Lubbock Business Network - February 2013

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The Lubbock Chamber ofofCommerce Newsletter The Lubbock Chamber Commerce Newsletter Vol. 21 No. 2 February 2013

Adventures in Italy 8 The ACA and Your Business 13 Lubbock Day at the Capitol 15 Read More>>>>

Betenbough Wins Humanitarian Award

Workingfor forBusiness.

Business. Believing Believing ininLubbock.

Lubbock.

Working

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Lubbock Business Network

Benefits that look out for your employees’ health and your company’s finances.

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We have products that can help your employees get on a path to better health, and solutions that can save your business money. And our products are affordable, easy to understand and implement, and can be customized to fit your employees’ needs.

We know your business is unique. That’s why you also have access to knowledgeable sales associates who understand your business needs and can help tailor an affordable package that’s right for you.

To find out more, visit Humana.com or contact your health benefits broker/agent.

Humana.com

Offered by Humana Health Plan of Texas, Inc. - A Health Maintenance Organization and/or insured by Humana Insurance Company, HumanaDental Insurance Company, DentiCare, Inc. (d/b/a CompBenefits) or Kanawha Insurance Company

TXHHEUUHH Page | 21012

2013 Board of Directors

In the news this month:

Executive Committee

Michael Ramirez, SBA Person of the Year.....Page 6 Adventures in Italy.........................................Page 8 Chamber University.......................................Page 11 The ACA and Your Business........................Page 13 Passport to Paradise: The TRC...................Page 14 Lubbock Day at the Capitol..........................Page 15

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 Constance Barbian at constance.barbian@lubbockbiz.org or call 806.761.7000.

®

Chairman Carlos Morales - Caprock Home Health Services Chairwoman-Elect Alona Beesinger - Suddenlink Communications Immediate Past Chairman Tim Collins - Collins Tile, LLP Treasurer Peter Hur - RFS Financial Services Secretary Eddie McBride - Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman, Business Development Division Sidney Hopper - United Supermarkets, LLC Vice Chairwoman, Communications Division Polly Vann - V-tech Environmental Services Vice Chairwoman, Hispanic Business Divison Irasema Velasquez - Velasquez Insurance and Worksite Benefits Vice Chairwoman, Leadership Division Beth Bridges - South Plains Mall Office Vice Chairman, Legislative Affairs Division Jay Jacobus - Scarborough Specialties, Inc. Vice Chairman, Membership Division Robert Lacy - PYCO Industries, Inc. Hispanic Business Division Representative Gabe Vitela - Texas Land & Cattle Steak House Board of Directors

Carmen Aguirre, Children’s Advocacy Center of the South Plains Cathy Allen, The Gibraltar Group Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes John Brock, NorthStar Surgical Center Michael Calvillo, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds Renee G. Davis, Alderson/Mercedes-Benz Scott Fagin, First United Bank Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors- Gaither/Ratclif Sonny Garza, City Bank Clayton Isom, TAO Development Group Dan Jackson, KCBD Brent King, UMC Health System Gabe Martinez, Ramar Communications, Inc. Brandon Mulkey, Chick-fil-A South Plains Crossing David Park, Atmos Energy Richard Parks, Covenant Health Keith Patrick, American Cancer Society Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs Tim Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Norval Pollard, City Bank Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System Cory Powell, Texas Tech University Rudy Rosales, Montelongo’s Mexican Restaurant Shirley Schleuse, Lamar Outdoor Advertising Frank Silvas, AFLAC Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency David Vroonland, Frenship Independent School District Mitch Watson, FirstBank & Trust Co. Connie Wharton, Mulcahy Wharton Business Consultants Gary Zheng, Lubbock Power & Light

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Lubbock Business Network

Betenbough Homes Wins Humanitarian Award

by Hallie Davis

After just 21 years in business, Betenbough Homes has donated more than $30 million. For the company’s giving spirit and contributions to the community, Ron Betenbough was awarded the Hearthstone Builder Humanitarian Award.

The national award is given each year to builders who demonstrate a lifetime commitment to public service.

Ron Betenbough said the award is very prestigious, and he was excited to be in such good company as past winners.

The application process included listing all donations and involvements since the company’s beginning.

“It’s about giving back to the community and to charities you believe in,” he said. “It was a natural for us to apply.”

Lauren Hays, public relations coordinator with the company, said Betenbough Homes has a charitable base wherever it builds, and this includes not only charities, but little league teams and “most anyone” who needs help.

“If it’s a local cause, we’ll support it,” Betenbough said.

The company also supports its employees’ giving, and will

match any donations an employee makes. As shareholders in the company, the employees help to choose where corporate donations go.

