Lubbock Business Network March Newsletter

LUBBOCK

Business

Network

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Vol. 22 No. 3 March 2014 Obamacare Total Resource Developments in Campaign Update Focus pg. 6 pg. 7

Business Expo: Launching Bold Pursuits pg. 11

Lubbock Business Network

Congratulations, Battery Joe, Benchmark Business Solutions and Copy Craft Printers!

Three Chamber Member Businesses Win National Dream Big Small Business of the Year Award Battery Joe, Benchmark Business Solutions, and Copy Craft have been named Blue Ribbon Small Business Award® winners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. These Lubbock-based companies were recognized for dedication to the principles of free enterprise and its contributions to restoring jobs and prosperity. Benchmark Business Solutions is being recognized for the second year in a row.

This year’s winners were selected from a record number of applicants across the nation, and each demonstrates exceptional business practices in areas including strategic planning, employee development, community involvement, and customer service.

“As the business community has worked hard to do its part in moving the country forward economically, small businesses have continued to be the driving force responsible for much of our progress,” U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue said.

“Our Blue Ribbon Award winners are the best of the best—growing and succeeding despite significant challenges.”

The awards program, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, honors companies that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas including strategy, employee development, community involvement, and customer service.

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce celebrates the outstanding achievements of these award winners. “We are proud to recognize these businesses for their exemplary impact in our community”, stated Alona Beesinger, Chairman of the Board for the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce.

The U.S. Chamber will announce seven regional finalists on March 19 and honor all of this year’s Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners at the 10th annual America’s Small Business Summit, taking place June 11 – 13 in Washington, D.C. During the summit, one regional finalist will receive the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, and a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of the U.S. Chamber.

In 2013, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce honored Lubbock Chamber of Commerce members Benchmark Business Solutions, Scarborough Specialties and WesTex Document. Previous award winners also include Action Printing, Carpet Tech, CEV Multimedia, X8 Environmental and two-time award winner V-tech Environmental Services.

To learn more about America’s Small Business Summit, visit www.uschambersummit.com.

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Lubbock Business Network

In the news this month:

2014 Board of Directors

Obamacare Developments in Focus...................... 6 2014 Total Resource Campaign Update................. 7 NEW: Ambassador Team of the Month.................. 8 Travel with the Chamber: Costa Rica....................10 Business Expo: Launching Bold Pursuits.............11 Chamber 101: Pizza with the President...............13

A Message from the Chamber Since 1913, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s mission of strengthening, promoting and serving its member businesses has positively benefited the entire region and local quality of life.

As the largest business federation on the South Plains, the Chamber represents almost 2,200 members who employ approximately 73,000 workers, and account for around $900 million in economic impact in Lubbock and West Texas. This is accomplished without the use of tax dollars.

Each day, the Chamber strengthens, promotes and serves its member businesses through numerous programs and events. The Chamber advocates on local, state and federal levels and offers diverse programs for both large and small as well as minority-owned businesses.

Share your News!

To submit an article or sponsor an issue, contact the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Executive Committee

Chairwoman Alona Beesinger, Suddenlink Chairman-Elect Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialties, Inc. Immediate Past Chairman Carlos Morales, Caprock Home Health Services, Inc. Treasurer Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Office Secretary Eddie McBride , Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairwoman, Business Development Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Vice Chairman, Communications & Marketing Peter Hur, RFS Financial Services Vice Chairman, Education & Workforce Development

Gabe Vitela, Texas Land and Cattle Company

Vice Chairman, Leadership Sidney Hopper, United Supermarkets LLC Vice Chairman, Government & Community Relations David Park, Atmos Energy Vice Chairman, Membership & Investor Relations Brice Foster, City Bank

Board of Directors Carmen Aguirre, Children’s Advocacy Center of the South Plains Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center of Lubbock Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes Michael Calvillo, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds Renee Gonzales Davis, Alderson Enterprises/Mercedes-Benz Scott Fagin, First United Bank Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors- Gaither/Ratcliff Sonny Garza, City Bank Clayton Isom, The Isom Group Dan Jackson, KCBD TV-News Channel 11 Brent King, UMC Health System Robert Lacy, PYCO Industries, Inc. Jason Medina, Glasheen, Valles & Inderman, LLP Jessie Mendoza, FirstBank & Trust Co. Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society Richard Parks, Covenant Health Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Norval Pollard, City Bank Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System Cory Powell, TTU Division of Institutional Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement (DIDECE)

