Longview Progress Report - July/August 2015

progress LONGVIEW

LEADING LONGVIEW People. Places. Prosperity.

REPORT

July / August 2015 Vol. 9 No. 4

Less waiting for emergency care (and a lot more care, if you need it).

In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Longview Regional Medical Center, you’ll find faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it.

The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – only at Longview Regional Medical Center.

LongviewRegional.com *Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

H

Leaders and Motives

ave you ever considered how others define success?

I will admit there was a time in my life success was about awards, status, being invited or included in functions—but it just Kelly Hall wasn’t enough. Then I began President/CEO considering what makes a leader successful and how these leaders are wired. While there are many leadership styles, some healthy and some not so healthy, I find it intriguing that leaders who have the ability to create movements in order to do good and/or build communities which create prosperity understand that success begins by transforming themselves from the inside out. Bottom line, it begins with understanding our motives.

Recently, I decided to create a three (3) part checklist to aid in thinking through situations and learn to see through others’ lenses. Part 1 navigation process includes: • Do I spend time reflecting on the why?

• Am I doing something out of a sense of obligation or privilege?

• As I work to serve do I consider whom I’m serving?

• When using my influence do my actions reflect what I believe in?

• Am I driven by immediate gratification or what is best for those concerned?

The journey of exploring leadership styles continues to provide me the opportunity to visit with individuals I highly respect about their leadership style. Common threads that were exposed include learning how to meditate and reflect daily— learning how to avoid and prevent foolish arguments—learning how to become a peacemaker. As the conversations delve deeper most individuals share why it is important to learn how to invest in yourself and not worry about meeting others’ expectations but rather learn how to become comfortable and happy within your own skin.

While this pathway may sound easy it wasn’t! Part 2 of the motive check list includes: • Do my actions reflect what is true?

• Are my actions noble?

• Do I do what is right even when it is not popular?

• Are my actions pure?

• Are my actions admirable?

When reflecting on these questions it’s amazing how real motives are exposed. Part 3 of the exploration process encourages considering the areas that foster excellence or actions that could be praiseworthy.

• How am I building a strong foundation for myself so that I can lead others?

• How do I prepare for the future so when opportunities arise I am ready to understand and do important things? www.LongviewChamber.com

What’s Inside President’s Message............................ 3 Creating Long-term Value..................... 4 TRC Proves to be a Multi-Benefit Opportunity......................................... 5 Promoting Excellence .......................... 6 Responsive Websites Coming Online...... 8 Building Successful Convention Sales.... 9 YEA! Review/Preview......................... 10 Leadership Alumni............................. 10 Advocacy Digest................................ 11 Ribbon Cuttings ................................ 12 New Members & Anniversaries............ 13 Calendar........................................... 14

Longview Progress Report is published bi-monthly by:

410 North Center Street / Longview, Texas 75601 903-237-4000 / www.LongviewChamber.com www.facebook.com/LongviewChamber @LongviewChamber

• What behaviors do I need to consistently emulate; gentleness, kindness, forgiveness, mercy, strength, bold, visionary, etc. that helps move our community forward?

• Is the action(s) being taken one of a peace maker or a peace keeper?

Have you considered what your definition of success is?

Does success include others and do they share your motives?

Lastly, how do you measure success? If you’d like to share your experiences we are always seeking opportunities to share our member’s experiences. Please reach out to me at 903.237.4004 or khall@longviewtx.com.

July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

3

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

Creating Long-Term Value With Dynamic Leadership and Development Programs

W

hat, exactly, is business development?

Ask that question of ten professionals in the field of business development, and you likely will receive ten different answers.

Scott Pollack, a Forbes Magazine contributor answered the question. “Business development is the creation of long-term value for an organization from customers, markets, and relationships.” That is a good answer and long-term value is the reason that the Chamber provides business development seminars and workshops to our members — to enhance their professional development.

The business development courses cover every area of business operation. Content areas include leadership, management, business communications, sales and marketing, and customer service.

The Women’s Leadership Series offers content which is targeted toward the professional development of women with topics that include time management, customer service, leadership, and women in the workforce, along with many other topics.

Dave Jochum challenged business professionals during his recent Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Workshop. Attendees learned how to take the small steps that lead to success each and every day of their life as well as explore the simple daily practices that can help control daily agendas, make time for people they love, and find success in their career.

