Lubbock Business Network | March 2018 by Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

LUBBOCK BUSINESS NETWORK

Vol. 27 No. 3 March 2018

PHOTO CREDIT: PLAINS COTTON COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

WHAT ’S INSIDE? Meet StarCare CEO & Leadership Lubbock Graduate pg. 8

2018 Farm Bill - What You Should Know, pg. 12

...AND MORE!

Thank you

5-STAR INVESTORS!

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2018 Board of Directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech - Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Chairman-elect Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust Co. Immediate Past Chairwoman Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Treasurer Gabe Vitela, One Guy from Italy - 50th Street Secretary Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman - Business Advocacy Dave Marcinkowski, Madera Companies Vice Chairwoman - Chamber Services and Member Engagement Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society Vice Chairman - Communications and Public Relations Chris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’s Vice Chairwoman - Community Development Shannon Spencer, Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc. Vice Chairwoman - Programs, Services and Events Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center of Lubbock

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jeremy Barbee, Roy Neal Insurance Agency Inc. Byrnie Bass, R. Byrn Bass, Jr., Attorney at Law Steve Beck, Covenant Health Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Office Kevin Bryan, Digital Base Productions Keith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School District Fernando Bustos, Bustos Law Firm, PC Rey Carrasco, Kimley-Horn and Associates Chris Chambers, Chambers Engineering Renee Gonzales Davis, 4ORE! Golf Casey Doyle, Casey Carpet One Jeff Horn, Benchmark Business Solutions Chris James, United Supermarkets Dana Johnston, FirstCare Health Plans Brent King, UMC Health System Mike Lambert, Feed & Thangs Farm Store Dana Madison, Calvert Home Health Care Becky Palmer, Atmos Energy Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Cathy Pope, Retired Vanessa Reasoner, Grace Health System Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District Pam Sharpe, The Price Group Marcie Truby, Director’s Choice Ian van Reenen, Young Professionals of Lubbock

Chamber Staff President/CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Executive Vice President Norma Ritz Johnson, CCE, IOM CFO/COO Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President - Programs, Services & Events Christye Weld Director of Communications & Public Relations Haily Assiter, IOM Director of Leadership Programs Amy Marquez, IOM Member Relations Director Cathy Potter Director of Government Relations Kyle Jacobson Business Development Coordinator Brenda Richardson Event Specialist Allison Cottrell Accounting Specialist Shelby Deluna Administrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Taylor Frick

Communications Intern Carson Glenewinkel

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March

Save the Date: Chuck Walker Memorial Community Prayer Luncheon

May 3, 2018 | 11:30 a.m. Lubbock Memorial Civic Center

March

Business After Hours sponsored by:

Leadership Lubbock Class Day – Women in Business Diversity Summit – 11:30 a.m. – Overton Hotel and Con ference Center, 2322 Mac Davis Lane YEA! Lesson 18: Mock Investor Panel – TTU Innovation Hub, 3911 4th St.

“I’m a Member! Now What?” sponsored by Buffalo Springs Lake – 4 p.m. – Courtyard by Marriott Lubbock - Downtown, 308 Ave. V Business After Hours sponsored by Courtyard by Marriott Lubbock - Downtown – 5:30 p.m. – 308 Ave. V

Ribbon Cutting: ActionCOACH (Beacon Business Coaching) 10 a.m. – Texas Tech Club - East Side - 5th floor Government Relations Committee – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Infinity Nail Bar – 4 p.m. – 10609 Slide Rd., STE 100

13 YP Lunch & Learn: How Stress Affects the Workplace sponsored by Lori Daniel, Exit Realty – 11:45 a.m. 1500 Broadway, San Jacinto Room - 2nd floor Ribbon Cutting: EV of Lubbock – 1 p.m. – 6107 45th St. 14 Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee – 3:30 p.m. – LCOC 20 Salute to Ag Luncheon presented by First United Bank 11:30 a.m. – Bayer Museum of Agriculture, 1121 Canyon Lake Dr. YEA! Lesson 20: Investor Panel Practice – 4:30 p.m. TTU Innovation Hub, 3911 4th St. 21 22

March Ambassador Monthly Luncheon sponsored by Alliance Credit Union – 12 p.m. – Arbor Hotel & Conference Center, 6401 62nd St. Ribbon Cutting: Camp Gladiator – 4:30 p.m. – 6111 82nd St. Executive Committee Meeting – 12 p.m. – LCOC Community Prayer Lunch Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Weston Taylor Insurance – 4 p.m. 8605 Milwaukee Ave, STE 103 Business After Hours sponsored by Ferguson Enterprises 5:30 p.m. – 6002 42nd St.

