The Green Factor
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CONFIDENCE. REST EASY. WE HAVE SPECIALIZED INFANT CARE RIGHT HERE. When you have your baby at Longview Regional Medical Center, you can be confident that we’ll provide you and your newborn with personalized care. You’ll also have the peace of mind of knowing that if your little one needs specialized care to get a healthy start, we have a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit right here, with a dedicated staff of neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners to provide care for your little one. To find out more, visit LongviewRegional.com.
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Leaders Must Give Their Lives to Causes that Count…Do You?
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ver the past few years I’ve evaluated if I’m investing my time and talent to causes that make a difference in the areas I value as important. The more I’ve Kelly Hall reflected on this topic the more President/CEO passionate I’ve become about my career and the community I serve: Longview. Why do I believe in the Chamber? Yes, it has to do with the “what” and the “how” but more importantly I believe the Chamber is the heart of the community. The Chamber is the vehicle that brings people and resources together to make significant intentional things happen. The organization is led by successful people that are continually pushing to raise the bar. The Chamber is constantly identifying persons who also believe in making a difference and who value the importance of being forward thinking to help shape the future of Longview. Like your company, we are building a coalition of leaders who are willing to address the big and small challenges that can positively and/or negatively impact our business climate. Some of these challenges and opportunities have been identified and teams are in place with the chamber to address these areas. These teams are seeking people willing to invest their time, talent, and resources. Currently, we are seeking individuals to serve in several significant areas including Advocacy, Visioning, Main Street, Young Entrepreneur’s Academy, and the Business Solutions Conference. Advocacy - Chair Laura Rectenwald, Titanium Environmental Services, is getting ready to launch an update on the organization’s public policy statements. She will have 10-12 task forces working on a specific set of topics like health care, energy, taxation, education, etc. Each task force will identify 3-5 specific areas within a topic they believe should be watched during upcoming state legislative session. Visioning – Chair Dr. Dale Lunsford, LETU, is leading a team to Greenville, SC, for an InterCity Visit. He is seeking individuals who want to help shape the future of Longview by researching best practices from across the country. The exploration team will depart on October 5th and return October 8th. The purpose is to learn how Greenville transformed their downtown into a vibrant business and cultural district. Attendees will meet with developers, city staff, and key stakeholders who have been part of the process over the past 40 years. Main Street-Chair Gary Ford, Network IP, is seeking individuals to help develop a clear sense of direction as to how they can build on the success with the continued infrastructure improvements, façade updates, and increased activity as an www.LongviewChamber.com
What’s Inside President’s Message....................................................3 Keeping Focus on Promotion.........................................4 Casting Tenants for Downtown Longview.......................5 A Walk on the Wild Side COVER STORY.....................6-7 Leadership Longview Class of 2014-2015.....................8 Inter-City Visit 2014..................................................10 State of the City Membership Luncheon.......................11 Anniversaries & New Members....................................12 Ribbon Cuttings.........................................................13 On Target: Chapin Miller.............................................14 Young Entrepreneurs Academy ...................................15 Par Busters Golf Tournament Sponsors........................15 CVB On the Move!.....................................................16 Downtown Live!........................................................17 $ave Local Now.........................................................18 Calendar...................................................................19 Longview Progress Report is published bi-monthly by:
410 North Center Street / Longview, Texas 75601 903-237-4000 / www.LongviewChamber.com The Business View Blog www.BusinessInLongview.com www.facebook.com/LongviewChamber @LongviewChamber
evening entertainment district. Young Entrepreneur Academy Program Coordinator Courtney Gill is preparing to launch the 2nd year of a dynamic youth program that helps students ages 12-19 to start a business. Individuals are needed in a variety of areas including those who want to mentor, assist students in writing a business plan, help them build a website, and prepare for our version of Shark Tank. Business Solutions Conference-Chair Tom Warren, Lock Doc, Inc., for 2014 is seeking individuals who want to take two extremely successful events, the Business Expo and the Small Business Celebration luncheon, to a whole new level! This team is seeking individuals to help with marketing, planning, and execution. Your Chamber is making a difference in many areas that COUNT! Would you like to be part of driving success and shaping Longview’s future? Please let us know how you see yourself and/or your organization as a partner by giving me a call at 903.237.4004, or shooting me an email, khall@longviewtx. com. Come be a part of shaping Longview’s future.
