FROM the CHAIRMAN
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Business Resource center
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DECEMBER, 2009
Energy cost
$AVINGS
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Corporate Partners
Presidents Council
Partners of Distinction
DECEMBER 2009
Absolute Waste William Davis 906 Lincoln Avenue Robstown, Texas 78380 (361) 387-7747
1. NEW MEMBERS
Dale Carnegie Training
2. FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Wes Atwood 555 N. Carancahua, Suite 250 Corpus Christi, Texas 78478 (361) 692-1912
4. WELLNESS BENEFITS 5. NETWORKING AFTER HOURS 6. ENERGY COST SAVINGS 7. BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER 10. GUIDE FOR DOING BUSINESS WITH STATE AGENCIES 11. EMBAJADOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT 12. UPCOMING EVENTS
Oscar Rivera 4833 Saratoga Blvd. #236 Corpus Christi, Texas 78413 (361) 549-8721
Spears & Associates Kris Spears P.O. Drawer 1629 Aransas Pass, Texas 78336 (361) 438-7947
The Esplanade Assisted Living Mary Alice Garcia 5813 Esplanade Drive Corpus Christi, Texas 78414 (361) 991-9600
Wilcox Furniture Jerry Franco 5858 SPID Corpus Christi, Texas 78412 (361) 991-1517
December 2009
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Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
From the
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carol Gomez uring the Holiday Season, I like to reflect back on this past year. Even though it has only been six months since I have been serving as the Executive Director, the CCHCC has accomplished so much this year. We held the State of the County, Casino Mas Grande, Golf Tournament, Voices Unidas, Mano-a-Mano Luncheon, 1st Annual B2B Expo and our 70th Nuestro Exito Gala. I want to thank the Board of Directors and Embajadores for all their hard work at each event. The staff and I could not have done it without their help. Another accomplishment we attained was the establishment of the Business Resource Center (BRC). Since September 1st,BRC has assisted members in answering questions on HUB certification, using the Electronic Business Daily and scheduling appointments with state agencies. Yes, the last six months of 2009 were sensational, but planning for 2010 is already underway and it looks to be even better. Your CCHCC will be hosting a press conference on January 6, 2010 at the Ortiz Center at 11:00AM. We will be recognizing your 2010 Board of Directors, Partners of Distinction, Presidents Council and Corporate Partners. We also have something new and exciting that will be announced at the press conference.
D
DECEMBER 2009
Your CCHCC is hard at work planning other upcoming events for example our annual Golf Tournament in March and the State of the County in April. Most importantly, take advantage of these events to promote your business and network with other business owners. A question I keep getting asked is,“If I join, what will I get out of my memberships?” My answer to that is whatever you put in. If you join and do not attend any of our events or get involved you probably will not get a good return on your investment. At the TAMACC convention in McAllen,one of the seminars focused on networking. The speaker said, “Visibility leads to Creditability which leads to Profitability”. Basically, in order for your business to get to profitability you need to meet people, get to know them and then establish a working relationship with them. Let the CCHCC, become your networking center in 2010. From the staff, Board of Directors, and Embajadores at the CCHCC, may you and your family have a safe and happy holiday season.
Chairman Chad Magill Identity Theft Solutions, LLC Chair-Elect Robert Viera LNV Engineers, Architects, Contractors Treasurer Alex Garcia H-E-B Secretary Cathy Colomo-Riojas Outside The Box
Director Jesse Garcia CITGO Director Maggie Iglesias-Turner Port of Corpus Christi Director Mary Lou Gonzales Ovations Food Services Director Jesse Olivares Director Vicki Triplett Time Warner Cable Director Robert Zamora Law Office of Robert Zamora Director Philip Ramirez Turner, Ramirez & Associates, Inc. Director Jessica Davila-Burnett AEP Texas Director Ken Trevino SERCO of Texas Director Fred Segundo Corpus Christi International Airport Director Jim Bounds Security Service Federal Credit Union
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Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Therapy Promoting Healing and Wellness
Treatment Programs
Our Hands...Your Healing
JAIME JAI ME (PATO) MORENO PT-Director/Owner PT-Di PTDi
701 PARK AVE. 70 C ORPU CHRISTI, TX, 78401 CORPUS O FF OFFICE: (361) 879-0006 F AX (361) 879-0702 FAX:
Pain Management Orthopedic Rehabilitation Post Lumbar Surgery Program Fibromyalgia Neurological & Vestibular Programs Peripheral Neuropathy Program Respiratory Therapy Work Conditioning & Hardening Program Functional Capacity Evaluation Prevention Fall Program Arthritis Program Hand/Elbow/Foot & Shoulder Programs
Se Habla Espanol
Limited Complimentary Transportation
“Our Mission is to return the injured patient to a productive lifestyle by offering individualized therapy promoting healing and wellness.”