23 Ribbon Cutting: Silver Spur Trade Shows – Great Outdoors Expo – 11 a.m. – Lubbock Memorial Civic Center,1501 Mac Davis Lane 26 Uncorked Committee – 4 p.m. - Caprock Winery, 408 E. Woodrow Rd. 27

Business at its Best: Awareness of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace – 8 a.m. – First Bank & Trust Operations Center, 9826 Slide Rd. YEA! Lesson 20 – TTU Innovation Hub, 3911 4th St. Travel with the Chamber to Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Information Session – 4:30 p.m. – LCOC

28 Hub City BBQ Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC 29 Board of Directors Meeting – 10 a.m. – Frenship ISD, Casey Admin Building, 501 7th St. YP of Lubbock Steering Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC *LCOC = Lubbock Chamber of Commerce For a complete list of Chamber and member events, visit our calendar online at lubbockchamber.com/events.

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Quick Headlines!

Meet the Diversity Summit Speakers................................ 6 March Business of the Month: Rudyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar-B-Q................ 7 Meet StarCare CEO & Leadership Lubbock Graduate......8 V-Tech Environmental Services Celebrates 25 Years...... 9 Small Business Spotlight: Arledge Aesthetics.................. 10 2018 Farm Bill - What You Should Know......................... 10 Thanks for Renewing Your Membership........................ 13

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS ON LUBBOCKCHAMBER.COM Are you looking for new ways to get your company noticed? If so, why not promote you company on the Lubbock Chamber website with a banner that links directly to your own website? The Lubbock Chamber website has an average of 24,000 views per month and multiple package options that is sure to fit any budget. Click on the photo to view the different packages or contact the Lubbock Chamber to learn more at (806) 761-7000.

Share Your News!

! e r o m n r a e L Call today! 0 0 0 7 . 1 6 7 . 6 0 8

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 website, log into the members only portal, submit events/job openings and much more!

Learn more at the information session on March 27 at 4:30 p.m. at the Lubbock Chamber office, 1500 Broadway, Suite 101.

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS REGISTRATION STARTS AT 11 A.M. 11:30 A.M.

1:45 P.M.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER & LUNCHEON Welcome Remarks: Mayor Dan Pope Opening Remarks: Chamber Chairman Cory Powell Speaker Introduction: Dr. Elizabeth Sharp, TTU Interim Vice President, Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Luncheon Keynote: Gail Evans, Best Selling Author, Play Like a Man, Win Like a Women Room: Sunset Ballroom

CEO FORUM–THE ART OF COLLABORATION Introduced / Sponsored by: Cathy Pope, East Lubbock Community Alliance

Presenter: Shahara Wright, The CEO Effect Room: Horizon A Invitation Only Session – Leadership should not only be a function of organizations, but also a collaborative effort of each team member. Collaboration is a necessary tool when running a business and is vital for today’s collaborative communities. Inclusive and collaborative leaders help others achieve their full potential. This interactive session will explore strategies to effectively collaborate and how to implement those strategies into your business or work environments.

1:45 P.M.

THE BUSINESS CASE FOR DIVERSITY & INCLUSION Introduced / Sponsored by: Robin Raney, Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas

Presenter: Chris Wallace, Texas Association of Business Room: Horizon B

Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Diversity Summit

BELONGING

March 6

“Creating A Culture Of Intentional Inclusion”

MEET THE SPEAKERS!

GAIL EVANS

BEST SELLING AUTHOR, PLAY LIKE A MAN WIN LIKE A WOMAN

SHAHARA WRIGHT, ESQ.

TELEA STAFFORD PRESIDENT/FOUNDER, PHENIXX MARKETING & MEDIA

THE CEO EFFECT

Texas businesses needs to remain a welcoming environment for everyone and all businesses. It’s a completely business-minded approach to the case for strong non-discrimination policies in the workplace. According to new research, diversity is important for businesses to become more innovative and more successful. Teams with a broader range of people have a wider range of interests, experiences, and backgrounds to draw upon. They understand potential users of products better than less diverse teams. And they tend to be better problem-solvers, coming up with out-of-the-box solutions more often.

