In order to ensure the perfect work placement, our personnel service does our best to match specific types of jobs with employees who have the desired skill set. We have job counselors on site who are consistently interviewing candidates, which allows us to choose from a large employee base. We can be your temporary staffing company as well as your source for permanent and as-needed positions.
2 *Membership Orientation sponsored by Reece Flood, High & Associates and Digital Media Butterfly 100 Patriot Court, Hewitt 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
3 Digital Media Butterfly Business After Hours | 5:00–7:00 p.m. | 200 W. State Hwy 6, Suite 315, Waco
5 Dog Days of Summer | 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | Hewitt Park, 103 N. Hewitt Drive
9 GHCoC Board Meeting
15 *Business Networking Lunch for Fire Safety Month with Chief Jonathan Christian 11:30 am – 1:00 pm | 100 Patriot Court in Hewitt
18 GHCoC Board of Directors Strategic Planning
30 Spooktacular | 6:00-8:00 p.m. | Warren Park, 405 S. Old Temple Road in Hewitt
2024
7 Camp Bow Wow Ribbon Cutting. | 5:00 p.m. | 207 Colonnade Parkway in Waco
9 Free Community Shred Event | 9:00-11:00 a.m. | Presented by GTR Vacations at Point West Bank 420 N. Hewitt Drive
13 GHCoC Board Meeting
TBD Business After Hours
TBD GHCoC Monthly Networking Luncheon
5 Hewitt’s Christmas Tree Lighting – Warren Park, 405 S. Old Temple Rd., Hewitt, 5:30 – 7:00 pm
11 GHCOC Volunteer’s Christmas Party at The Barn, 1900 Spring Valley Rd, 6 pm
TBD Business After Hours at Pickup Outfitters
TBD Portraits & Pancakes Event *Registration Required
Each issue of EXPRESS magazine will feature a spotlight to learn more about individuals who serve the Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce. Watch for more great info in future issues!
BY CLINT ALLEN, GHCoC BOARD MEMBER, STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENT
My journey with State Farm began in 2019, following my service in the U.S. Navy from 1998 to 2003, during which I proudly served as a BM2 (SW/AW). After my service in the Navy, I spent 16 years in the auto industry. My travels have taken me to over 32 countries—including Japan and Bahrain—but my greatest joy is spending quality time at home with my two wonderful children. Maintaining the well-being of both my family and yours with comprehensive insurance coverage during difficult times is of the utmost importance to me.
During my free time, my family and I enjoy activities such as watching college football, fishing, riding, camping, spending leisurely days on the lake, and even attempting to master the challenging game of golf. We also find fulfillment in volunteering whenever the opportunity arises. Waco has given so much to
my family, and we are dedicated to giving back to the community whenever possible. I am an active member of the Hewitt Chamber of Commerce, and love supporting other local businesses.
Clint has served on the Greater Hewitt Chamber Board of Directors for two years. He is active with our annual banquet committee, supports our publications, and assists with fundraising efforts for our annual golf tournament.
CLINT ALLEN STATE FARM
704 SUN VALLEY BLVD. • HEWITT (254) 294-4224
HPL offers a dynamic environment where curiosity and creativity converge
BY MATTHEW GLASER, DIRECTOR, HEWITT PUBLIC LIBRARY
Thanks to a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Texas State Library and Archive Commission’s Special Projects Program, the Hewitt Public Library (HPL) is keeping pace with education for students age 3 to 18 by integrating active learning with science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) concepts. This initiative not only cultivates a passion for learning, but also equips young minds with essential skills for the future. By providing interactive and engaging programs, HPL is making a significant impact on students’ lives. Here’s a closer look at how the library is achieving this and why it matters.
Imagine a vibrant, dynamic environment where curiosity and creativity converge—a place where students can build robots, create 3D-printed objects, and experiment with electronics. HPL’s Full STEAM Ahead initiative offers precisely this. These activities provide hands-on experiences that transform abstract concepts into tangible learning. For example, students might work together to guide a Sphero BOLT robot through an obstacle course via block coding. Through this process, they gain insight into coding basics, creative collaboration, and essential problem-solving skills.
HPL has built this initiative by using student standards set by the International Society for Technology in Education. Recent studies on the implementation of these standards in K-12 classrooms show significant student learning gains when able to use technology to explore new ideas and solve problems independently (“The Nexus of ISTE Standards and Academic Progress: A Mapping Analysis of Empirical Studies”). These STEAM activities are equipped with tools and materials that encourage exploration and innovation. Library visitors will have the opportunity to engage in projects such as
designing simple circuits, creating art with digital tools, and exploring the basics of 3D printing. Such activities not only foster a deeper understanding of engineering
and technology, but also inspire students to think critically and creatively. This kind of active learning environment prepares students for the complex challenges of the future, making them more adaptable and innovative.