December 2009
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Corpus CorpusChristi ChristiHispanic HispanicChamber Chamberof ofCommerce Commerce
P^eeg^ll ;^g^_bml
make for happy employees, cost savings for employers
BY LINDA T. HUMMEL-MCALPIN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ANF:G: H? LHNMA M>Q:L :G= <>GMK:E M>Q:L
It seems that all the wrong things in health care are on the rise these days. The U.S. obesity rate has climbed to 34 percent, diabetes and heart disease affect 25 million Americans, and, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost half of all Americans live with a chronic condition. Smokingrelated health problems alone cost businesses $80 billion per year in lost productivity. T h e se a re j u s t a f ew contributors to skyrocketing medical costs which, in turn, become absorbed by employers and employees. So, how are companies – large and small – supposed to provide affordable health care to employees when we, as a nation, do such a poor job of maintaining our health? One solution is employee wellness programs. According to the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Partnership for Prevention, every dollar a company invests in an effective wellness program DECEMBER 2009
returns a $3.50 savings in health care costs. Fortunately, there are a variety of available programs that help employees make good health decisions. For example, Humana’s we l l n e s s p ro g r a m s o f f e r ever y thing from health assessments to preventive reminders to tracking tools and telephonic coaching. Research shows that t he progr ams are p aying of f. According to the CDC, companies that have implemented wellness programs have reported a 28 percent reduction in absenteeism, a 30 percent reduction in workers’ compensation and disability claims, and a 26 percent drop in health care costs. Implementing employee wellness benefits is a proactive solution for controlling health care costs, as well as for paving the way toward happier, healthier – and more productive – employees.
We’ve teamed up with Humana ...
... So you get lower rates for health benefits Corpus Hispanic Chamber businesses have been asking for more affordable health benefits and now they have them. Announcing the Corpus Hispanic Chamber Membership Health Advantage program. In partnership with Humana, the Chamber is making medical premium discounts available to member businesses with 2-99 employees. Premium discounts are also available on group dental, basic life and vision benefits. To find out more, call your broker or the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber at (361) 887-7408.
Offered by Humana Health Plan of Texas, Inc. - A Health Maintenance Organization or insured by Humana Insurance Company or administered by Humana Insurance Company or Humana Health Plan, Inc.
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Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
NETWORKING AFTER HOURS
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December 2009
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Corpus CorpusChristi ChristiHispanic HispanicChamber Chamberof ofCommerce Commerce
Energy Cost $avings
A
ccording to the US Department of Energy, commercial buildings share a large and growing apetite for energy. They account for 18 percent of total U.S. energy consumption. In a typical office building, energy use accounts for 30 percent of operating costs, the largest single category of controllable costs. Today’s buildings consume more energy than any other sector of the U.S. economy, including transportation and industry. Of the millions of buildings in the U.S. most were built in 1979 or prior. By increasing efficiency of aging buildings through retrofits or replacements, we are provided with a tremendous opportunity to reduce the nation’s energy consumption. Here locally the management team of the Wilson Plaza recognized the importance of running an energy efficient building. In March 2002, the Wilson Plaza was awarded the EPA’s ENERGYSTAR®. The ENERGYSTAR® programs and products are designed to promote energy efficiency, reduce pollution, and save money for consumers, organizations and businesses. The Wilson Plaza installed the most modern air-conditioning systems and energy management systems available. The Advanced Chiller Technology (ACT) System is a Windows based, user-friendly performance testing and monitoring system of its HVAC central plant. After the installation of the ACT System and working with ProTech Mechanical, the Wilson Plaza saves approximately $35, 048 per year.