Glenn Shepard Seminars, How to Supervise People and Lead a Team, taught attendees how to defuse tension, derail toxic behavior, and defang even the most malicious employees. They learned skills to manage those difficult people effectively, bring them solidly into the team, and get them producing the way they should.

Tara Powers, a Cultural Alignment Expert and Business Acceleration Coach, taught Keys to Success in a 60-minute webinar. Women learned that with the right tools, professional women can find balance to manage challenges at work and at home.

Interpersonal communications expert Bill Drury taught business professionals how to increase productivity with his course Team 2.0: Together Everyone Accomplishes More, a dynamic half-day team building workshop.

4

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

Core Insights, a company that influences individuals and organizations through training, strategic planning, coaching, and keynotes, will present three Women’s Development programs and one Business Development course over the remainder of the year.

Women’s Leadership Series: July 14th — Business Etiquette-Rules of the Road- This program will develop communication and networking skills, find ways to make others understand their own importance and provide critical business etiquette guidelines in various settings such as meetings, networking, and business meals and social events.

August 5th— Time Management- this course will teach how to evaluate your current methods, find common mistakes that rob valuable time from what is important and plot a course for a more effective work week.

November 4th — Communicating Up, Down and Across your Organizations will teach how to identify the real purpose of your communication, understand nuances that may impact its effectiveness and how to listen more effectively.

Business Development Series: July 9th— Dave Jochum will present 21 Qualities of a Leader. This workshop will help you discover where you are and give you a road map to become the best you possible!

October 8th — Core Insights presents Providing WOW Customer Service and will teach what a customer expects and how to meet those expectations, common reasons why customers are dissatisfied, five customer service must-do’s, and specific actions your business should take immediately to provide “WOW!” customer service.

Workshops and seminars are scheduled regularly. For professional development anytime you need it, the E learning Center uses technology and the Internet to advance and support business and economic development.

The E Learning Center provides access to thousands of online courses and video tutorials for business owners and their employees to access anytime from anywhere. Access the E Learning Center at: http://longviewchamber. globalclassroomportal.com/

2015 Officers Ken Cunningham

Chairman of the Board Good Shepherd Health Systems

Brad Tidwell

Immediate Past Chairman of the Board Citizens National Bank

Wade Johnson

Chairman Elect Johnson & Pace, Inc.

Roy Eon

Chairman of Finance Texas Bank and Trust

Keith Honey

AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company

Ron Hutchison Network IP

Brett Lindig

SYSCO Food Services, LLC

Kelly Hall

Longview Chamber of Commerce

2015 Directors James Barron Barron’s

Kara Bolster STEMCO

Pat Britton

Eastman Chemical Company

David Hayes

Hayes RV Center

Sam Neale

AAON Coil Products Inc

Dana Parr

Copeland Insurance Group

John Ray

Lively Cadillac GMC

Tim Vaughn

TVaughn Builders LLC

2015 Appointed Directors Jim Kendrick

Longview Economic Development Corporation

Judge Becky Simpson Dr. Ron Sones

LeTourneau University

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

Melissa Saunders

Business Development & Membership Director 903-237-4023 msaunders@longviewtx.com

Lisa Monsivais

Membership Services Coordinator 903-237-4013 lmonsivais@longviewtx.com

Ryan Polk

Tourism Director 903-237-4000 rpolk@longviewtx.com

Decedric Williams

TRC Proves to be a Multi-Benefit Opportunity

H

ave you heard the term TRC and power of being a chamber member and wondered what it means? TRC stands for supporting its programs.