®

Jorge Quirino, Essential Home Health Care/Absolute Home Medical Shirley Schleuse, Lamar Outdoor Advertising Frank Silvas, AFLAC-Frank Silvas Polly Vann, V-tech Environmental Services Irasema Velasquez, Velasquez Insurance & Worksite Benefits Dr. David Vroonland, Frenship Independent School District Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health Plans Mitch Watson, FirstBank & Trust Co. Connie Wharton, Centennial Bank

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Lubbock Business Network

Upcoming March 4 Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock: First Tuesday Networking March 13 Business After Hours hosted by American National Bank March 18 Chamber 101: Pizza with the President

March 27 Board Meeting Business After Hours hosted by Ferguson Enterprises

LEADERSHIP

LUBBOCK

Applications Available Now!

Contact: Diana Fabing 1500 Broadway, Suite 101 Lubbock, TX 79401 diana.fabing@lubbockbiz.org 806.761.7005

March

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New Century Leadership Committee Meeting - 11 a.m. - LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Mean Woman Grill - 11:15 a.m.

2103 Marsha Sharp Freeway

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Agriculture Committee Meeting - 8 a.m. - LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Live Oak Animal Hospital - 5:30 p.m.

5214 98th St., Suite 100

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Transportation Committee Meeting - 10:30 a.m. - LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Noble Fence & Supply House - 11:30 a.m.

3601 N. Quaker Ave.

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Ribbon Cutting: Youth Orchestra of Lubbock - 3:30 p.m.

Lubbock Memorial Civic Center

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Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Steering Committee - Noon - LCOC

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New Century Leadership Endless Opportunity Day - All Day Ribbon Cutting: West Texas ER - 4:30 p.m.

7905 Milwaukee Ave.

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Community Prayer Breakfast Committee Meeting - 3 p.m.

LCOC Business After Hours hosted by American National Bank 5:30 p.m. - 5805 82nd St., Suite 103

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Government Relations Committee Meeting - 10:30 a.m.

LCOC

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Ribbon Cutting: Workforce Solutions 2014 Youth Job Fair 10:30 a.m. - Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Chamber 101: Pizza with the President - 11:30 a.m.

San Jacinto Room, 2nd Floor Wells Fargo Building

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Ambassador Luncheon - Noon - The Bridge of Lubbock 1301 E. Redbud Ave.

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Executive Committee Meeting - Noon - LCOC

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Business Expo Committee Meeting - 4 p.m. - LCOC

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Leadership Lubbock Health and Medical Day - All Day National Ag Day Luncheon - 11:45 a.m. - Hillcrest Country Club 4011 N Boston Ave. Ribbon Cutting: Lemonade Day at Texas Workforce Center 4:30 p.m. - 1218 14th St.

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BBQ Team Lead Meeting - 4 p.m.

LEDA Board Room, 5th Floor Wells Fargo Center Golf Committee Meeting - 4 p.m. - LCOC

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Board Meeting - 10 a.m. - Making Memories on Broadway 1629 Broadway Business After Hours hosted by Ferguson Enterprises 5:30 p.m. - 6003 42nd St.

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Ribbon Cutting: Wingstop - 11:15 a.m. - 1803 7th St., Suite 701

®

For a complete list of Chamber and member events, visit our calendar online at lubbockchamber.com.

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Lubbock Business Network

Business After Hours hosted by: March 13, 2014 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

5905 82nd Street, Suite 103 ®

Chamber Staff President & CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Executive Vice President Government & Community Relations Norma Ritz Johnson, IOM, CCE CFO & Vice President Administration Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President Business Development TBD Vice President Communications & Marketing Tammi Boozer

Vice President Education & Workforce Development

Congratulations, Lubbock Sports!

Diana Fabing

Vice President Membership & Investor Relations

Colleen Evans, IOM

Government & Community Relations Specialist

Congratulations to the Lubbock Sports Team for receiving a Readers’ Choice Award from SportsEvents Media Group. This marks the second year in a row that Lubbock Sports has received the award. SportsEvents Media Group is the leading industry publication focused exclusively on helping sports event planners produce excellent competitions in the United States and Canada. For the 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards, sports event professionals were asked to name the sports commission, convention, and visitors bureaus or sports events venues that they believe display exemplary creativity and professionalism toward the groups they host. Nominations were received from readers throughout the year, and the top picks were selected based on the results from an online voting system. Way to go, Lubbock Sports!