1:45 P.M.

BELIEFS IN BUSINESS

Introduced / Sponsored by: Bobby McCloud, Wayland Baptist University

Panel Moderated by: Cory Powell, Chamber Chairman Panelists: Jay Jacobus | Irasema Velasquez | Bishop Bill Watson Room: Horizon C

How does faith play a role in growing and prospering employee satisfaction and productivity as well as overall business success? How do you create the environment where faith based business values are not only developed by the owner but bought into by the employees? Our panel will discuss how their personal beliefs not only lead their lives but lead their business.

3:15 P.M.

USING CULTURAL DIFFERENCES TO IMPROVE YOUR WORKPLACE

Opportunities must be made available to thrive in environments where diversity and inclusion are welcome—either because the employee is part of a minority community or because they are sensitive to attitudes towards those communities. We need to see cultural intelligence as a key differentiator in where we choose to spend their time and grow their careers. Our expert panel will discuss how to maximize our capabilities to relate and work effectively across diverse cultures.

THE NEW VIEW ON DIVERSITY / THE COST OF CULTURE Introduced / Sponsored by: Brent King, UMC Health System

Presenter: Telea Stafford, Phenixx Marketing & Media Room: Horizon A A business case for diversity states that diverse teams often find better solutions to complex problems. A new look at diversity also supports that diverse teams help to avoid costly mistakes as recently experienced by H&M and Pepsi. Telea Talk focuses on the value of a corporate culture checkup, the business benefit of diversity, explores cultural appropriation—what it means, why it matters, and the cost of not getting it right. Moving towards true inclusion and beyond diversity should be the goal.

3:15 P.M.

PRESIDENT/COO, TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS

CHARLENE HACK

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES, BRIGHTSTAR CARE

WILL C.GRIFFIS

PARTNER, ATTORNEY AT LAW, McCLESKEY, HARRIGER, BRAZILL & GRAF

ANNETTE GARY

ASSOCIATE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR PROGRAM OPERATIONS, STARCARE SPECIALTY HEALTH SYSTEM

Introduced / Sponsored by: Martin Aguirre, Workforce Solutions South Plains

Panel Moderated by: Chris Wallace, Texas Association of Business Panelists: Adrienne Cozart | Dr. Annette Gary | Charlene Hack Room: Horizon C

3:15 P.M.

CHRIS WALLACE

AWARENESS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE

IRASEMA VELASQUEZ

ADRIENNE COZART

OWNER, VELASQUEZ INSURANCE & WORKSITE BENEFITS

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES, UMC HEALTH SYSTEM

WILLIAM P. LANE PARTNER, ATTORNEY AT LAW, McCLESKEY, HARRIGER, BRAZILL & GRAF

BILL WATSON BISHOP

JAY JACOBUS CEO, SCARBOROUGH SPECIALTIES

Introduced / Sponsored by: Ann Stegall, McCleskey, Harriger, Brazill and Graf

Presenters: Bill Lane & Will Griffis, McCleskey, Harriger, Brazill & Graf Room: Horizon B Do we really understand what workplace sexual harassment actually means? Some employers may practice subtle discrimination based on race, gender or religious preferences without even realizing it. What are subtle actions that are offensive but unintentional? How can employees make employers aware they are being offensive? Join us for honest dialogue that will reveal surprising insights from both sides.

4:45 P.M.

Presented by:

NETWORKING RECEPTION & CLOSING REMARKS FROM MAYOR DAN POPE Room: Sunset Ballroom

Join us for a reception to celebrate diversity, engagement and inclusion. This event allows for the day’s conversations to continue and provides opportunities to speak one-on-one with the presenters and sponsors.

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Session registration is still open!

MARCH BUSINESS OF THE MONTH 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? Being a member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has helped us to network with both community and business leaders.

