Lubbock Business Network - February 2017 Newsletter

LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

LUBBOCK BUSINESS NETWORK

Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

TRC NETWORK

2017TRC #

Reserve Lubbock ChamberYour of Commerce

Sponsorships today!

TRC NETWORK # 2017TRC

Vol. 26 No. 2 February 2017 Total Resource Campaign

Chamber University: Newly Revised Form I-9

Policy Priorities

pg. 6

pg. 8

pg. 12

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Thank you to our 5-Star Investors!

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Lubbock Business Network

In the News this Month: February Calendar of Events.................................................................. .4 Total Resource Campaign......................................................................... 6 Meet the February Business of the Month........................................ .7 Get to Know Board Member, Dana Madison.......................................7 Chamber University: Newly Revised Form I-9................................... 8 Chamber’s Policy Priorities.....................................................................12

A Message from the Chamber

S ince 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 over 2,000 members who employ ove.r 79,000 workers, and account for over $2 billion in annual household earnings in Lubbock and West Texas, all without 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!

2017 Board of Directors Executive Committee Chairwoman

Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Chairman Elect

Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech - Institutional Diversity,

Equity and Community Engagement Immediate Past Chairwoman

Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Treasurer

Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust Co. Secretary

Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman - Business Advocacy

Scott Fagin, First United Bank Vice Chairman - Chamber Services and Member Engagement

Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health Plans Vice Chairwoman - Communications and Public Relations

Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center of Lubbock Vice Chairman - Community Development

Gabe Vitela, Twisted Root Burger Co. Vice Chairwoman - Programs, Services and Events

Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society

Board of Directors

To submit an article about your business or to purchase Lubbock Business Network sponsorships, contact the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Click here to visit our new website, log into the members only portal, submit events/job openings and much more!

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Byrnie Bass, R. Byrn Bass, Jr., Attorney at Law Steve Beck, Covenant Health Alona Beesinger, Suddenlink Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes Kevin Bryan, Digital Base Productions Keith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School District Fernando Bustos, Bustos Law Firm, PC Christi Chadwell, Texas Tech University/Young Professionals of Lubbock Renee Gonzales Davis, 4ORE! Golf Casey Doyle, Casey Carpet One Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/Ratcliff Jeff Horn, Benchmark Business Solutions Chris James, United Supermarkets Brent King, UMC Health System Chris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’s Dana Madison, Calvert Home Health Care Dave Marcinkowski, Madera Companies Becky Palmer, Atmos Energy Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System Vanessa Reasoner, Grace Health Systems Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District Shannon Spencer, Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc. Marcie Truby, Director’s Choice

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Lubbock Business Network

Upcoming Events

Feb rua r y

February 7 Welcome Reception for New City Manager Jarrett Atkinson

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Ag Committee – 8:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: UMC Orchard Park Family Medicine – 4 p.m.

4420 114th St.

February 9 Business After Hours sponsored by Stella’s Restaurant

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Ribbon Cutting: Blazing Grill – 11:30 a.m. – 3701 N. Frankford Ave.

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Ribbon Cutting: HubCity Mobile Billboards – 1 p.m.

Wells Fargo Center – 1500 Broadway

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YEA! Lesson 14 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St. Ribbon Cutting: World of Beer – 4:30 p.m. – 2910 W. Loop 289, Suite 405 Welcome Reception for New City Manager 5:30 p.m. – Centennial Bank – 6602 Quaker Ave.

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Ribbon Cutting: Atlas Audiology – 11:30 a.m. – 4702 A 67th St. Community Prayer Luncheon Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC

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Ribbon Cutting: Clear Channel Airports – 11 a.m.

5401 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Executive Committee – 12 p.m. – LCOC Business After Hours sponsored by Stella’s Restaurant – 5:30 p.m.

4646 50th St.

February 23 Business After Hours sponsored by Hilton Garden Inn February 28 Chamber University: HR Hot Topic: Newly Revised Form I-9, Newly Increased Penalties...Is Your Business in Compliance?

Mark Your Calendars!

You don’t want to miss these events!

ncorked Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

April 28 • 4-9 p.m.

American Wind Power Center

10 Government Relations Committee – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC

Ribbon Cutting: Hyatt Place Lubbock’s 1 Year Anniversary

4:30 p.m. – 2309 Mac Davis Lane 13 Uncorked Team Leads Only – 4 p.m. – Hilton Garden Inn

6027 45th St. 14 Young Professionals of Lubbock Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC

YEA! Lesson 15 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub

3911 4th St. 15

Ambassador Luncheon sponsored by Texas Boys Ranch – 12 p.m.