DECEMBER 2009
In March 2002, the Wilson Plaza was awarded the EPA’s ENERGYSTAR®. The ENERGYSTAR® programs and products are designed to promote energy efficiency, reduce pollution, and save money for consumers, organizations and businesses.
Dan Whiteside, co-owner of Pro Tech Mechanical, owns the patent of the ACT System. The experts at Pro Tech Mechanical Inc. can show building owners how to controll excess costs and provide solutions to any problems with boiler systems and chillers. With their approach, they bridge the gap between controls, chillers, boilers and facility control operations. To get more information you can contact Pro Tech Mechanical at (361) 882-2101 or visit their website at www.protechmech. com. You too can learn how to save money by being more energy efficient.
Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
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Business Resource Center Zm phkd _hk hnk f^f[^kl T he CCHCC Business Resource Center (BRC) was instrumental in making connections for two CCHCC members and t he Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The Toby Globy Eco Program and LNV Engineering were invited to present at the TCEQ’s office in Austin on November 23, 2009. Humber to Almar a z , owner and creator of the Toby Globy Eco Program, was very appreciative to have been given the opportunity to meet key decision makers at TCEQ. Toby Globy is a simple “grass roots” educational supplement that teaches conscientiousness, responsibility and respect for our eco-system in early childhood. The program features Toby Globy, an earth loving mascot that teaches simple environmental and ecological awareness and solutions to students in grades Pre-kinder through 2nd grade. The program focuses on water quality, water conservation, pollution prevention and the importance of recycling. The program was recognized by the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality as the winner of the 2005 Texas Environmental Excellence Award in the Environmental Education category. Laura Cagle, HUB Coordinator for TCEQ called our office for assistance in finding HUB certified engineering firms. The referral was made and LNV Engineering’s representative Amy Hesseltine presented at TCEQ on November 23, 2009.
LNV is a multidisciplinary engineering and architectural company specializing in providing high quality service to their clients throughout Texas. Their services include civil, structural, transportation, environmental,architectural, surveying, and design/build. They provide quality se r vice for municip al , indu s t r i al , commercial, and governmental agencies. In addition, LNV has provided engineering services on numerous state and federally funded projects. They strive to provide the most feasible and cost effective engineering solutions for all projects. BRC will continue to facilitate meetings between state agencies and member organizations. To learn more about what the BRC can do for your company contact us at (361)887-7408.
December 2009
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Corpus CorpusChristi ChristiHispanic HispanicChamber Chamberof ofCommerce Commerce
appy
olidays From CCHCC staff
DECEMBER 2009
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Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
853-KISS WE DELIVER SMILES Ball Ballon Ba llon Bouquets Gift Gi ft Baskets B Cookies Brownies Cheese Cakes Candy Bouquets Baby Keepsakes Spa Products
Candles Flower Arrangements Roses Beautiful Green Plants Party Ballon Decorating Gourmet Foods Items Fruit & Snack Baskets Gift Wrapping
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December 2009
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Corpus CorpusChristi ChristiHispanic HispanicChamber Chamberof ofCommerce Commerce
Vendors Guide to doing business with State Agencies I:KM +
In last month’s Vision issue, we provided an overview and covers the cost of the program. It’s a worthwhile of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) and investment, because when state entities plan to buy the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program. goods and services that cost more than $5,000, they This month in Part 2, we will review the Centralized must search the CMBL for potential vendors. Based on Master Bidders List (CMBL) and how you can market the results of their search, they contact vendors directly your business to state agencies. by mail, fax, e-mail or phone with invitations for bids. The CMBL is a master database used by State Once you have registered on the CMBL it of Texas purchasing entities to develop is important to keep your contact a mailing list for vendors to i n for m at io n cur re n t . T h e VENDORS receive bids based on the Comptroller of Public products or services they Accounts is moving toward can provide to the State of electronic notification Texas. Manufacturers, for solicitations. We suppliers, and