Total Resource Campaign, and the Longview In a 2012 Shapiro Group study, it was Chamber of Commerce is entering into its 5th found that when consumers know that a small annual TRC and is eager to share all about it. business is a member of the chamber of The TRC is a ten-week volunteer driven commerce, they are 80% more likely to effort to create marketing and strategic purchase goods or services from the company partnerships with members. During this time, in the future. over 80 volunteers reach out to many of the The dollars secured during the TRC are 1,100 plus Longview Chamber members to used to support the strategic plan of the help them determine how Consumers are 80% more Longview Chamber through to effectively use marketing likely to purchase goods or its advocacy and dollars to support the services from a company programming efforts. programs of the Chamber they know is a member of Without these dollars, that support their business the chamber of commerce. representation at the state interests. For healthcareand national level with the based businesses, a Salute to Healthcare area’s legislators would not be possible. The sponsorship is ideal for giving desired dollars also allow the Chamber to bring quality exposure to the Longview community. An ad business development programs to Longview in the bimonthly award-winning Longview for its members so travel is not required by the Progress Report would provide a member with member. the multiple impressions needed throughout Volunteers with TRC and their the year. companies benefit from the opportunities to During these conversations, relationships make and develop business contacts and build are created and/or enhanced allowing for relationships. Sponsors gain from exposure of future business growth for both parties. their brand and are able to reach a very Frequently during the TRC, a volunteer will qualified market with their message. have a personal contact with someone who is With a better understanding of the not currently a chamber member. The business program, are you interested in volunteering or will have the opportunity to not only see the supporting this year’s TRC? Our Director of value in the sponsorship or advertising Development, Leska Parker, is ready to discuss opportunity, but also the value of chamber your involvement in the program. Parker can membership. This occurs because the be reached at 903-918-1546 or lparker@ volunteers in the campaign truly believe in the longviewtx.com

Programs and Projects Assistant 903-237-4000 dwilliams@longviewtx.com

Courtney Gill

Young Entrepreneurs Academy Coordinator 903-452-7521 cgill@longviewtx.com

Amy Canton

Leadership Longview Coordinator 903-261-7125 acanton@longviewtx.com

Carrie Fisher

Director of First Impressions 903-237-4000 cfisher@longviewtx.com

Shalee Faircloth

Intern 903-237-4000 sfaircloth@longviewtx.com

www.LongviewChamber.com

July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

5

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

Promoting Excellence

Buckner Children and Family Services - Family Hope Center

M

embership in the Chamber has many benefits. Your chamber strategizes opportunities promoting business and one of those ways is through national recognition through the U. S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The Chamber is actively pursuing Corporate Citizenship Awards for member companies. One nomination being submitted is for Buckner Children and Family Services — one of the Chamber’s member businesses making a difference in our community. The nomination is for the Best Economic Empowerment Program.

This honors a strategic initiative to empower individuals through financial inclusion and business empowerment.

R. C. Buckner created an orphanage opening its doors to three orphans in 1879. Today, Buckner International operates programs throughout the world, providing services that include residential child care, orphan care, adoption and foster-care services, prevention programs, senior adult services, and missionary opportunities. They also manage a global humanitarian aid program, Shoes for Orphan Souls, which provides shoes for needy children around the world.

In order to meet the needs of individuals in the Longview community, Buckner opened the Family Hope Center providing resources and spiritual support for a family in their transformational journey from crisis to sustainability. The Family Hope Center will be located in Buckner’s new Mac and Tom Stone Family Place on High Street in South Longview across from Ware Elementary School.

It is a multi-layered approach to end generational poverty. The following state-wide statistics strengthen Buckner’s resolve for this program and recognition of the critical need to stand alongside single parents as they break their cycle of poverty: • 2012 Texas, 642,179 young children live in families below federal poverty level • 27% of children in poor families do not have an employed parent • 63% of children whose parents lack a high school education live in poverty • 57% of children in poor families live with a single parent • 29% of children, under age 3, live in poor families

Strategic Planning

Buckner incorporates a multi-step approach which includes reviewing the overall strategic plan, organization and program plans, setting goals and building the budget, including a needs analysis based upon population demographics for the state and local levels.

The strategic plan for the Longview Family Hope Center is to provide clear guidance by establishing key goals, each supported by clearly defined objectives, and actions designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of each program and its outcomes, then setting goals to meet those objectives.

Execution

Clients are sourced by referrals through word of mouth or local churches within the community.

• Client Assistance – Back-To-School Supply train providing backpacks and school supplies in partnership with the Junior League. Assistance to victims of fire by providing linens and household goods.

• Service Coordination & Referrals – Referrals to local agencies providing resources external to Buckner.

• Summer Feed Service Program – For children 0 to 18 years old, targeting low socioeconomic populations, in partnership with the East Texas Food Bank.

• After School Programs – In partnership with LeTourneau University students, provides mentors and tutors in the South Ward Elementary area.

• Case Management – One-on-one family counseling to set long and short term goals on physical and safety needs; example - rental assistance. Includes educational components to address recognition of recurring costs and individual goal setting to lift the individual or family out of the poverty cycle.

• ESL – Classes to teach English to clients for whom English is their secondary language.