One such cause is the Children’s Home of Lubbock, which received part of the award. The prize is a sum of $75,000 to donate to the charity of Betenbough’s choice. Keeping with the company’s policy, the amount will be matched, and another local group will also get $75,000.

The Children’s Home is especially important to the company’s core values, Hays said, with the work the organization does to improve the lives of children and families.

While the Children’s Home knew they would be receiving a donation from the homebuilder, they had no idea how much until being presented with the check at an award ceremony.

After the crowd gasped at hearing the amount, Lynn Harms, the president of the Children’s Home, accepted the check. He said he was stunned at the total, but not surprised by Betenbough’s generosity.

Chambers Form National Business Coalition on Skilled Worker Immigration Reform

Provided by Audrey DeLeon

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce recently announced its participation in “Business for Skilled Worker Immigration,” a coalition of 25 Chambers of Commerce to date, from across the country working together to advance skilled worker immigration reform as a means of driving job creation, innovation and other economic growth. The coalition will urge Congress to address this important talent issue as part of broader-based immigration reform expected to be taken up in the new Congressional session.

Business for Skilled Worker Immigration represents a strong cross-section of the nation’s business community, with broad geographic diversity among its members. With talent a key driver of the economy, coalition members seek to bring increased focus on the critical challenge of improving access to top international talent. Combined with current programs to strengthen domestic science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) training, the coalition believes its efforts can help improve long-term economic competitiveness.

The group will focus on three specific proposals designed to improve current skilled worker immigration policy:

- Increasing the availability of temporary, skilled worker (H-1B) visas - Increasing the availability of permanent resident visas (green cards) for STEM graduates and workers - Creating new startup visas for immigrant entrepreneurs who launch businesses in the U.S. and meet certain employment and financing goals The coalition plans to leverage the increased focus on broader-based immigration reform in Washington to advance immigration issues that are important to the business community. The Chambers who make up Business for Skilled Worker Immigration will engage in lobbying and advocacy efforts with members of Congress and the Administration, using communications activities to raise awareness among key business and government stakeholders and the general public, and coordination of strategy to maximize the collective impact of efforts to advance skilled worker immigration reform.

A full list of coalition members is available on the coalition web page, along with additional information about Business for Skilled Worker Immigration.

Business After Hours

6 0 0 2 S l i d e R d 5:30-7p.m.

Thursday February 22

Premiere Cinemas 16 & IMAX

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Presented by

Lubbock Business Network

February 5 Chamber University: Customer Service

8 a.m. – Science Spectrum Leadership Lubbock Committee Meeting

11 a.m. - LCOC Young Professionals First Tuesday Networking

5:30 p.m. – Blue Mesa Grill

Charles Adams Studio Project named Business of the Month

by Hallie Davis

7 Agriculture Committee Meeting

8 a.m. – LCOC Business After Hours hosted by Stella’s

5:30 p.m. - 4646 50th Legislative Affairs Committee Meeting

10:30 a.m. – LCOC 13 New Century Leadership Higher Education Day

15 Focus Lubbock Community Services Day

The Charles Adams Studio Project currently features a painter, a potter, a welder and a jeweler.

Congratulations to Charles Adams Studio Project for being named the Business of the Month!

CASP is a multipart operation located on the LHUCA campus. Charles 19 Young Professionals Committee Meeting Adams said the mission is to provide working studio space for artists, and

Noon – LCOC currently houses four artists and three dogs. Additionally, CASP is developing a new printmaking and welding workshop.

20 Ambassadors Monthly Luncheon Adams said the Studio Project is a big part of Lubbock’s cultural offerings,

Noon – Silent Wings Museum, 6202 N I27 especially with all four artists’ studios on display for every First Friday Art Trail.

Golf Classic Committee Meeting “The arts are really flourishing here,” he said.

4 p.m. - LCOC The business joined the Chamber about 4 years ago, and Adams said he appreciates its benefits.

21 Executive Committee Meeting “The Chamber is interested in the long term effects of what happens in

Noon – LCOC Community Prayer Breakfast Committee Meeting Lubbock,” he said. “Developing an active arts life is a major part of that.”

He said awareness of the Chamber extends beyond the awareness of

4 p.m. - LCOC Business After Hours hosted by South Plains Mall each business.

“As individual members,” he said, “we get the strength of the Chamber.”

5:30 p.m. - 6002 Slide Rd. 22 Imagine Lubbock Together Committee Meeting

8 a.m. – Wells Fargo, 5th Fl. 25-26 Lubbock Day at the Capitol

Austin, TX 26 Business Expo Committee Meeting

4 p.m. – LCOC 27 New Century Leadership Committee Meeting

11 a.m. – LCOC 28 Board of Directors Meeting

10 a.m. – Science Spectrum Cinco de Mayo Luncheon Committee Meeting

1:30 p.m. – LCOC CASP is for all types of artists and media from the South Plains area.