Amy Marquez Community Relations & Program Specialist Audrey DeLeon Marketing Specialist Haily Assiter Administrative Assistant Kathy Bass Office Coordinator/Accounting Clerk Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Patricia Picon Interns Peyton Waldrip Coree Childree Haley Howey

Business After Hours hosted by:

f

March 27, 2014 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

6002 42nd Street ®

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Lubbock Business Network

Obamacare Developments in Focus February brought with it a number of developments in the ongoing implementation saga for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as Obamacare.

In the latest in a series of Executive branch changes to Obamacare, officials announced in February that the government will not enforce the mandate for businesses with 50 to 99 workers until 2016. In addition, larger employers will also be allowed to cover just 70 percent of workers in 2015, instead of the 90 percent originally required.

“Although the Chamber has long advocated effective health care reform and has been a nationally recognized and award-winning leader in creating affordable and discounted health care solutions, the Chamber was not in favor of this legislation as signed by the President in 2010,” said Alona Beesinger, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman.

She added that the Chamber remains committed to advocating for market-based changes and solutions that are positive for our economy and job growth.

“We continue to believe that Obamacare will increase taxes, penalize employers, cost our community jobs, and pile billions on the deficit -- all without significantly cutting the cost of health care. We remain committed to advocating for reforms that are proven in the marketplace such as a Texas law that enabled the Lubbock Chamber’s award-winning and nationally recognized Chamber Employer Health Plan.”

In fact, Chamber leaders are working alongside FirstCare Health Plans to offer a next generation of private-sector, ACAcompliant, flexible and appealing options to small businesses rather than the Obamacare marketplace. In March, the Chamber will host focus group discussions with small businesses and separately with independent agents and brokers to gather their feedback.

“We have led in this area of providing our member businesses with real solutions when it comes to health care for many years,” said Beesinger, “and, we pledge to continue working for solutions in this challenging and unpredictable environment brought about by Obamacare,” she added.

Meanwhile, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue issued the following statement regarding the Obama Administration’s announcement that it will delay part of the health care law’s employer mandate for a second year: “While we appreciate that this delay will give some businesses additional time to comply with the employer mandate, other critical steps must be taken to reduce the significant harm that this law is inflicting on businesses of all sizes. This shortterm fix also creates new problems for companies by moving the goalposts of the mandate modestly when what we really need is a time-out. The Chamber will continue to push for critical regulatory and legislative proposals that will alleviate uncertainty and ease the burden on businesses and their employees.”

In its latest Budget and Economic Outlook last month, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) increased its estimate of the Obamacare’s detrimental effect on labor markets. CBO now estimates that the ACA will reduce the total number of hours worked by approximately 1.5 percent to 2.0 percent during the period from 2017 to 2024.

From a more longterm standpoint, some businesses also may decide to reduce their hiring or shift their demand toward part-time hiring—either to stay below the threshold of 50 fulltime-equivalent workers or to limit the number of full-time workers that generate penalty payments.

Texas Tech Career Connection Career Fair and Post Fair Mixer The Texas Tech University Career Center will hold its second annual Career Connection Career Fair April 2, 2014. Lubbock employers are encouraged to register by calling Janelle Zamora at 806-742-2210.

Texas Tech University Career Connection Career Fair Frazier Alumni Pavilion April 2, 2014 1:00-4:00PM The University Career Center will also be hosting a Post Fair Mixer event following the Spring Career Connection. The Texas Tech Post Fair Mixer was created to give local employers the opportunity to “connect” with students from the university. This is a free networking event, and students are eager to introduce themselves and find out information about your personal career path and possible careers within your organization. This is not a job fair, however you may bring brochures, job descriptions, or other relevant information for the students to take with them. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided. To RSVP to this event, please call Logan Winkelman at (806) 742-2210.

Texas Tech University Post Fair Mixer Where: TBD April 2, 2014 5:00-8:00PM

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Lubbock Business Network

Total Resource Campaign Update: #LBKTRC2014 The Chamber’s 2014 Total Resource Campaign (TRC) “THE BIG PICTURE” kicked off with great success. Now, that the first right of refusal portion is over, the official campaign runs until April 30!

The TRC is a way for members to get involved and to help garner sponsors for Chamber events and initiatives. Contact the Chamber for more information on any upcoming opportunities.

Events are filling up quickly, so be sure to get sponsorship contracts in for those soon! All of the following are still accepting reservations and sponsorships.

Community Prayer Breakfast May 1 Jason Gray will perform at the annual event on the National Day of Prayer. Attendees receive breakfast and a time to worship with local religious leaders along with the fantastic concert.