• Job Skills – The Jobs for Life program is open to clients eligible for employment. Partnerships with local companies provide program volunteers to teach how to build resumes, social interaction during interviewing and on the job, interview skills, and mock interviews, as well as providing mentors.

• Life Skills – Training for adults. The “Faith and Finances” program includes skills from managing a bank account, family budget, to social interaction skills. For youth, this is focused as “Empowered for Life,” a graduate program, based upon age appropriate life encounters and issues.

Continued on Page 8

6

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

www.LongviewChamber.com

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

STROKE BY THE NUMBERS STROKE IS THE Every

40 SECONDS

someone has a stroke

3

4

#

#

cause of

cause of

DEATH DEATH in Women

in Men

Number of STROKE DEATHS IN ONE YEAR Women

77,109

Men

52,367

(from 2010, the most recent year the statistics are available)

SAVING LIVES–

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT. One out of six people will suffer a stroke during his or her lifetime, and when a stroke hits, life comes down to seconds. To save those precious moments, only Good Shepherd Medical Center links your emergency response team together in real time, using Pulsara.

Developed by Leading Edge Medical Associates in partnership with Good Shepherd Health System, Pulsara is stopping stroke in its tracks and saving lives across the country.

DEPEND ON THE STROKE SPECIALISTS AT GOOD SHEPHERD MEDICAL CENTER.

www.LongviewChamber.com

GSMC.org

July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

7

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

Continued from Page 6

• Parenting – Classes teaching parenting skills.

• Summer Day Camp – Programs and activities for youth run concurrently with adult programs, thereby providing educational opportunities for parents and children.

• Technical Training – Program entails teaching computer skills and is led by three volunteers.

Responsive Websites Coming Online

W

eb design used to be so simple. All you had to do was make sure your website could be viewed properly on a Mac and a PC, and you were set. Now websites are viewed on all kinds of devices, from smart phones to big LED screens, and everything in between. If you want to make sure your current and potential customers can properly view, navigate, and use your website, you need to make sure it incorporates responsive Proof of Positive Impact web design. So what is a responsive web site? It’s a site that This multi-layered approach is working. Buckner has been designed to deliver an optimal viewing experience for typically sees a 3% - 5% increase in the number of clients each the user on a wide variety of devices. year within each program. The partnerships have increased to Users of LongviewChamber.com and VisitLongviewTexas.com include Junior League, East Texas Food Bank, LeTourneau use some kind of mobile device 60% of the time. This drew into University, Eastman Chemical Company, Chick-Fil-A, and AAON Coil Company. In addition, Buckner has been awarded focus a need to redesign the Longview Chamber’s website to meet this growing trend. When mobile users encounter a the next phase in the overall strategic plan for Buckner website that is not mobile friendly they do not stay or likely International: that of the “Shining Hope” campaign that is return to that website. “Promoting your website is a good thing raising funds to build a new campus which will house the but when the site is friendly to only 40% of the users that come, existing Center and a residential transition program for single much of your promotion is being ineffective,” said Paul parents called Family Place. The capital project will allow for expansion of current programs on the new campus and through Anderson, Senior Vice President of the Chamber. The research into what would be the best approach made it clear that adopting new schools and serving residents in low-income building a site using a responsive web design was more housing areas. The new campus broke ground in April 2015 economical than building a second mobile site which would and is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

In 2014, the U.S. Health and Human Services Department need duplicate effort to keep it up-to-date. If the Chamber is going to best serve our membership and those who come to the awarded Buckner a 5-year, $3 million grant to increase Continued on Page 9 protective factors in families with children, ages 0-5, in Gregg County. The program titled Project HOPES (Healthy Outcomes through Prevention and Early Support) utilizes the evidencebased Parents as Teachers (PAT) curriculum to educate parents on age-appropriate child development and parenting. The program includes both a recruitment and retention plan in order to ensure successful long-term outcomes.

Lessons Learned

The Buckner Family Hope Center has proven it can help break the cycle of poverty with immense dedication and internal drive. Clients encounter many obstacles, some of which are their own families. Attitudes of “You think you are better than us,” or “You are leaving your family,” create an enormous psychological barrier that is difficult for many clients to overcome.

The 12 programs outlined address the various support mechanisms and training required to move a client forward toward independence and becoming a contributor to society.