This piece features paint stir sticks.

This storage building, behind the new welding and printmaking shop, is repainted every two years, and each side is done by a different local high school.

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Lubbock Business Network

Michael Ramirez Named SBA Person of the Year

By Hallie Davis

In one year, Michael Ramirez’s company High Plains Contractors and Management Group, Inc. has gone from 3 employees to 25. This period of such quick growth is mirrored in the company’s sales and energy.

For all of this, Ramirez was named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2012 Small Business Person of the Year for the West Texas District. Ramirez was nominated for the award by Rick Palmer of the West Texas A&M University Small Business Development Center.

Ramirez founded the company in 2009 in Dumas, and later opened locations in both Amarillo and Lubbock.

“I knew where I wanted to go,” he said, “but I didn’t know exactly how to get there.”

He joined as many associations and organizations as he could, he said, including the Amarillo, Dumas and Lubbock Chambers, the SBA and the SBDC, to learn as much as he could and leverage their knowledge. He credits being open to advice as a major factor in the company’s success.

“I’ll listen to anyone,” he said. “If it fits us, I’ll implement it.”

Now, his is considered to be one of the premier construction companies in the Panhandle of Texas.

Big Events for 2013 Lubbock Day at the Capitol – February 25-26 “Salute to Ag” National Ag Day Lunch – March 19 Focus Lubbock Graduation – April 25 New Century Leadership Graduation – April 30 Cinco de Mayo Luncheon – May 1 Community Prayer Breakfast – May 2 Business Expo – May 9 Chick-fil-A LeaderCast – May 10 Leadership Lubbock Banquet – May 23 20 Under 40 Banquet – May 30 Golf Classic Tournament – July 22 Football Kickoff Breakfast – August 28 Fiestas Patrias Luncheon – September 13 Hub City BBQ – September 26 Harvest Breakfast – October 1 Business Mercado – October 10 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon – December 5

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This, he said, is because the people he works with have made all the difference.

“We have the very best people at High Plains,” he said. “Our people are our success.

They make me look good.”

The company provides general construction, plumbing, powder coating, and management services across the South Plains. As it has grown, High Plains Contractors and Management Group, Inc. has begun working government contracts as well as projects in the energy generation industry.

Ramirez said he plans for even more growth in the coming year and years.

“We’re an extremely blessed company,” he said.

Are you looking for an opportunity to serve the community in a position of influence?

Submit your application for possible appointment to a city advisory board or commission.

There are nearly 30 different groups representing a variety of local interests and topics.

For more information click here.

Lubbock Business Network

Mark Your Calendars!

Business Expo is May 9

Nominations are now open for the sixth annual Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock 20 Under 40 Awards Program. The awards recognize professionals ages 22 to 40 who demonstrate leadership in their careers, while actively participating in the community. Winners will be honored at a reception in May. Nomination forms are available online at www. yplubbock.org, and will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 22, 2012. Then, nominees will have until March 29 to submit an application.

An independent panel of judges will determine the top 40 individuals from those nominated, and the top 20 will then be selected from that group.

“The Chamber is very involved with young people in the area, and what better way to recognize their talent and service,” said Chamber of Commerce Chairman Carlos Morales. “We have so many great professionals and can’t wait to see all of the nominees.”

Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock, a program of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, is a group of active, civic-minded professionals, who see Lubbock as a great place to live, work and play. YPGL seeks to develop emerging leaders and attract and retain diverse young talent throughout the Lubbock region.

Sponsorship opportunities are available through the Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign; if interested, please contact Phyllis Jones at (806) 761-7000.

www.yplubbock.org

Thursday, May 9th is the date for the 2013 Business Expo, presented by Signs on the Go and hosted by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Marketing for this event includes television, radio, newspaper and area billboards as well as printed brochures and tickets which are mailed to all 2,100-plus members of the Chamber. Email communications sent via Monday Memo reach more than 4,000 individuals and the Chamber website averages 5,000 visits per month.

More than 65% of all booths are already reserved and exhibit space is limited, so please reserve your booth space today!

“Restaurant Row”will return this year with a dedicated section for food service vendors. Visit lubbockbusinessexpo.com for an electronic registration form and the event map.

Sponsorship opportunities will be presented during the Spring 2013 Total Resource Campaign, Feb. 1 to April 30.

A sponsorship in the Business Expo leverages branding and marketing opportunities while benefitting from business to business networking with more than 200 exhibitors and approximately 8,000 attendees.