Rudy’s B ar-B-Q

When did Rudy’s Bar-B-Q join the Chamber? August 2002

In what ways is Rudy’s Bar-B-Q involved with the Chamber? 2018 Total Resource Campaign Tell us about your business. Rudy’s Bar-B-Q opened in Lubbock 16 years ago but our operation started in 1989 just north of San Antonio in Leon Spring, and Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q has been serving up tasty food ever since. The same original recipes that built Rudy’s Leon Springs’ reputation are available in Lubbock and throughout the Southwest.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the Chamber? Being a part of the many different ways that the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce gives back to the Lubbock community. Also it has helped us network with local businesses in an effort to support growth within our region.

Our pits are 100% wood fired with oak, a slower burning wood than the mesquite used by others. Along with time and oak, we cook with a dry spice that ensures each plate of Rudy’s Bar-B-Q is perfectly ready for you. Apply some of our famous “ Sause” and dinner is served.

Save the Date Lubbock Uncorked Wine Dinner Thursday, April 12 | 6 p.m.

Purchase Your Online Ticket Here!

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Beth Lawson

CEO OF STARCARE & LEADERSHIP LUBBOCK GRADUATE

Established in 1975, Leadership Lubbock has been building servant leaders in the Lubbock community with over 1800 graduates since its inception. Beth Lawson graduated from Leadership Lubbock in 1999 and has been with Lubbock Regional MHMR Center dba/ StarCare Specialty Health System for 25 years. During that time, she has served in many capacities, starting from the ground floor as an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Case Manager, to becoming the Chief Executive Officer on October 1, 2017. She is responsible for StarCare’s performance in achieving its vision and mission within the parameters set by the Board of Trustees through governing policy and delegated by the Chief Executive Officer. She is responsible for a $47M budget and oversees a wide array of services at StarCare. Those services consist of 24/7 Crisis Services, HIV Outreach, Veterans Programs known as VetStar, Opioid Treatment, Screening & Assessment, Community Reintegration, Children/Youth Programs, Psychiatric Hospital known as Sunrise Canyon Hospital, Outpatient Competency Restoration, Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services, Adult Behavioral Health Outpatient Services, Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), known as Silver Star, Outreach, Screening, Assessment & Referral (Substance Abuse), as well as an Extended Observation Unit.

Lawson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Maryland and her master’s in business administration from Wayland Baptist University. She currently serves as President of the Texas PACE Association; is a member of the National PACE Association State Leadership Committee; appointed member of the Texas Judicial Council, Guardianship, Mental Health and IDD Advisory Committee; is a member of Texas Tech University, Master of Public Administration Advisory Committee; is a member of the Health and Human Services Commission Jail-Based Competency Restoration External Stakeholder Rules Workgroup; on the Board of Directors of Lubbock Area United Way; and is a member of the Texas Council of Community Centers.

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Lawson was named YWCA Woman of Excellence, Government and Human Services Award, in 2011. She was recognized by The State of Texas House of Representatives, House Concurrent Resolution (#105) in recognition of achievements in the field of government and human services, in 2011. Lawson and her husband, William D. Lawson, PE, PhD, are active members of Southcrest Baptist Church. They have three children – Dieterich, 28, Henry, 26, and Josephine, 22. They are also the proud parents of Piper, the family poodle. Lawson said she made multiple connections through the program and gained valuable skills such as learning how to lead people, how to network and the opportunity to learn about different businesses throughout the Lubbock community. As CEO, Lawson has made an effort to have StarCare’s corporate executives go through Leadership Lubbock. “It is so important to me that people who are on our executive leadership team are well versed in what the community of Lubbock and surrounding areas has to offer. StarCare’s focus is community-based care and so it is important that we understand and are a part of our community,” Lawson stated. Lawson wants to encourage Leadership Lubbock Alumni that are in leadership roles within their organizations to make this program a priority for their executive employees because the dividends are well worth it. When it comes to advice for people who want to go through Leadership Lubbock Lawson says, “Do it as fast as you can! You would be lucky to be considered and to be involved in Leadership Lubbock because the friendships and connections that you make last a career.” StarCare currently has two employees, AJ McCleod and Sheryl Baker, in the 2018 Leadership Lubbock class that will be graduating in November. Applications will begin for the 2019 class this coming August. If you would like to learn more about Leadership Lubbock or StarCare Specialty Health System, please visit LubbockChamber.com or call the Chamber office (806) 761-7000.