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Keeping Focus on Promotion
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e visited with one of the professional team members about how the Longview Chamber integrates promotion of the community. Q. Each of the team members has business cards and on the back of these cards are printed the five Core Values. Can you tell us quickly what they are? A. The Chamber’s Core Values or sometimes we think of them as Core Competencies are a result of considering why our Chamber exists. What are we here for? Why are we doing it? We offer a lot of resources and these five values are a way to tell others what we are about as well as a foundation to help keep us focused while developing and executing the programs and new initiatives we have. Placing them on the back of our business cards and in most of our publications is a way of keeping them in front of us and our members.
over the last 10 years. Q. So, Strengthen the local economy is the most important? What about Promoting the Community? A. There is the conundrum. Strengthening and helping to build a healthy and vibrant economy is job #1 it cannot be done successfully without effective promotion of the
of transportation. Let’s say that the Texas Department of Transportation, with it’s limited funding is making a decision where to spend the money and we have some needs in that area. It is imperative that the TxDOT have a clear vision of our city and its advantages and how meeting our need will improve and meet their goals as well. Government officials want their programs to be successful and they will be more willing to listen to a community that has their plan strategically in place and working.
Job creation ranks #1. It is considered to be the Chamber’s most important function by business leaders that have been surveyed over the last 10 years.
Q. Which one is the most important of the five? A. Well maybe we better identify what they are so we know what we are talking about. 1-Strengthen the local economy; 2-Promote the community; 3-Provide networking opportunities; 4-Represent the interests of business with government; and 5-Build community leadership and development programs. Each of these is most important at one time or another depending on the matter under consideration. But job creation ranks #1. It is considered to be the Chamber’s most important function by business leaders that have been surveyed
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community. That is the one core value that is most integrated with all the rest. When we think about it we must always be about promoting Longview and its trade area – we can’t stop at the city limits – because what we are and how we are perceived is so important to the success of strengthening the economy. Promotion is a part of every effort to recruit or sustain a business in Longview: Building a credible image of what we are so that the businesses that are here have the market they need to be successful. There is no sustaining strength in a community that is poorly promoted. Q. If that is so, how does promoting the community integrate with value number four, representing the interests of business with government? A. Promoting the community is more than spit and polish. It is more than a dog and pony show. Let’s use an example
Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
Q. What about the last two core values. How does promoting integrate with them? A. Quickly I will say that the networking opportunities that we create are almost always showcase events at the same time as educational and business solution events. Members host and sponsor and supply these events and as a part of the community, they are introduced to other members. Leadership development programs delve deeply into what our city is about. The promotion of the community is to a smaller but very important audience, the leaders of today and tomorrow as they expand their understanding of Longview. We should say the one kind of promotion that most people are familiar with and know why we do it is promoting Longview as a destination for visitors and for meetings. The Chamber’s Convention and Visitors Bureau is full time working that core value.
2014 Officers Brad Tidwell Citizens National Bank
Ken Cunningham Good Shepherd Health Systems
Roy Eon Texas Bank and Trust
Dr. Dale Lunsford LeTourneau University
Brett Lindig SYSCO Food Services, LLC
Wade Johnson Johnson & Pace, Inc.
Keith Honey AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company
Kelly Hall Longview Chamber of Commerce
2014 Directors James Barron Barron’s
Jill Bayless Longview Regional Medical Center
Kara Bolster STEMCO
Pat Britton Eastman Chemical Company
David Hayes Hayes RV Center
John Ray Lively Cadillac GMC
Tim Vaughn TVaughn Builders LLC
2014 Appointed Directors Joe Bob Joyce Longview Economic Development Corporation
Dana Parr Copeland Insurance Group
Judge Becky Simpson Councilman Richard Manley
www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Staff Kelly Hall President 903-237-4004 khall@longviewtx.com
Paul Anderson Senior Vice President Director of Communications 903-237-4041 panderson@longviewtx.com
Leska Parker Director of Development 903-918-1546 lparker@longviewtx.com
Elaine Reynolds Vice President of Special Event Operations 903-237-4040 ereynolds@longviewtx.com
Suzanne Brown Advocacy & Communications Director 903-237-4003 sbrown@longviewtx.com
Casting Tenants for Downtown Longview
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ongview Main Street along with Eberhart and Miller have teamed up to improve the storefronts of vacant and available buildings. The idea behind the project is to create awareness of available buildings for sale or rent, improve the image of downtown, and support Main Street’s vision statement: Downtown Longview, a successful business district, will be the premier destination for working, living, and socializing. Longview residents and visitors will enjoy the arts, entertainment, outstanding eateries, and unique shopping.
Melissa Saunders Business Development & Membership Director 903-237-4023 msaunders@longviewtx.com
Diana Velazquez Retail Development Coordinator 903-237-4029 dvelazquez@longviewtx.com
able to visualize what kind of store or restaurant that can be used within the vacant space. It makes you think” says Cantey. The first project that 3D
Window Dressing® designed in Texas was located in Ft. Worth. Longview Main Street will be the second organization in the state to use this approach. The depth you see in these designs corresponds with the actual dimensions of the available retail space. Our team used different techniques and materials to tackle some challenges with the large variation in types of storefronts.
