The List November 2011
JOE HOWARD
He might describe himself as an introvert, but the ambitious Joe Howard is busy paving the way for the creative arts in Montgomery. A savvy businessman by day as a Wireless and Data Solution Consultant for the Sprint/Nextel Corporation, the entrepreneur recently launched a swanky modeling group titled The House of Suave’ and is gearing up to host his first fashion show on November 27.
The University of Troy graduate is thrilled with the opportunity to provide clients with their needed wireless and data solutions offered by Sprint/Nextel, but hasn’t lost sight of his creative vision. In addition to The House of Suave’, Joe is concluding his first solo book “Choice Words,” an eclectic collection of poetry, and he is in the initial stages of commencing a nonprofit agency geared toward benefiting underprivileged youth – but his involvement doesn’t yield there. The avid golfer is adamant on allowing his walk of life to create paths for others, and is an active member in church ministries.
MICHAEL SERDULA
Michael Serdula, Executive Chef for The Olive Room, is an inspiring example of self-taught success. Formerly the Sous Chef for Amsterdam Café in Auburn and the Executive Sous Chef for SaZa’s Serious Italian Food, Michael began his culinary career as a salad cook before discovering his full potential.
In addition to delighting customers with his passed-down family recipes and contemporary food creations, Michael is actively involved in benefiting the community through participation in charity events such as The Blackout Cancer Event and 86 Hunger. With his strong passion for advocating the continued growth of the city, Michael is an ardent supporter of outsourcing from local companies including Destin Connection and the Hampstead Farms. “I am trying my best to contribute to that end goal of being the best culinary city in Alabama.” The soon-to-be husband attributes his success to the unwavering support and guidance from his family, who instilled in him the importance of “not getting complacent ".
JOY CLINKSCALE
Fueled by creativity and determination, Joy Randolph Clinkscale is a triple threat – dedicated, business wise and incredibly talented. In addition to her role as a Graphics Operator for WSFA 12 News, the go getter is also the founder and owner of two businesses, JRGraffix Creative Solutions LLC, a graphic design service, and Fitfully Made Boutique, a vibrant collection of female athletic apparel.
“Even though I do a lot, one thing that is common in all of them is the opportunity to create,” says the Troy University graduate of her multi-faceted career. Joy previously served as a Marketing Supervisor for MMI Outdoor, but it was her love of fitness that influenced her creation of the boutique, where each item of clothing is custom designed. And as if she isn’t busy enough, the new mother is also an amateur figure competitor and has even been featured in Oxygen Magazine – making her professional bodybuilder husband proud. Even with all her remarkable accomplishments, Joy still hasn’t lost her thirst.
KIMBERLY CAUTHEN
Blessed with a huge voice and even bigger dreams, Kim Cauthen is making noise in the River Region – literally. The Hooper Academy graduate ventured to Boston University’s Tanglewood Institute after high school, where she studied Opera, and then completed her studies in English at Huntingdon College.
In addition to her current role as the Director of Fundraising and Collaborative Agreements for the Alabama Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the brunette beauty also manages a blog titled Montgomery Underground, a compilation of under-the-radar local artists, musicians and upcoming shows. Of course, Kim is not always behind the scenes – the emerging songwriter also plays the violin and fiddle for band Distant Kin and makes guest appearances as a singer in swing band The Lo-Fi Loungers. Truly dedicated to promoting the culture and youth of the city, Kim notes, “Helping a young person pursue their dreams is so rewarding…it’s great to be behind something that I truly believe in.”
MELODY KITCHEN
A steadfast supporter of the importance of health awareness, Melody Kitchen, Public Relations Manager for Baptist Health, fights for the cause both inside the hospital walls and out. Born with an unyielding thirst for knowledge, the Texas native received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas Tech University, during which she served as the Public Relations Specialist for the university’s Health and Sciences Center.
Upon graduation, the diehard Texas Tech fan left The Lone Star State for Sweet Home Alabama, where she worked her way up at Baptist Health from Communications Specialist to her current role. Melody also serves as the Mission and Advocacy Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Junior Executive Board, where she has the unique ability to provide guidance through her inspiring survivor story. “I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in college. I’m 11 years cancer free, and I want everyone who is diagnosed with cancer to be able to say the same thing.”
KATHERINE TRANTHAM
Sophisticated from her design down to her dress, Interior Designer Katherine Trantham is quickly making a name for herself. Although she graduated from The University of Alabama only four years ago, the Florida native already owns her own business, Katherine Rebecca Interior Styles, in tandem with managing custom design projects with Gardner Carpet One.
Upon graduation, the young designer made the bold decision to move to an unfamiliar city, where she worked under designer Phillip Sides, whom she credits with having a significant impact on her professional success, for three years before branching out to create her own brand. Katherine’s love of travel has proved fruitful in her career, as she finds inspiration in different cultures and styles. “Being exposed to cultures, environments and experiences outside my daily routine offers a complete recharge of design inspiration for me,” she notes.
DAVID DICKENSAUGE
With a resume teeming with culinary accolades, David Dickensauge, Jr., Executive Chef and Operational Partner of ROUX, brings his exploding hometown flavor to Montgomery. The Louisiana native first developed his deep love for the art of true New Orleans Cajun cuisine at 16 while working under the tutelage of Chef Jamie Shannon at Commanders Palace.
Dedicated to achieving a true understanding of his vocation, David then went on to graduate from the Culinary Institute of New Orleans and the University of Alabama with a degree in hotel and restaurant management. He then journeyed across the country, soaking up knowledge across many different restaurant styles and cultures, including Walt Disney World, Biloxi casinos, the University of Alabama and even worked unpaid for six months at the only five-star restaurant in Chicago. “Leaving my family behind was tough… but I needed to travel in order to learn different approaches to the culinary world.”
JASON BAKER
Although the recession has sadly seen the close of many small businesses, the superior customer service and dedication to quality of Jason Baker, Vice President of Baker’s Framing and Art Supplies, has caused his family business to continue to thrive. Jason began his career at Baker’s as a part-time employee in high school, and after graduating from Auburn University at Montgomery, he came aboard full time.
As an art aficionado himself, Jason has since been thrilled with the opportunity to assist clients in finding the ideal complement to their prized artwork. “Custom framing is an art in itself…I enjoy helping new and old customers find that perfect piece for their frame.” Outside of the store, the avid golf and tennis player teaches 2-year-old Sunday School, and as a father to a young boy himself, also serves on the YMCA Boys Work Committee. Although Jason is a staunch supporter of the newly revitalized downtown area, he takes every chance he can to escape to Lake Martin with his family and golden retriever
TASHA SCOTT
Born with an incredible entrepreneurial spirit, Tasha Scott is a firm believer in dreaming big. And with her devotion and dedication, the Scott Realtime Reporting founder/owner has successfully turned her dreams into a reality. As a certified court reporter that specializes in CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation), Tasha provides a service for the hearing disabled in the business, education and government sectors.
“I love that with my business I am able to build long, lasting relationships and ultimately create opportunities for others. It is very humbling to hear a student or professional say ‘thanks for helping me.’” Her compassion and servant heart extends past the courtroom as well; the Prince Institute of Professional Studies graduate has also found a calling in motivational speaking, and has launched a mentor group for junior high and high school girls titled GEMStones. Although she commends local organizations such as the Small Business Incubator and Chamber of Commerce.