Cinco de Mayo May 5 The 2014 luncheon will feature John Esparza, Texas Motor Transportation Association President/CEO. Esparza was appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Texas Tech University Board of Regents last February and will serve a six-year term. Esparza received a bachelor’s degree from TTU and is currently a member of the College of Media and Communication National Advisory Board at TTU. Business Expo May 8 This year’s theme of “Launching Bold Pursuits” focuses on the new growth of Lubbock business. This annual event attracts more than 200 business booths and 7,000 attendees. Get your business in on the networking and marketing by getting a booth or sponsorship.

LeaderCast May 9 LeaderCast is a business development opportunity for all. The event lasts all day and features speakers, such as Laura Bush and leadership expert Andy Stanley, broadcast across the country.

Chamber Hosted Televised Candidate Forum for Texas House District 83 Candidates The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce hosted a televised candidate forum on Feb. 26 for candidates in the Texas House District 83 GOP Primary.

Incumbent Charles Perry and challenger Steve Massengale appeared in the hour-long event broadcasted on Ramar’s FOX34 NewsNOW outlet.

“Our award-winning candidate forums have come to be something Lubbock voters and Chamber members count on as we address questions to candidates on issues that affect our economy and business climate,” said Alona Beesinger, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman.

Want to see your business name here?

Buy a newsletter sponsorship!

Contact Haily Assiter, Chamber Marketing Specialist, at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7003.

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Lubbock Business Network

January Ambassador of the Month: Nick Rinker

Congratulations to Nick Rinker, the Chamber’s January Ambassador of the Month! Rinker finished January with 32 points Rinker has been involved in the Ambassador Program for two years.

The relationships Rinker has established through the ambassador program are of utmost importance to him. Rinker enjoys both Chamber and ambassador events. “I really enjoy the atmosphere of the Business After Hours events,” Rinker stated. “I enjoy the opportunity to meet with fellow ambassadors as well as other members of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce.”

Rinker’s favorite Chamber event is the HubCity BBQ. This year, he will serve as the Logistics Team Lead for the BBQ. Rinker believes being a part of a ribbon cutting is the most rewarding part of being an ambassador. “Whether the business is a new business to Lubbock, opening a new branch, or celebrating a milestone, I am always very thankful for the opportunity to share that time with the chamber member,” Rinker said.

“I always seem to walk away from a ribbon cutting knowing that the business is in a position to be successful as a member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, and that their contributions as a business in Lubbock will have a positive effect on the city as a whole.”

Rinker is the director of engineering computing services at The Whitacre College of Engineering at Texas Tech University, where he directs the technology support team for the entire col-

Nick Rinker receiving his award from Chairwoman Alona Beesinger.

lege. Rinker has been with Tech’s engineering college for the last 10 years.

Rinker is also an active member of the Chamber’s Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock. Outside of the Chamber, Rinker is involved in the South Plains Ducks Unlimited chapter and enjoys attending Texas Tech Athletic events.

Ambassador of the Month Award sponsored by

January Ambassador Team of the Month: Team Davis

The Chamber’s ambassador program is comprised of 163 ambassadors, representing their member businesses. These 163 ambassadors are split up into five teams. Ambassadors compete, every month, for the most participation in ambassador events.

Ambassadors are most commonly seen welcoming new businesses and helping existing businesses celebrate milestones at ribbon cuttings and ground breakings. They also serve as greeters and hosts for monthly luncheon meetings, Business After Hours, Chamber 101, and a number of other Chamber special events, receptions, meetings, etc.

If you are interested in sponsoring the Ambassador Team of the Month Award through June 2015 or if you are interested in becoming an ambassador, please contact Haily Assiter, Marketing Specialist, at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7003.

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CONGRATULATIONS Team Davis

AMBASSADOR TEAM OF THE MONTH Congratulations, Team Davis, Ambassador Team of the Month! Team Davis finished January with 210 points and 77 percent participation.

Lubbock Business Network

Congratulations, Alon/7-Eleven Manager Leanne Bowman!

ALON/7-Eleven store manager, Leanne Bowman, was awarded a 2014 Ford Fusion. Bowman’s store at 2423 Marsh Sharp Freeway earned a perfect score in the Alon Brands Clean TEAM program. The Clean TEAM Program was established in 2010 to reward employees for meeting certain standards for excellence in stores.

“It’s heartwarming to work for a company that cares about its employees and recognizes those employees for their hard work,” Bowman said.

Each year, the Clean TEAM evaluates nearly 300 stores in Texas and New Mexico in key areas that are important to the customer and the community, such as clean bathrooms and stocked shelves, and then present a new car to the manager of the store with the highest Clean TEAM score.