WEST TEXAS ROOTS – WORLDWIDE EXPERIENCE

March 1, 2018 marks the 25th Anniversary of V-tech Environmental Services. It has been a rich and rewarding career, We have many individuals and organizations to thank for our success – as no one arrives on talent alone. Ms. Polly Vann, General Manger (GM), vividly remembers the first counseling session with the North West Texas Small Business Development Center. Bruce Clinard said it best – “One in ten small businesses succeed after their first year in business.” I looked across the table and stated “Bruce, I’m the one”! Success has been hardearned and you must remain driven and passionate about your work and the customers you serve. The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has remained a valuable partner in our business. LCC has certainly facilitated the introduction to a vast network of professionals and continues to foster an atmosphere of progression and vision for the City of Lubbock. V-tech has served as an ambassador for LCC on the national stage as a two-time recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon and Small Business Award. Our missions have not all been self-driven cold calls. The U.S. EPA has activated our team for nine (9) natural disasters. The first call was the day after space shuttle Columbia disintegrated in the Texas sky in 2003. V-tech’s team spent four months recovering parts of the shuttle in Rusk County, Texas. Hurricane Katrina came calling two years later. We trained and dedicated fourteen staff members to recover over a million containers of hazardous materials at the 510 Bridge - Hazardous Waste Collection area. Other missions include Deep Water Horizon, Scrub-A-Dub, and the U.S. Postal Service Biological Detection System for Anthrax.

In 2008, we hosted a representative of the Zhiti Corporation from Bulgaria under the U.S. Aid Fund to assist with the management and disposal of electroplating waste. Electroplating waste was being direct discharged to the Danube River. Our goal was to prevent the direct discharge of heavy metals and sludge into a primary drinking water source for several countries including Bulgaria and Romania before discharging to the Black Sea. Our most memorable experience was an Emergency Response (ER) exercise between the U.S. and Mexico on the International Bridge (Tomato Bridge). Responders from McAllen, Reynosa, and Harlingen simulated a truck crash on the International Bridge and the ER exercise was to develop a cooperative response between the U.S. and Mexico. The Mexicans threw a big bash, got inebriated, arrived late to the crash scene and blasted their emergency horns in a mass celebration as they came across the bridge to respond. We were not a party to the celebration but it was so hilarious standing on the other side of the Rio Grande and hearing the festivities and celebration. We have been truly blessed and are humbled to reach this milestone. The journey has been one in a lifetime.

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SMALL BUSINESS s c i t e h t s e Arledge A SPOTLIGHT Arledge Aesthetics is the premiere cosmetic and plastic surgery firm in Lubbock, Texas. Arledge Aesthetics offers virtually any service to help patients achieve their own personal cosmetic goals. The firm’s goal is to help patients feel more confident in themselves using the most innovative techniques and newest technology. Arledge Aesthetics newest and most innovative treatment is called SculpSure. SculpSure is a breakthrough non-invasive body contouring treatment for fat that has been unresponsive to diet and exercise. Applicators are placed on the desired treatment area to administer light-based energy,

2018 FARM BILL FARM BILL FOR ALL AMERICANS STRIVES TO: •

•

which treats and injures fat cells. The 25-minute procedure destroys 24 percent of treated fat cells without surgery. SculpSure is ideal for people with trouble spots, particularly those that seem resistant to diet and exercise. In the weeks following a SculpSure treatment, the patients body will naturally eliminate the injured fat cells. Many patients start to see results in as early as six weeks. Arledge Aesthetics would love to help with any and all cosmetic and plastic surgery needs. Call the Arledge Aesthetics office if you have any questions or would like to book a consultation at (806) 778-5589.

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while addressing threats to plant and animal health. • Preserves our Farms Streamlines govern& Forests. Keeps our land ment. Streamlines and resources sustainable government profor our children and grandgrams, eliminates rechildren by encouraging dundancy and rolls voluntary, incentive-based back heavy-handed conservation practices that federal regulations protect our farms and foron our nation’s ests alike. farmers, ranchers “The goal of good farm policy is that people wouldn’t worry • Strengthens the Farm and foresters. about where their food and fiber comes from. The downside Safety Net. Provides staEnsures Fiscal Re- of that is people forget the amount of risks and challenges bility for America’s farmsponsibility. Im- there are in production agriculture.” ers and ranchers through proves existing pro- - Tom Sell, Southwest Council of Agribusiness improvements to the farm grams to maximize safety net and ensures we efficiency, reduces have defensible programs waste and maintains fiscally responsible stewardthat meet the needs of all producers. ship of taxpayer dollars. • Facilitates Agricultural Trade Exports. Supports Improves Anti-Hunger Programs. Includes imthe development of new international markets for provements to the nation’s largest anti-hunger agricultural exports, helping grow the economy program (SNAP) to help lift families out of poverty and create jobs. and into good-paying jobs. Secures Rural America. Better targets resources to Source: https://agriculture.house.gov/farmbill/ maintain our commitment to rural development