4810 North CR 2800 Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee – 3:30 p.m. – LCOC Business Expo Committee – 4 p.m. – Wells Fargo Center 1500 Broadway, Second Floor, San Jacinto Room

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Board of Directors Meeting – 10 a.m. – J.T. & Margaret Talkington YWCA Sun ‘n Fun – 6204 Elgin Ave. Ribbon Cutting: Snapshots Lubbock: Digital Selfie Spot, LLC 4 p.m. – LCOC

17 Ribbon Cutting: Merle Norman – 10 a.m. – 2400 Glenna Goodacre

Blvd., Ste. 105-B

Ribbon Cutting: Rock Solid Athletics – 4:30 p.m. – 6205 43rd St. 21

LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE...

22 Hub City BBQ Committee – 4 p.m. – Wells Fargo Center

1500 Broadway, Second Floor, San Jacinto Room 23

2017

May 11 • 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Lubbock Memorial Civic Center 4

Ribbon Cutting: Lubbock National Bank’s 100th Anniversary 1:30 p.m. – 1001 Main St. Uncorked Full Committee – 4 p.m. – McPherson Cellars 1615 Texas Ave. YEA! Lesson 16A – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St.

YEA! Lesson 16 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St. Business After Hours sponsored by Hilton Garden Inn – 5:30 p.m.

6027 45th St.

24 Ribbon Cutting: Betenbough Home’s Bella Mia Model Home

10:30 a.m. – 3018 125th St. 28

Chamber University: HR Hot Topic: Newly Revised Form I-9, Newly Increased Penalties...Is Your Business in Compliance?

8 a.m. – FirstBank & Trust Operations Center – 9816 Slide Rd. YEA! Lesson 17 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St.

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

Lubbock Business Network

Welcome Reception for New City Manager Jarrett Atkinson hosted by:

6602 Quaker Ave.

February 7, 2017 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

Business After Hours

sponsored by:

February 9, 2017 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

4646 50th Street

Business After Hours

sponsored by:

Chamber Staff President/CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Executive Vice President Norma Ritz Johnson, CCE, IOM CFO/COO Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President - Communications & Public Relations Tammi Boozer Vice President - Programs, Services & Events Christye Weld Community Development Director Amy Marquez, IOM Member Relations Director Cathy Potter Business Development Coordinator Brenda Richardson Communications Specialist Haily Assiter Event Specialists Allison Cottrell Korryn McMinn Government Relations Specialist Stevie Poole Kyle Jacobson Administrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Jamie Sherrill Intern KC Torres

February 23, 2017 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

6027 45th Street 5

Lubbock Business Network

Total Resource Campaign, TRC Network, kicks-off this month!

The 2017 Total Resource Campaign (TRC), TRC Network, kicks off on Feb. 16. The TRC is an eightweek campaign featuring the best volunteers in town. They will go out into the community to secure sponsorships from local business members for all Chamber events and 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 60 dedicated volunteers this year with a goal to raise $535,000. Last year, with a goal of $510,000, the TRC volunteers were able to exceed expectations by raising more than $540,000.

Volunteers form divisions having a minimum monetary goal. The volunteers who reach benchmark achievements are awarded prizes throughout the campaign at weekly reward sessions.

If you’re interested in becoming 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 Feb. 16 and April 14.

Thank you to all of our 2017 TRC hosts/ sponsors!

J.T. & Margaret Talkington YWCA Sun ‘n Fun, Montelongo’s Mexican Restaurant, FirstBank & Trust, PrimeWest Mortgage, Campisi’s Restaurant, BodyWorks Family Sports Centers, Chop Chop Japanese Steakhouse, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency, Hilton Garden Inn and United Supermarkets

Thanks to all of our hardworking volunteers for making this possible!

Chairman: Marcus Young, United Supermarkets Co-Chairman: Mark Williams, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Vice Chair: Mark Williams (Sanford & Tatum) Emily Solis (Slate Group) David Vaughn (Centennial Bank) Heather Keister (Freese and Nichols, Inc.) Roger Karr (American National Bank) Christy Reeves (Identify Corporate Innovations) Valorie Duvall (South Plains College) Monica Tracy (My Place - Lubbock) Vice Chair: Bobby McCloud (Wayland Baptist University) Amanda Kuhn (Benchmark Business Solutions) Tammie Sansom (Prosperity Bank) Constance Barbian (Benchmark Business Solutions) Jennifer Byrd (Kinetico Quality Water System) Renee Payne (Benchmark Business Solutions) Grant McMillan (FirstBank & Trust Co.) Eric Schaff (Vista Bank) Kayla Davis (Wayland Baptist University-Lubbock Campus) Tony Garcia (Chop Chop Japanese Steakhouse) Gloria Quinton (Firetrol Protection Systems) Molly Harris (Brookdale Remington Park) Jordan McKay (Peoples Bank) Freida Henderson (Suddenlink Communications) Vice Chair: Myndee Pool (Mpressions) Renee Gonzales Davis (4ore! Golf) Brad Wilson (SouthWest Bank) Phebe Ellis-Roach (PrimeWest Mortgage Corp.)

