Lubbock Business Network July 2014 Newsletter

LUBBOCK

Business

Network

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is America’s first and only Chamber to be BOTH two-time 5-Star accredited, two-time Chamber of the Year.

Vol. 22 No. 7 July 2014 Chamber Golf Classic pg. 6

Lubbock Chamber: ReAccredited pg. 7

Chamber Award for Communication Excellence pg. 14

Lubbock Business Network

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Lubbock Business Network

In the news this month:

2014 Board of Directors

Lubbock Chamber Golf Classic............................... 6 House Bill 5: Education Luncheon.......................... 6 Lubbock Chamber Re-Accreditation......................... 7 Introducing: New Chamber Staff Members........... 7 Summer Water-Smart Business Award................10 Coming Soon: 13th Annual Hub City BBQ...........12

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.

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Chamber Chat Chamber Chat is a weekly video update meant to inform Chamber members about Chamber happenings. Click here to see the latest edition of Chamber Chat. Interested in sponsoring one or more editions of Chamber Chat? Contact Marketing Specialist Haily Assiter by email at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org, or by phone at 806-761-7003.

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, Twisted Root Burger Co.

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 Mentor Tech Jorge Quirino, Essential Home Health Care/Absolute Home Medical 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

July

July 8 House Bill 5: Education Luncheon City Council Reception

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Young Professionals First Tuesday Networking – 5:30 p.m.

Llano Estacado Winery, 3426 East FM 1585

July 10 Business After Hours hosted by MCM Elegante

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Ribbon Cutting: Thrivent Financial – 4:30 p.m.

2024 82nd St., Suite 103

July 21 2014 Lubbock Chamber Golf Classic Tournament

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Chamber Offices Closed for Independence Day

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House Bill 5: One Year Later Education Luncheon 11:30 a.m. – Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Rd. City Council Reception – 5:30 p.m. – LCOC

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Ribbon Cutting: Cabela’s – 8 a.m. – 3130 W Loop 289 Ribbon Cutting: Betenbough Homes Homes for Hope Celebration – 10 a.m. – Quincy Park, 93rd St. & Quincy Ave Golf Classic Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC

July 24 Business After Hours hosted by City Bank Mortgage Center

July 31 - August 1 Board of Directors Strategic Planning Retreat

Reserve your 2015 Chamber Directory Sponsorship today!

10 Agriculture Committee Meeting – 8 a.m. – LCOC

Business After Hours hosted by MCM Elegante

5:30 p.m. – 801 Ave. Q 11

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

LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Casas for CASA – 4 p.m.

United, 82nd & Frankford

15 Ribbon Cutting: Combined Law Enforcement

Associations of Texas, Inc. – 11:30 a.m.

2201 University Ave, Suite B 16

Ambassador Luncheon hosted by Suddenlink – Noon Bayer Museum of Agriculture, 1121 Canyon Lake Drive New Century Leadership Steering Committee Meeting 1 p.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: SouthWest Bank – 5 p.m.

1901 W. Loop 289

17 Ribbon Cutting: Virginia College – 5 p.m. – 5005 50th St. 18 Transportation Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC

Contact: Haily Assiter 806-761-7003 haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org 4

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2014 Chamber Golf Classic – 8 a.m.

Hillcrest Country Club, 4011 N Boston Ave

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Executive Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Hopeful Healing Hearts, Ronald McDonald House – 4 p.m. – 3413 10th St. Business After Hours hosted by City Bank Mortgage Center – 5:30 p.m. – 5815 82nd St., Ste. 120

Young Professionals Steering Committee Meeting Noon – LCOC Hub City BBQ Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LEDA Board Room, 5th Floor Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway

31-1Board of Directors Strategic Planning Retreat

Ruidoso, NM

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

Lubbock Business Network

SAVE THE DATE:

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

FOOTBALL

KICKOFF BREAKFAST

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 Christye Weld Vice President Communications & Marketing Tammi Boozer

Vice President Education & Workforce Development

Diana Fabing

Vice President Membership & Investor Relations

Colleen Evans, IOM

Government & Community Relations Specialist

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27th AT 7a.m.