For younger learners, HPL offers a unique blend of STEAM learning through story times and art projects. During STEAM-themed story time sessions, our specialists read books that introduce scientific concepts in a fun and engaging manner. These stories are followed by related hands-on activities, allowing children to explore these concepts further. For instance, a story about the water cycle might be paired with a simple science experiment demonstrating evaporation and condensation, making the learning process interactive and enjoyable.
Art projects are another integral part of this initiative. Children engage in activities like drawing, painting and crafting, often inspired by mathematical patterns or scientific phenomena. These projects help children make connections between artistic expression and academic concepts. For example, they might create artwork based on the symmetry found in nature, or explore the concept of balance through sculpture. By integrating art with science and math, the library helps children see the interconnectedness of different fields of knowledge.
Older students thrive in environments that allow them to take an active role in managing their own learning. The Library engages teens through the Teen Advisory Board, which allows its members to have a voice in the development of teen-based services at the Library. These teens are already becoming global collaborators and empowered learners. HPL has expanded its STEAM offerings for teens through activities that make
learning fun, and emphasize the practical applications of academic knowledge, such as littleBit circuits and engineering sets. Students learn to work together, communicate effectively, and think critically under pressure. Such experiences are invaluable in preparing them for future academic and professional success. By participating in these challenges, students develop a deeper understanding of science and math, improve their problem-solving abilities, and gain confidence in their skills.
Investing in the STEAM education of our youth is investing in our collective future. The Hewitt Public Library is helping to cultivate a generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers. Encouraging students to participate in these programs ensures that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Together, we can inspire young minds to dream big and achieve great things through the power of STEAM education.
Bo Thomas Hewitt City Manager
Bo began his service to the City of Hewitt on January 28, 2019. He is excited to help the City of Hewitt continue its deep tradition of excellence and positive growth. Hewitt is a very desirable community to be a part of, and he looks forward to serving the community for the next several years.
Jim Devlin began serving as Hewitt’s Assistant City Manager in January 2023 after 28 years of law enforcement experience. Jim began his career with the City of Hewitt in 2009 as the Deputy Chief of Police and was later promoted to Chief of Police in 2012, where he served for the next 11 years.
Before his appointment as City Manager of Hewitt, Bo was the City Manager of Bellmead from 20122019, City Manager of Page, Arizona from 2002-2012, and the City Manager of Hobbs, New Mexico from 1994-2002. He began his career in municipal government in 1988 with the City of Hobbs.
Bo is an ICMA-Credentialed Manager, and is a member of both the ICMA and TCMA. He was named Man of the Year by the Bellmead Chamber of Commerce in 2015. He is a graduate of New Mexico State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a major in Management. He has served on various committees at the state level in New Mexico and Arizona.
Jim has been a part of the tremendous growth of our community, implementing and planning with other city departments to provide excellent service—not only in the Police Department, but across all city services. He is committed to ensuring positive growth and excellence, while providing a sense of community for the city of Hewitt.
Jim currently serves as the Director of the McLennan Community College’s Law Enforcement Academy, is a Board Member for the MCEAD 911 District, a member of IACP and TPCA—serving as the past Region 9 Director. He is a graduate of the University of Charleston with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and is also a graduate of the Institute of Law Enforcement Administration Management College.
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Brad Turner
Ward 1 – Term expires May 2025
Bradley (Brad) Turner grew up in Hewitt and has lived here for most of his life. He is married to his wife, Andrea, and together they have two daughters, Joley and Rachel. He is the son of the late Charles D. (Charlie) and Brenda Turner, also from Hewitt.
Bradley has an Associates Degree from McLennan Community College, a Bachelors Degree in history and political science from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, a Masters in American history from Baylor University, a Masters in Environmental Studies from Baylor University, and a Masters in Environmental Geosciences from Mississippi State University. Bradley has also published several local books about Waco history and the greater Waco area, and works as a professor in environmental science at McLennan Community College. He has served on the Hewitt Board of Adjustment and on the board that helped with updating the Hewitt city charter.
On a personal note, Bradley enjoys playing music, hiking, exercise, and learning new things about a wide range of subjects. Bradley possesses a deep love for our Hewitt community and is honored to serve it as a member of the City Council.
cont.