Thank you to the 2013 renewing Business Expo Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor: Signs on the Go Media Sponsors: Fox 34, Telemundo Lubbock, My Lubbock TV, Lubbock’s CQ, Fox Talk 950, Double T 104.3, Magic 93.7, 97.3 YES FM!, 107.7 The Eagle Diamond Sponsors: RD Thomas, Suddenlink Platinum Sponsors: Benchmark Business Solutions, Bodyworks Gold: Blue Layer, Bliss Dental Banner Sponsors: Sam’s, Starbucks For additional information regarding Business Expo, contact Robin Raney at robin.raney@lubbockbiz.org or (806) 761-7009.

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Lubbock Business Network

Adventures in Italy

By Sarah Harlan, photos by Colleen Evans

While most Americans were prepping for the Thanksgiving holiday, some staff from the Chamber and a group of about forty excited members

networking. Many members who attended felt they made personal, meaningful friendships they would have not had a chance to make otherwise.

Learning and exploring the culture of a different country is a bonding experience for any group of people and the Chamber is excited to be able to facilitate that for our members.

“It’s nice to get acquainted with

Lunch in Siena, from left: Allie Timms, Lon Timms, Kathy Timms, and Colleen Evans

Norma and John Johnson on a ferry from Santa Margherita to Portofino

were discovering the beauty of Italy. The Chamber visited cities with rich history such as, Montcatini Terme, Florence, Chianti, Sienna, Vinci, Lucca, Pisa, Portofino, and Santa Margharita. In each city the group visited ancient historical landmarks, interacted with small businesses, and toured a few wineries.

Chambers of Commerce across the nation have been coordinating international trips to give members a chance to network and to give Chambers the opportunity to earn non-dues revenue.

“It was especially interesting to tour the vineyards and wineries there, given our perspective coming from Texas’ largest wine-grape-growing region that also encompasses the largest and best wine production in Texas,” said Eddie McBride.

However, the trip was not solely

among the group of individuals who attended.

The Chamber is always excited to

Trip participants admire the cieling of the baptistry where Leonardo daVinci was baptized

people you don’t know. My wife and I hung out with Josie and Raul Alvarado, who we did not previously know before the trip, and we genuinely liked getting to spend time with them,” said Ron Betenbough of Betenbough Homes.

The memories created during the two week period in Italy will last a lifetime and created a new sense of camaraderie

be able to provide this added benefit to members as such a special opportunity.

“Traveling internationally is a great way to expand your horizons, experience other cultures and take in amazing sights while simultaneously making you appreciate what you’ve got at home,” said Norma Ritz-Johnson of Legislative Affairs with the Chamber.

Although everyone who attended had a wonderful time, members were happy to be home with their families on Thanksgiving and for the Chamber to start planning this year’s trip. The Chamber hopes to lead an even larger group this year and share the enriching experience of travel with as many members as possible.

The Chamber is happy to announce the next trip will take participants across the Atlantic, all the way to Ireland!

The Piazza del Campo in Siena where the Palio di Siena, a traditional medieval horse race, is run twice each year.

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Lubbock Business Network 2011: China...

2012: Italy...

2013: Lubbock Chamber of Commerce members will have the opportunity to visit Ireland!

Start making plans now for later this fall, to visit this picturesque country full of lush surroundings, and historic sites like the Cliffs of Moher and the Rock of Cashel. With its beautiful stonework, friendly locals, pubs and restaurants, antique and clothing boutiques, Ireland is truly a special place.

Be sure to check the March newsletter

for more details!

Wellness Matters An apple a day, as they say, will keep the doctor away. But when it ccomes to your health, it takes more. The Lubbock Chamber of CCommerce is partnering with iaWellness to bring you tips to inspire a healthier you.

How are your New Year's resolutions going? The top three resolutions for 2012 were: - Lose weight - Get organized - Spend less, save more Did you know that 45% of Americans make resolutions, and only around 8% achieve them?

Tips to be a part of those who succeed: - Set small, realistic goals - Set your goals with some close friends that will keep you accountable - Don't end your resolution if you have have a slip-up - Reward yourself for success

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Chamber Staff President & CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Vice President Administration Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President Business Development Robin Raney, IOM Vice President Communications Constance Barbian Vice President Hispanic Business Division Diana Fabing Vice President Leadership Phyllis Jones, IOM Vice President Legislative Affairs Norma Ritz Johnson, IOM, CCE Vice President Membership Services Colleen Evans, IOM Retention Specialist Amy Marquez Project & Research Specialist Audrey DeLeon Administrative Assistant Kathy Bass Customer Service Representative Patsy Moffett Interns Hallie Davis Sarah Harlan

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Value of Membership Proven by the Numbers

By Sarah Harlan

The American Chamber of Commerce Executives published a national survey of 2,000 adults that revealed being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy because two-thirds of consumers believe that such companies use good business practices, are reputable, care about their customers, and are involved in the community.