OVERTON HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

Amy Marquez Community Relations & Program Specialist Audrey DeLeon Marketing Specialist Haily Assiter Event Specialist Haley Howey Administrative Specialist Allison Cottrell Office Coordinator/Accounting Clerk Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Patricia Picon Intern Peyton Waldrip

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Lubbock Business Network

2014 Lubbock Chamber Golf Classic: July 21

The 2014 annual Chamber Golf Classic Tournament will be held on Mon., July 21 at Hillcrest Country Club, 4011 N. Boston Ave. Registration and breakfast will begin at 7:15 a.m. and the A.M. Flight will begin at 8 a.m. Registration and lunch will begin at 12:45 p.m. and the P.M. Flight will begin at 1:30 p.m. Sponsorships are still available. For more information, contact Audrey DeLeon at (806) 761-7000.

Golf teams, please turn in your team’s player names by Fri., July 11. We are looking for Volunteers to help the day of the tourney. If you’re interested in participating, email audrey.deleon@ lubbockbiz.org.

Thanks to our 2014 Lubbock Chamber Golf Classic Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor: Suddenlink

Eagle Sponsors: Gandy’s Dairies, Llano Estacado Winery, WesTech Plumbing Birdie Sponsors: Brooks & Stribling, Caprock Home Health Services, Covenant Health, Gene Messer Ford, George McMahan Development, Lubbock Aero, Lubbock Economic Development Alliance, Richardson Collision Center

Ace Sponsors: Atmos Energy, Bayer CropScience (FiberMax), UMC Physician Network Services, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency, Pavecon, Bimbo Bakeries/Mrs. Baird’s

Par Sponsors: Comet Cleaners & Laundry, D’s Pest Control, Dorsey Construction, Ferguson Enterprises, KRL Lubbock Construction, Quality Pest Control, StarCare Specialty Health System, Trey Strong Custom Homes

Drink Cart Sponsor: Stephen Hamilton, PC

Closest to the Pin Contest A.M. Flight Sponsor: Hub City Wings

A.M. Flight Prize Sponsor: Alliance Federal Credit Union

Longest Drive Contest P.M. Flight Sponsor: Golf USA

P.M. Flight Prize Sponsor: AMA TechTel Communications

Closest to the Pin Contest P.M. Flight Sponsor: WesTech Plumbing

Putting Green Sponsor: Racer Classic Car Wash Breakfast Sponsor: Chick-fil-A at South Plains Crossing

Hole-in-One-Sponsor: Gibson Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Sign Sponsor: Copy Craft Printers

Ice Donor: Arctic Glacier

Golf Ball Sponsor: FirstCare Health Plans

Drink Donor: Coca-Cola Refreshments

House Bill 5 Education Luncheon This Month

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will hold a House Bill 5: One Year Later Panel Discussion and Luncheon on Tues., July 8 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Lubbock Country Club, 4011 N. Boston Ave.

A strong workforce strengthens the businesses and community, providing a sustainable economy that will carry Lubbock into the future. Today’s child is tomorrow’s employee and the knowledge and experience they will take to the workplace will have ramifications felt for many years. House Bill 5 was passed almost a year ago and the changes made by school districts statewide to implement these new regulations are entering the second phase. What have the local school districts learned and how is the business community being affected?

The featured speaker at the luncheon will be Marty Rowley, an attorney and certified mediator from Amarillo. He was elected to the State Board of Education in November 2012 and serves as vice chair of the board’s Committee on School Initiatives. Rowley is a member of the Texas State Bar Association,

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the Amarillo Bar Association, American Board of Trial Advocates, American Association of Mediators and the Texas Association of Mediators. Representing the citizens of District 15, Rowley is an active community member.

A panel of local educators and business people will follow the presentation with a Q&A session to address the subject as well. The panelists include: Dr. David Vroonland, Superintendent Frenship ISD; Dr. Berhl Robertson, Jr., Superintendent Lubbock ISD; John Osborne, CEO, Lubbock Economic Development Alliance; and Dr. Kyle Wargo, Executive Director, Region 17 Education Service Center.

Lubbock Business Network

Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, A Five-Star Chamber..

AGAIN!

The United States Chamber of Commerce announced that the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has once again earned a 5-Star Accreditation, which is the highest level of accreditation the U.S. Chamber awards. The Lubbock Chamber becomes the only Chamber in North America to be accredited two times with a 5-Star rating and twice named Chamber of the Year nationwide by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives.

“Being the only Chamber of Commerce in North America to achieve these levels of recognition speaks volumes about the quality of the Lubbock business community and chamber members that support the work of the Lubbock Chamber. I’m proud to lead this Chamber Board in carrying out these important efforts that have been recognized by the U.S. Chamber,” said Chamber Chairwoman Alona Beesinger.