Jessica Carrillo (TTU Office of the President) Jo’Elda Luman (Vista Bank) Chris Abers (United Supermarkets) Scott Assiter ( R C Taylor Dsitributing) Alex Martinez (Atmos Energy) Bill Breitweiser (Great Plains Distributors)

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Vice Chair: Nathan Scarborough (Lubbock National Bank) Drew Gray (The Stellar Family of Companies) Kelsey Johnson (YWCA) Meg Hunter (SunLover Travel) Amy Riggan (Texas Farm Bureau Insurance) Jason Ballou (Peoples Bank) Miles Seybert (First United Bank) Zabrina Fears (TTU Rawls College of Business Administration) Tawny Westbrook (Standard Sales Co., LP) Rex Andrews (Keller Williams - Rex Andrews) Hacee Hughes (Keller Williams - Hacee Hughes REALTOR) Bart Bartholomew (Matador Motors, LLC) Vice Chair: Tyler Young (Texas Tech Federal Credit Union) Christi Chadwell (TTU CASNR) Nick Atwood (MassMutual Southwest) Casey Doyle (Casey Carpet One) Elaina Albarez (Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas) Travis Barnett (Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, Inc.) Jake Webb (First United Bank) Jennifer Bledsoe (Happy State Bank) John Burk (Synetra) Nick Reid (Marsh & McLennan Agency – SW Region) Carlos Diaz (Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency) Emie Young (Amerigoup Corporation) Ashley Knox (South Plains Mall Office) Zoe Metcalf (TTUHSC - Dept. of Institutional Advancement) Renee Cook (Prosperity Bank) Brandi Ivey (StarCare Specialty Health System) Grace Garza (Amerigroup Corporation)

Lubbock Business Network

Introducing our February Business of the Month, Texas Tech Club How has being a member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce helped to increase your business, relationships in the business community and/or community involvement? The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has allowed us to take part in many networking opportunities. This has allowed us to meet many business owners and their employees. It has allowed us to further existing relationships as well as make new relationships. We have been fortunate to participate in Chamber activities since we opened our doors in 2010. We hope to see our involvement grow in the years to come.

When/Why did the Texas Tech Club join the Chamber?

We joined the Chamber when the Club opened in 2010. We knew that it was important to get a firm foundation with the group. Several of our Founding Board Members were Chamber Members as well. They stressed what a strong group the Chamber is and wanted to make sure we joined as well.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the Chamber? The best thing about being a Chamber member is

building relationships. People always talk about the people of Lubbock, Texas. We have been able to really experience how great the people of Lubbock and West Texas truly are through our Chamber involvement.

In what ways is Texas Tech Club involved with the Chamber? We have been able to host various events at The Texas Tech Club many times since opening in 2010, including the Young Professionals of Lubbock and the Chamber Ambassadors. We have been involved with many Chamber events including the Hub City BBQ, Business Expo, Lubbock Uncorked, as well as the Ambassador program.

We look forward to continued involvement.

Does The Texas Tech Club have a favorite Chamber event? If so, what? Many of our employees love the Hub City BBQ. So we will have to choose that as our favorite. It is a great opportunity to network with the amazing people and businesses affiliated with the Chamber.

The Chamber is proud to congratulate the Texas Tech Club on its February Business of the Month achievement. The Texas Tech Club along with all the other businesses of the month for 2017, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award which is presented at the Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon.

Get to Know Board Member, Dana Madison Where do you work and what does your job entail? I am the co-owner and administrator of Calvert Home Health Care based in Lubbock with offices in Lubbock and six other cities on the South Plains. I am also co-owner of Calvert Personal Care Services and co-owner and administrator of BSA Compassion Home Care in Amarillo. I am a Registered Nurse with a MBA in Health Care. Our agencies provide nursing, therapy, and home care aides to people in their homes. We are blessed to work with 200+ employees and 50+ contractors.

How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? We have been a member of the chamber for many years. I believe that Lubbock businesses need the Chamber to assist us in advocating at the city, state, and federal levels for our business issues.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? The Community Prayer Luncheon.