other strongly suggest that vendors wishing to an active, accurate furnish materials, and current equipment, supplies, email address is and services to the maintained on state should register your company’s VENDORS CMBL profile to for the CMBL to VENDORS receive bidding ensure receipt of opportunities. bid opportunities. To register for The registration the CMBL, you may process takes less register online or t han 10 minutes download and mail in online. If you would your application. You like to register and need can register for the CMBL assistance, please call or online at: come by the CCHCC office. You will be immediately We have staff that can assist you VENDORS included on the CMBL. The in the enrollment process. annual registration fee is $70
CMBL
DECEMBER 2009
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Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Embajador in the Spotlight Virginia Delgado Corpus Christi Medical Center irginia Delgado became an Embajador of the CCHCC in June of 2009 representing her employer the Corpus Christi Medical Center (CCMC). She will be serving as the Membership Committee Co-Chair in 2010. Born in Fresno CA, Virginia’s family moved to Corpus Christi, where she grew up. Growing up in Corpus Christi, Virginia always kept herself busy by participating in various organizations. She served on the student council, participated in the school spelling bee, played in the school band, and she even sang in the choir. Virginia received her Associates in Arts Degree in Business Administration from Del Mar College in 2007, and she is currently working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi. Virginia has been working for Corpus Christi Medical Center for the past eight years as the Human Resources Coordinator and enjoys working for CCMC. Aside from her involvement with the CCHCC, Virginia is a member of the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas and teaches catechism for 1st graders at her parish, Most Precious Blood. One of her aspiring goals is to educate young women (middle school and high school) on dating violence. This is dear to her heart since her 15 year old little sister passed away due to dating violence. In her free time, Virginia enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and working out. She has four children Stephanie 25, Veronica 21, John 16 and Christopher 12. She also has two grandchildren, Trey 2 and Illiana 1. She is writing a book and hopes to finish it soon. Virgina was inspired by her father to become a writer. As a teenager she recalls helping him carry out his own circulation known as Veteran News. When asked why she became an Embajador, she replied, “I love being a part of the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and I enjoy helping the community in any way I can. I feel that collaboration is the key success to any organization and businesses coming together in collaboration will make a difference in Corpus Christi”.
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December 2009
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Corpus CorpusChristi ChristiHispanic HispanicChamber Chamberof ofCommerce Commerce
UPCOMING EVENTS F:K<A +)*)
CCHCC GOLF TOURNAMENT
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JOIN US TODAY!
STATE OF THE COUNTY
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For more information, contact Membership Director at (361) 887-7408, or download application at
615 N. Upper Broadway, Suite 410, Corpus Christi, Texas 78477,
DO STUTTERING OR OTHER SPEECH PROBLEMS ZAP YOUR CONFIDENCE? ANN FONTENOT’S BEEN HELPING THE COMMUNITY FOR OVER 20 YEARS!
CALL: 361.225.2995
AND GET YOUR CONFIDENCE BACK! DECEMBER 2009
Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
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CONTACT CINDY MARTINEZ AT 887.7408
December 2009
Every year more than one and a half million tons of petroleum coke are shipped from Corpus Christi to countries with little or no emission controls. This petcoke is used to create low cost power for these countries and air pollution for the rest of us. After all, this is one world. That’s why Las Brisas is part of the answer. By using the petroleum coke here, we get more out of every barrel of oil processed by our refineries. We create low cost power locally, and we do so with cutting edge technology. Scientists, toxicologists, and engineers at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality carefully reviewed this plan. They found it will not change our air attainment status. The plant’s pollution controls will dramatically reduce lead and mercury emissions to levels well below strict US and Texas environmental regulations. Las Brisas is investing three billion dollars to create low cost power from a low cost fuel.
Now that’s responsible environmentalism. www.lasbrisasenergy.com DECEMBER 2009
Good for our future.
Great for Corpus Christi.