The only program of its kind in the country, U.S. Chamber Accreditation recognizes an organization for being a catalyst for its positive action in its community, quality programs, and clear organizational procedures. Of the 7,007 chambers in the United States, only 204 chambers are accredited, and of those accredited only 82 chambers have been awarded the 5-Star

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achievement. To achieve accreditation, a chamber must exceed standards in its operations and programs, including areas of governance, finance, human resources, government affairs, program development, technology, communications, facilities and benchmarking. This extensive self-review can take from three to six months to complete. According to the U.S. Chamber’s final report, the Lubbock Chamber achieved a perfect score in governance, human resources, government affairs, program development, communications and facilities.

“Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S.

Introducing Newest Chamber Staff Members

Meet Haley Howey, Event Specialist

Haley Howey has been hired as the Event Specialist in the Business Development Division. She began her duties on June 2.

A native of Lubbock, Howey graduated from Texas Tech University in May with a degree in English.

Prior to her full-time appointment, Howey served as an intern at the Chamber where she assisted in the planning of the 2014 Business Expo.

As the Event Specialist, Howey assists the Vice

President-Business Development Christye Weld in the planning, execution and logistics of all annual events that include the Business Expo, Hub City BBQ Cook-off, Golf Classic, Cinco de Mayo Luncheon, Business Mercado, Hispanic Heritage Luncheon and Community Prayer Luncheon.

Meet Allison Cottrell, Administrative Specialist

Allison Cottrell has been hired as the Administrative Specialist. She began her duties on June 16.

A native of Snyder, Texas, Cottrell comes to the Lubbock Chamber with Chamber experience. Previously, she served as the Event Coordinator at the Snyder Chamber of Commerce.

Cottrell received her bachelor’s degree in public relations in 2010 and her master’s in sports management in 2013, both from Texas Tech University.

As Administrative Specialist, she is responsible for providing assistance to staff, volunteers, and visitors. She also assists the President/CEO with the scheduling and planning of Board of Directors and Executive Committee activities.

District 3 City Council Candidate Forum

The Chamber hosted a District 3 City Council Runoff Town Hall Candidate Forum on Mon., June 16 at Maegden Elementary, 4401 Nashville Ave. The forum featured candidates Jeff Griffith and Deanne Clark.

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Lubbock Business Network

Lubbock Chamber Makes Trip to D.C. for Small Business Summit The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce attended the America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C. last week along with one of its members who was chosen as 2014 Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Battery Joe, Benchmark Business Solutions and Copy Craft Printers, Inc. were honored as Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners and Benchmark Business Solutions attended the America’s Small Business Summit to accept its award. These Lubbockbased companies were recognized for dedication to the principles of free enterprise and their contributions to restoring jobs and supporting economic growth. This is the second-straight year that Benchmark Business Solutions has received this award.

While in D.C. for the Summit, the group attended issue briefings and met with Congressman Randy Neugbauer while on Capitol Hill.

Congratulations again to all our Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners!

Jeff Horn and Constance Barbian accept Benchmark Business Solutions Blue Ribbon Small Business Award from Tom Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber to Host City Council Reception

A reception honoring newly elected and reelected City Council members will be hosted by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce on Tues., July 8, from 5:30- 7 p.m. at the Chamber offices (Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway).

The reception is open to the public and sponsored by Parkhill, Smith & Cooper and StarCare Specialty Health System.

Please contact Amy Marquez at amy.marquez@lubbockbiz.org for more information.

Lubbock Chamber One of Over 800 Organizations Urging Congress to Swiftly Reauthorize the Export-Import Bank

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce today joined with organizations from across the country in sending a letter urging Congress to swiftly reauthorize the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). The bank, which provides loans and loan guarantees when other financing is not available, will see its charter lapse on September 30 unless Congress acts. The letter, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Association of Manufacturers, was signed by more than 800 chambers, companies and associations across the country, showing the overwhelming support for Ex-Im from American companies of every size, sector, and region.

“The benefits that the Export-Import Bank provides for businesses in Texas are vital for maintaining competitiveness and expanding opportunities for growth,” said Chamber Chairwoman Alona Beesinger.