The answer to ending poverty is not found in giving more stuff to those in need nor is it telling someone to “just go get a job.”

The solution to raising people out of generational poverty is to provide access to opportunities and then walking with those clients through that lengthy and difficult transition time, steering toward success. It is difficult, but not impossible.

611 S. Mobberly Avenue Longview, Texas 75602 903.758.1773 • 800.530.4888 www.hudsonprint.com 8

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

www.LongviewChamber.com

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

ROI Study Shows Strong Positive Results for CVB

T

he Directors of the Longview Chamber of Commerce were very pleased with the results of a recent study of the Longview Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB).

Since 1994, the Chamber has been contracted by the City of Longview to manage the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). The Longview CVB is the sole entity responsible for marketing the City as a destination for leisure visitors, business travelers, and convention and meeting attendees. The CVB markets the destination in a number of ways including printed publications, advertising, digital marketing, outdoor advertising, trade and consumer shows, social media, and many more.

During the first and second quarter of this year, MarchMay, the Longview CVB produced three reports which comprehensively detail the strategy and the results of the bureau’s efforts over the past five years. Links to the reports are on the Chamber’s website, www.LongviewChamber.com In March, the Longview CVB contracted with Sarah T. Page Consulting, LLC to provide an analysis of the CVB’s Return on Investment (ROI) from 2010 to 2014. It was the goal of the CVB to demonstrate the effectiveness of their tourism marketing programs and services. No data from the Chamber of Commerce or from the CVB’s operational expenses was considered in the development of this report. The results of this study are presented in the ROI Report for CVB 2010—2014.

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

The results show that the Longview CVB is using their marketing dollars effectively and efficiently to drive visitation to Longview from leisure and business travelers. From 2010 to 2014, or every $1 dollar spent by the Longview CVB in its advertising and marketing operations, $1,150.35 was returned to the City in the form of hotel occupancy taxes collected.

Year

Collections

CVB Advertising Expenses

Return on Investment

2014

$1,813,836.53

$142,338.39

$1,174.31

2013

$1,768,751.13

$113,811.81

$1,454.10

2012

$1,483,374.34

$142,007.26

$944.58

2011

$1,672,785.24

$118,414.81

$1,312.65

2010

$1,619,378.47

$151,892.11

$966.14

Total A second report is the 2015 CVB Marketing Plan. The plan includes evaluation metrics, situation analysis, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, and brand strategy.

The overall goal of the plan is: • To promote Longview to visitors so that they can create and enjoy our authentic experiences, including outdoor activities, our museum district, and our flavorful culture.

• Longview – EMBRACE your Real East Texas Adventure. LIVE your dream!

The third report includes an analysis and overview of the activity of the Longview CVB for the period of May 2014-April 2015. This comprehensive report shows the advertising and services that have been delivered.

All three of these reports can be viewed and downloaded from, www.LongviewChamber.com/news-releases. $8,358,125.71

$668,464.38

$1,150.35

Respoonsive Websites, Continued from Page 8 site for information and data on Longview, we need that website to work on all devices.

The Chamber’s new responsive website will be fully functional on a desktop, laptop, tablet or smart phone.

Anderson said, “We are excited about the new website. It will be good to know that when a member or other user comes to our site by way of their smart phone or tablet, they will be able to read the pages and navigate around the site with much greater ease. We are also including some new features and functions and of course a brand new and exciting look.”

Users will be able to use their mobile device to search the Membership Directory, check the Chamber Events Calendar and register for upcoming events. On-line membership application and the ability to join the Chamber will also be available. Members will have the ability to review and make changes to their profile from their tablet or smart phone.

A portion of the site for visitors will have a completely different look. Users will have easy mobile access to the listed hotels, restaurants, attractions, community events and activities waiting for them in Longview.

Launch date of the new website is expected to be in July or early August. Keep a lookout for its grand appearance.

July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

9

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

LEADERSHIP A “Entrepreneurship education is critical to the success and prosperity of our country.”

- E. Phil Saunders (Competition Founder, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist)

fter graduation, a Leadership Longview class doesn’t graduate OUT OF Leadership Longview, they graduate INTO the Alumni Network. The Leadership Longview Alumni continue learning with days devoted to advanced leadership training, community connections, team building, mini tours and community involvement. The Alumni Network’s goal is to help place leaders in all areas of our community as we all work to improve our city.