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MEET CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER

Michael Lambert

Where do you work and what does your job entail? I am one of the owners of Feed and Thangs Farm store in Idalou Texas. My brother and sister-in-law along with my wife and I own the store. As owners we are blessed to have great employees that enable us the ability to focus on the bigger picture and vision of the store, as well as continue to be involved in our community in a variety of aspects such as the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. Without our employees we would not have experienced the successes we have had to this point. How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? We have been involved with the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce from the get go. We really saw our membership as an opportunity to serve our community in a greater capacity which is something we really strive for as an ownership team in both Idalou and Lubbock. The fact that our Chamber is a true champion for small business is what makes us want to continue to find a way to contribute and give back. What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? My favorite event is hands down the Hub City BBQ Cook-off. However, I may be a little partial since I’m the chairman of that event this year. This committee is really a lot of fun and we have a great team of volunteers in place that makes the event run so smoothly. The volunteers work really hard to make it a fantastic event for our Chamber member teams and the general public that attends the event.

My favorite program is our Leadership Lubbock program. I am a 2017 graduate of the program and learned a tremendous amount about our city. I also had the opportunity to connect with my classmates, many of whom I would not have met had I not been in Leadership Lubbock. I currently serve on the Steering Committee for the program and it really is a unique opportunity to learn things about our city that most don’t get the opportunity to do. The networking that occurs between classmates really creates a family, and lifelong friendships both professionally and personally. What are some of your other community leadership roles? One of my most favorite things to do is to work with youth. I really enjoy helping run our Idalou Bears youth football program in Idalou with my brother-in -law. We run the league and coach the 5th and 6th grade teams. It is very rewarding and something I cherish. I am also involved with Idalou Cotton Fest and serve on that committee. It is a fantastic event that we brought back to Idalou last year and plan to make it an annual tradition. The event last year was very successful and well received. Finish this sentence: Never again will I…Let me just say that as a former United States Marine, and having served in the Intelligence Community for 21 years there are probably a lot of things that I would never do again, but I’m glad I had the opportunity to do them the first time and I don’t regret it a single bit.

thanks to our presenting sponsor:

Click here to register and learn more or call the Lubbock Chamber office at 761-7000.

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Young Entrepreneurs The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) held a CEO Roundtable on Tues., Feb. 27 at the Texas Tech Innovation Hub. Local CEOs helped support the YEA! students’ experience by sharing their own personal entrepreneurial story. The CEO Roundtable offered

MEET WITH LOCAL CEOS guidance and gave direction to the class of 20 young entrepreneurs. The featured CEOs of local businesses included: John English (Tailgate Express), Melissa Grimes (Studio West), Steve Massengale (Advanced Graphix), Ryan Smith (Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre).