What are some of your other community leadership roles?

I am a member of Lakeridge Methodist Church and I am on the Committee at LMC for Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in our Middle Schools as well as Lubbock Junior League sustainer.

Dana Madison

Co-Owner and Administrator Calvert Home Health Care

Finish this sentence: Never again will I‌not remember that everyday is a gift from God and to make the very most of it!

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Lubbock Business Network

Is Your Business in Compliance with the New HR Policy?

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host a Chamber University seminar on “HR Hot Topic: Newly Revised Form I-9, Newly Increased Penalties…Is Your Business in Compliance?” on Tues., Feb. 28, from 8-11:30 a.m. at FirstBank & Trust Operations Center.

The seminar will focus on the newly revised Form I-9 to make sure that your business is in compliance with the changes.

Attorney Ronn Garcia with the Underwood Law Firm will be the featured speaker at the seminar.

Chamber University is designed to address critical business topics and offer tools to navigate and thrive in the ever-changing demands of the 21st century workplace.

The cost of the seminar is $50. Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. Breakfast and check-in will be from 8-8:30 a.m.

Registration is open and reservations can be made by clicking here or by calling (806) 761-7000. Changes to reservations may be made until 5 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 24.

For more information on Chamber University, please contact Allison Cottrell at (806) 761-7000 or allison.cottrell@ lubbockbiz.org.

Thanks to our sponsors: American National Bank United Supermarkets Workforce Solutions South Plains

SAVE THE DATE

Salute to Agriculture Luncheon Tuesday, March 21 • 11:30 a.m.

Texas Tech McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center Join us as we hear from former Congressman Larry Combest and Tom Sell from Combest, Sell & Associates. They will join us for a discussion with Steve Verrett from Plains Cotton Growers.

Thanks to our sponsors!

Presenting: First United Bank Diamond: Bayer CropScience-FiberMax Platinum: AgTexas Farm Credit Services, Capital Farm Credit-Lubbock Credit Office, Texas Agribusiness Insurance

Make Plans to Attend the 2nd Annual Lubbock Uncorked

Mark your calendars and plan to bring your friends to the 2nd Annual Lubbock Uncorked wine festival! Attendees will get the opportunity to taste wine made from grapes grown in Lubbock and the surrounding areas and learn more about what makes the South Plains an ideal place to grow grapes. You will visit with and taste wine from our own local wineries, as well as wineries from all over the state of Texas. A special section featuring wine tasting from another state and country will be featured. Stay tuned to find out what state and country will be

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feature this year! In addition to all the wine, attendees can taste craft beer from across the country, food from local restaurants and listen to some amazing live music. Food and Wine Pairing classes will be offered. Watch for details about those classes on the Lubbock Uncorked web site.

Sponsorships and vendor booths available! Call Christye Weld at (806) 771-7009 or christy.weld@lubbockbiz.org to learn more about this event!

Lubbock Business Network

Seven Things You Can Do to Improve Your Business Over Your Lunch Hour

Major overhauls of a business take time, buy-in, and frankly, they can be a little frightening. Not so of these mini tweaks. These seven things can help you move the meter in your business in less time than it takes to wolf down a sandwich and check your voice mails.

Find Out What They Like Your customers are more valuable to your business than from just a revenue perspective. Knowing what they respond to can help you shape services and products, create more meaningful content, and engage them more on social media.

So, don’t be afraid to ask them what they like. Create a short survey and email it to them or “hang” it on your website if you get a lot of traffic. The key here is short but there are a few other things to keep in mind.

Ask for Reviews

Depending on the type of business you have, spend a few minutes reaching out to satisfied customers for reviews, referrals, or testimonials. It may feel awkward at first but these types of social proof go a long way for potential customers. Think of it as giving people an opportunity (and a gentle reminder) to share something with their tribe that will be of value to them. Doesn’t everyone need a good plumber or hairstylist? Of course they do.

Now give your customers a way to help their tribe.

In your communication to them explain why reviews are so important to the success of your business. If you’re asking for reviews, make it easy for them to respond by inserting URLs to the review site in your email request. If you are asking for testimonials, post them to your site when you get them. If referrals were what you were after, give them an incentive to do so or surprise them with a discount later.

Reach Out to a Complementary Business for a Special Program

Another way to get more interest in your business is to offer something your competitors aren’t. A simple way to do that is to partner with a complementary business for a special offering.

For instance, if you’re a health food store you could partner with a local caterer to host a “healthy meals in minutes” program in your store. This could attract new business for both of you.