“I couldn’t do anything without my employees,” stated Bowman. “We work hard to keep our store clean and presentable to the public.”

This is the first year that a Lubbock manager has won the top prize.

“This whole experience is just surreal,” said Bowman.

Pictured in the group photo are Ryan Suttles, Lubbock Regional Operations Manager for Alon Brands Retail; LeeAnn Bowman, Grand Prize store manager for the ALON/7Eleven store on the corner of University and Marsha Sharp Freeway; and Jonathan Ketchum, Senior Vice President of retail for Alon Brands.

Junior League of Lubbock Annual Membership Period Underway

The Junior League of Lubbock, Inc. is a volunteer organization open to women who possess an interest in voluntarism, a commitment to community service, and an interest in developing their potential for voluntary community participation. We welcome inquiries from prospective members year round with the annual provisional class running from June through May. There are many benefits of joining Junior League of Lubbock. Individual members have gone on to great personal accomplishment with the experience and training they have received in the League. Some highlighted benefits include: • Unique training opportunities for effective community leadership, including: advocacy, community research, fundraising, finance, leadership, public relations and personal development • Diverse and flexible volunteer initiatives • Work collectively with the support of other women by sharing your own talents to create positive community change • Build relationships with a diverse group of current and emerging women leaders • Develop new friendships and lifelong affiliations • Become a part of an international association of 196,000 women

In order to join, a Provisional (first-year) member must be 25 years of age or older on or before June 1 of the year she would become a Provisional member and must reside within the Lubbock area to be a Resident Provisional prospective member. The Lubbock area is defined as Lubbock, Lamb, Hale, Floyd, Crosby, Garza, Lynn, Terry and Hockley counties.

In order to join, an official sponsor will submit information for each prospective member. If an interested prospective member does not already know a League member to sponsor her, introductions can be arranged. Membership Proposal Forms will be accepted through March 3.

Women who are identified as potential members will receive an invitation to a Provisional Information Night in April.

This session will provide more information about the Junior League of Lubbock membership requirements and opportunities as well as provide an opportunity to meet current members and other women who are considering joining the JLL. If you are interested in membership in the Junior League of Lubbock please call the office (806) 794-8874.

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Lubbock Business Network

THE WONDERS OF

Costa Rica OCTOBER 11-18, 2014

EIGHT DAYS, SEVEN NIGHTS INCLUDING HOTELS, MEALS, DAY TRIPS AND AIRFARE FROM DALLAS-FORT WORTH Travel with the Chamber for $2399 for more details and reservations contact: colleen evans e-mail: colleen.evans@lubbockbiz.org Telephone: (806) 761-7001

Travel with the Chamber to Costa Rica!

Experience one of today’s most popular vacation spots, Costa Rica. Despite its size, Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful rainforests in the world in addition to volcanoes, pristine forests, tropical beaches and exotic wildlife. The country is well protected by an extensive system of national parks that cover over 25 percent of the country. Visit the capital city of San Jose where many major companies and developments have settled but still has a surprisingly “small town” feel. Travel north to La Fortuna, Arenal to see breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano and enjoy the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge which is considered to be one of the richest in biological diversity in Costa Rica with a great variety of migratory birds, plus iguanas, sloths, and turtles, as well as three different species of monkeys. The last part of the trip will be spent on the Pacific Coast in Guanacaste at an all inclusive hotel where you can enjoy the beach, relax in a jungle boat cruising slowly through the Palo Verde wetlands or take a day trip excursion into the country of Nicaragua which is just north of Costa Rica.

Contact Colleen Evans for more information. Click here or call the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

March Business of the Month: Rawls College of Business Texas Tech’s Rawls College of Business has been named the Chamber’s March Business of the Month.

“We are so honored to receive this wonderful recognition from the Chamber – especially since we feel that it is critical to our mission in the Rawls College of Busi- and its staff. Keith Patrick, Rawls’ Associate Director of Student Deness to be connected with velopment, has served the Chamber in various ways. Patrick has our partners in the business served as Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Chairman, he community,” said Dean Lance is a graduate of Leadership Lubbock, and he continues to serve Nail. “The Chamber does a through Young Professionals as the Chairman of the 2014 20 Under wonderful job in facilitating 40 Award. interaction among members “The Career Management Center at the Rawls College of Busiof the Lubbock business com- ness relies heavily on building relationships with employers both munity, including academic local, regional and national in nature,” Patrick said. “The Lubbock members. This interaction cre- Chamber of Commerce is absolutely the best partner available to ates valuable professional de- interact with employers and businesses of all types, build relationvelopment opportunities for ships and utilize those to the benefit of our students through inour faculty, staff and students.” ternship and employment opportunities, mentorships and interacThe Rawls College is tion at events.” mainly involved through the The Rawls College of Business is proud to be a partner with Career Management Center the Chamber and enjoys hosting events, like the Board of Direc-

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tors meeting, this January, as well as Chamber University events. Patrick said Rawls’ favorite Chamber events are “the ones we host, of course!”