PATH SET TO JOIN ERCOT SYSTEM

In January 2017 the Lubbock Chamber wrote a letter to Mayor Dan Pope in support of LP&L’s efforts to join the Texas state electric grid by seeking entry into the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). This past February LP&L sent out the following release announcing the Public Utility Commission has set a path for Lubbock’s entry into the ERCOT System. LUBBOCK (February 15, 2018) – The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) has set the path for the successful entry of Lubbock Power & Light to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The commissioners of the PUCT gave instruction to PUCT staff to return at the March 8th open meeting to present a final order for their approval. If approved by the PUCT, it is anticipated that integration of Lubbock’s system could take place as early as June 2021 pending the completion of electrical lines required to make the transition. “Today’s direction by the commissioners of the Public Utility Commission of Texas constitutes the most important milestone to date in our case to join ERCOT and we sincerely appreciate the diligence shown by the commissioners in this vital matter for Lubbock,” said LP&L Director David McCalla. “Moving to ERCOT accomplishes the long-term goals we set forth when we began this process over two years ago. It provides our customers a diversified portfolio of reliable and affordable Texas power for generations to come.” LP&L submitted its application to integrate approximately 70 percent of its system into ERCOT on September 1, 2017, and last month, the PUCT conducted a Hearing on the Merits to deliberate on whether Lubbock’s application was in the public interest of all Texas ratepayers. Part of the commissioners’ discussion revolved around LP&L reaching an agreement with stakeholders in ERCOT and SPP related to the cost of Lubbock’s integration. This past week, the Lubbock City Council and the LP&L Electric Utility Board voted unanimously to approve a stipulated agreement between LP&L and interested parties in ERCOT and SPP, and the agreement was then presented for PUCT review. The agreement, discussed by the PUCT commissioners today, sets Lubbock on the best possible path forward saving its ratepayers money and opening the door to retail electric competition in Lubbock. Based on third-party studies, the anticipated annual savings achieved by moving the majority of LP&L’s system to ERCOT exceeds the agreed-upon payments.

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According to the terms of the agreement, upon integration to ERCOT on June 1, 2021, LP&L will pay $22 million each year for the first five years, which will be credited to ERCOT wholesale transmission customers to mitigate integration costs. Also upon integration, LP&L will make a one-time payment of $24 million to SPS (Xcel Energy) for SPS’s retail and wholesale transmission customers. From the beginning of this process, LP&L identified the advantages to Lubbock ratepayers of joining ERCOT: Delivers affordable power: • Eliminates the need to build an expensive power plant with estimated costs ranging from $350 to $700 million • Provides access to 550 generation units and more than 1,100 active market participants that generate, move, buy, sell or use wholesale electricity • Allows Lubbock access to the most cost-effective power from the market • Reduces wholesale power costs significantly by eliminating expensive fixed capacity charges Assures diversified energy portfolio from Texas-based power plants: • Provides full access to West Texas wind energy and a mix of conventional and renewable electric generation fueled by natural gas, solar and coal • Provides stability through access to 550 different generation units across Texas, avoiding dependence on a single generation source • Allows access to the most competitive market available “I am excited about today’s meeting of the Public Utility Commission,” said Lubbock Mayor Pro-Tem Latrelle Joy. “This is a major step forward in the integration of LP&L into the ERCOT system and we look forward to the entry of the final Commission order on March 8. I want to thank the members of the Public Utility Commission, LP&L Director David McCalla and his staff, and the members of the Lubbock City Council for their assistance and support in this important matter.” Imagine Lubbock Together, a Chamber led initiative, played an instrumental role in finding a longterm solution to Lubbock’s electricity needs as this was one of the priorities in its Vision & Strategic Plan. The Chamber recognizes that entry into ERCOT could result in customer choice, in which we also support. For more information and updates on new customer initiatives at LP&L visit www.lpandl.com.

u o Y k n a Th AeroCare Affiliated Food Service Affordable Moving Altitude Trampoline Park AMBUCS - Downtown Chapter American Bank of Commerce BetterLubbock Properties, LP Bigfoot Storage Boys & Girls Clubs of Lubbock Brad J. Davidson Law Firm, PC Bustos Law Firm, PC Capital Mortgage Services Caprock Santa Fe Credit Union Carizma Motors - 56th & Frankford Casey Carpet One Cassandra Luebano Insurance Agency Clark Riley Insurance Cliff & Dorinda Harkey, JV Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Collision King Repair Center Condray Design Group Covington Body Shop Dan Baze Agency Davis Motor Co. Dayspring Designs DBS Kids Dennis Insurance Agency Diversified Lenders, Inc. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Edward Jones - Anna Reyes Emory Senior Living Empire Fabrication & Machine EPM, Inc. Escondido Apartments Feed and Thangs First United Bank G & G Irrigation & Pump Service Garrison Geriatric Education and Care Center Gaschen, Johnston, & Associates George R. Keeling Insurance Gibson Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Global Health Chiropractic/The

