the chamber <strong>of</strong> commerce. “We’ve hadgreat support from city, county, and state,”he added. Bolte emphasized the helpfulness<strong>of</strong> the Alabama Industrial DevelopmentTraining program – one <strong>of</strong> the leadingindustrial training programs in the nation.Are more announcements around thecorner? “Some engine plants still have theability to expand, like this one. But thosedecisions are made in Japan,” Bolte saidwith a smile. For example, he shared thatToyota has announced plans to build theCamry hybrid in Georgetown, Ky., but hasn’tyet decided on the localization <strong>of</strong> hybridengine production.Toyota’s North American-produced vehiclesinclude the Avalon, Camry, Corolla,Matrix, Sienna, Solara, Sequoia, Tacoma,Tundra, and the Lexus RX 330. Bolte reportedthe company plans to be more aggressivein the truck market.When Germany-based Siemens VDOassessed the possibility <strong>of</strong> acquiring the former<strong>Huntsville</strong> Electronics Corp. fromDaimlerChrysler in 2003-2004, the operations’geographic location strongly influencedthe company’s decision to pursue thebusiness initiative. <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s close proximityto existing OEM customers such asToyota, Hyundai, Mercedes Benz and BMW,represented – and continues to represent –prospective new business. In addition, theSoutheast serves as a good logistics point forshipment to North American customers.“Having a facility in the growing southeasternUnited States automotive corridorfits well into our global footprint <strong>of</strong> existingmanufacturing facilities around the world,”said Siemens VDO Powertrain Electronicschief financial <strong>of</strong>ficer Dr. Henning Heppner.“Also, <strong>Huntsville</strong> <strong>of</strong>fers tremendousstrengths in engineering expertise and askilled workforce.”The forward-looking organization is alsokeenly interested in supporting and encouragingthe development <strong>of</strong> the next generation<strong>of</strong> innovators. A strategic partnershiphas already been struck between SiemensVDO and the nearby University <strong>of</strong> Alabamain <strong>Huntsville</strong>. As the school’s largest co-opemployer, the global automotive electronicssupplier participates in a three-way partnershipto build pr<strong>of</strong>essional relationshipsbetween students, employers and the university.Following the <strong>Huntsville</strong> acquisition in<strong>April</strong> 2004, the two main tasks for SiemensVDO were to increase competitiveness andintroduce new, innovative products thatcould grow business. Notably, the U. S. isprojected to be Siemens second largestglobal growth market.“By 2010, approximately 35 percent <strong>of</strong> avehicle’s total value will be made up <strong>of</strong> electronicsand electrical systems,” said Dr.Heppner. “Within the global Siemensnetwork <strong>of</strong> innovation and our leadingcontinued on page 2221Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


Driven to succeed in <strong>Huntsville</strong>, continued from page 21position in the market, we are very confidentto reach our demanding growth goal.The more than 440 product engineers, productionspecialists and other experts <strong>of</strong> our<strong>Huntsville</strong> location’s total workforce areworking hard to capitalize on this growthsegment within a stagnating automotivemarket.”Already, the organization’s efforts arebeing rewarded. According to Heppner, the<strong>Huntsville</strong> team has earned significant newbusiness and the successful integration <strong>of</strong>AAMA Survey■ A typical supplier plant in Alabama has anaverage <strong>of</strong> 100 employees and 52 percent <strong>of</strong>the plants have less than 50 employees.■ 29 new auto plants were established inAlabama over the past two years, bringingthe total number <strong>of</strong> active plants to 263.The survey was supported by the AAMAand the Alabama Department <strong>of</strong> Economicand Community Affairs, and conducted byresearchers at the University <strong>of</strong> Alabama in<strong>Huntsville</strong>.the operations was recently awarded atop+Star award for overall business improvementby Siemens Corp.At roughly $1 billion, <strong>Huntsville</strong> representedalmost 10 percent <strong>of</strong> Siemens VDO’stotal sales in the 2004-2005 fiscal year. Thelocation employs 2,100 people and continuesto make strides towards being a best-inclassglobal manufacturing and engineeringlocation. “We are very thankful for the support<strong>of</strong> the local community in <strong>Huntsville</strong>and <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>,” said Dr. Heppner.“We are well underway with our capitaland process improvements that will helpmake the <strong>Huntsville</strong> location a long-termcompetitor in the automotive electronicssupply industry,” finished Heppner.Two Canada-based, automotive suppliers,Matsu and Mitchell Plastics, openedlocal operations in the last two years. “Wedecided on <strong>Huntsville</strong> for several reasons,”commented John Carney, general managerfor Matsu Alabama. “The best labor pool, ahigh standard <strong>of</strong> living and a centralizedlocation to several <strong>of</strong> our customers areamong them.” Matsu manufactures weldedand stamped components for the automotivemarket.“As our customer base grows in theSoutheast, we will evaluate our expansionplans,” said Carney. The company is pursuingthe new TS16949 certification – an internationalstandard – to enhance growth. Matsu’scurrent customer base includes Honda,Toyota, Hyundai and General Motors.Ron Corzatt, general manager forMitchell Plastics, another relatively new kidon the block, (they’ve been in operation formore than one and a half years), admits tohaving expansion plans already. “We had a25 percent growth in employment in last 7months,” he added. Location to the automotiveindustry, access to major roads andcurrent, as well as future customers,prompted the company to take up residencein <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s Chase Industrial Park.Mitchell Plastics manufactures plastic interiordecorative and functional trim. Honda,Toyota, and Nissan are included in the company’scustomer base which Corzatt alsodescribes as “expanding.” •0037599922 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