He also said everyone knows the Hub City BBQ is one of the best events on the South Plains.

“To be recognized for the role that we play in the value that the Chamber brings to Lubbock is a great honor,” Nail stated.

The Chamber is proud to congratulate Rawls College of Business on its March Business of the Month achievement.

Rawls, along with all of the other businesses of the month for 2014, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award, in December 2014.

Lubbock Business Network

2014 Business Expo: Launching Bold Pursuits The 2014 Business Expo is slated for Thurs., May 8, and will be hosted by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Exhibitors will enjoy a private networking event from 9-10 a.m. The Business Expo showcases over 200 exhibitors and welcomes approximately 7,000 attendees.

“Launching Bold Pursuits” is the 2014 Expo theme developed

by RD Thomas, the official advertising agency of the Business Expo.

Marketing for this event includes television, radio, social media and area billboards as well as printed brochures and tickets, which are mailed to all 2,100-plus members of the Chamber.

Banner ads, sponsor recognition and exhibitor information will displayed on the Chamber website beginning in March.

Booth reservations and sponsorship opportunities are available during the 2014 Total Resource Campaign. Sponsorships in the Business Expo leverage branding and marketing opportuni-

ties and are available in a wide array of prices. Please call the Chamber at (806) 761-7000 if you would like to be contacted by a Total Resource Campaign volunteer.

For additional information regarding Business Expo, contact Colleen Evans, VP of Membership and Investor Relations at colleen.evans@lubbockbiz.org or (806) 761-7001.

Click here to watch Jib Jab video of Business Expo Co-Chairs, Molly Harris and Bryce Looney.

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Lubbock Business Network

Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Spotlight: Kathy Oaks Getting to know Kathy Oaks, Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock member and Board Member.

Why did you choose to be a member of Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock? I saw that so many fun and interesting young professionals were members and I wanted to be a part of it.

How long have you been a YP member?

I joined YP in 2009 and joined the committee in 2011.

What are some of your favorite YP events to attend? All of them! I love seeing friends and meeting new people at our First Tuesday Networking events. I always learn something new at our Lunch and Learn events and I enjoy seeing friends and colleagues recognized at the 20 Under 40 banquet.

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YP member? I have made several good friends and business connections.

Why is being a YP member important to you? I want young professionals to

Pizza with the President

see that Lubbock is a vibrant place to live and work. I’m proud of our community and I love the people here. I want YP to be a place for all of us, single or married, with or without kids, just starting out or seasoned professional, to come together and support each other personally and professionally.

Where do you work? American Cancer Society.

What is your position? I am the Senior Representative for Community Engagement.

What all does your position entail? I oversee all the Society’s activities in the Lubbock-area market and make sure all the pieces – from raising money to supporting healthcare systems to providing patient services to government relations – are working together seamlessly. I also identify and cultivate new partnerships, new donors, and new volunteers. If you want to be a part of the American Cancer Society and are not sure how to get involved, I’m who you ask!

On March 18, make plans to attend Chamber 101 – Pizza with the President from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the San Jacinto room (second floor) of the Wells Fargo Building, 1500 Broadway.

If you are a new member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce or a new employee of a long standing member, attending Chamber 101 is a great way to learn more about the Chamber. Not only will you learn what we do, but how you can get involved. This is also a great opportunity to grow your business network and start building relationships with other members, as well as our volunteers and Chamber staff.

The lunch is free to attend for all members and prospective members. To RSVP or for additional information, contact Haily Assiter, Marketing Specialist, at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7003.

How long have you been with your current company? Over the course of nine years. I started out as a field rep straight out of college, was promoted to Regional Director in 2010, and took over this position in September. I love all of our staff and volunteers so much. I feel blessed to work for an organization that provides hope to people every day.

Chamber 101: Pizza with the President March 18, 2014 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

San Jacinto Room

2nd Floor Wells Fargo Bldg

®

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Lubbock Business Network

Board Member Spotlight: Jessie Mendoza Getting to know Jessie Mendoza, Board Member.

