MEET THE
Learn about this month ’ s featured contributors !
2024
Editorial
BOARD
Lisa Byrd
Mayor ’ s Executive Assistant , the City of Prattville
Lisa Byrd has been married to Dr . Carl Byrd for seventeen years , and they have two daughters , Analeigh and Nora Jane . She has worked with the City of Prattville for nine years and served in her current role for seven . Byrd earned a Master of Science in Leadership and Management from Amridge University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Auburn University at Montgomery . She is also a 2017 graduate of Leadership Autauga County .
Recommended Read : Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson M . D .
Best Biz Advice : A quote by Eleanor Roosevelt , “ Do what you feel in your heart to be right — for you ’ ll be criticized anyway .”
Favorite Thing to Do in the River Region : I love spending time with my family and watching my girls play volleyball and cheer . I enjoy walking in Historic Downtown Prattville .
Valerie Smedley
Owner , Tours of Montgomery
Valerie Smedley is the owner of Tours of Montgomery . Smedley is a native of Montgomery and the proud mother of Shayla Smedley Johnson and Johnathan Smedley . She graduated from Troy University before continuing her education at the Jones School of Law . Smedley is currently a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority , Inc .
Recommended Read : The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
Best Biz Advice : Provide the best customer service possible . As stated by Maya Angelou , “ People may not remember your name , but they will remember how you make them feel .”
Favorite Thing to Do in the River Region : Play tennis at Lagoon Park .
If You Could Have Dinner With Anyone : Ralph Abernathy . I believe he was a witness to situations and conversations between Dr . Martin Luther King , Jr . and other civil rights leaders on what they wanted to see happen in our nation .
Ashley Jernigan
Owner and Principal , JDB Hospitality , LLC
Ashley Jernigan acts as a consultant for her clients , filling multiple roles and wearing various hats . But , the focus of every function is the same : help every client , department or organization increase their ability to effectively and efficiently market , advertise and promote themselves . She advises on media relations , connects influencers , emphasizes customer service and designs workforce training programs .
Go to Tunes : “ Just Do You ” by India Arie
Best Biz Advice : Plan the work and work the plan .
Favorite Thing to Do in the River Region : Shop at the BeYOUtiful Boutique
If You Could Have Dinner With Anyone : Michelle Obama . As an accomplished woman , she stresses the importance of work-life balance .
10 CentrAL Inc !