Rework Your Social Media Cover Images With the help of easy to use templates on Canva, you can now redesign your cover image on your social media profiles during your lunch hour. Keeping them fresh will help attract more eyes and give consistent visitors something new to look at.

Go Live on Facebook If you have your phone with you, you can go Live on Facebook during your lunch hour. Not sure what to talk about?

Think about a question you’re often asked at your business and answer it. Encourage people to ask questions of you as well. You can broadcast for up to 90 minutes but keeping it between 1520 minutes is probably sufficient. You’ll get more views if you remain live for at least 15 minutes. Then save the video and post it to your site.

Figure Out Your Most Popular Posts Look at the data and figure out what hit home with your audience then do more of it. If you notice image quotes make up most of your engagement on Twitter, keep that in mind when creating content.

Share the Love

Go through your customer files and pull out your most loyal.

Now make sure you follow them on social media and share their content, where appropriate. Add in flattering comments like “Good advice” and “Love this perspective.” This will make them feel good and people will be more likely to click on the links and share if they know why you like it.

Small business owners are busy people and because of that, often digital marketing falls to the wayside. But you don’t need much time to make a little progress every day. Make a list of things you can do that only take a few minutes. Then when you have a moment before a meeting or while you’re eating lunch, you can make the most of your most valuable resource – your time.

Christina R. Green teaches small businesses, chambers, and associations how to connect through content. Her articles have appeared in the Midwest Society of Association Executives’ Magazine, NTEN.org, AssociationTech, and Socialfish.

She is a regular blogger at Frankjkenny.com and the Event Manager Blog. She’s a bookish writer on a quest to bring great storytelling to organizations everywhere.

Congratulations to Lubbock National Bank on its 100th Anniversary this year!

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Lubbock Business Network

Growing Community Leaders Meet Leadership Lubbock Member, Nathan Scarborough What is your favorite memory of your whole Leadership Lubbock experience over the last few years? Creating the friendships with a few of the most amazing people I would not have met without LL.

Why did you accept the role of Committee Member for the 2017 Leadership Lubbock Class? I had so much fun and learned so much about myself that I was super excited to be considered to serve! I know that it will also help refresh everything from my class too!

Who do you work for? I am a Raymond James Financial Advisor for Lubbock National Bank!

How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? I was accepted to take Leadership Lubbock in 2014 but couldn’t fulfil my commitments so I postponed until 2015!

What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? Absolutely love the ropes course at Spirit ranch, and the sports and wellness day at Jones AT&T Stadium was a great time too!

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being part the Leadership Lubbock Committee? In order to master any skill you first must learn it and then teach it! This will make me a better leader in my personal and professional life!

What is your position?

Registered Representative!

Share some info about your family: I have a pretty awesome daughter that has done an amazing job raising me. Jerzey is truly a wonder in everything. She is my light and love of this world. She came to me in a time I needed her the most and although I never thought I’d be a single daddy, it has been the greatest blessing ever! We also have a dog that thinks she’s human.

Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you?

I plan on spending many years in Lubbock and this is one program that not only expands my network of tomorrows leaders but it also will improve many aspects of life!

What do hope to do to leave your stamp on the Leadership Lubbock Class? People go through difficult times in life. I’ve had my fair share as well, so if I can touch one person’s life and lead by being a good example I’ll know it’s all part of the master plan!

Attend Chamber Basics to Learn More about the Lubbock Chamber The next Chamber Basics: “Pizza with the President” is scheduled for 11:30 a.m., Tues., March 7, in the Wells Fargo Center at 1500 Broadway, second floor, in the San Jacinto Room.

Chamber Basics is for more than just new members. This event is a great way for not only new members to get involved, but also for those who are a new employee of a long-standing member company or for those who haven't been active in the Chamber.

You'll learn about the Chamber and meet other members as well as volunteers and staff. Plus you will have the opportunity to promote your business!

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For more information on this free event, please contact Cathy Potter, Membership Realtions Director, by e-mail or by phone at (806) 761-7000. Registration is also available online by clicking here.

Sponsored by:

Lubbock Business Network

YEA! Spotlight: Meet Young Entrepreneurs Keshave Ramesh and Gage Clary

Keshav Ramesh and Gage Clary are part of the 2016-2017 Lubbock Chamber Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!).

Ramesh is a freshman at Lubbock High School, he loves math and has been an entrepreneur since participating in Lemonade Day a few years ago. He thinks that being an entrepreneur like his parents will provide him with unlimited opportunities in the future.

Clary is also a freshman at Lubbock High School. His dad has been an inspiration because he owns his own small business and has been very successful. He is interested in becoming an entrepreneur because it could help him later in life and helps him start and manage his own business.