The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found consumer perceptions of chamber members to be positive in many ways: • When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce they are 49% more likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

• If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g., is a chamber board member), consumers are 10% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition.

• When consumers know that a national restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of, they are 68% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months.

• When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 36% more likely to think favorably of the company.

However, the statistics above only cover some of the benefits of being a member of the chamber.

Lubbock offers multiple innovative programs to help build every business at any size, such as Chamber University, Leadership Lubbock, Business Expo, Business Mercado, Hub City BBQ, and advocacy efforts.

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is the only chamber in Texas to receive the honor of winning Chamber of the Year from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives twice and is a 5-star Accredited chamber by the United States Chamber of Commerce.

Encourage your business associates to join and start reaping the benefits of chamber membership.

The Tony Award Winner for Best Musical (2005) is coming to Lubbock!

Tickets on sale now!

Lubbock Chamber of Commerce 1500 Broadway, Suite 101

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February 22-23 at the City Bank Auditorium Friday and Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m.

Lubbock Business Network

Emmy Winner to Perform Provided by the Texas Tech Presidential Lecture and Performance Series

The Spring 2013 Presidential Lecture and Performance Series kicks off with Life Is What You Make It: A Concert & Conversation with Peter Buffett. The Emmy award-winning musician, philanthropist, and author will perform on Friday, February 8th at 7:00 pm in the Allen Theatre, located in the Student Union Building of Texas Tech University.

Peter Buffett transforms his New York Times best-selling book, Life Is What You Make It, into a multimedia event, combining clips from his film, television and philanthropic work with a cello-accompanied live piano/vocal

Provided by Robin Raney

performance. Buffett draws upon his own life story and experiences, as the son of famed investor Warren Buffett, discussing how important it is for each person to define his or her own path in life. He conveys that it is one’s values—and what people are able to give back to society—that shape and define us as individuals, creating a thought-provoking evening for the audience.

Buffett began his career creating music for the early years of MTV and for

the Fire Dance scene in the Oscar winning film Dances With Wolves. He received critical acclaim for his Native American inspired score for the CBS mini-series, 500 Nations as well for the musical production Spirit: The Seventh Fire. He has released sixteen records to date.

There will be an opportunity to meet Peter Buffett at a book signing immediately following the performance.

General Admission tickets are $15.00 and are available through all Select-ASeat locations, (806) 770-2000 or www. selectaseatlubbock.com . TTU Students receive one free ticket with valid ID at the SUB information booth.

Chamber University Begins Feb. 5

Chamber Univesity is an innovative business seminar series designed to address critical business topics and to offer tools to navigate and thrive in the everchanging demands of the 21st century workplace, expanding current “essential knowledge” in Customer Service, Ethics, Leadership & Management, Human Resources and Marketing & PR. The first seminar will be Feb. 5, Customer Service presented by Phil Pirkle, Executive Vice President of Talent Management for United Supermarkets, Brandon Mulkey, Owner/Operator for Chick-fil-A, and Rob Bailey, Director of Employee Development for Chick-fil-A. This will be held in the Science Education Center of the Science Spectrum.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the seminar will conclude by 11:30 a.m.

Light refreshments from Chick-fil-A and United Supermarkets will be served.

Click here to register for the Customer Service Seminar.

Other seminars include: 3/7/13 Ethics with Dr. Mike Ryan, hosted at the Rawls College of Business 8-11:30 a.m.

5/10/13 Leadership & Management: Chick-fil-A Leadercast at Bacon Heights Baptist Church 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

10/8/13 Human Resources 8 – 11:30 a.m., location to be determined 11/5/13 Marketing & Public Relations 8 – 11:30 a.m., location to be determined Pricing for Chamber members: New this year! Register three people from the same company and the fourth reservation is free!

Entire series is $300/person and the employer may send different employees to each session.

Single seminar registration is $65/ person; $55/person for groups of 5 or more; $45 for groups of 10 or more.

Non-chamber members may register

for $75/person. For more information, contact Robin Raney, VP of Business Development at robin.raney@ lubbockbiz.org or 806-761-7009.

“There are a few other chamber’s in the United States that are offering similar programming,” Chamber University Steering Committee Chairwoman Dr. Kathy Crockett said. “We believe Lubbock’s to be unique as it was developed as part of the Chamber’s leadership program, involved extensive surveys of the Chamber membership to determine specific needs within the Lubbock business community and is largely facilitated by local subject matter experts. It is a tremendous validation of Chamber University to be reviewed with favorable comments by the American Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to continuing the program into 2013.”