How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I started attending Business After Hours and Café y Pan Dulce mixers. Some of the individuals that I had met at these mixers were heading up committees for the Chamber and invited me to join, the rest is history. The fact that the Chamber is a great organization that keeps me connected to the community and other businesses keeps me involved.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? Hub City BBQ Cook-Off, hands down.

What are some of your other community leadership roles? President of Raiders Rojos, a chapter of Texas Tech Alumni Association, Covenant Community Benefits Committee member, Account Executive for United Way, YPGL steering committee.

Finish this sentence: Never again will I… trust a two year old boy without a diaper, EVEN if it’s for 15 seconds!

Community Prayer Breakfast May 1, 2014

Save the Date Chamber Events

Cinco de Mayo Luncheon May 5, 2014

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Lubbock Business Network

New Century Leadership: Tax Dollars at Work Day The New Century Leadership class started the City/County Government day at the Lubbock County Courthouse. Honorable Bill Sowder of the 99th District Court presented students with a role play opportunity of jury, deciding the fate of a defendant and explaining their conclusions. He drew on years of experience to weave a story of a courtroom filled with years of tales of woe and hardship and the judgment calls he makes daily to objectively rule by the law.

The Commissioners Court featured presentations from County Commissioner Bill McCay, Mayor Pro-tem Karen Gibson, State Representative Charles Perry, and the Chamber’s Norma Ritz Johnson. Each offered perspective on government issues, their role in the city, and how government rules and regulations affect everybody.

Dining etiquette was the leadership skill of the day and students enjoyed a presentation from Skyviews Restaurant Manager, Mike Nghiem, who explained the value of knowing how to pres-

ent oneself at the dinner table and the importance of exuding professionalism and confidence when conducting business.

The Lubbock Fire Department gave a tour of its facilities and explained the importance of city services and the role they play in protecting citizens.

The final leg of the day wrapped up at the Lubbock Police Department. Lubbock’s finest officers spoke with students and offered insight into the life of an officer. A tour of the facilities led to excited whispers as the bomb squad displayed its vehicle and equipment and the SWAT team opened its doors to allow students to enter the SWAT vehicle and hold some of the tools used.

The next New Century Leadership class is Endless Opportunity Day aka Higher Education on Wednesday, March 12, 2014.

Leadership Lubbock: State Government Days The highlight of Leadership Lubbock is the annual trek to Austin for State Government Days. The class was exposed to various speakers and presentations specifically chosen to provide a well-rounded examination of the political spectrum that is our state government. A little bit of home lives in Austin and a traditional stop at Stubb’s BBQ started off the trip with some homegrown BBQ and camaraderie building. Following this tasty treat was a Texas-sized educational stop at the Bob Bullock Museum to discover the rich history of our great state beginning with an interactive viewing of “Star of Destiny”. The oldest operating business in Austin rounded off the evening and the class enjoyed fellowship and an amazing fajita dinner catered by Scholz Garten.

Day two dawned bright and early with a riveting presentation by John Reynolds of the Texas Tribune. A native of Atlanta, Ga., Reynolds started his journalistic career one day after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, in Lubbock where he rotated through a slew of beats at the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal.

The Texas State Capitol stood tall and majestic even as the skies above threatened rain…and only delivered sprinkles…as the class gathered for its traditional Capitol Rotunda group picture. The state legislative process and the roles it plays were interwoven in the current political arena updates provided by our three speakers: Porter Wilson, Chief of Staff for Senator Robert Duncan; Scott Hutchinson, Chief of Staff for State Representative Charles Perry; and Robin MacEwan, Chief of Staff for State Representative John Frullo. The presentations led to an education update by David Gardner, Deputy Commissioner for Academic Planning and Policy/Chief Academic Officer of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

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Walking through the halls of history and knowing that our forefathers’ footsteps echoed just as ours did was both exhilarating and intimidating as the class progressed through a tour of the Capitol and gained further understanding of the political process.

Lunchtime presentations began with President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business (TAB), Bill Hammond, who gave an informative speech of the education goals set forth in Texas and how state legislature affects businesses in need of a knowledgeable workforce followed by Debby Hansard, who gave a brief update on Senator Robert Duncan’s office.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library offered its splendid array of historical facts, videos, photos, and materials to give the class a look into the past and how the future was forged.

The final stop of the trip was at Texas Monthly and a presentation by Brian D. Sweany, Senior Executive Director. The class was treated to a presentation that covered the importance of journalism in creating a historical picture and toured the facilities.