Ramesh and Clary have partnered to create a website that offers math tutors to students of all ages.

Keshave Ramesh

Gage Clary

Click here to APPLY for the 2017-2018 class!

Contact Amy Marquez at (806) 761-7002 to learn more!

YOUNG PRO FE ALS OF LU ION B SS

ypl

JOIN YPL TODAY!

contact Korryn McMinn at (806) 761-7000 to learn more!

Click here to meet some of the Young Professional of Lubbock members in our community!

CK BO

GET YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT! PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR E-COMMUNICATIONS!

Business Network Newsletter | Monday Memo Young Professionals of Lubbock E-Blast For more information and pricing contact Brenda Richardson at 806.761.7003!

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Lubbock Business Network Legislative Benefactor:

Voice of Business Chamber Focuses in on Top Priorities for Lubbock at Local, State and Federal Levels For more than a century, the Lubbock Chamber has advocated on behalf of the business community at the local, state and federal levels. To be sure that the interests of its members are represented and fully communicated, the Chamber develops a Public Policy Guide listing major policy initiatives each year.

Below are key excerpts from the Lubbock Chamber’s 2017 Public Policy Guide. To see a list of this year’s policy priorities in full, please visit www.LubbockBusinessVotes.com.

Key Local Policy Priorities •The Chamber is an advocate for pro-business, pro-jobs, progrowth policies that help in growing the Lubbock economy.

•When decisions are contemplated that affects a particular segment of the community, representatives of that affected sector should be invited to the table for dialogue and input. This input should be used as meaningful direction in the process of developing sound public policy.

•The Chamber is an advocate for economic development and job creation.

•Proper preparation for growth includes planning for the timely construction and maintenance of infrastructure improvements.

Infrastructure improvements should be funded in a fair, broadbased manner that does not rest disproportionately on job creators.

•In Lubbock, quality of life cannot be separated from other priorities because much of our economic success derives from the reality that Lubbock must be an appealing place to live.

The public/private sectors should work collaboratively to plan, support and make investments in Downtown redevelopment, arts and culture and entertainment and recreation enhancements and beautification as recommended in the Imagine Lubbock Together Vision and Strategic Implementation Plan.

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Key State Policy Priorities •Amend the Tax Code to allow Lubbock to pledge the revenue derived from the municipal hotel occupancy tax for the payment of bonds issued for an eligible project.

•Support LP&L’s efforts to move into ERCOT. •Create a TCEQ funding stream to pay for failed permitted recycling centers around the state. Lubbock’s I-27 site is by far the largest of these in the state.

•Support adequately increasing the amount allotted for facility maintenance in the budget of the Texas Army National Guard to receive matching federal funds designated to complete the necessary upgrades and renovations of the Lubbock Armed Forces Reserve Center and other like projects.

•Support Texas Tech University in its pursuit for a substantial increase in formula funding--for both instruction and infrastructure. This will allow all higher education entities to fulfill their missions of instruction, research and public service with less cost shifting to the students (ie, tuition and fee increases).

Key Federal Policy Priorities •Urge and support Farm Bill legislation that ensures a strong safety net for agriculture •Support efforts to elevate Texas Tech to a status commensurate with that of an American Association of Universities (AAU), toptier institution. Support policies that will help prepare workers which preserves and expands TTU and TTUHSC federal research budgets to the greatest extent possible.

•Support Ports-to-Plains efforts. Support designation of an extended route for Interstate 27.

•Work to amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) through commonsense changes to employer requirements, taxation and other burdens created under the law as implementation accelerates.

•Regulatory agencies should evaluate economic impact in proposed for today’s business climate. Support TTU System request that Congress approve appropriations for FY17 and existing regulations.

Lubbock Business Network

2.22.17

® ®

LUBBOCK DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL “The Voice of Business” “The Voice of Business”

As the leading voice of business on the South Plains, the most fundamental As the leading voice of business the South Plains, the most fundamental purpose of the Lubbock Chamber on of Commerce is to ensure law makers at all purpose of the Lubbock Chamberthe of unique Commerce is to law makers at all levels of government understand needs of ensure our member businesses levels government needs our to member businesses and theofarea economy.understand What betterthe wayunique to do just thatofthan open the door for and the area economy.

What better way toto dolegislators just that than to open the door for business leaders to explain their needs directly. business leaders to explain their needs to legislators directly.

As a member of the Lubbock Day at the State Capitol delegation, you can As a member the Lubbock at the State Capitol delegation, youfrom can expect to haveofaccess to stateDay senators and state representatives expectTexas. to have state and state across You access will heartofrom topsenators lobbyists working on representatives behalf of businessfrom and across Texas.