Foreign exchangeRedstone to become InternationalShopping Mall for Army ProductsIIf your international shopping list includesitems such as Apache helicopters and TOWmissiles, then you are probably already aware<strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>, Alabama, home to the Army’sAviation and Missile Command (AMCOM).To our international allies, <strong>Huntsville</strong> is the“go-to” place for Foreign Military Sales (FMS)support for U. S. Army helicopters, missilesand missile defense products.<strong>Huntsville</strong>’s already large role in FMS isabout to become significantly larger in theeyes <strong>of</strong> the international community withthe relocation <strong>of</strong> the U.S. Army’s SecurityAssistance Command (USASAC) to RedstoneArsenal as a result <strong>of</strong> the 2005 round<strong>of</strong> Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC).<strong>Huntsville</strong>’s heightened international pr<strong>of</strong>ileportends some fascinating possibilities.While the State Department managesand develops our nation’s policy regardingsecurity assistance to our allies, USASAC iswhere the rubber meets the road in the execution<strong>of</strong> that support for Army materiel.USASAC is responsible for managingabout $49 billion in sales <strong>of</strong> U.S. Armyweapons systems to our 140 allied nationsand organizations. Of that total, AMCOM wasresponsible for approximately $23 billion, byfar the largest single commodity commandsupplying materiel. The next largest was theTank and Automotive Command providing$15 billion in foreign sales.Foreign military sales and security assistancesupport are important to the U.S. forseveral reasons.Security assistance promotes regionalstability, deters aggression, maintains alliances,and disseminates democratic valuesbetween the United States and its allies.Foreign military sales also provide thousands<strong>of</strong> U.S. jobs in a valuable export market.For each billion dollars in FMS, 22,000jobs are created. It’s also one <strong>of</strong> the waysthat the defense contracting community candefray the heavy R&D costs <strong>of</strong> developingthe new U.S. systems.Today, USASAC is increasingly respondingto support <strong>of</strong> U.S. government emergencyassistance, humanitarian relief, andoperations other than war, including UnitedNations peacekeeping operations. USASAC’smotto is “Strength in Cooperation.”• Mike WardCourtesy <strong>of</strong> U.S. ArmyOH-58D Kiowa andAH-64 Apache helicopters185 Chateau Dr . Suit e 302256.489.8600www.surgicalso luti onspc.com“We see the person in the patient”Now doing Stereotactic Needle Breast Biopsies.Dr. Zaria C. MurrellBoard CertifiedTraditional and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeries003759590037598123Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


community pr<strong>of</strong>ile<strong>Madison</strong> City <strong>of</strong> City <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>Population <strong>County</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong> <strong>Madison</strong> Metro Area2000 Census 276,700 158,216 29,329 342,3762004 Estimate 293,072 164,146 35,012 362,459Households2000 Census 109,955 66,742 11,143 134,643IncomeAvg. Household Income $57,220 $55,856 $72,432 $55,343Per Capita Income $23,091 $24,015 $27,821 $22,073Source: U.S. Census Bureau (www.census.gov)TOP 10 EMPLOYERSU.S. Army/Redstone Arsenal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16,427<strong>Huntsville</strong> Hospital System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,320The Boeing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,092<strong>Huntsville</strong> City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,700NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,676Wal-Mart Stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,300CINRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,200Intergraph Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,097SAIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,097<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,033Source: <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>Aerospace & Defense<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> is home to the U.S. Army RedstoneArsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center which combineto drive a thriving aerospace and defense technology industry.Over 16,000 direct DoD and 2,676 NASA employees managesome <strong>of</strong> the country’s most important and sophisticated technologyprograms including missiles, aviation and space exploration.More than 250 companies employing an additional 27,000workers support the local aerospace and defense industries.For moreinformation visit:<strong>Huntsville</strong>AlabamaUSA.comResearch & Technology<strong>Huntsville</strong>’s Cummings Research Park has earned a reputation asa world center for technology development. The second-largestscience and technology park in the U.S., Cummings ResearchPark is home to more than 225 companies and 25,000 peopleinvolved in technology research and development.• Checking and Savings• Online Banking• 24-Hour Telephone Banking• Money Market Accounts / CDs• 50+ Checking118 Jefferson Street <strong>Huntsville</strong>BANKING . . . . . ............................ . . . 535-6000MORTGAGES. ................................519-32572021 Cecil Ashburn Drive - Jones Valley. . . . 213-4800Parkway Place Mall 2801 S. Mem. Pkwy. . . . 533-22248848 <strong>Madison</strong> Blvd. <strong>Madison</strong>. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .772-0600Member FDIC• Mortgages / Home Equity Loans• Personal / Business Loans• Call and get a real person!www.southbank.com0037597924 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


InvestorsChairman’s Council($50,000+ invested: Private Sector)Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc.Regions BankDevelopment Partners($50,000+ invested: Public Sector)City <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong> Hospital<strong>Huntsville</strong> Utilities<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Airport Authority<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> CommissionPresident’s Circle($25,000 - $49,999 invested)ADTRAN; AmSouth Bank; BellSouth; Colonial Bank; CompassBank; Crestwood Medical Center; The Boeing Company; The<strong>Huntsville</strong> Times; Redstone Federal Credit Union; TennesseeValley Authority; Wachovia<strong>Chamber</strong> Trustees($10,000 - $24,999 invested)Applied Research Associates, Inc.; Avocent Corporation; Beason &Nalley, Inc.; Bill Penney Toyota; Blue Cross & Blue Shield <strong>of</strong>Alabama; Booz Allen Hamilton; Camber Corporation; CINRAM,Inc.; COLSA Corporation; Express Jet; <strong>Huntsville</strong> Area Association<strong>of</strong> Realtors; <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Builders Association, Inc.;Intergraph Corporation; Lamar Outdoor Advertising; NorthropGrumman; Panalpina, Inc.; SAIC Siemens VDO Automotive;SPARTA, Inc.; SportsMed Orthopaedic Surgery & Spine Center;Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc.Take Stock(