Lisa Monsivais Membership Services Coordinator 903-237-4013 lmonsivais@longviewtx.com
Kayla Cantey Convention Meetings and Main Street Manager 903-753-3281 x215 kcantey@longviewtx.com
Margie Harris Tourism Services Manager 903-237-4021 mharris@longviewtx.com
Courtney Gill Young Entrepreneurs Academy Coordinator 903-452-7521 cgill@longviewtx.com
Amy Canton Leadership Longview Coordinator 903-753-3281 x216 acanton@longviewtx.com
Carrie Fisher Director of First Impressions 903-237-4000 cfisher@longviewtx.com
www.LongviewChamber.com
The Advisory Board unanimously approved the proposal and began the project immediately. Upon doing research, Main Street Manager, Kayla Cantey, decided that this would entice people to visit Downtown and create an environment that would not go unnoticed. “People will be An example of a successful project using 3D Window Dressing® is commercial real estate giant Jones Lang LaSalle. They used 3D Window Dressing® to show the type of tenants that a Hampshire’s regional shopping center was looking for. All designs were made to fit these unique storefronts and were installed in one day.
September-October | Longview Progress Report
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
A Walk on the Wild Side It was a sweltering summer day forecast to be a blistering 97 degrees Fahrenheit. Driving through traffic, commercial development, and then by a chemical plant, it would not be expected to find a nature center tucked away amongst the urban landscape. Upon arrival, here was a woodland sanctuary where visitors can walk in the shady cool of a vibrant green forest abound with wildlife. Trodding down well-worn paths, familiar bird calls rang out and a surprising number of unfamiliar ones joined in the natural symphony of the morning. It was peaceful. It was serene. It was nature, pure and simple. It was Eastman Chemical Company’s Nature Center: their hidden gem. Walking through this urban oasis, one could not help but reflect on John Muir’s writings over a century ago to help preserve the natural beauty around us.
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.” John Muir
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul,” John Muir.
Eastman Chemical Company has a rich history of being a responsible steward of their resources, striving to improve the health and vibrancy of their surrounding communities, supporting local philanthropies and programs with their time and resources. Eastman has been a leader for over 25 years in the American Chemical Council’s Responsible Care® Program to protect the environment, health and safety of employees, communities and the people who handle their products. In 2012, they were awarded Responsible Care Company of the year and they are the first chemical company to receive the ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award, EPA’s highest ENERGY STAR® award. Newsweek has named them as one of the “Top Greenest Companies in America.” A strong partner with the Longview Chamber of Commerce, Eastman will celebrate 60 years with the Chamber on December 1, 2014. In 1999, when asked what other opportunities Eastman could do for the environment, one of their employees, Mike Childress, looked at the tract of land that served as a green belt for the manufacturing facility and promoted the idea to make it
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
a nature center. The seed of this idea blossomed into a Nature Center covering 375 acres with two dedicated walking trails, serving as a teaching lab with outdoor classrooms, a bee colony, forestry and fire training, and a birder’s dream location. East Texas Beekeepers Association (ETBA) has set up a home hive for bees that produce honey but their primary focus is replenishing the bee population. Mr. Dick Counts leads this particular expedition, teaching school children and adults about the critical role bees provide to our ecosystem and food supply. Starting with a small colony, it took a three-year investment for the hive to thrive and produce honey and begin replenishing. Mr. Counts describes this particular colony as a “swarming” configuration, specifically designed to create a replenishment environment. He is part of the ETBA and local honey from these hives is available for sale. Eastman funds the addition of new bees to the hive each year. www.etba. info.
When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe. John Muir
“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else,” John Muir. Walking through the trails there are signs showcasing plant species, and trail directions. In designated destination areas, benches and podiums are in place serving as outdoor classrooms. All of these wooden structures were local Boy Scout troop Eagle Scout projects. School groups – first graders, private schools, home schooled children and scout troops – all come here to learn about sustaining the environment. There have been a few wildlife rehabilitations, and the Texas State Envirothon high school competition is held here about every 5 years. Larger high school groups have learned about geocaching and fire and forestry with the Texas A&M Forest Service demonstrating fire breaks and safety, with www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
students donning fire gear. Project Learning Tree® is held here, a nationwide program providing opportunities for elementary and middle school science teachers to learn about the environment hands on. Eastman’s environmental personnel provide education on waste water treatment, spills and ground water. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides wildlife demonstrations in tandem with bee education and nature. One station is typically set as a Water Station for testing water from the nearby creek. Year round projects include wildlife and reseed plots, and deer surveys. An event of note is the annual Christmas bird count, an Audubon sanctioned bird and identity count of birds in the Center. Two Eastman employees organize and participate in this event and about 270 different bird species have been identified in the Nature Center. That’s 270. A nesting pair of bald eagles has been discovered high in the trees tucked onto an eight-foot platform the birds built from large tree limbs. Employees are keeping a close eye on their progress. Other projects are enhancing their Wildlife Certification and work toward maintaining their certification as a Corporate Lands for Learning. In partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife they will be conducting a deer survey to assess the Nature Center’s deer population. Notable wildlife in the area are bobcat and fox, and potentially wild turkeys. Recently a wild turkey release occurred on the Sabine River, so they are keeping an eye out for potential migration into the Nature Center. Groups typically come during the spring and fall for eight different events each year. These projects and educational events continue to succeed due to good relationships with external partners. Eastman would like to have more groups share in these opportunities, and recommends contacting Michelle Holyfield, Responsible Care Coordinator at (903) 237-6629 or visiting their website at www.eastmanoutdoorstexas.com. There is quite a bit of activity in this Nature Center, both naturally occurring and interactive. On this day, it was a serene escape celebrating the natural world and how to sustain it. Eastman Chemical Company has found a way to do this not only in their business practices, but also in the utilization of their natural lands. The Company and its employees are eager to tell the amazing story of the land and how to be a good steward to that land. “The power of imagination makes us infinite.” John Muir would have been proud.