“For these companies, especially small

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businesses, to be able to compete globally, they need Ex-Im’s help to reach foreign markets and customers. If Congress fails to reauthorize Ex-Im, American companies would be put at a disadvantage in global markets, resulting in lost sales and lost jobs. We are urging members of Congress to act quickly to support American jobs and reauthorize Ex-Im.” As the letter states, last year Ex-Im supported $37 billion in exports that in turn sustained more than 200,000 American jobs at 3,400 companies. The Bank’s support is especially important to small and medium-sized businesses, which account for nearly 90 percent of the Bank’s transactions. More information on how Ex-Im benefits state and local economies is available here.

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce represents over 2,100 businesses and 73,000 employees on the South Plains

with their $900 million in economic impact to West Texas. The Lubbock Chamber is the first and only to be both a two-time 5-Star Accredited Chamber from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and a two-time Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Lubbock Business Network

Board Member Spotlight: Irasema Vasquez How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I got involved with the Chamber many years ago in my role as Southwestern Bell regional manager. It gave me an opportunity to see the value of the chamber for big business. Now, as a small business owner, I am able to see the value of the Chamber to small business as well.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? It would be impossible to name one favorite program of the chamber.

There is a program for everyone for every reason. My chamber is ranked top in the nation, primarily because it delivers first-class benefits for all its members.

What are some of your other community leadership roles? I have had the blessing of being involved in my community throughout the years in various roles. It has allowed me to give back to a community that has been so good to me. Among the top would be my year as Chair of the Chamber and the head of the United Way campaign. These roles reiterated time after time that it takes ALL of us to make things happen. Besides that, I strive to be a good Nana to my 10 grandchildren, a role second to none.

Finish this sentence: Never again will I… Never again will I say never. By limiting ourselves and making the decision that we cannot achieve a goal or dream by saying never, keeps us from even trying.

Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Spotlight: Casey Doyle fered. As a morning person, getting up and starting the day with friends and colleagues over coffee was much more enjoyable than heading straight to work.

The First Tuesday Networks are obviously the bread and butter of YP, so those have to be on the favorite list, too.

Last year, I helped with the YPGL Hub City BBQ cooking team, and it was a blast.

Cooking and hanging out all night was extremely fun, and I highly recommend this to anyone looking to meet some new friends.

Why did you choose to be a member of Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock? Being new to Lubbock, I honestly just wanted to be a part of something. I did some basic research on organizations that I might be interested in, and the YPGL jumped out at me pretty boldly. Fees are very reasonable (way too cheap), events easily fit with any schedule, and the steering committee was very helpful when I called and had questions regarding YP. How long have you been a YP member?

Two years

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YP member? The friendships I have made within YP are by far the most rewarding. YP has introduced me to friends that consist of weekly tennis matches, pick-up basketball games, bible studies, weddings, and most importantly, past, present, and future customers.

Why is being a YP member important to you? YP is important to me because if offers exciting events to look forward to, strong relationships, ways to be involved, and opportunities to promote my business.

Where do you work?

Casey Carpet One 6000 Spur 327 Ste. 200 (Next to Bob Mills) Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 795-5900 What is your position?

General Manager What all does your position entail?

Responsible for growth and direction of Casey Carpet One which include training, sales, budgeting, and exceptional customer service.

Responsible for administering accounts receivable, accounts payable, employee payroll, as well as purchasing supplies and managing inventory.

Responsible for cash management, strategic planning and areas related to measuring company performance.

How long have you been with your current company? Being that this is my family’s business, fortunately, I been part of it practically my entire life. However, I have only been operating out of our Lubbock location for two years now.

What are some of your favorite YP events to attend? I actually used to love the “Coffee Connections” that YP of-

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Lubbock Business Network

July Business of the Month: Parkhill, Smith & Cooper Congratulations to Parkhill, Smith & Cooper for being named the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s July Business of the Month. Parkhill, Smith & Cooper is a full-service design firm that provides engineering and architectural design, primarily in the public sector or with public entities, such as municipal infrastructure, education, healthcare, and transportation.

Parkhill, Smith & Cooper is consistently ranked among the Top 500 Design Firms in the United States. Additionally, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper has been ranked in the Top 3 of the 2010 Best Multidiscipline A/E Services Firms to Work for from Stagnito Media/CE News. This also represents a top rating for Multidiscipline A/E Services firms headquartered in Texas and the Southwest region.

Parkhill, Smith & Cooper was established in 1945 in Lubbock and has been a Lubbock Chamber member since 1971.

Joe Rapier, President of Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, said the Chamber has helped to increase Parkhill, Smith & Cooper’s business relationships.