Do you know NAMEADSMA?, continued from page 18Dr. Steven L. Messervy is currently the general manager <strong>of</strong> the North Atlantic Treaty Organization MediumExtended Air Defense System Management Agency (NAMEADSMA) in <strong>Huntsville</strong>, Alabama. In this position,he is responsible for the development phase <strong>of</strong> the Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS)for the United States, Germany, and Italy. He assumed these duties in November 2005.“Academic Excellence In A Christian Environment”Grace Lutheran SchoolPre K through Middle School3321 So. Memorial Pkwy.<strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35801(256) 881-0553 www.gls-hsv.orgSummer Camp• All Day (7:30 – 5:30)• Every Day (M–F)• All Summer (June 5–July 28)• All Inclusive ($105/week)• Small Classes • Loving Teachers • High Expectations • Nationally Accredited• Safe Environment • High SAT Scores • Solid Academics • Christ-Centered0037596626 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


a capability, and then systematically upgradeand improve as emerging technologiesbecome available. “So one <strong>of</strong> the thingswe’re working on accelerating is the battlemanagement tactical operations center,”said Messervy. “Basically, that’s putting thenew operations into the field after developmentand testing. Then, we will replace thetactical operations centers, the TOCS, in thePatriot battalions around the world – atleast the U.S. ones, anyway, with a combination<strong>of</strong> the battle management s<strong>of</strong>tware thatcontrols the Patriot battery and also theMEADS portion <strong>of</strong> that.”MEADS six major equipment items are:multifunction fire control radar (MFCR);surveillance radar; battle management,command, control, communications, computersand intelligence (BMC41); certifiedmissile round (PAC-3 missile and canister);launcher; and reloader.Messervy indicated NAMEADSMA presentsa challenging organizational structure.Plus, the program’s integrative productteams are spread over the three countriesand managed by MEADS International out<strong>of</strong> Orlando. “Part <strong>of</strong> the launcher will bebuilt in Italy, part in the states, and we haveall these different end items that cometogether,” he began to list. He added thatthe missile is part <strong>of</strong> the U.S. workshare.“And right now we’re using a PAC-3 missilefor this system.”Melding systems, addressing the jointnessaspect across the military spectrum, coordinatingactivities with three countries whilecontinually managing the risks in the programare daunting tasks, particularly consideringcultural differences that can come intoplay. For instance, “There is a difference inhow the U.S. and the Europeans assign contracts,”said Messervy. According to the generalmanager, differences between firm-fixedcostand cost-plus contracts, for example,require different management processes.Dr. Messervy’s background addresses thechallenge. As the deputy program executive<strong>of</strong>ficer for Missiles and Space at RedstoneArsenal, he served as the principal Department<strong>of</strong> the Army civilian advisor on allU.S. Army missile and space systems.Additionally, he served four years as projectmanager, aviation electronic systems withinthe PEO Aviation, Redstone. Messervy hasover 21 years experience in the research,development and acquisition business,serving in both major command staff andproject <strong>of</strong>fices at the U.S. Army MissileCommand and the U.S. Army Space andStrategic Defense Command.MEADS is expected to enter service in2014.• Holly McClainIn recognition <strong>of</strong> a strong commitment toethicalactions in business,StoneRiverwas awarded the 2005Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in the smallbusiness division in north Alabama. The annual TorchAwards recognize a company's or organization'scommitment to business ethics in its daily operation,including its relationships with employees, vendorsand customers.The staff at StoneRiver salutes the BBB for the effortit puts intopromoting marketplaceethics. Abig thankyou goes to the clients and vendors we have beenprivileged to work with over the past 18 years.Marketing •Design •Promotional Products351.6870 • www.stoneriverinc.com1401 7th Avenue SE•Decatur“Get the rightconnection in<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>”The Becky HallNetwork25 years <strong>of</strong> sales experience23 million in inventory sold in 2005Make the callto…Becky Hall256.337.6632Associate BrokerCRS, ABRww w.beckyhall.com • becky@averbuchrealty.com003759750037596227Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


At First Commercial Bank we are proud <strong>of</strong> our commitmentto the growth <strong>of</strong> local businesses in our community.“When we looked for a business partner, First Commercial Bank <strong>of</strong>fered a complete nancingpackage that provided us the best use <strong>of</strong> our nancial resources. More importantly, wehave developed sincere, personal relationships with our First Commercial bankers.We appreciate their commitment to our continued success.”Cynthia Streams, CPA, Vice PresidentValley Pizza, Inc — A Domino’s Pizza franchiseImages courtesy <strong>of</strong> The <strong>Huntsville</strong> Convention Bureau.377606


InternationalServices Councilto host U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> State’sInternational Visitor Leadership Program<strong>Huntsville</strong> will play host to the <strong>2006</strong>Southern Regional Meeting <strong>of</strong> the NationalCouncil for International Visitors (NCIV)June 21-23. Community and business leaderswill have an unprecedented opportunityto showcase the area’s considerable resourcesfor key leaders from the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong>State, the National Council for InternationalVisitors, the seven Washington-based programagencies and 23 Southern memberorganizations from 12 states affiliated withthis prestigious program <strong>of</strong> citizen diplomacy.The International Services Council (ISC)<strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> is the Alabamaaffiliate for the NCIV program.Luba Cehelska, executive director <strong>of</strong> thelocal ISC remarked, “Hosting the NCIVregional meeting is a very special honor forus, as we were selected by the U.S. Department<strong>of</strong> State through a rigorous competition.”Cehelska noted that attendees willlearn about the international exchangessponsored through the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong>State, and trade ideas about managing thesespecial programs. “At such a conference, onediscovers the good work being accomplishedby program agencies and international centersacross the U.S.” The ISC executiveemphasized the importance <strong>of</strong> volunteerswho freely give their time and talents, as wellas many other individuals who contributeHolly McClainLuba Cehelska, executive director <strong>of</strong> the localInternational Services Council continued on page 32Communities <strong>of</strong> the Tennessee ValleyCOMMITTEEMagazineBetween now and 2009, variousmilitary commands and personnelwill be transitioning to <strong>Huntsville</strong>from the Washington D.C. andNorthern Virginia area.Area communities are joiningtogether to showcase theTennessee Valley region in apositive light. This specialpublication will be the center piecefor recruiting new members to ourcommunities that will have a vitalimpact on our economy.00376135The OFFICIAL PUBLICATION delivered directly to the thousands<strong>of</strong> potential BRAC transferees.Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business to these future residents.• Your ad will appear in a pr<strong>of</strong>essional quality, high gloss, full color magazine promoting the benefits <strong>of</strong> living in theNorth Alabama area.• The Magazine will be distributed by the BRAC Committee at town meetings in Northern Virginia and in correspondence.• To participate in this special publication, your business must be a <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> member in one <strong>of</strong>the participating communities.Participating Communities<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> Cullman/Cullman <strong>County</strong> Scottsboro/Jackson <strong>County</strong> <strong>Madison</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>The Shoals Fayetteville/Lincoln <strong>County</strong>, TN. Athens/Limestone <strong>County</strong> Decatur/Morgan <strong>County</strong>Arab/Marshall <strong>County</strong> Guntersville/Marshall <strong>County</strong>To advertise or to find out more about thisTennessee Valley BRAC Committee publication,please call 256-532-4250 or 1-800 -239-5271 ext 4250.Advertising deadline is Thursday, <strong>April</strong> 27, <strong>2006</strong>29Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