Double T Cable Services, United Supermarkets, and Workforce Solutions South Plains are Platinum Sponsors of Chamber University.

Chamber University is presented by

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Lubbock Business Network

Ambassador of the Month

by Hallie Davis

Congratulations to Vanesa Hyde, the “There is no better way to get ambassador of the month! your company’s name out there,” Hyde said she was determined she said. “It is the best way I to win eventually, but as a first year know to interact with the business member, she was surprised to win so community.” soon.

The winner is chosen by number When she got her current position of points earned from attending in marketing and sales at the Chaparral events and recruiting new business.

Jet Center, she noticed the company’s Hyde said she did as much as she membership had lapsed, so she renewed could, and it was her competitive it and proceeded to get as involved as she spirit that brought her to the first Hyde recieved the award from Ambassador Chairman could. place slot.

David Putnam at the January ambassador luncheon.

“It has been the most fun part of my More than anything, getting there job,” she said. was fun, Hyde said.

Her involvement has made her new business contacts “It’s a great organization,” she said. “I’ve also made so as well as helped the company. many friends.”

Ground Breakings & Ribbon Cuttings

Girl Scout Cookie Kickoff

Market Street

4425 19th Street

School of Rock 7802 Indiana

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by

Ambassador Program sponsored by

Bliss Dental

4819 Avenue Q

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Occutest Solutions

3610 Avenue Q, Suite 211

Lubbock Business Network

About the Affordable Care Act: Part 1 in a Series Provided by the Lubbock Area Association of Health Underwriters and John Claborn

This begins a series clarifying the act and how it may affect your business.

The Small Group Market

Whether the individual mandate in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) stood or was struck down would have no effect on how the remainder of ACA affects the small group health insurance market.

While ACA sorts businesses into a number of classifications based on total headcount, the generally accepted definition of a small group for most of the remaining mandates in ACA is a company with fewer than 50 employees.

Some portions of ACA deviate from the 50-employee definition for various reasons and those provisions will be addressed later.

What do small businesses face?

ACA places no mandate on small business owners to purchase health insurance for their employees.

ACA does not impose any penalties on small groups that do not offer and pay for health insurance, even if one of the employees qualifies for a government subsidy.

ACA does not require small employers to begin reporting the value of their health insurance plans on employees W-2 forms in 2013. In fact, ACA allows groups with fewer than 250 employees an exemption to this requirement, among other exempted groups.

ACA does present some challenges to small employers who offer health insurance. ACA also offers some enhancements that could attract small employers to purchase health insurance for employees.

New Benefits and Mandates

January 1, 2014, the Affordable Care Act will begin to be fully implemented.

For those employers who offer coverage and are thinking about offering group coverage, premiums and benefits will be different than on December 31, 2013.

• Premiums will not be age biased to the extent they are now. Though some health plans offer “composite” rates where everyone pays the same premium regardless of age, the underwriting that went into those rates was based on age tiers. Employees at age 60 or higher often are rated 7 times more than the typical 20-year-old. In 2014 that age bracketing will compress from 7 to 1 to 3 to 1.

Look for the rates for the youngest people to go up substantially, perhaps by as much as 200% or more.

• Premiums will not be gender biased anymore. Whereas today, premium rates for women are usually higher than for males, ACA ends that in 2014. All rates will be unisex rates.

• Premiums will not be health biased.

With the exception of tobacco use, health insurance premiums must be the same for those with pre-existing health conditions as for those who have no pre-existing health conditions.

• Waiting periods for those with pre-existing health conditions will not be allowed. Small employers may still impose a waiting for enrolling new employees, but the waiting period can not be any longer than three months.

• All health plans grandfathered from the enactment date of March 23, 2010, through December 31, 2013, will lose that status on January 1, 2014.

That means grandfathered plans that historically were a little less expensive than non-grandfathered plans will lose that designation and must comply with all mandates of ACA. • Health plans must cover maternity the same as any other illness. For groups of fewer than 15 employees, maternity will no longer be an optional benefit.

• Health plans must also treat mental health care as any other sickness • Health plans will not be allowed to impose an annual maximum benefit.

• Children will continue to be allowed to remain on a parent’s plan until age 26. Some plans will allow this even

if the child is working and is covered by his/her employer’s health plan.

• All health plans must include Essential Health Benefits. The Department of Health and Human Services will further define these in time. However, ACA stipulates that three levels will be Gold, Silver and Bronze. All three will contain all EHBs and vary only by deductibles and other out of pocket expenses.

At this time we do know EHBs include coverage for doctor visits, hospital services, emergency care, prescription drug coverage, and routine exams/wellness.