The next Leadership Lubbock class is Health & Medical Day on Tues., March 25.

Thank you to our presenting sponsors, FirstCare Health Plans and Betenbough Homes; platinum sponsors United Supermarkets, Lubbock Economic Development Alliance, Lubbock National Bank, and Parkhill, Smith & Cooper. Our State Government Days sponsor was Suddenlink.

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by

Brookdale Grand Court 4601 71st Street

D-BAT Lubbock 6104 45th St., Ste. B-C

EZ Auto 5617 Frankford Ave.

First Mortgage Home Lending 7021 Kewanee Ave.

Hudson Wealth Services 3402 110th St.

My Father’s House 1510 S. Loop 289

Stripes Grand Opening I-27 & 34th Street

West Texas Homebuilders Home & Garden Show

Wingstop 5510 4th St.

Join Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock!

Applications Available Now! Contact: Amy Marquez 1500 Broadway, Suite 101 Lubbock, TX 79401 P: 806.761.7002 | C: 806.317.0122

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Lubbock Business Network

Welcome New Chamber Members! 1/16/14 - 2/15/14

Please place this addition in your Chamber Business Directory & Resource Guide The Cliffs Resort 160 Cliffs Drive Graford, TX 76449 (940) 779-4500 Resort and/or Retreat Center

H & R Block 1710 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79411 (806) 762-2131 Tax Preparation Service

Metro Leader - Lubbock 5101 80th St., Ste. 5 Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 798-2008 Newspapers

Condray Design Group 1402 Avenue N Lubbock, TX 79401 (806) 748-6190 Architects, Engineers, Planners and/or Designers

H & R Block 2715 50th St. Lubbock, TX 79413 (806) 795-0515 Tax Preparation Service

Noble Fence & Supply House 3601 N. Quaker Ave. Lubbock, TX 79415 (806) 773-0600

FBT Architects 500 E. 50th St., Ste. C-2 Lubbock, TX 79404 (806) 747-2244 Architects, Engineers, Planners and/or Designers First Cash Pawn 7301 University Ave., Ste. 100-300 Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 445-0428 Loans

H & R Block 5404 4th St., Ste. H Lubbock, TX 79416 (806) 795-1684 Tax Preparation Service H & R Block 5217 82nd St., Ste. 212 Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 794-1040 Tax Preparation Service

Hunton Distribution 6020 43rd St. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Lubbock, TX 79423 7732 Milwaukee (806) 788-2672 Lubbock, TX 79424 Air Conditioning & Heating Equipment - Wholesale (806) 783-0285 Restaurants Live Oak Animal Hospital 5214 98th St., Ste. 100 Gunz Up Training and Nutrition Lubbock, TX 79424 5102 60th St., Ste. I (806) 794-9000 Lubbock, TX 79414 Veterinarians and/or Veterinary Clinics (970) 799-0308 Health Clubs Lutheran Social Services of the South LSS Foster in Texas H & R Block 2022 82nd St., Ste. 102 4221 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79423 Lubbock, TX 79410 (806) 783-8863 (806) 796-1040 Adoption, Children’s Home & Foster Care Tax Preparation Service Lutheran Social Services of the South H & R Block Neighborhood House/Health for Friends 1905 19th St. Clinic Lubbock, TX 79401 1212 13th St., Ste. 102 (806) 762-0999 Lubbock, TX 79401 Tax Preparation Service (806) 765-2639 Social Service Organizations H & R Block 102 University Lutheran Social Services of the South Lubbock, TX 79415 Wedgewood South Assisted Living (806) 762-2333 9812 Vinton Ave. Tax Preparation Service Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 798-1011 Retirement and/or Assisted Living

Fence - Construction, Supply, Sales & Manufacturing

Operation Hope 4219 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79410 (806) 793-4673 Non Profit Organizations Synergy HomeCare 7202 Joliet Ave Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 589-0400

Health Care - Home Health Services and/or Staffing

Synetra 3223 S. Loop 289, Ste. 580 Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 762-2861 Computer Virginia College in Lubbock 5005 50th St. Lubbock, TX 79414 (806) 784-1900 Schools - Business, Technical and/or Trade WesTech Plumbing, LLC 7407 83rd St., Ste. A Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 866-2382 Plumbing & Sewer Service Wrench A Part 4210 E. Slaton Hwy. Lubbock, TX 79404 (806) 745-2274 Auto Parts & Supplies

Current membership information can be found on the Chamber’s online Business Directory. Members can be searched by category or keyword. Membership information can be verified online through the Member Only section.

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