expectsomethinggreatkellyservices.comPartner with the company that hasbecome a true example <strong>of</strong> dedication:Kelly Services ® . The hard work anddetermination that began in 1946—when William Russell Kelly opened thecompany with just 12 customers and adream—has grown to service over200,000 businesses worldwide!With temporary, temporary to hire anddirect hire options available, weguarantee to provide you with the bestplacement solutions. Place your trustwith Kelly Services… 92% <strong>of</strong> theFortune 500 ®do!<strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 256.971.0113Decatur, AL 256.353.6415Boaz, AL 256.505.6218Florence, AL 256.767.9077Fayetteville, TN 931.438.8164Call Center I Technical I Light IndustrialMarketing I Office/Clerical30 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> InitiativesAn Equal Opportunity Employer. © 2005 Kelly Services, Inc. P0711AFortune 500 is a registered trademark <strong>of</strong> Fortune magazine,a division <strong>of</strong> Time Inc.00375980Foreign Affiliated Companies,continued from page 17those in partnership with pharmaceuticaland biotech companies.LuxembourgCargolux – Air cargo carrierNetherlandsEADS North America is the U.S. holding companyfor the North American activities <strong>of</strong> EADS,the world’s second largest aerospace anddefense company, and the largest in Europe.Singapore3Dlabs, Inc., a subsidiary <strong>of</strong> Creative TechnologyLtd., is a leading innovator in pr<strong>of</strong>essionalvisual processing. The company supplies abroad range <strong>of</strong> graphics accelerators.South AfricaBarloworld Handling is the largest Hyster lifttruck dealer in the United States.SwedenADS Corporation (parent co.: Axel JohnsonInc.) provides comprehensive sewer systemdiagnostic services to municipal agencies andconsulting engineering firms.SwitzerlandAdecco designs and delivers staffing solutions;provides temporary engineering, technicalsupport, clerical and administrative personnel.Kuehne + Nagel. Inc. provides internationalforwarding and logistics services.Panalpina, Inc. provides international forwardingand logistics services.Synapse, Inc. designs and provides intelligentelectronic control products and systemsfor plumbing OEMs.United KingdomAMEC Earth Environmental provides environmentalconsulting and engineering, specializingin U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> Defense activities.BAE Systems provides engineering and technicalservices, management services, andinformation technology solutions.Signature Flight Support provides airplanefueling and maintenance; airplane radio repair.Westar Aerospace & Defense Group (parentco.: QinetiQ) is one <strong>of</strong> the nation’s leadingproviders <strong>of</strong> technology solutions to the U.S.Department <strong>of</strong> Defense, other governmentagencies, and aerospace customers.00377601


Panoply ArtsFestivalGlobal VillageBy Andrea WilliamsFor the 25th anniversary <strong>of</strong> Panoply, <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s annual celebration <strong>of</strong> the arts,The Arts Council is thinking INTERNATIONALLY. New to this year’s festival isthe Global Village, a celebration <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s remarkable diversity. The newInternational Performing Arts Stage in the Global Village will showcase danceand music from many countries. Thirteen pavilions will focus on the African-American, Chinese, Columbian, German, Indian, Iranian, Native American,Pakistani, Palestinian, Philippine, Polish, Scottish, and Ukraine cultures. Eachwill be clustered around the International Stage to educate and entertainPanoply patrons with facets <strong>of</strong> the many cultures in their own backyards. Eachpavilion will display artifacts from that country; craftsmen and artists willdemonstrate native decorative arts, and the hosts in each pavilion will dress inapparel unique to their culture. Children will be invited into each <strong>of</strong> the pavilionsto learn a game or create a craft item representative <strong>of</strong> that country. In additionto these exciting opportunities, children will be encouraged to join in adaily parade <strong>of</strong> nations through the park led by a fierce Chinese dragon.Located in the heart <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s Big Spring International Park, the GlobalVillage, with its message <strong>of</strong> hope and unity for the future, is among otherprominent landmarks <strong>of</strong> international significance. The red Japanese bridgeacross the lagoon was a gift to the citizens <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong> from the Japanese AirDefense Missile Program in celebration <strong>of</strong> the Bicentennial <strong>of</strong> the United Statesand in appreciation <strong>of</strong> the welcome and training assistance provided them bythe City <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>, <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>, and the U. S. Army. Just south <strong>of</strong> thebridge, stand a light beacon and a fog bell, once parts <strong>of</strong> a functional warningsystem along the coast <strong>of</strong> Norway, that were presented to the citizens <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong> in 1973 for similar reasons. And nearby, a Canadian Hemlock grows,donated by the city <strong>of</strong> Markham, Ontario, with a plaque that reads, “We do notinherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”The Panoply Arts Festival, consistently named a Top Twenty Event in theSoutheast by the Southeast Tourism Society, is a weekend <strong>of</strong> fun for the entirefamily. Other new features <strong>of</strong> the festival in <strong>2006</strong> include the Official AlabamaState Fiddling Competition and the final round <strong>of</strong> the Homegrown TalentContest. Performances <strong>of</strong> the winning entries to the 10-Minute PlaywrightCompetition, inaugurated in 2005, will be held in the <strong>Huntsville</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong>Art adjacent to the park, and the finals <strong>of</strong> the Choreography Competition, anexciting part <strong>of</strong> many past festivals, will be held in the Concert Hall <strong>of</strong> the VonBraun Center. The eclecticism <strong>of</strong> the festival’s <strong>of</strong>ferings, especially with the addition<strong>of</strong> the Global Village and the International Performing Arts Stage, is sureto delight both Panoply rookies and veterans.Admission to Panoply is FREE for children 12 and under. A weekendPanopass is $15 (please purchase in advance) and a day Panopass is $8.Panoply is open on Friday, <strong>April</strong> 28, from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.; Saturday, <strong>April</strong> 29,from 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.; and Sunday, <strong>April</strong> 30, from 12:00 – 9:00 p.m.Fireworks close the festival each night. •Visitwww.panoply.orgfor moreinformationor call256.519.2787Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>31