T

he Chamber’s commitment to developing young leaders and entrepreneurs in our community has resulted in two successful terms of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy in Longview. The 2014-2015 class graduated from the Academy in May and were recognized at the Chamber’s Small Business Luncheon during the Business Solutions Conference.

Recently we had the opportunity to speak with Courtney Gill, YEA! Coordinator for the Chamber and asked her to give her perspective of the past year and the year ahead.

I cannot believe the second YEA! year has come to an end. We ended our year with the Western Regional Competition held in Phoenix, Arizona. Young entrepreneurs from all across the Western region were voted best in their hometown and selected to compete in the 7th Annual YEA! Saunders Scholars Semifinal Competition to win scholarships, and an all-expense paid trip to attend America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D. C. Arthur Dixon, Pine Tree High School Senior, competed against 15 other semifinalist.

Arthur had the opportunity to promote his company Nyoo Innovations and his first product the Nyoo Cup. During the visit to Phoenix, Arthur had the opportunity to build connections with business professionals and 30 other semifinalist. Arthur represented Arthur Dixon Longview perfectly and we could not be more proud of his success.

As we look forward, work for the 2015-2016 YEA! class is already in process. The Longview Chamber will again be partnering with Pine Tree High School to bring YEA! back to the classroom. We currently have fifteen students enrolled and had the chance to meet with the students prior to school being released. There is excitement in the air as preparations continue for the 2015-2016 YEA! class and we begin the journey of selecting the next YEA! Saunders Semi-finalist that will represent our program.

Thank you to all our sponsors, mentors, investor panel judges, school staff, parents and our students for making this program possible. YEA! 2015-2016 is going to be amazing!

10

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

In June the Alumni were invited to tour the Fire Station on Center Street and hear firsthand from Fire Marshall Johnny Zackary about Longview’s strides toward fire safety. The alumni toured the historic fire station, ate lunch with fire fighters in the garage and a few even learned to slide down the fire pole! After lunch they had to “earn their keep” and every one pitched in to unroll the fire hose, hook it to the hydrant and take turns watering the front lawn. Fire Marshall Zachary shared his vision for Safety City. The group toured the current structures and saw plans for an innovative Learning Center.

This building will help teach citizens of all ages how to escape a burning building by muscle memory. The day concluded with a fire demonstration as two mock children’s bedrooms were set on fire. The bedroom outfitted with a sprinkler system was contained almost immediately and the other bedroom was completely engulfed in flames when the fire fighters extinguished the blaze.

The Alumni were challenged to take what they learned back to their businesses and spread the message for a safer Longview. Contact Amy Canton about upcoming Alumni events - acanton@longviewtx.com www.LongviewChamber.com

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

Advocacy Digest

T

he Chamber is working behind the scenes on behalf of the business community towards educating on current business issues and legislation, writing resolutions and letters to elected officials and U.S. Senate Committees on supporting business. The following is a synopsis of your Chamber in action.

U. S. Chamber of Commerce and Washington D.C. Kelly Hall attended U. S. Chamber briefings in Washington, D.C. on major issues including health care, trade and energy. Subsequently, personal visits to meet with Texas elected officials Senator Ted Cruz, Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Blake Farenthold, and Congressman Louie Gohmert . Louisiana elected official visits included Congressman Charles Boustany, Chief of Staff and Legislative Director, Senator David Vitter, Congressman John Fleming, and Representative Steve Scalise’s Senior Staff.

Employment Law Seminar – November 5, 2015 The final 2015 Advocacy Summit will be held November 5, 2015, at the Pinecrest Country Club. Texas Association of Business, in partnership with Jackson Lewis, will present “Surveying the Workplace Law Landscape: the Fundamental Every Texas Employer Should Know.” TAB and attorneys from the national employment law firm, Jackson Lewis P.C., will hold a workshop of interactive discussions and practical solutions addressing the latest developments in workplace law.

This unique, fast-paced workshop is geared towards HR professionals, high-level management and in-house counsel.

House Joint Resolution 13 (HJR 13) and Senate Joint Resolution 13 (SJR 13) - Transportation The Chamber issued a letter of support to Representative David Simpson encouraging support for additional long-term funding stability for transportation. In addition to the Prop 1 passage, $5 billion is needed in highway funding each year is needed to keep even with existing traffic congestion, according to the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Key projects identified are the widening of SH 155 and SH 271 in Gregg County and funding of I20 ramp and interchange reconstruction and additional lanes along high crash segments.