HHS has issued rulings that define routine exams/wellness to include at no out of pocket costs to the insured: physical exams, colonoscopies, contraception and sterilization services.

Continuation of Current Mandates Some mandates have been implemented since the beginning of the passage of the law in 2010. They include: • Treatment of emergency care as in-network • Eliminating lifetime maximum benefits. All health plans must have unlimited lifetime benefits.

• Insurance plans cannot have “unreasonable” annual benefit maximums. Annual caps will be eliminated in 2014.

• Claim appeals are available for a speedy review through a third party.

• Children are not subject to a waiting period for pre-existing conditions when enrolled as dependents on a group plan and may remain on the plan until age 26.

This series is for informational purposes only. Every business is different. Consult the Lubbock Area

Association of Health Underwriters with any questions.

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Lubbock Business Network

Provided by Workforce Solutions

About Skills for Small Business • The emphasis is on training newly hired employees – those who have been hired by the company up to three months prior to the date that TWC receives an application.

• The program will fund tuition and fees up to $1,450 per newly hired employee and up to $725 per incumbent employee.

• Training must be selected from active course catalogs/schedules – credit, continuing education, on-line or other available unpublished courses.

• All training must be provided by a public community or technical college, or the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). No third-party vendor training is allowed.

• An individual employee can participate only once per 12-month period.

The Skills for Small Business program from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) responds to the training needs of Texas businesses with fewer than 100 employees. These employers are the backbone of Texas’ business community – the state’s more than 433,000 small employers.

Training through the Skills for Small Business program directly benefits business competitiveness, upgrades the skills of current employees and prepares newly hired employees for job requirements.

This exceptional opportunity is in conjunction with the Small Business Forums hosted by the Office of the Governor.

• Trainee wages must be equal to or greater than prevailing wage.

• Skills for Small Business focuses on training for occupations within the Governor’s six targeted Industry Clusters: Aerospace and Defense; Advanced Technologies and Manufacturing; Biotechnology and Life Science; Energy; Petroleum Refining and Chemical Products; and Information and Computer Technology.

• This opportunity for small businesses also emphasizes training in occupations targeted by Local Workforce Development Boards.

Getting Started • Small businesses identify training courses.

• Businesses apply directly to TWC for training. TWC evaluates the

applications and works with the local college to fund the selected training.

• Applications are available on the TWC Web site at http://ssb. texasworkforce.org, at Governor’s Small Business Forums, at local colleges or from Local Workforce Development Boards.

• TWC project development specialists are available at Governor’s Small Business Forums to help complete applications in person.

For More Information • For information on Skills for Small Businesses, including an application and FAQ, access http://ssb.texasworkforce. org . For further assistance, contact the Workforce Business Services Project Development Team at 1-877-463-1777 or e-mail skills@twc.state.tx.us.

Passport to Paradise: 2013 Total Resource Campaign

by Sarah Harlan and Constance Barbian

Warmer weather and cold drinks are right around the corner, and so is the Chamber’s 3rd Annual Total Resource Campaign (TRC). The TRC is an 8-week campaign in which volunteers will go out into the community to secure sponsorships from local business members for all Chamber events and

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programs.

By participating in the TRC, businesses receive significant exposure by being included in the marketing and promotions for the events they choose to sponsor.

The TRC has more than 55 dedicated volunteers this year with a goal to raise $400,000. Last year with a goal of $350,000 the TRC volunteers were able to exceed expectations by raising $419,000.

Volunteers are split into teams of 2-5 people, each with the same minimum monetary goal. Volunteers who reach benchmark achievements are awarded prizes throughout the campaign at weekly reward sessions.

If you’re interested in being a volunteer, please contact Sheri Nugent at sheri.nugent@lubbockbiz.org or call 806-761-7000.

Members of the Chamber who have sponsored previous events or would like to sponsor future events should make plans to speak with a TRC representative between March 1 and April 30.

Thank you to our 2013 reward session sponsors: Blue Mesa Grill, Chick-fil-A, Harrigan’s, Legacy Event Center, Main Event, Outback Steakhouse, PrimeWest Mortgage, Prosperity Bank, Standard Sales and Suddenlink.

Lubbock Business Network

Celebrate National Ag Day

Lubbock Day at the Capitol

The Chamber along with its Agriculture Committee will host a luncheon, presented by City Bank, in recognition of National Ag Day in March.

The luncheon will take place at Hillcrest Country Club, 4011 N. Boston on Tuesday March 19th. The serving line will open at 11:45 a.m. and the program begins at noon.

Individual tickets are available to purchase online by clicking Register Now on our event page here.

Sponsorships are still available with a Table of 8 included! For more information, contact Norma RitzJohnson at norma.johnson@lubbockbiz.org.