International Services Council, continued from page 29PREMIERMartha M. C<strong>of</strong>fman, ABR“Meeting your Real Estate needs”Phone 256.337.0152Office 256.650.0022Fax 256.650.0082www.homeshuntsville.comMarthac<strong>of</strong>fman@knology.net00375996their efforts to enhance global learning andunderstanding. “We welcome the opportunityto share and expose the excellent work <strong>of</strong>NCIV to individuals in our community, and,indeed, in our entire state.” This is the firsttime for the meeting to be held in Alabama.Citizen diplomacy is the notion that individualcitizens have the right – even theresponsibility – to help shape U.S. foreignrelations “one handshake at a time.” “Thousands<strong>of</strong> Americans are engaged in this activity,”said Cehelska, “reaching out every dayto visiting international leaders, scholars andstudents, thereby giving international guestsa more realistic view <strong>of</strong> Americans.” Theprogram is a unique, short-term pr<strong>of</strong>essionalopportunity to bring emerging leaders,selected by U.S. Embassy personnel, to theU.S. for substantive pr<strong>of</strong>essional dialoguewith their U.S. counterparts. Complementarycultural experiences give these leaders a betterunderstanding <strong>of</strong> the history and heritage<strong>of</strong> the United States. In turn, U.S. hosts gainvaluable experience, develop internationalfriendships and build enduring educationaland economic relationships.Each year several hundred Alabama volunteersengage international visitors throughacts <strong>of</strong> kindness and hospitality, hostingevents in their homes, schools and <strong>of</strong>fices.Fifty-six international visitors and theirEnglish language <strong>of</strong>ficers visited the state in2004-2005 via 21 different programs. TheISC creates itineraries including pr<strong>of</strong>essionalvisits and home hospitality for distinguishedvisitors interested in a broad range <strong>of</strong> interests,which include: investigative journalism,economic development, public/privatepartnerships, librarianship, civil rights andgrassroots democracy. The ISC internationalvisitor leadership program contributes toAlabama’s tourism industry and also providesa higher pr<strong>of</strong>ile for the state.The NCIV Regional Meeting will enablekey U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> State leaders, as wellas national program agencies, to becomeacquainted with Alabama’s cultural, educational,civic and business resources. Meetingattendees will engage in a pr<strong>of</strong>essionalresource tour in the <strong>Huntsville</strong> area, meetingwith some <strong>of</strong> the pr<strong>of</strong>essionals who haveshowcased their expertise to internationalvisitors in the past. According to Cehelska,leaders <strong>of</strong> program agencies and the U.S.Department <strong>of</strong> State responsible for coordinatingactivities for thousands <strong>of</strong> internationalvisitors yearly will be introduced to outstandingarea resources such as the <strong>Chamber</strong>PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTThe University <strong>of</strong> Alabama in <strong>Huntsville</strong>Prepare your business for upcoming opportunitieswith our summer seminars and programs!Certificate Programs• Cost Estimating• C++ Programming• Federal Contract Mgmt. Essentials• Federal Contract Mgmt. Specialization• Foundations <strong>of</strong> Radar• Java Developer and Java Enterprise• Modeling and Simulation• Oracle Developer• PRO/Engineer• Systems Engineering• Test and Evaluation• UNIX/Linux• Web DeveloperOur summer coursesanswer the newesttraining needs <strong>of</strong> theaerospace and defensecommunity.Some are available indistance learningformat, and all can becustomized for yourorganization.Registration is quickand easy, so call or visitour web site today!SeminarsCapabilities Based Acquisition •Functional Analysis & Allocation •Greening for Contractors •MATLAB •Orbital Mechanics for Defense •Performance Based Logistics •PMP Examination Review •Project Management Fundamentals •Reliability Engineering and Analysis •Tactical Missile Systems Fundamentals •Unmanned Aerial Vehicles •www.coned.uah.edu256.824.6372pdinfo@cepo.conted.uah.edu32 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> InitiativesUAHThe University <strong>of</strong> Alabama in <strong>Huntsville</strong>An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution00375977


<strong>of</strong> <strong>Commerce</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>,Sirsi/Dynix, the Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>, TheNational Children’s Advocacy Center, The<strong>Huntsville</strong> Times, Cummings Research Park,<strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials, the U.S.Space & Rocket Center, and <strong>Huntsville</strong>’s historicdistricts. Alabama resources that will befeatured via video include the Civil RightsInstitute in Birmingham, as well as theSouthern Poverty Law Center and state government<strong>of</strong>fices in Montgomery.Conference participants will enjoy anintroduction to southern hospitality whenvolunteer hosts open their homes for dinnerand conversation. The meeting includesseveral plenary sessions featuring Alabamaleaders addressing topics related to citizendiplomacy, international relations and nonpr<strong>of</strong>itmanagement. Conference attendeeswill experience downtown <strong>Huntsville</strong> bystaying at the Holiday Inn Downtown,meeting at the Von Braun Center and enjoyingarea amenities.The ISC staff welcomes public participationfor this prestigious gathering. NCIVorganizations that have hosted regionalmeetings, added Cehelska, realize an increasein visitors as a result <strong>of</strong> the opportunityto experience communities firsthand. •David CouchRealtor, Certified AppraiserDirect: 256-755-0421Office: 256-650-0022David Couch“Personal, Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Real Estate Services”How much is your home really worth?To find out what you’re your home would sell for intoday’s market, trust a valuation expert. As a real estatepr<strong>of</strong>essional, I analyze home values and determine marketvalues every day. In fact, I am certified by the State <strong>of</strong>Alabama as General Real Property Appraiser which is thehighest level <strong>of</strong> appraisal certification awarded by the State<strong>of</strong> Alabama Real Estate Appraiser’s Board.So if you’re thinking <strong>of</strong> selling or just need some friendlyadvice, give me a call. We’ll meet at your house anddiscuss values and marketing strategy to get you the mostmoney for your house in the least amount <strong>of</strong> time.Expect Success!!www.<strong>Huntsville</strong>HomeBuyer.com00375972Involvement Opportunitiesfor the <strong>2006</strong> NCIV SouthernRegional MeetingThe International Services Council is looking forlocal sponsors, volunteers and participants to makethe <strong>2006</strong> NCIV Southern Regional Meeting asuccess. Opportunities include:▲ Event sponsorship and underwriting▲ Welcome Reception▲ Tour Transportation▲ Hospitality Transportation▲ Welcome Bags▲ Dinner hospitality volunteers▲ Conference volunteersPlease visit the ISC <strong>of</strong> <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong> atco.madison.al.us/services/otherag/IntlSvc.shtml“Find out why our clients trust usto safeguard their continued success.”• Staffing• PayrollProcessing• HR Services/Solutions• RiskManagement• Training/DevelopmentIf you would like to get involved with this excitingevent, please contact Luba Cehelska at256.532.3560 or ischsv@co.madison.al.us4925 University Drive • Suite • 168 <strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35816256.721.5627 – Fax 256.830.5102www.expressbusinesssolutions.com0037598433Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