“Our culture is built around building community and our participation in the Chamber is our part to help build the Lubbock business community,” Rapier stated. “Many of our best relationships have been built through the activities and events of our Chamber.”

More than just an increase in business relationships, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper has benefitted internally from its Chamber involvement.

“The other cornerstone to the PSC culture is personal ownership. We provide the ‘room’ for employees and partners to participate in the Chamber as part of the building community,” said

Rapier. “We have seen the return on our time and talent increase as our investment increases.”

Parkhill, Smith & Cooper has shown a vast diversity of participation in the Chamber. Rapier served on the board for six years, including a year as Chairman.

“My year of service as Chairman remains as one of the best experiences,” Rapier said, in regards to his professional career.

“We have active committee members and chairs of the transportation committee, the government affairs committee and the Ambassadors,” stated Rapier. “We typically have a member of each year’s Leadership Lubbock class as well.”

While Rapier said he couldn’t pick a favorite Chamber event, he said he hopes Parkhill, Smith & Cooper’s involvement efforts speak to what Parkhill, Smith & Cooper feels is important to the community and is thankful for the Chamber.

“Thank you (the Chamber) for supporting our members and continuing to be the voice of the business community.”

The Chamber is proud to congratulate Parkhill, Smith & Cooper on its July Business of the Month achievement. Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, 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.

South Plains Mall Wins Summer Water-Smart Award

We are excited to announce the most recent winner of the Water-Smart Business Award, the South Plains Mall. Beth Bridges, Property Manager of the Mall, was presented the quarterly award at the Chamber’s June board meeting.

“We wanted to be a leader and a pacesetter in the Lubbock community by converting the existing landscaping around the mall, along with showcasing areas and making a concerted effort to reduce water usage and create an eye-catching design,” said Bridges.

The Chamber recognizes member businesses for water-saving measures such as landscaping, rainfall capture systems and installing low-flow toilets.

The Mall’s various entrances and landscape beds have all changed to a drip irrigation system, rather than the traditional sprinkler system, which reduces water loss due to evaporation or overspray. Their landscaped amount of grass, hedges and water-dependent plants has been reduced by 60%. Some ar-

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eas around the property have been transformed by these new landscapes that were previously unable to effectively support certain types of plants.

Bridges noted that one of the biggest challenges was learning the many varieties of plants that thrive in our environment and learning how to use various sizes of rock and ground cover in a decorative way to achieve a fully-landscaped look. The Mall partnered with a professional landscaper that had expertise with water-smart landscaping in this area.

“We are honored and hope that this award inspires other businesses to look at creative ways to beautify their landscape while being resourceful,” said Bridges.

For more information regarding the Chamber’s Water-Smart Business Award, or to nominate your business, contact the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Lubbock Business Network

Threepeat: Ambassador of the Month Rex Andrews

Rex Andrews received his award for May Ambassador of the Month at the June Ambassador Luncheon.

Ambassador of the Month Award sponsored by: Alan Henry Insurance

May Ambassador Team of the Month: Team Soliz Congratulations, Team Soliz, Ambassador Team of the Month! Team Soliz finished May with 1048 points and 79 percent participation.

The Chamber’s ambassador program is comprised of 199 ambassadors, representing their member businesses. These 199 ambassadors are split up into five teams. Ambassadors compete, every month, for the most patricipation 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.

The Chamber congratulates Rex Andrews on his third-consecutive Ambassador of the Month title this year. Andrews is the Chamber’s Ambassador Program Co-Chair.

In the month of May, Andrews earned 449 points. YWCA’s Lemonade Day was in May. Ambassadors were given the opportunity to earn points by visiting individual lemonade stands around Lubbock. Each ribbon cutting was worth 10 ambassador points. Andrews conducted 37 ribbon cuttings.

We have asked Andrews for his testimony in regards to his Chamber experience and how the Chamber has helped him and his businesses.

“I have been involved off-and-on with the Chamber in some compacity since 1989, I have been an Ambassador since 2010. I feel the Ambassador program affords me the opportunity to be involved in the community and be in the know as to what’s new or coming to Lubbock.

I feel that this is important because my job is the company representative for five different businesses here in Lubbock.

Edge Concepts is the parent company for Edge Construction, Edge Homes, Metro L&L L.L.C., Shaded Acres Tree Farm, and Innovative Designs. Edge Construction is the commercial building division, while Edge Homes is the home building division, Metro L&L L.L.C. is the Landscaping division, and Shaded Acres Tree Farm #1 & #2, Innovative Designs is the Automation, Lighting Control, Audio/Video and Security division. All of which are members of the Chamber.