The House and Senate are working on proposed constitutional amendments that would allow voters to dedicate additional funding for highways. HJR 13 and SJR 13 take different approaches but either one will address a critical state need using existing revenue.

www.LongviewChamber.com

Texas Association of Business (TAB) TAB recently gave legislative updates on Education, Employment Relations, Environmental, Transportation, Health Care, TORT Reform, Economic Development on the state level, and ExIm Bank and Crude Oil Export are the topics for federal legislation issues. Chris Wallace, President of TAB provided an update to the full board of directors at the June 18th regularly scheduled meeting.

Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) A call to action letter was sent to voting members of the chamber membership regarding the renewal of TPA. Formal debate over bipartisan legislation that would renew TPA, a vital tool to expand U.S. trade and create more opportunities for American workers. Kicked off on May 14 in the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House was expected to act shortly thereafter.

Passage of TPA is crucial to maintaining our nation’s status as the world’s economic superpower — 38 million American jobs depend on trade. Without TPA, new trade agreements cannot be secured and without new trade agreements, America’s global economic leadership will slip further behind. LongviewVotes.com was utilized to send the call to action to U. S. Senate representation.

The Longview Chamber of Commerce works closely with job creators to advocate for pro-growth, pro-business regulations and policies to help ensure economic prosperity for our region.

TACLA023812C

Fixed Right Day or Night Free Estimates • Sales / Installation • Residential & Commercial Service

104 Crockett • 903-753-9624 Office • www.alcoair.com July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

11

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

Ribbon Cuttings America’s Swimming Pool Co (ASP)

1118 Johnson St., Longview

Daiquri Express

405 W Loop 281, Longview

3020 S Eastman Rd., Longview

Cricket Wireless

The Hollwarth Law Firm

2119 Gilmer Rd., Longview

Habitat Restore

907 McCann Rd., Longview

Kindle Dental

1499 E Marshall Ave., Longview

Metabolic Research Clinic

103 W Loop 281 Suite 418, Longview

12

Cooks Lighting & Flooring

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

500 N Second St., Longview

KTBB & ESPN Radio

1001 ESE Loop 323 Suite 455, Tyler

Sola Salons of Longview

110 Triple Creek Dr. Suite 40, Longview

Sylvan Learning Center

913 W Loop 281 Suite 206, Longview

www.LongviewChamber.com

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

New Members A & W Contractors

Jason H. Arnold 304 Barbara Dr. Longview, TX 75604 (903) 353-7661

Jeni Ramsey 305 West Loop 281 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 663-4000

Gaudy Me

Operator Training & Inspection Svcs, LLC

Burkes Outlet

Imagine SignWorks

Pyramid Homes

Dedric Young 1731 W. Loop 281 Longview, TX 75604

Catfish King Catering

Steve Lane PO Box 7303 Longview, TX 75602 (903) 720-5326

Anwar Khalifa 101 CR 1215 Flint, TX 75762 (903) 238-1033

INDEVCO Plastics, Longview - LLC

Resource Benefits Administrators Michelle Parks PO Box 7616 Waco, TX 76714 (800) 528-2343

Integrity Financial

Stephan Bolton PO Box 1630 Gilmer, TX 75644 (903) 306-4647

EDH Real Basketball Training

Eric Hatley 510 E. Loop 281 Ste. B #106 Longview, TX 75601 (903) 742-9478

TapSnap

Staci C. Aldredge 303 W. Loop 281 #110-198 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 759-3335

Terrie Jewett-Mutchnik 1613 Cimmaron Trail Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 509-8659

MODA me Boutique

The Landing at Joshua Farms, LLC

Jennifer Kindred 2002 Judson Rd. Ste 107 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 234-0800

Edward Jones - Angie Herrington

Debbie Head PO Box 3011 14278 TX 322 Kilgore, TX 75663 (903) 812-0078

KTBB & ESPN Radio

Angie Herrington 2304 Judson Rd. Ste. C Longview, TX 75605 (903) 234-8087

Expectant Heart Pregnancy Resource Center

5

David Ware 440 N. Eastman Rd. Unit F Longview, TX 75601 (469) 569-5669 Wayne Mashe 800 Jordan Valley Rd. Longview, TX 75604 903-297-1115