EJ’sEldon J’s Fine ArtsSpecializing in Contemporary African American and Multicultural Fine ArtEllen HillPresident and CEO256.461.8595In-Home Consulting • Residential & Commercial • By Appointment Only00375982MembershipHappenings<strong>April</strong>Family-FriendlyBusiness Awards<strong>April</strong> 11, <strong>2006</strong> – 11:30 a.m.VBC North Hall, <strong>Huntsville</strong>Business After Hours<strong>April</strong> 18, <strong>2006</strong> – 5-7 p.m.The Heritage Club111 Washington Street, <strong>Huntsville</strong>• REPAIRS • PORCELAIN • TILE • FIBERGLASS• LAMINATE • CULTURED MARBLEHow much are yourcomputerscosting you?It can be morethan you think.FREE Test DriveLet IU handle your backups,storage, networking, andimprove your bottom line.TWO YEAR WARRANTY!UNIQUE PATENTED PROCESSESFAST • SAFE • LONG LASTING LIKE NEW at 1/3 cost <strong>of</strong> replacing!00375993MayBusiness After HoursMay 16, <strong>2006</strong> – 5-7 p.m.Redstone Federal Credit Union220 Wynn Drive, <strong>Huntsville</strong>JuneBusiness After HoursJune 20, <strong>2006</strong> – 5-7 p.m.The Village <strong>of</strong> ProvidenceTown Center Drive #102, <strong>Huntsville</strong>JulyBusiness After HoursJuly 18, <strong>2006</strong> – 5-7 p.m.Hampton Falls1000 Hampton Fall Blvd, BrownsboroAugustBusiness Expo <strong>2006</strong>August 22, <strong>2006</strong>VBC South Hall, <strong>Huntsville</strong>Small Business AwardsAugust 24, <strong>2006</strong>Reception 5:30 / Dinner 6:00VBC North Hall, <strong>Huntsville</strong>Nominations now being acceptedInformation Understructures, Inc.8503 Whitesburg Drive • <strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35802Voice 256.882.6265 • Toll Free 866-515-8229Fax 256.882.6258 www.iu-inc.comHIPAA Compliance, Security Rule Compliance, Electronic Claims Submission.00375956OctoberBusiness After HoursOctober 17, <strong>2006</strong> – 5-7 p.m.NAI Chase Commercial4800 Whitesburg Drive, <strong>Huntsville</strong>For more information on any <strong>of</strong> theseevents call Jenni Jeffers at 535.2011or email: jjeffers@hsvchamber.org34 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives


Young EntrepreneurSPOTLIGHTMarkSpencerAnne C. JewellDo you need a Life InsuranceCheck-up?Identify your goalsEnsure current coverage meets your needsLearn about new insurance policies and featuresPlanning is always a healthy choice.Contact us today for a “Needs Analysis”115 Manning Drive • Suite 202B • <strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL 35801 • 256-533-0001www.coxassociatesinc.comSecurities <strong>of</strong>fered through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker-dealer, Insurance <strong>of</strong>fered thro ugh Lincoln Financial Group, Inc. and other fine companies. Branch Office:00375994Lincoln Financial Advisors, 201 Office Park Drive, Third Floor, Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 871-6690RRecently featured on the cover <strong>of</strong> VON magazineand named by Network World as one<strong>of</strong> the 50 Most Powerful People in Networking,Mark Spencer, president and founder <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong>-based Digium, strongly believesthat every technology he creates should begiven back to the community.Spencer founded Linux Support Services(now Digium) in 1999 while still a computerengineering student at Auburn University.When faced with the high cost <strong>of</strong> buying aPBX (a telephone system, usually businessgrade),Mark used his Linux PC and knowledge<strong>of</strong> C code to write his own. This was thebeginning <strong>of</strong> the world-wide phenomenonknown as Asterisk ® , the open source PBX,and caused Mark to shift his business focusfrom Linux support to supporting Asterisk ®and opening up the telecom market.Today, its open source model has allowedAsterisk ® to remain available free <strong>of</strong> charge,while it has become as robust as the leadingand most-expensive PBXs. Used in combinationwith Digium’sPCI telephony interfacecards, Asterisk ®<strong>of</strong>fers a strategic,highly cost-effectiveapproach to voiceand data transportover IP, TDM,switched and ethernetarchitectures.Digium provides quality hardware ands<strong>of</strong>tware products that enable telephonyapplications including legacy PBX, IVR,auto attendant, next generation gateways,media servers and application servers.Digium also <strong>of</strong>fers a full range <strong>of</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionalservices including consulting, technicalsupport and customer s<strong>of</strong>tware developmentservices.With over a half million users (growingeveryday), 130 Asterisk ® systems vendorsworldwide, and developing solutionsranging from solar-powered call centercontinued on page 37Get the freedom you crave.Whitaker Medical, Ltd. is a full service pr<strong>of</strong>essional search firm for Physicians, CRNAs,36/ 8+2 00-/ 962896/ 036 /77 8+2 3788 00-/ 962896/ 98/839 74/2. /7732 0962896/ +2.+--/7736/7036 396 300-/+2. 3/ 300-/&78 396 73;63383.+ +2. 7+:/ 94 83 32 0+397 2+/,6+2.+290+-896/67Whitaker Medical, Ltd. is a full service pr<strong>of</strong>essional search firm for Physicians, CRNAs,PAs, and NPs, for placement on a locum tenens, contract, or permanent basis.www.whitakermedical.comO %"$%"%$$ 396 /-98:/ 00-/ 322/-832 /36+ +6;+ #398 9287:/ 2. :/ # /-+896 ;;;300-/0962896/398/8-34/2 32.+ 6.+ + 4 +36 6/.8 +6.7 --/48/.256.830.90020037599500375987Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>35