I love representing these companies and feel that it is important to get their names in front of as many business owners and customers as possible. The Ambassador program provides me that chance.

If you need a commercial building, office building, new home, landscaping, lawn maintance, trees, or automation and security, give me a call.”

- Rex Andrews

Business After Hours MCM Elegante 5:30p.m.-7:00p.m.

July 10, 2014 801 Ave Q

hosted by

Members of Team Soliz received the Ambassador Team of the Month scissors at the June Ambassador Luncheon.

City Bank Mortgage Center 5:30p.m.-7:00p.m.

July 24, 2014 5815 82nd St.

hosted by

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Lubbock Business Network

Fire Up the Grill for the 13th Annual Hub City BBQ Cook-Off!

Is your BBQ the best in West Texas? Compete and find out at the 13th annual Hub City BBQ cook-off, presented by Suddenlink, to be held Thurs., Sept. 18th, in downtown Lubbock.

Companies may choose which division they wish to participate – Corporate, Professional, or Amateur/Student. We are returning to the cobblestones and will be running down Broadway in historic downtown Lubbock. Space is at a premium, so send in your entry form and get your cooker ready! Team entry fee will be $100 per 10’ x 20’ space.

The event will be open to the public from 5-8 p.m. Thursday evening, with live entertainment by Bart Crow and School of Rock, presented by Lubbock KIDS Dental. Tickets will be available starting July 24 for $25 at the Chamber offices (1500 Broadway, Suite 101) or $30 at the door. Tickets will also be available at Select-A-Seat locations and online.

A map of the event, registration form, and frequently asked questions are available online. Check out pictures from the 2013 Hub City BBQ and follow us on Facebook!

Thanks to our Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsors: Suddenlink

Diamond & Media Sponsors: Arctic Glacier, 107.7 The Eagle, 97.3 Yes! FM, AM 950/100.7 FM, Double T 104.3, KCBD News Channel 11, Magic 93.7, Oldies 97.7, Red Dirt Rebel 105.3 FM, Rock 96.9 Band Sponsor: Lubbock KIDS Dental Emerald Sponsors: Citibus, City of Lubbock, Griffin Wink, United Supermarkets

Platinum Sponsors: Acme Electric, Action Printing, American National Bank, Atmos Energy, Chick-fil-A, Crown Point Health Suites, Lubbock National Bank, Republic National Distributing Company, Scarborough Specialties, WesTech Electric, X8 Environmental Copper Sponsors: Childress Photography, Lubbock Welding Supply Gold Sponsors: B&J Welding Supply, Carpet Tech, Centennial Bank, Collins Tile & Stone, Custom Electronics, Domino’s Pizza, Family Powersports Lubbock, First Capital Bank, First United Bank, Hillcrest Golf & Country Club, Hugo Reed & Associates, Hurst Farm Supply, Koetter Fire Protection, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Llano Estacado, Prosperity Bank, SouthWest Bank, WesTech Plumbing Bronze Sponsors: Bimbo Bakeries USA, J Ferg Energy Pros, Purple Tie Limo, Sam’s Club, Tigris Real Estate LLC, Tuff Shed, Vision Audio Silver Sponsors: ADC Group Inc., Alderson Enterprises, Best Buy, Carizma Motors, City Bank, Extreme Packets, Ferguson Enterprises, Field Manning Stone Hawthorne & Aycock P.C., FirstCare Health Plans, Forrest Tire Co., Happy State Bank, Lubbock Power & Light, Lubbock Wholesale Payments, Morrison Supply Company, Overhead Door Company, PaveCon, Platinum Bank, Raider Ranch, Raising Cane’s, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency, Security State Bank, South Plains Mall, Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre, Tejas Motors, Wells Fargo, West Texas Gas, WestMark Realtors, Yates Flooring Center

To inquire about teams and sponsorships or to get more information regarding the BBQ, go to hubcitybbq.com, contact Christye Weld at christye.weld@lubbockbiz.org, or call the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Hub City BBQ 2014 Entertainment, sponsored by Lubbock KIDS Dental:

Bart Crow Band & School of Rock

Mark Your Calendar!