Thank you to our Sponsors: Presenting Sponsor: City Bank

Every two years, a delegation of Lubbock community and business leaders travels to Austin to meet with legislators and discuss issues important to the Lubbock area economy.

During Lubbock Day, we show our appreciation to our Lubbock area Legislative Delegation and their staff.

The events will kickoff with a Legislative Reception at the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol on Monday Evening, February 25. February 26 will include a Legislative Breakfast at The Austin Club, group photo and legislative briefing at the Capitol, and recognition in the House and Senate. Events will wrap up with a Legislative Luncheon on February 26.

Feb. 25: 5:30 p.m. Legislative Reception at the Sheraton Feb. 26: 7 a.m. Breakfast at The Austin Club in conjunction with

Texas Association of Business 9 a.m. Lubbock Group Photo in the Rotunda 10 a.m. Legislative Briefing 10:45 Move from Briefings to the House and Senate for

Floor Recognitions 12:30 Legislative Lunch at the Sheraton Lubbock Day Events Conclude Registration is $100 per person for members and $125 per person for non-members and includes the Legislative Reception, a reserved seat at the Legislative Breakfast, Legislative Briefing and Legislative Travel arrangements must be made by each individual.

Register online at lubbockchamber.com.

For more information on sponsorships or general Lubbock Day inquiries, please contact Norma Ritz Johnson, vice president of legislative affairs, at (806) 761-7000 or norma.johnson@ lubbockbiz.org.

Thanks to our Lubbock Day Presenting Sponsor, Tao Development Group

Platinum Sponsors: AgTexas Farm Credit Services, Capital Farm Credit, Ramar Communications and Texas Agricultural Coop Trust Gold Sponsors: ARMtech, Citizens Bank, First United Bank, Plains Cotton Growers, Prosperity Bank, Southwest Council of Agribusiness, and TTU College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources

Website Views

from Dec. 14 - Jan. 15

817,238

This number represents each time a business entry is viewed from our directory. When someone searches for a business, each result counts toward these impressions.

Take part in our latest Chamber Quick Poll question by clicking here!

Thanks to our Diamond sponsor, the City of Lubbock

LubbockBusinessVotes.com

Thanks to our Platinum Sponsors, StarCare Specialty Health System and Atmos Energy Gold Sponsors: Plains Cotton Cooperative Association and Plains Cotton Growers

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Lubbock Business Network

Focus Group Lays Groundwork for Next Year’s Classes

Vice President of Leadership Phyllis Jones would like to thank participants in her recent Leadership Lubbock focus group. These members and graduates discussed the future of the class, which is now in its 36th year. While she said the class is wonderful as is, the group discussed ways to even better reach the leadership class goal “to develop servant leaders for the Lubbock Community.”

David Miller, Spirit Ranch, led the group discussion, which took a few hours. Jones said the results were outstanding, and she feels like the sky is the limit.

Other participants included: Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Matt Bumstead, United Supermarkets Jim Evans, First Christian Church Alicia Knight, TTU Institutional Advancement Ethan Logan, Texas Tech University Student Affairs David McCulley, Tri Global Energy LLC Barry Orr, FirstBank & Trust Phil Pirkle, United Supermarkets Jeanna Roach, Betenbough Homes Nancy Sharp, Lubbock Independent School District Jeff Shropshire, The Shropshire Insurance Agency, Inc. Morris Wilkes, The Wilkes Company

Applications will open soon for next year’s Leadership Lubbock and New Century Leadership classes!

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Please place this addition in your Chamber Business Directory & Resource Guide Arledge Aesthetics 3502 9th Street, Suite 270 (806) 788-5598 Lubbock, TX Physicians & Surgeons

Llano Masonry Concrete & Supply 4801 122nd Street (806) 771-9510 Lubbock, TX Contractors – Mason

Bam’s Complete AV 8311 Venita, #2 (806) 778-0267 Lubbock, TX Audio Visual Equipment Sales and Service

Lucy’s Boutique 8004 Indiana, Suite A10 (806) 799-1567 Lubbock, TX Clothing-Consignment

doTERRA Essential Oils (806) 794-8345 Lubbock, TX Direct Sales

Real World Forensic Engineering 1500 Broadway, Suite 503 (806) 368-9811 Lubbock, TX Engineering-Consultants

Just 4 a Smile! Ann’s Arts & Designs (806) 549-4162 Artists Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc 7021 Kewanee Street, Suite 8-101 (806) 790-7425 Lubbock, TX Engineering Services

Women’s Health Associates 3614 23rd Street (806) 785 0014 Lubbock, TX Physicians & Surgeons

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.

12/14/13 - 1/15/13

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