The power of imagination makes us infinite. John Muir
www.LongviewChamber.com
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Leadership Longview Dates and Synopsis:
Amy Canton joined the Chamber in June taking on the role of Leadership Longview Coordinator. A graduate of the 2013-2014 Leadership Longview class, Ms. Canton has a background in non-profit management and event planning. She is excited to be a part of the team and looks forward to a great year! Chairing this committee is Stephanie Wolford of Texana Bank and an alumni of the class of 2011. Rachel Norwood from Good Shepherd Medical Center is this year’s Vice Chair. Rachel is a Leadership Longview Alumni, class of 2013. Linda Martin of Network Communications is this year’s Leadership Longview Alumni Chairman. Linda graduated with Leadership Longview class of 2008. This team along with other class representatives is vital to the success of Leadership Longview. Leadership Longview 2014-2015 Class Roster: Kimberly Ball Cody Bailey Macy Bannert Elizabeth Baumgardner Brady Beddingfield Jeremiah Born Kendal Brown Nikki Davis Joseph Egbe Donald Esch Rusty Fennell Sarah Humphrey Dave Jochum Andrew Lewis Taryn MacIntyre
Michelle Miller Brian Mohns Brandi Morris Amber Mulcahy Jeremy Neill Paul Sellers Bert Scott David Scott Whitney Slack Roy Smith Amanda Traywick Yanika Valentine Clinton Quinn Linda Whitehead Misty Winn
Fall Retreat; Friday & Saturday, September 12-13, 2014. The new class meets and gets to know each other at the Lake View retreat center in Palestine, TX. The class does individual DISC assessments and learns how their diverse personalities work best as a team. The class also learns team building as they go through a low and high ropes course designed to build trust and friendship. Community and Economic Development Day, Thursday, October 9, 2014. The class meets several area leaders, and discusses the future of Longview including identifying strengths and weaknesses in our community and business development in our area. They also learn the role of the Chamber of Commerce in Longview. Tour Day, Thursday, November 13, 2014. As they learn about the current industry already in Longview, the class meets a diverse group of local businesses and tours factories, machine shops, warehouses, manufacturing and more. Health and Social Services Day, Thursday, December 11, 2014. The class explores all types of medical services available in Longview including our hospitals, emergency care and clinics. They also learn about the future of health care in our area and indigent care and emergency protocols. Criminal Justice/Public Safety Day, Thursday, January 8, 2015. The class attends juvenile court and hears from area judges to better understand the levels of the criminal justice systems and their challenges. They also tour the jail and hear from local police about the past, present and future of public safety in Longview. Education Day, Thursday, February 12, 2015. The class will learn the extent and impact of the educational system in Longview, including the public and private schools as well as higher education. Local educators compare and contrast learning options and discuss innovative ways of learning and the challenges local schools face. Quality of Life Day, Thursday, March 12, 2015. This day helps the class understand the unique history and heritage of Longview and how the influences of its early development are evident today. They learn about the facets of a clean, safe, friendly community that bring people to Longview and keep them here. They are also given a chance to network with local non-profits and learn about volunteer opportunities. Community Project Day, Thursday, April 9, 2015. Each class designs and creates, as a team, a community project to benefit Longview. They plan the work and raising funds for their project. The project is implemented on this day. Projects chosen have been as diverse as a meditation garden, a media campaign, and a library.
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
ONE.
ONLY ONE LONGVIEW HOSPITAL* BRINGS YOU 3D MAMMOGRAPHY. The Center for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center offers an astounding weapon in the fight against breast cancer. Our 3D Mammography allows physicians to examine breast tissue in greater detail—resulting in improved accuracy and a better chance at early detection. Contact the Center for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center at 903-232-8596 to make your appointment today.