September 18, 2014 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

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Lubbock Business Network

Chamber University: Social Media Presented by

In the world of social media, the only boundaries are our imaginations. The last of the 2013-14 Chamber University seminar series ended with a bang on Wed., June 18, with Social Media at the Texas Tech Rawls College of Business. Presenter Dr. Michael Ryan led the group by provoking thought in the purpose of Chamber University and challenging participants to reach beyond their jobs and find greater value in growing their business. Lin Humphrey started his presentation with trends in social media, citing examples and providing video case studies of how businesses use social media as a driving tool to grow beyond traditional business boundaries.

“Marketing is not a moment in time…it is an evolution,” stated Humphrey. He offered examples to describe influencer marketing, how utilizing Google tools for free (yes, free!) helps gain social media recognition, and how registering websites and user generated content sites all help business owners gain that edge. Websites and handheld devices were also examples of the ready accessibility to sales that bring customers in with the touch of a simple screen from the comfort of a couch or a desk.

Social media is constantly evolving to keep up with consumers who are inundated with information at a fingertip’s reach, or in Humphrey’s words, “We are fighting for fractured attention,”.

Humphrey described the new Yellow Pages that had fingers prancing across keyboards instead of holding actual yellow pages. Businesses entice consumers with so many different social media designed to get them to buy, buy, buy, and companies not engaged with these consumers…“you get out of it what you put into it”…are being left behind.

The 2014-2015 Chamber University seminar series will kickoff on Tues., Sept. 30, with Human Resources and guest speaker, Otis Scott, from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Chamber University is presented by Covenant Health and sponsored by American National Bank, United Supermarkets, Workforce Solutions South Plains, and Texas Tech University Rawls College of Business.

Chamber University Social Media speaker was Lin Humphrey, Ph.D. Candidate at the Rawls College of Business (pictured left). Humphrey was named the 2011 Global Mobile Marketing Academic of the Year and the 2013 Texas Business Hall of Fame Scholar.

Chamber University Social Media attendees (pictured below) learned about best practices, online branding, digital identities, and other supporting social media tactics such as online portfolios and slideshare.

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Lubbock Business Network

Sheri Nugent Celebrates 10 Years at the Lubbock Chamber The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Sheri Nugent for her 10 years of service to the Lubbock Chamber.

On June 26, 2004, Nugent began working at the Chamber as Vice President-Administration before being promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Vice PresidentAdministration in January 2014.

Nugent oversees the financial processes as well as internal Chamber operations.

Since beginning her tenure at the Chamber, Nugent has implemented an in-house monthly financial reporting system that has streamlined the process and reduced the costs of preparing and maintaining these reports while increasing their accuracy and value as analytical tools. Nugent was instrumental in the 2009 and 2014 Accreditation

process with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce where the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce received a 5-Star rating. In 2011, Nugent implemented the Total Resource Campaign, an all-inclusive sponsorship campaign, helping the Chamber exceed its goal every year.

In July 2010, Nugent received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organizational Management (IOM) professional designation and served as a Board of Regent for the West Institute from 2010-13.

Nugent earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance from Texas Tech University in 1994 and a MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2007.

Chamber Receives ACCE Award for Communication Excellence

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce received an Award of Excellence from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives 2014 Awards for Communication Excellence (ACE).

The ACE awards recognize outstanding communications efforts by chambers of commerce.

The Chamber was honored in the advertising and marketing category for its Hub City BBQ Cook-off campaign. The advertising and marketing category consists of entries for print, web, television, radio and outdoor advertising/marketing projects; membership brochures and promotions for events, awards and products.

“This is a great recognition for our Chamber and we are honored to receive it,” said Chamber

Chairwoman Alona Beesinger. “This can be added to the Chamber’s list of accomplishments.”

Griffin Wink was the advertising company responsible for all the artwork design for all the marketing materials for the Hub City BBQ Cook-off that included the logo, banners, posters, aprons, tshirts, pens, notepads, tickets, flyers and billboards.

The Chamber utilized its website, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest), advertising in the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, commercials on KCBD News Channel 11, Suddenlink Cable, seven Ramar Communications radio stations and the Star and Stripes Drive-In to market the annual cook-off.

Lubbock Chamber Transportation Committee Member, Howard Cowan, Elected as International Trade Association Officer The National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) has elected Howard Cowan, of Lubbock, to the position of NASBP Third Vice President. Cowan is President of the Cowan-Hill Bond Agency Inc. NASBP is the association of and resource for surety bond producers and allied professionals. NASBP producers engage in contract and commercial surety production throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, and a number of countries. NASBP is solely dedicated to the needs and interests of surety bond producers and serves a membership with personnel of over 5,000 surety agents and brokers.