<strong>Huntsville</strong> makes headlines, continued from page 15<strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials also work through DCIto connect with international journalists ina variety <strong>of</strong> other ways. While in New YorkCity for interviews with domestic businessmedia, <strong>of</strong>ficials held a media briefing at theForeign Press Center. Focus (German),Frankfurter Rundschau (German), De Volkskrant(Dutch) and Finanz und Wirtschaft(Swiss) were among the publications represented.Direct, one-on-one outreach to foreignjournalists is another effective method forgetting <strong>Huntsville</strong> in the world spotlight.The prestigious British magazine ForeignDirect Investment featured <strong>Huntsville</strong>in its June/July 2005 article on“hot spots” around the world for aviationand the aerospace industry asthe result <strong>of</strong> a simple telephoneinterview. Likewise, IDG Japan, Inc.– a technology-focused publishingcompany – reported in its August2005 e-Gov series the rise <strong>of</strong><strong>Huntsville</strong> to a national center forspace and defense technologies. Thearticle, the result <strong>of</strong> e-mail and telephoneinquiries made directly to thechamber, also touted the region’s“highly-educated and skilled workforce thathas enabled this dramatic transformationand served as a magnet to attract diversified,advanced manufacturing companies such asToyota.”As the global economy continues togrow, it is imperative for <strong>Huntsville</strong> tospread the word about its advantages as aninternational logistics hub and world-classcenter for high-tech R&D and manufacturing.The chamber will continue to leveragethe power <strong>of</strong> the press – both near and far –in telling the <strong>Huntsville</strong>/<strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>story. It is a good one, after all. •0037760336 <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong> Initiatives00375957


Mark Spencer, continued from page 35technology, to a bike-powered telephonysystem and an intruder alert system amongothers, Asterisk ® is quickly reinventing theway businesses can embrace voice-over-IP(VoIP) technologies.With the anticipated growth <strong>of</strong> IP-basedcommunications, combined with theexpected increase <strong>of</strong> IP PBX sales and thecontinued acceptance <strong>of</strong> open sourceamong organizations and IT departmentsworldwide, Digium has a unique opportunityin the telecommunications market.Spencer, whose schedule is as fast-pacedas his industry, was recently available for atelephone interview.“Asterisk ® , When asked aboutan open source his customers, hePBX that runs readily replied, “It’son Linux, really all over theis now aninternationalforce used inmore than200 countries.”– Red Herringmagazineplace; everythingfrom large nationalcarriers, all the wayup to British Telecom,all the waydown to people intheir houses. Oneguy we talked toused his phone systemto keep his daughters from getting callsafter 11 at night.” Asterisk ® is free; however,there is a business edition that can be purchasedwhich includes the benefits <strong>of</strong> warrantyand support.Regarding benefits <strong>of</strong> doing business in<strong>Huntsville</strong>, the 28-year-old Spencer sagelynoted that he gets some raised eyebrowsfrom business people in the Silicon Valleywhen they learn his company is based in<strong>Huntsville</strong>, Alabama. “Once they come overhere they are very much surprised by ourtechnology and infrastructure,” saidSpencer. “It’s been very good for us engineeringpeople,” he added, referencing thearea’s cost <strong>of</strong> living. “We also get tremendoussupport from ADTRAN,” he asserted.Mark Smith, one <strong>of</strong> ADTRAN’s founders,actually mentored Spencer who was once aco-op student for the telecommunicationscompany. From use <strong>of</strong> conference roomslocated on ADTRAN’s expansive campus inCummings Research Park, to a range <strong>of</strong>business support, ADTRAN continues tolend a hand to the young entrepreneur.Spencer has presented and deliveredkeynotes at a number <strong>of</strong> industry conferencesincluding Pulver’s VON shows,SuperComm, TMC’s Internet Telephonyconferences and O’Reilly’s EmergingTelephony series. He holds a degree in computerengineering from Auburn University.He has also led the creation <strong>of</strong> several otherLinux-based, open source applicationsincluding Gaim Instant Messenger.Digium currently has 48 employees, butSpencer would like to double that numberin the next two years. The company hasdistributors and resellers in the U.S. andabroad. According to the tag line on thecompany’s Web site, “The open source communicationsrevolution is here, and Digiumis leading the way.” •00375400“Open source is an unstoppableforce in the VoIP space.”– Jeff Pulver, VoIP pioneer,founder <strong>of</strong> VON magazine and CEO <strong>of</strong> Pulver.comFor more information, go towww.digium.comParkway Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Counseling Groupis a concept in providing “premier”mental health and family services to ourcommunity in cooperation with theresources <strong>of</strong> the Mental Health Center<strong>of</strong> <strong>Madison</strong> <strong>County</strong>. We provide a variety<strong>of</strong> services to children, adolescents,adults and their families. Our staffconsists <strong>of</strong> highly qualified mental healthpr<strong>of</strong>essionals with many years <strong>of</strong> diverseexperiences. For more information,please call or visit our <strong>of</strong>fice at7501 South Memorial Parkway,Suite 103, <strong>Huntsville</strong>, AL(256) 705-0999.00375976The <strong>Huntsville</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> Artcelebrated the opening <strong>of</strong> our newestPlaza in the Park feature January 5.The Plaza provides exciting newopportunities for downtown visitorsto enjoy, including the new Palatte Cafe,Signature Gallery at the Museum,Children’s Community Gallery& Museum Academy.Call (256) 535-4350 or visitwww.hsvmuseum.orgGirl Scouts <strong>of</strong> North Alabama, Inc.celebrated its move to a new location at1515 Sparkman Drive NW with a BuildingDedication and Ribbon Cutting ceremony.Girl Scouting builds girls <strong>of</strong> courage,confidence, and character, who make theworld a better place.For more information, visit our website atwww.girlscouts<strong>of</strong>northalabama.orgor call us at 256.883.10200037597437Initiatives <strong>April</strong> <strong>2006</strong>