*As of August 2014 Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. A physician order is not required, but the patient must provide a physician’s name when an appointment is made. If the patient does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for the patient’s selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider and follow-ups are the responsibility of the patient.
www.LongviewChamber.com 79017_LONGV_One_9_25x12_25cBLD.indd
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September-October | Longview Progress Report 8/1/14 10:56 AM
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
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he Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors invites you to participate in the Inter City Visit to Greenville SC. Planning has begun to develop an itinerary for October 5th – 8th. This trip provides our community leaders the opportunity to discuss challenges and opportunities our community is facing. The visit also provides an opportunity for interaction among city leaders and facilitates an exchange of best practices and lessons learned. Why an Inter City Visit? The visit is designed to get new ideas. It will provide an opportunity to introduce our delegation to innovative programs and impactful projects that may be adapted and implemented in our community. Candid speakers will alert our delegation to the challenges and the pitfalls with which they are currently struggling. The 2014 Inter City participants chose Greenville SC as a destination where the citizens have, and are dealing with similar issues. Participants will be able to focus on best practices and experience true peer-to-peer learning. The networking and relationship building through shared experiences will help our leadership move forward on building a common foundation of understanding. Delegates will become a more cohesive team working to solve problems on behalf of our community.
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
Activities begin Sunday evening at 7:00 pm and will conclude Wednesday after our breakfast debriefing. Each participant is responsible for securing their own travel and hotel accommodations. Reservations will be made for group meals. A registration fee of $450 (spouse fee - $250) will help defer the cost of prepared materials and meals. For more information on the 2014 Inter City Visit, contact Kelly Hall at 903.237.4004, khall@ longviewtx.com or Lisa Monsivais at 903.237.4000 or lmonsivais@ longviewtx.com.
www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
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ongview Mayor Jay Dean will take the stage on Friday, September 8, 2014, for his last State of the City Address. Elected officials, business leaders and community leaders will come together to celebrate the accomplishments of the Longview Community and discuss the future opportunities and challenges that we face. The luncheon will be held at Pinecrest Country Club from 11:30am-1:00pm.
Sincerely, Mayor Dean
www.LongviewChamber.com
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
B R ATI E L N
85 E
YEARS
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I invite you to attend the 2014 State of the City Business Luncheon, hosted by the Longview Chamber of Commerce. The 2014 address is my tenth and final opportunity to present the State of the City. It is hard for me to believe how quickly the time has passed since I first spoke at the Chamber Quarterly luncheon as mayor back in 2005. As in previous years, I would like to take time to answer questions about the issues facing our community. I enjoy the opportunity for dialogue and encourage you to submit your questions. Due to limited time during the event, please submit questions in advance to the Longview Chamber of Commerce at msaunders@longviewtx.com or 903-2374000. It has been my honor to serve Longview these ten years as mayor. I hope you will join me as we discuss where we’ve been over the last ten years and where we are headed into the future.
THE SOURCE FOR YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS SINCE 1929.
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State of the City Membership Luncheon
Tax • Auditing • Business Consulting • Estate Planning
1127 Judson Road, Suite 233 • Longview • 903-758-0648 3310 S. Broadway, Suite 100 • Tyler • 903-597-6311 E-mail: info @ henrypeters.com
www.henrypeters.com September-October | Longview Progress Report
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES
5
Years
Buckner Westminster Place The Crisman School I.E. Willis Jr DPM PC Gregg Industrial Insulators Inc Kelly Tractor & Equipment Texas Alcohol & Drug Testing Service, Inc. Ace Star Distributors Graystone Haunted Manor AFLAC - Mark Mazurek Mosby Mechanical Co Inc Technical Machine Sales, Inc. Hyundai of Longview Suzanne Cook & Company - Nancy Chapmon
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Years
20
CBS 19 KYTX Papa John’s Pizza #1169 Papa John’s Pizza #2530 BancorpSouth Affordable Tree Care Years Glazer’s Wholesale Distributors ServiceMaster Restoration by R&R Services
25 30
Years East Texas Endodontics PA
Years
35
Carol Coolidge Real Estate ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintainence
Years Manpower Temporary Services M W Smith Equipment Inc State Farm Insurance - Carl Barton
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Years
45
ABC Auto Parts LTD Frank H Chaney Investments Sartain Lock & Safe Bio-Derm Laboratories Inc Remtex Inc
Years Hudson Printing & Graphic Design
NEW MEMBERS Days Inn Longview South Hitandra K Raman 112 S Access Rd Longview, TX 75603 (903) 758-0959