Cowan is a member of the Lubbock

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Chamber and serves on the Chamber Transportation Committee. He is a Past President of Texas Good Roads.

The Chamber is proud to have Cowan as a Chamber supporter. We appreciate the leadership and participation he exemplifies within our organization.

Thanks and congratulations to Howard Cowan!

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by

Abuelo’s 4401 82nd St.

Aim Mortgage 6506 19th St.

First Capital Bank 24-hour Teller Machines 6811 Indiana Ave

Good Karma Cigar 3411 S. Loop 289

Hub City Wings 1902 34th St.

Institute of Creative Learners Adoption Covenant 3302 67th St.

Lubbock Area Association of Health Underwriters Golf Tournament

Lubbock Moonlight Musicals 2806 Ave A

Lubbock Speedway 2100 E. CR 7300

Qdoba Mexican Grill 5017 Milwaukee Ave. Suite 300

Rawe Yates Media Group 1901 W. Loop 289, Suite 1

Texas Boys Ranch Education/ Therapeutic Recreation Center 4810 North CR 2800 15

Lubbock Business Network

USDA Seeks Nominations The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking nominations for candidates to serve on the Cotton Board.

The Cotton Board is composed of representatives of cotton producers and importers. Representatives are selected by the Secretary of Agriculture from nominations submitted by certified producer organizations (CPO) and certified importer organizations (CIO), as outlined by the Cotton Research and Promotion Order.

USDA is seeking nominees to fill 12 member and 12 alternate member positions for vacancies representingArkansas, California/Nevada, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Texas, as well as importers. These positions have terms ending December 31, 2017. Members and alter-

nates members, as well as the consumer advisors, serve staggered three-year terms with no term limits.

The CPOs in respective states and the CIOs will caucus to nominate two qualified persons for each member and alternate member position. The Secretary shall select members and alternates from thosenominations.

USDA welcomes membership on industry boards that reflects the diversity of the individuals served by the programs.

USDA encourages all eligible women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to seek nomination for a seat on the Cotton Board.

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program is designed to advance the po-

sition of cotton in the marketplace. It is funded by assessments on all domestically produced cotton and imports of foreign-produced cotton and cottoncontaining products, and is authorized by the Cotton Research and Promotion Act of 1966. AMS oversees operations of the Board.

For nominating information or for a list of CPOs and CIOs, contact Shethir M. Riva, Chief, Research and Promotion Staff, Cotton and Tobacco Programs, AMS, USDA, 100 Riverside Parkway, Suite 101, Fredericksburg, Virginia, 22406, telephone (540) 361-2726, facsimile (540) 361-1199, or email at shethir.riva@ams. usda.gov.

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Please place this addition in your Chamber Business Directory & Resource Guide 4/16/14 - 5/15/14 Backstage 1711 Texas Ave. Lubbock, TX 79401 (806) 687-2034 Night Clubs and/or Lounges

Icon at Lubbock 6216 66th St. Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 783-0006 Apartments

Rooms To Go 6701 Slide Rd. Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 319-9922 Furniture

Blue Frog Plumbing & Drain 5610 Frankford Ave., Ste. C Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 412-4600 Plumbing & Sewer Service

JQ 3402 110th St., Ste. 100 Lubbock, TX 79423 (806) 781-2932 Engineering Services

Triple C Concrete of Lubbock 1521 Erskine Lubbock, TX 79403 (806) 745-1111 Concrete - Ready Mix

Brownfield Seed & Delinting 1704 Hwy. 137 (79316) PO Box 608 Brownfield, TX 79316 (806) 637-6282 Seed and/or Grain

Lubbock Speedway 2100 E. CR 7300 Lubbock, TX 79404 (806) 789-0811 Race Track

U.S. Army Recruiting 6202 Iola Ave. Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 798-8971 Government Agencies

Dream Spectrum 1623 10th St. Lubbock, TX 79401 (806) 252-9161 Computer - Web Page Design Henthorn Commercial Construction 2011 Ave C Lubbock, TX 79404 (806) 687-3084 Construction Companies - General Contractors

Portofino 6610 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79407 (806) 793-3434 Apartments Qdoba Mexican Grill 5017 Milwaukee Ave., Ste. 300 Lubbock, TX 79407 (806) 771-2411 Restaurants

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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