YouTexas will hear from topof lobbyists on behalf of on business and industry, and the Association Businessworking will provide insight key issues industry, and the Texas Association of Business will provide including education, infrastructure, immigration and more.insight on key issues including education, infrastructure, immigration and more.

For more than 100 years, the business community has united together Forhelp moregrow thanLubbock 100 years,and the promote business community has united together to a strong business community to help grow Lubbockdevelopment, and promote legislative a strong business community through economic involvement and through economic development, involvement and bellowing voices at City Hall, in Austin legislative and on Capitol Hill. bellowing voices at City Hall, in Austin and on Capitol Hill.

Activities begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February Activities begin with a reception 5:30 p.m. onFebruary Tuesday, February 21, and conclude after lunch onatWednesday, 22. Each 21, and conclude after lunch on Wednesday, February 22. hotel Each participant is responsible for securing their own travel and participant is responsible for securing theirwill own travel accommodations.

A registration fee of $100 help deferand thehotel cost accommodations.

A registration fee ofand $100 will helpondefer the cost of prepared materials, as well as lunch breakfast Wednesday. of prepared materials, as well as lunch and breakfast on Wednesday.

Sponsorship Sponsorship Opportunities Opportunities

Thanks to our sponsors!

Diamond - $3,000 Diamond - $3,000 Company logo and/or mention on the Invitation to Legislative Reception (distributed throughout the State Capitol) Sponsor Diamond Company logo logo Presenting and/or mention mention on the the briefing Invitation to Legislative theSponsors State Capitol) Company and/or on documents andReception participant(distributed agendas throughout

Company logo and/or mention on thecommunication briefing documents and participant agendas Link to company website in electronic / broadcast emails / social media / PowerPoint presentation (if applicable) Link to company website on in electronic / broadcast Company logo displayed table tentscommunication or posters (where applicable) emails / social media / PowerPoint presentation (if applicable) Company logo displayed on table tents or posters (where applicable) Table of 8 at Legislative Luncheon City of Table of 8 at Legislative Luncheon

Lubbock

Platinum - $2,000 Platinum - $2,000 Company listing on the Invitation to Legislative Reception (distributed throughout the State Capitol)

Company listing listing on on the the Briefing Invitation to Legislative Company documents andReception participant(distributed agendas throughout the State Capitol) Company listing on the Briefing documents and participant agendas Link to company website in electronic communication / broadcast emails / social media / PowerPoint presentation (if applicable) Link to company website in electronic communication / broadcast Company listingPlatinum displayed onSponsor table tents or posters (where applicable)emails / social media / PowerPoint presentation (if applicable) Company listing displayed on table tents or posters (where applicable) Table of 8 at Legislative Luncheon Atmos Energy Table of 8 at Legislative Luncheon

Gold - $1,000 Gold Sponsors Gold - $1,000 Company listing on the Invitation to Legislative Reception (distributed throughout the State Capitol) High Plains Water Conservation District Company listing on on the the briefing Invitation to Legislative (distributed Company Underground listing documents andReception participant agendas throughout the State Capitol) Company listing on the briefing documents and participant McDonald Transit Company listing on electronic communications / PowerPointagendas presentation (if applicable) Company listing on electronic communications PowerPoint presentation Company listing displayed on table tents and/or/posters (where applicable) (if applicable) Plains Cotton Cooperative Association Company listing displayed on table tents and/or posters (where applicable) 4 Tickets to Legislative Luncheon Cotton Growers, Inc. 4 Tickets to Plains Legislative Luncheon

Contact Contact Stevie Stevie Poole Poole for for more more information information atat 806.761.7000.

806.761.7000.

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Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Ambassador Program Meet Merissa Avila, December Ambassador of the Month!

Congratulations to Merissa Avila for being named the December Ambassador of the Month. Avila joined the Chamber Ambassador Program in October 2016 and quickly became a vital asset to the Ambassador team.

Avila has been employed by Cuidado Casero Home Health & Hospice since October 2016 as the Community Liaison. Avila’s job as the Community Liaison requires her to engage with the public and educate them on all that is offered through the Cuidado Casero Home Health & Hospice.

“I reach out to our community to educate them on the services we can provide that will benefit them and raise their quality of life,” Avila said.

Avila said she chose to become an Ambassador because she wanted to become involved with the business side of the Lubbock community.

Her role as an ambassador has become a pertinent role within her professional career and she believes that the most rewarding aspect of being an Ambassador is supporting our local businesses.