East Texas Child Advocates Inc Shelly Smith PO Box 3839 Longview, TX 75606-3839 (903) 753-8093
Daiquri Express Eastman Rd Jeffery Fox 3020 S Eastman Rd Longview, TX 75601
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
Golden Corral - Buffet & Grill Samantha Stefou 114 E Loop 281 Longview Texas, 75605
Impel Ambulance Service, Inc Alicia Watkins 521 N 1st Longview, TX 75601 (430) 625-7050
Newk’s Express Cafe
Reliable Real Estate
Pate Greening 1000 McCann Rd Longview, TX 75601 (903) 248-6000
Treviso Transitional Care Sharon Carter 1154 E Hawkins Pkwy Longview, TX 75605 (903) 663-2750
Reggie Theus 110 E Loop 281 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 753-7000
www.LongviewChamber.com
Ribbon Cuttings
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Miles Realty 1125 Judson Rd Ste 150
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill 3084 N Eastman Rd
Days Inn Longview South 112 S Access Rd
Elwood Staffing
1809 NW Loop 281 Ste 131
Julie Woods & Associates Real Estate Firm 1116 Judson Road
www.LongviewChamber.com
The UPS Store 510 E Loop 281, Ste B
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ON TARGET
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
ach issue of the Longview Progress Report highlights a valuable and active volunteer for the Longview Chamber of Commerce. Volunteers are essential and the Chamber is on the lookout for individuals who are helping to shape the future of Longview and believe in making a difference. On Target this issue is Chapin Miller, Chairman of the Par Busters Golf Tournament committee. Initiated as a means to fund scholarships twenty years ago, Par Busters now provides essential financial support for core business and leadership development programs of the Chamber of Commerce. Chapin Miller works with Citizen’s National Bank in downtown Longview where he is the Business Banking Officer. He assists business customers to safely and securely set up and utilize services such as paying venders, processing payroll, sending wires, accepting credit cards, ACH, stopping payments and quick check deposit. Miller began his career with CNB in May 2012 after almost three years with Community Healthcore. During his first year with Citizen’s National Bank, he was accepted into the 2012-2013 class of Leadership Longview graduating in May 2013. We asked Chapin to describe briefly his employer’s contribution or role in the overall Longview community and economy. Citizens National Bank has always maintained a diligent commitment to the communities it serves throughout East Texas. CNB believes that it is only as strong as the communities it serves. Therefore, CNB and its employees contribute not only financial resources but people resources as well. In the Longview community, CNB and its employees are involved with AMBUCS, Buckner International, CASA, East Texas Literacy Council, Greater Longview United Way, Gregg County Historical Museum, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement, Junior League, Kiwanis International, Longview Museum of Fine Arts, Longview ISD, New Gate Mission, Pine Tree ISD, Rotary Club and ZONTA. Since its beginning in 1930 Citizens National Bank has grown and served East Texans with this dedication. During its 84 years of commitment to its customers, Citizens National has branched out into 25 locations across 10
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
counties in East and Central Texas and has approximately $1 billion in assets. A loyal and energetic helper Miller is quick to step up to the task. We asked him to tell us why he finds serving as a volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce a worthwhile endeavor. As a volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce, I am presented with opportunities to interact with new and existing businesses, to become involved in building critical community and business infrastructures, and to network with business professionals through Chamber events that I otherwise would probably never meet. I have been an Ambassador with the Chamber of Commerce for four years, participated in Leadership Longview, worked on the Total Resource Campaign and volunteered for the Business Expo, Outdoor Expo and AlleyFest. Miller is not a Longview native and of that he says, “Being engaged with the Longview Chamber of Commerce, I have significantly decreased the time it would have taken to meet business professionals, make friends and learn about Longview on my own. Finding the volunteer opportunities that also help expand one’s network of business contacts is a primary reason Miller and other volunteers get so much out of their involvement with the Longview Chamber of Commerce. It is the Chamber’s mission to engage in and promote projects with a positive economic impact on the Longview Trade Area. We asked Chapin to describe one aspect of the Chamber’s strategic plan that he sees being the most effective in reaching its objective. The Chamber’s priority of Economic Development is one important facet to making Longview a better place to work, visit and live. I feel confident Longview will continue to create sound and meaningful growth as long as the City of Longview and the Chamber continue to nurture and foster existing local businesses and to attract new businesses. It is volunteers like Chapin Miller that helps the Chamber not only fulfil its mission but also realize its vision to be recognized as an effective resource, providing relevant, innovative, and impactful programming that ensures a healthy business climate and an enhanced quality of life for Longview and Gregg County.