Coast To Coast Oil and Gas Expos

Shannel Newton 515 N. Court St. Longview, TX 75604 (903) 931-3124

Stuart Sadler PO Box 184 White Oak, TX 75693 (903) 845-2444

Tye Jackson Pictures

Susan Brown 1001 ESE Loop 323 Suite 455 Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 593-2519

Tye Jackson (903) 261-7808

Office Pride of East Texas

David Stein 5604 Old Bullard Rd. Suite 106 Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 534-0425

Anniversaries - July & August Years

10

Years

www.LongviewChamber.com

15

Years

Ark Assurance Group, Inc. Cowboy Chicken Croft’s Photographic Services Lively Cadillac GMC Pilgrim Oil & Gas Technical Services, Inc. Planet Beach Contempo Spa Robert’s Coffee & Vending Services Evan’s World Travel & Cruises Heritage Mitsubishi St Mary’s Catholic School

20

Maxey Cerliano Coyle’s Pest Control East Texas Copy Systems First United Methodist Church Years

Comfort Suites Fairfield Inn Longview Community Ministries Inc. Thieman and Associates Inc.

July - August 2015 | Longview Progress Report

13

Leading Longview People. Place. Prosperity.

CHAMBER CALENDAR AUGUST

JULY

Events are held at the Chamber offices unless otherwise noted.

Events are held at the Chamber offices unless otherwise noted.

3 9

5

7

Women’s Leadership: Time Management

p

a

g h

Leadership Longview Committee

OFFICE CLOSED in Observance of Independence Day Business Development: 21 Qualities of a Leader 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

t

Leadership Longview

Bootlegger Grill – 1217 McCann Road 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Women’s Leadership: Business Etiquette-Rules of the Road 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Ambassador Meeting

u

a

d

d

f l

1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Executive Board Meeting

7:30 am – 9:00 am

TRC Vice Chair Meeting

2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

TRC Renewal Meeting 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Member 2 Member

11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Business After Hours Copeland Insurance Group

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Ambassador Meeting 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Executive Board Meeting 7:30 am – 8:30 am

Business After Hours Hampton Inn & Suites

3004 North Eastman Road 4:45 pm – 6:30 pm

k

k

Board of Directors Meeting

3:30 pm – 5:00 pm

TRC Kick-Off

4:30 pm – 6:00 pm

At East Texas Builders Assoc.— 2023 Alpine Road 4:45 pm – 6:30 pm

What is Business Brief Online?

Business Brief is an online feature produced by Longview Chamber of Commerce exclusively for Chamber members. The Business Brief posts and reports news submitted by its members about or related to their businesses. Business Briefs include any announcement a Chamber members would like other members and the public to know.

Is your company hosting an event or have they been recognized for recent accomplishment, received an award, hired a new executive or planning an expansion? Send that information to the Longview Chamber of Commerce for inclusion in Business Brief.

Your Business Brief may be about Promotions, Awards, Accomplishments, Expansion, Recognition, Events, Programs, or any news about your company or business.

We’ll Help Spread The Word!

Use the Chamber’s Business Briefs Service LongviewChamber.com/BusinessBriefs

Chairman’s Club Platinum

Gold

14

Silver ABC Auto Parts AEP Atmos Energy Austin Bank BancorpSouth Chase Bank City of Longview Community Bank Convergys Diagnostic Clinic

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2015

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 www.LongviewChamber.com

Need help writing a grant?

ETEDD is designed to aid you with grant research, writing and post-grant administration.

Eligible applicants for and recipients of Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant assistance include a state, city, county, or other political subdivision of a State. For-profit, private-sector entities do not qualify for public works assistance. Economic Development Administration (EDA) will fund up to 90% of the total project costs.

When working on an EDA Public Works grant, the East Texas Council of Governments will work closely with the applicant and will write the application for the customer and submit to EDA. We charge 1% for writing grants, and offer post-grant administration as well.

For more information, contact Julie Burnfield at 903-218-6436 or visit www.etcog.org

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 82 LONGVIEW, TX

410 N. Center Street Longview, TX 75601 903-237-4000 www.longviewtx.com

Texas

July 21-26 Great Texas Balloon Race & Balloon Race National Championships Balloon Glows • Live Music • Vendors Special Shape Balloons for Kids Competitve Flights throughout the Week

903.753.3281 • VisitLongviewTexas.com 410 N. Center Street • Longview, Texas 75601