Where togo•Who • to seefor products and servicesUse a achamber member... it's in your best interestAccountantsBeason &Nalley, Inc.101 Monroe St. 35801.......................256-533-1720CDPA, PC415 Church St., Ste. B 35801 ..........256-539-3555AdvertisingAerospace/Defense ContractorsSAIC6725 Odyssey Drive 35806.............256-971-6400ArtEldon J’s Fine Arteldonjesart@bellsouth.net ................256-461-8595AssociationsGirl Scouts <strong>of</strong> North Alabama1515 Sparkman Dr. 35816 ...............256-883-1020BanksCompass Bank114 Governors Drive 35801.............256-532-6240First American Bank401 Meridian St. 35801..................256-519-6900First Commercial Bankwww.fcb-hsv.com...............................256-551-3300SOUTHBank118 Jefferson St. N. 35801 ..............256-535-6000Superior Bankwww.superiorbank.com .....................256-533-5422Communications -Wireless, Phone Service, SystemsBellSouth620 Discover Dr. Bldg. 2, Ste. 350 35806 ...866-620-6000Computers ServicesInformation Understructures8503 Whitesburg Dr. 35802..............256-882-6265ConsultantsBrillisensetodd@brillisense.com........................256-541-2964Contractors - Home ImprovementChampion Windows, Siding and Patio Rooms2995 Wall Triana Hwy Ste. A-6 35824...256-424-1110Get AGrip <strong>of</strong> Northern Alabamawww.getagripinc.com ........................256-830-2865Rand’s Blindswww.randsblinds.com........................256-468-9465Counselorsal.com...................................................www.al.comStoneRiver, Inc.Credit Unions1401 Seventh Ave. Decatur 35601....256-351-6870The <strong>Huntsville</strong> Times2317 S. Mem. Parkway .....................256-532-4250Parkway Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Counseling Group7501 S. Memorial Pkwy Ste. 103 35802 ..256-705-0999Redstone Federal Credit Union220 Wynn Dr. 35893..........................256-837-6110Education - Schools, Colleges,UniversitiesAlabama A&M University4900 Meridian St. 35810................256-372-5000Calhoun Community CollegeHwy 31 N. Decatur 35601.............256-306-2500Grace Lutheran School3321 S. Memorial Pkwy 35801 ........256-881-0553UAH Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Development210 Wilson Hall 35899 .....................256-824-6372Virginia College at <strong>Huntsville</strong>2800-A Bob Wallace Ave. 35805......256-533-7387Employment - Agencies & ConsultantsExpress Personnel Services4925 University Dr. Ste. 168 35816 .256-721-5621Kelly Services6241 University Dr. 35806................256-971-0113Whitaker Medical LTD11 Hughes Rd. Ste. 220...................256-830-9002Financial ServicesLeaseSouth, LLC300 Clinton Ave. W. Ste.1 35801....256-539-3311FloristBishop’s Flowers1207 Meridian St. 35801..................256-539-2711FurnitureBlack’s Furniture City124 N. Brindlee Mtn. Pkwy Arab, AL ...256-586-5725Office Furniture Outlet11507 Mem. Parkway, SW. 35803..... 256-882-9999HospitalsCrestwood Medical CenterOne Hospital Dr. SE 35802 ...............256-882-3100<strong>Huntsville</strong> Hospital101 Sivley Rd. 35801.......................256-265-1000Hotels &MotelsPearl River Resortwww.pearlriverresort.com .................866-44PEARLInsuranceCox Associates, Inc.115 Manning Dr. 35801 .......................256-533-0001Internet ServiceHiWAAY Internet Services721 Clinton Ave., Ste. 8, 35801.........256-533-4296Museums<strong>Huntsville</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong>Art300 Church St., 35801.....................256-535-4350Mortgage CompaniesWells Fargo Home Mortgage415 Church St., Ste 201 35801 .......256-533-5200Physicians & SurgeonsSurgical Solutions, P.C.185 Chateau Dr. Ste. 302 35802 ....256-489-8600Real EstateMartha M. C<strong>of</strong>fman, REALTOR4000 Balmoral Drive 35801 .............256-650-0022Concourse Group303 Williams Ave. Ste. 117 35801....256-532-1250David Couch, REALTOR333 Franklin St. Ste. 300 35801.......256-755-0421The Executive Group Realtors2304 S. Memorial Pkwy. 35801........256-533-7210Becky Hall, REALTOR3000 Bogey Circle, Hampton Cove 35763 ...256-337-6632McLain Real Estate101 Washington St., NE 35801.......256-532-1250VV&WProperties, Inc.204 Gates Ave., SE 35801 .............256-539-0505RetailBatteries Plus6290 University Dr. Ste. G 35806.....256-837-7500TravelSterling Travelwww.sterlingtravel.com......................256-533-1301Wal-Mart Vacations6140 AUniversity Dr. 35806 ............256-837-0629List your company in this Buyers Guide • For information call 532-4250 00376136


00375963Why Crestwood? When Kenny Spencer injured his ACL, he thought his playing daysmight be over for good. But thanks to the orthopedic team at Crestwood, they’re just getting started.The same technology Crestwood used to performAlabama’s first artificial spine disc replacementsurgery is now available to orthopedic patients, too.And that’s helping patients like Kenny Spencer get back to the thingsthey enjoy in life. In Kenny’s case,that means continuing hissports career in college. Ah, sweetvictory. T<strong>of</strong>indout more,call 256-880-4560or ask your doctor about Crestwood today.www.crestwoodmedcenter.com


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