TACLA023812C
Fixed Right Day or Night Free Estimates • Sales / Installation • Residential & Commercial Service
104 Crockett • 903-753-9624 Office • www.alcoair.com www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Par Busters Golf
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Tournament Sponsors
n Monday, September 8th, 2014, Par Busters Golf Tournament moves back to The Challenge at Oak Forest. This is the 21st year this tournament has been held. The Chamber of Commerce thanks all the sponsors and volunteers that make this event a success each year. Platinum Sponsor: Hudson Printing and Graphic Design Gold Sponsors: Cynergy Technology FASTSIGNS
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he official YEA!® year has started with the pre-launch of the program and applications are being accepted for middle and high school students with an entrepreneurial drive and spirit. Applications and nominations will be accepted through September and classes will begin in October. We are excited to not only recruit new participants, but volunteers. The YEA!® program provides our community members with a variety of opportunities to volunteer and get involved. From exciting business guest lecturers and dynamic field trips to innovative companies, to passionate business mentors and investor panelists, there are numerous ways to help these local students launch their own enterprises. The time is now to spread the spirit of enterprise through our next generation of business. Steve Jobs said it well with “The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” YOU can be a part of making these dreams a reality! YOU can be a part of helping these young entrepreneurs become impassioned local leaders! Each of us have an opportunity to make a life changing impact on the lives of local students while developing the local economy. Entrepreneurship begins with dreams and age is of no consequence when considering becoming an entrepreneur. Dreams, burning desire to achieve, persistence, and failure are the main traits needed. A certain age is not a qualification or condition to pursue your dreams! That’s where the Chamber’s Young Entrepreneur Academy can make a difference. The mix of ideas and innovation in combination with youth and talent are on the path of our community’s economic growth. The YEA!® is currently seeking middle and high school students that want to do something exciting and transforming. Students will have the opportunity to develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research, pitch their plans to a panel of investors, and actually launch and run their own real, legal, fully formed companies and social movements. “Genius is 1% inspiration, and 99% perspiration.” Thomas Edison
Cap Sponsor: Baxter Clean Care Towel Sponsor: Independence Fuel System Weber Lawn and Landscaping Beverage Cart Sponsors: Spring Hill State Bank Levee R&K Distributors
Come see what a locally-owned independent bank can do for you ...
3700 Gilmer Road 202 Hollybrook Drive
903-759-0751 www.springhillbank.com
www.LongviewChamber.com
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Express Employment Professionals has a solution for your hiring needs. Whether you want temporary help now, or you’re looking for the perfect fit for a long-term position, Express has skilled workers ready when your business needs them. Call or go online today to see how Express can help.
Solutions include: • Office Services • Professional Search • Industrial
(903) 663-3559 101 W. Hawkins Pkwy. Longview, TX 75605
www.expresspros.com
CVB On the Move!
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he Convention and Visitors Bureau will be on the move this fall traveling to State Conventions and promoting Longview at various events. In early August Team members attended the Texas Association of Convention & Visitors Bureau Annual Convention in Bay Area Houston. Margie Harris and Kayla Cantey both received recognition for the work they are doing to achieve a TDM certification. In September the team travels to Galveston for the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Travel Summit.
Albuquerque, New Mexico is the next destination. Working with Team Texas at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta to promote Longview to the crowds there in October. Also in October is a week at the State Fair of Texas to promote Longview to the many attending the state’s largest fair. During this time staff will also be circulating around Longview taking pictures of local events and people participating in typical Longview activities. The next few months will be extremely busy for the Bureau.
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
Dickerson about joining the band. With Jacob on board, all the elements of the band were finally in place, and Little Man Zac was born. They please music lovers both young and old. You can find out more about Little Man Zac by visiting Facebook. com/littlemanzac.
October 3, 2014 Thieves of Sunrise
“Music that you can feel…” is the only way to describe the music that comes from the Thieves of SunRise. No nonsense rock n roll, with sultry soul encapsulating the blues. The Thieves “own” their instruments, composing unique arrangements with harmonious yet reckless abandon, and a style seldom heard. Their involvement with numerous charities, world and even individual causes, is a sounding board for their resolve to not only create music but to use it to help others, which is their ultimate goal. They devote themselves to substance to bring soul to their craft and leave a mark on the world. The Thieves of SunRise are a group from humble beginnings who take a bold chance with their “in your face” and “captivate your soul” kind of approach. They have become a testament to Southernflavored rock-n-roll saturated with raw blues and soul. The Thieves have created their own world, and it is a world of music in which they would appreciate you taking up a permanent residence.
October 10, 2014 Little Man Zac
Little Man Zac is an East Texas band that brings soulful harmonies infused with an eclectic mix of funky blues, classic rock and fresh jazz sounds. The band was started in 2011 by John Durbin, Paul and Ashley DuFeu and Lincoln Wingerd, who occasionally played music together for a community outreach program in Longview. In early 2012, John approached a young drummer named Jacob www.LongviewChamber.com
October 17, 2014 The Kid Icarus Project
The Kid Icarus Project was started several years back by longtime members of The Papers, Clint and Ian. Mike (formerly of Truffula Tree) was recently added to lay down the back beat. Klint Killian was recently added to fill up the gaps with the fiddle. The resulting sound turned out pretty great! KIP plays both originals and covers, and books everything from standard venues to parties and weddings. The guys’ outgoing personalities make shows interactive and fun.