Johnny Stephens
Ward 1 – Term Expires May 2025
Johnny was born and raised in Waco. He graduated from Waco High School in 1970 and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Education degree (BSEd) in History and Political Science from Lubbock Christian University in 1975. He taught at Waco Christian High School from 1986-1999 and with Axtell ISD from 1999-2021. He is now retired after 35 years as an educator.
Johnny and his wife, Toni (Smithson) Stephens married in 1973 and have three children—Rebecca, Christopher, and Melanie. In addition, they are the proud grandparents of Maribelle, Olivia, James, Hayley, Claire, Andrew, and William.
Johnny’s hobbies include woodworking, photography, and fishing. As Johnny said, “I have lived in Hewitt for 32 years and feel this city has been very good to my family and me. To me, it’s time for me to give back whatever service I can to help benefit this city and maintain its greatness.”
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has. “ “
MARGARET MEAD
RIVER VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL CONVERSION
$6.2 $6.2 MILLION
Leftover funds for safety upgrades across the district 11 11 CAMPUSES
NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PLAYGROUNDS
F I N A N C I A L I N T E G R I T Y
9 consecutive years of Superior Financial Achievement by TEA
Completed 2019 Bond $6.2 million under budget
Saved taxpayers over $3.1 million in interest costs since 2019
Early payment of $11.4 million in bond debt since 2019
Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce Membership and Marketing Director
Kirby-Smith Machinery breaks ground in Hewitt!
Construction has officially started on our new Hewitt, facility! It is located on the southbound side of I-35 right past Hewitt Drive. The successful groundbreaking is the first step in our journey to better serve and support our valued customers.
HTeaO had a blast at their recent grand opening event. We love the CommuniTEA’s support. We offer tea, coffee, Yeti products and lots of swag.
Opening soon in Hewitt! This event venue is sure to be popular. with it’s sleek appearance and attention to detail.
Maximize your membership by following our 90-day action plan and utilizing member benefits (see even more benefits on the next page).
With affordable rates, we offer opportunities for every budget! In addition to these opportunities, studies also show that if customers know that your business is a member of a local chamber of commerce, you will enjoy a:
• 49% increase in your consumer favorability rating
• 73% increase in consumer awareness
• 68% increase in your local reputation
• 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize your business in the future.
Special thanks to Raising Cane’s on Hewitt Drive for sponsoring Greater Hewitt Chamber’s 2024 ribbon-cutting ceremonies.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a new home purchase, home construction or an improvement project, the lending team at Community Bank & Trust can help you with a loan that matches your vision. Whether you’re working with a builder to construct your dream home or purchasing an existing home, the way we start the loan process is the same as it’s been for almost 70 years. We still get to know each customer personally—exactly what you’d expect from the oldest locally owned independent bank in Waco. Call us today at 254.753.1521 or apply online at cbtwaco.bank by clicking the LoanLink button.
The Greater Hewitt Chamber partnered with First Woodway Baptist Church to award small business members with a total of $6,000 in grant money. Applications were reviewed by the chamber finance committee and funds were divided by need and merit.
No one knows your heart better than you. From taking steps to prevent heart disease to caring for heart failure, our care team works with you to find the best path forward. Get started by checking in with a specialist today.
Find a specialist
778 Sun Valley Blvd. Hewitt, TX (254) 732-9823
Convenient loca�on.
Comfortable rooms. First-class ameni�es.
Minutes away from Baylor University, McLane Stadium, Fixer Upper’s® Magnolia Market at the Silos, the Dr Pepper Museum and Cameron Park Zoo.
Conveniently located just off I-35 between Aus�n and Dallas.
Stay at Ramada in Hewi�, and experience Southern hospitality at its finest.
ABC is a family-owned pest control company since 1949. Most of us who call Central Texas home have neither the patience nor expertise to get rid of roaches, ants, mosquitoes, spiders, rats or other insects and critters. When it comes to pest control, area homeowners trust the professionals at ABC Home & Commercial Services for effective long-term solutions. ABC always offers free pest inspections and can be reached at (254) 910-8150.
Welcome to Alterations by Carol, where special occasion dreams come to life. With years of experience and a deep passion for bridal, Quinceañera, prom, and formal dress alterations, Carol ensures that every client is treated with the care and attention she would give her own daughters. Located in Lorena, Carol’s home studio serves clients across Central Texas, offering a personalized, relaxed experience. Here, your dress is transformed into a perfect fit, tailored just for you, turning “the” dress into “your” dress. Call (423) 833-7660.