Avila said, “I feel like the most rewarding part of being an ambassador is getting to support people who are pursuing their dreams as business owners and being able to help our neighbors celebrate their accomplishments,” she also said, “It’s

important to me to create relationships with the people of our community, and through the chamber I have made dear friends and met many wonderful people.”

As an Ambassador Merissa Avila receives her Ambassador of the there are several Month Award from Chairwoman Diannah Tatum. events to attend throughout the year such as ribbon cuttings for new members and businesses. Avila said, that the ribbon cuttings and Business After Hours are her favorite events to attend to mingle with others and welcome new businesses to the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce.

Outside of the Chamber, Avila enjoys spending time with her family and close friends.

Again, congratulations to Merissa Avila for earning her first Ambassador of the Month award! We appreciate the time and commitment she has put into the Chamber and our Ambassador Program.

Get to know our Ambassador Leaders!

Chairman

Co-Chairwoman

Kim Davis

Bart Bartholomew

Anthony Brocato

Team Captain

Team Captain

Victoria Braun

Traci Cheek

Kim Putman

Mike Lambert

Mike Laughlin

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Team Captain

Team Captain

Team Captain

Past Chairman

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings – January Sponsored

by:

Board & Brush Creative Studio 5905 82nd St., Ste. 111

The Cottages at Abbey Glen 5240 114th St.

Covenant Health Northwest Clinic 611 N Frankford Ave.

Four Bar K 302 E. 82nd St.

Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains Cookies Now

Global Health Chiropractic 20th Anniversary 8004 Abbeville Ave.

Lubbock Christian New Elementary Building 2604 Dover Ave.

RNR Tire Express 309 N. University Ave.

The Ruffled Cup 5109 82nd St., Ste. 10

Tropical Smoothie Cafe 2520 82nd St.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe 5139 80th St.

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Lubbock Business Network

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Blazing Grill (806) 589-8672 3701 N. Frankford Ave. Lubbock, TX 79416 Catering

Neighbors Emergency Center (806) 701-5050 4337 50th St. Lubbock, TX 79413 Emergency Services

Board & Brush Creative Studio - Lubbock (806) 853-4055 5905 82nd St., Ste. 111 Lubbock, TX 79424 Arts & Crafts

Roaring Springs Ranch Club, Inc. (806) 348-7292 1001 FM 3203 Roaring Springs, TX 79256 Camp Grounds & Recreational Vehicle Park

Cash Register Services (806) 657-7108 13912 FM 1730 Lubbock, TX 79424 Technology Lyft (512) 992-3415 4330 Bull Creek Road, Ste. 1135 Austin, TX 78731 Transportation HUB City Title (806) 412-7525 5502 58th St., Ste. 400 Lubbock, TX 79414 Title Companies HubCity Mobile Billboards (806) 500-8701 5503 County Road 7510 Lubbock, TX 79424 Advertising IV Rejuvenation Station, LLC (806) 282-1437 7002 Bradford Dr. Amarillo, TX 79109 Health Care - Other Services

Saltgrass Steak House (806) 792-1004 6026 Marsha Sharp Fwy. Lubbock, TX 79407 Restaurants Snapshots Lubbock: Digital Selfie Spot, LLC (806) 239-4366 5708 16th St. Lubbock, TX 79416 Party & Special Events Supplies and/or Rentals TabTech Design (877) 883-3883 12002 Trafalgar Ave. Lubbock, TX 79424 Design Services Tech This Inc. (806) 701-4504 2811 S. Loop 289 Lubbock, TX 79423 Computer Services & Repairs Tropical Smoothie Cafe (806) 745-1755 2520 82nd St. Lubbock, TX 79423 Restaurants

Visit our Facebook Page for photos and videos of all of our groundbreaking and ribbon cutting events!

Tropical Smoothie Cafe (806) 783-0160 5139 80th St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Restaurants Verizon Wireless (806) 797-2355 3103 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79410 Cellular & Mobile Communications

Woodspring Suites - Lubbock South (806) 745-9000 1410 S. Loop 289 Lubbock, TX 79412 Hotels & Motels World of Beer - Lubbock (806) 785-1386 2910 W. Loop 289, Ste. 405 Lubbock, TX 79407 Restaurants

Interested in the Chamber’s Advocacy Efforts? www.LubbockBusinessVotes.com Visit our Advocacy page:

Here you’ll find all the tools you’ll need to contact your members of Congress and keep them informed on issues relating to Lubbock business as well as to help you keep up-to-date with the political process, issues and candidates in order to make informed decisions.

Questions or Concerns? Contact Norma Ritz Johnson, Executive Vice President 16