October 24, 2014 Bobby O and the Mojos
Composer, bassist and vocalist Bob Osborn is one of the most prominent and influential figures in the ArkLaTex blues and roots music scene - both peer and friend to many of the blues stars around the world. If you say “Bobby-O” they know who you’re talking about; even Delbert McClinton refers to him as “My best friend”. If this were about ‘name dropping’, it would be easy to fill many type-written pages. Bobby Osborn began his career more than four decades ago with a passion for the blues. For Bob, that passion has only grown stronger through the numerous good times, great performances, and fond memories created and shared with his friends and fans. What ties it all together is his insatiable interest in performing music. Over the years, his passion has led him around the world, and his perspective today is reflected in his music. It’s all about enjoying life and having a good time. Bobby-O and the Mojos are looking forward to continuing the good times in 2014.
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Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
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Save Local Now
he Longview Chamber is thrilled to announce Save Local Now, our newest member benefit! Save Local Now (savelocalnow.com) is a website and iPhone and Android app that gives people access to exclusive offers from their favorite businesses. Locals and tourists alike can use Save Local Now to access deals, events and savings where they shop, eat and play from any browser on any device. Saving money and buying local in the Longview area has never been easier. Chamber members can use Save Local Now to create, manage and analyze their digital marketing campaigns. Save Local Now includes live business listings, deal and event publishing, email marketing, iPhone and Android apps, social media management, SEO and analytics, bundled together on a single integrated platform. The Save Local Now platform is available at savelocalnow. com, the App Store and Google Play. Members of the Chamber of Commerce are eligible to create unlimited digital marketing campaigns using the Save Local Now platform. You will be receiving an activation email and instructions this month. Schedule your FREE 30-minute session with Save Local Now’s digital marketing gurus today! bit.ly/1h4Um69
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Longview Progress Report | September - October 2014
Black &White or Color.. Print Inspires Words and images on paper capture the imagination like no other form of communication.
Hudson Printing & Graphic Design 903.758.1773 • 800.530.4888 611 S. Mobberly Avenue Longview, TX 75602 www.hudsonprint.com
www.LongviewChamber.com
Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
Events are held at the Chamber offices unless otherwise noted.
1 8 q y o p d f
Closed for Labor Day Holiday
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Discover Longview!
Bus Tour of the City 8:30am - 2:30pm
21st Annual Par Busters Golf Tournament
Downtown Live!
The Challenge at Oak Forest - 8:00am Tee time
Heritage Plaza 5:00pm-7:30pm
Leadership Longview Committee 11:30am - 1pm
15 Laws of Growth with Dave Jochum Class Begins 3pm - 5pm
Ambassador Meeting 11:30am - 1pm
State of the City Luncheon 11:30am - 1pm
Executive Board Meeting 7:30am - 9am
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Movies on the Plaza 6:30 pm – 10pm
InterCity Trip Leadership Longview Committee 11:30am - 1pm
Downtown Live!
Heritage Plaza 5:00pm-7:30pm
Leadership Longview Facilitator Training 11:30am - 1:30pm
Business Development Series: Communicate to Lead
Downtown Live!
11:30am - 1:15pm
BAH - Homewood Suites 4:45pm-6:30pm
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Events are held at the Chamber offices unless otherwise noted.
Main Street Advisory Committee Meeting 12pm - 1pm
Heritage Plaza 5:00pm-7:30pm
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Executive Board Meeting 7:30am - 9am
Ambassador Meeting 11:30am - 1pm
Board Retreat
Member 2 Member 11:30am - 1pm
Board of Directors Meeting 3:30pm-4:30pm
Downtown Live!
Heritage Plaza 5:00pm-7:30pm
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Blues and Barbecue - Elected Officials Reception 4:45pm -6:30pm
Chairman’s Club Platinum
Gold
www.LongviewChamber.com
Silver ABC Auto Parts AEP Atmos Energy BancorpSouth Capital One Bank Chase Bank Citizens National Bank City of Longview Community Bank Convergys Diagnostic Clinic
Eastman Chemical Company Good Shepherd Health System Halliburton HOLT CAT Joy Global Inc JW Energy Longview News-Journal Martin Resource Management Neiman Marcus National Service Center
Regions Bank Southside Bank Spring Hill State Bank SYSCO Food Services of East Texas, LLC Trinity Rail T Vaughn Properties LLC USSTP Lone Star Tubular Operations
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410 N. Center Street Longview, TX 75601 903-237-4000 www.longviewtx.com
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