BeytOMR—house of fruit & promise—a Christian family-owned alternative health organization featuring the FireFly photobiomodulation machine and stem cell regenerating patches. The Firefly aides in the healing of gut issues, cognitive decline & detoxification, as well as bacterial, viral and parasite infections using red, blue and infrared light. If you are looking for a way to heal your body without surgery or medication, consider using light! We are housed inside the Dreamscape Wellness Spa (inside WRS Athletic Club) in Waco. Ask for Toni, call (254) 457-9290, or visit www.beytomr.com.
Attorney Mike Burgett is set apart because he focuses his law practice exclusively on estate planning, elder law, and special needs planning—the friendliest law firm in Central Texas. The differences between simply having documents and designing custom estate plans are tremendous. At the end of the day, Mike delivers peace of mind to his clients who discover that no matter what the future holds, he has helped them plan for it. Attend one of his workshops and you’ll learn exactly how his skills can be used to protect you, your loved ones, and your estate now and well into the future. Call (254) 218-6288.
Hitch House Designs is proud to be locally-owned and operated. Opened in 2023, owner Hannah Sanders is here to help with all of your embroidery needs. With fast turnaround, quality embroidery and friendly service, Hitch House Designs is your stop for business and personal embroidery needs. Visit us online at www. facebook.com/HitchHouseDesigns or call (254) 366-9750.
The Direct Primary Care (DPC) model is traditional primary care with a refreshing alternative to insurance-based care. Patients pay a flat monthly subscription for DIRECT access to care. This means freedom to call, text or email your provider directly or to come in for an office visit. Our clinic embodies healthcare built on a strong patient-provider relationship. We offer full-service primary care, urgent care, yearly wellness lab testing, deep discounts on specialized lab testing and imaging. Check us out at PatientFirstDirect.com or call (254) 863-8741!
Josh Rizzo Design is dedicated to helping business owners and professionals enhance their online presence through expert web design and development—focusing on creating userfriendly websites that effectively communicate your unique brand and message. By simplifying the web, Josh Rizzo Design makes it easier for users to connect and engage. A reliable tech partner, they provide guidance and solutions. Visit www.joshrizzo.design/hewitt to learn more!
SONshine Pediatric Therapy provides one-on-one direct speech therapy services to address all speech, language and feeding/swallowing deficits in the pediatric population. We service children ages 6 months to 21 years of age. We work handin-hand with families to improve your child’s speech skills while they are at home or out in the community. Our overall goal is to be a light to the Waco community and share God’s love through the care of our patients and their families! Visit our website at sonshinepediatrictherapy.com for inquiries.
Sugar Spice is a family-owned and operated restaurant on Hewitt Drive. We want to represent our culture through food and to share our family recipes. We believe in freshness and quality and that food should make you feel good. Our Vietnamese dishes: Pho, Spring Rolls, Egg Rolls, and Vietnamese sandwiches, with a great selection of premium Taiwanese boba and Vietnamese coffee. We offer gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan items on our menu, and our location is perfect for studying, meetings, and private parties. We cater, too! We promise an experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Since 2018, Two Girls and a Guy has offered in-house screen printing for the surrounding areas and beyond. Within recent years, they have expanded to also offer any promotional products such as embroidery, banners, signs, pens, etc. Organic relationships and providing quality service is the foundation of their business. If looking for a reliable promotional company, look no further. Call (254) 415-4807 for all your needs.
Looking for a unique location to host your next concert, performance or event? Check out the Creekside Amphitheater in Warren Park, located at 450 South Old Temple Road in Hewitt. The park offers 36 acres of land, plenty of open green space and a nearby pavilion. The Amphitheater is able to host a variety of mid-sized events, but is charming enough to accommodate more small and private gatherings. Seating consists of 42 stone benches for 120+ guests. A large concrete apron in front of the stage allows for placement of chairs or other seating during smaller events. In addition, there are four electric and water hook-ups for food trucks and/or other vendors. We can help you plan your next event at this beautiful and very special location. For more information, contact Linda Fish at (254) 296-5698.
Did you know that we now have lightning alerts in our Hewitt parks? These sirens are part of the outdoor warning system, but much smaller. They are linked with the National Weather Service and will alert when there is a lightning strike within 10 miles of your location. The sirens will only alert between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. When it alerts, the speaker will sound a couple of tones and then say, “Lightning has been detected in your area. Take shelter.” Sirens will also alert for other outdoor emergencies, along with Hewitt’s larger sirens as well. If you are outside and hear these alerts, take shelter. Lightning can be very dangerous. Stay safe.…