PARTNERS FOR RENEWING YOUR CHAMBER INVESTMENT

Wellness Place H2H Farms Healthy Meals To Go Holiday Inn Express-Downtown iLoveKickboxing.Com Interstate Batteries Isom Holdings Jeremy J. Burke DDS, PA Johnson and Johnson, DDS, LLP Karma Compliance Kathleen Nichols, DDS Keva Juice La Quinta Inn - West Medical Center Lemon Brothers Farms Live Oak Animal Hospital Lubbock Aero Lubbock Hospitality Nursing & Rehab Lubbock Land Company Lubbock Nephrology Associates Lubbock State Supported Living Center Lubbock Whitewood, LLC Lubbock Wholesale Payments, Inc. McDougal Capital McPherson Cellars Megaron Post Office Monsanto Southern Production Co., LLC Mosaic MoVaDe Realty & Investments Mr. Credit Solutions Paramount Financial Group-An Agency of Family Heritage Posey Gin, Inc. Powerhouse Nutrition Powerhouse Restoration Services Premiere Cinema Raintree Christian Church Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Refresh Carpet Cleaning Regal Pet Resort Reign

Robbco Pumps, Inc. Robertson Heating and Air, Inc. Robinson Burdette Martin & Seright, LLP Sitton Enterprises Sleep Inn & Suites Sunbelt Roofing Swink Triangle, LLC Tarbox Law, PC The Advanced Bariatric Surgery Center The Cliffs Resort The LASIK Vision Institute The Sewing Studio The Stellar Family of Companies The West Table TTU Small Business Development Center Tucker Oil Company, Inc. TXP Capital, LLC UDawg Graphics Underwood Cotton Co. Vista Bank - 50th Street Branch Vista College Waste Systems WC Land Services West Texas Gas, Inc. WestMark REALTORS - Gaither/ Ratcliff Windsor Creek Apartments

February Renewals

Working for Business, Believing in Lubbock | 13

THE LUBBOCK CHAMBER DELIVERS ON A

written by: Dan Baze

Promise

I returned to Lubbock in May of 2017 to open my insurance business after being gone for 35 years. Lubbock has really changed in that time, and I really wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sure where to start networking. Then I read an article about the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and its accolades, including being the only twice rated 5-star rated chamber in the USA. I found my first place to network and could not be more pleased with my choice to join and to become an ambassador. This is my second time in eight months being named Ambassador of the Month for the Lubbock Chamber. I have attended numerous ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, business after hours, chamber basics, etc. The goal was to build my network of business relationships and meet potential clients. I can honestly say that this goal has been met and surpassed. The Lubbock Chamber Ambassador Corps is one of the most tight-knit networking groups in the city. We see each other so often that we build close business relationships and also personal friendships. We do business with each other, support each other, and believe in each other. At the same time we support the mission of the Chamber, support new and changing businesses, and represent the greater Lubbock Business Community. Since my business focuses heavily on Commercial Insurance needs, this is the right place for me to spend a lot of my time. Numerous clients have been uncovered and developed that I would probably have never met otherwise. Charitable organizations that I believe in have become visible to me through ground breakings and ribbon cuttings and have allowed me to give back to this vibrant, but sometimes needy, community. The Dan Baze Agency is proud to be part of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, and I am proud to be the Ambassador of the Month for January 2018. Dan Baze Agency A Veteran Owned and Operated Agency Representing: American National Insurance

Dan Baze received his first Ambassador of the Month Award from Chairwoman Diannah Tatum at the 2017 October Board of Directors meeting.

Dan Baze received his January Ambassador of the Month Award from Chairman Cory Powell at the February Board of Directors meeting.

14 | Working for Business, Believing in Lubbock

Total Resource Campaign (TRC) The TRC volunteers led by TRC Chairman, Roger Karr, have been hard at work selling sponsorships for Chamber events, programs and publications. There are sponsorship levels for any budget ranging from $50 to $10,000 plus. If you are interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities contact the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Welcome

NEW PARTNERS | February 2018

100 Black Men of West Texas, Inc. (806) 787-2564 PO Box 6331 Lubbock, TX 79493 Non Profit Organizations

Honorable Insurance Agency (806) 441-6089 7008 Salem Ave. Lubbock, TX 79424 Insurance - Life & Health

Newsom Vineyards (806) 456-7885 1611 State Hwy 2196 Plains, TX 79355 Agricultural Related Businesses

AFLAC - Putman District (806) 416-4096 3417 73rd St., Ste G Lubbock, TX 79416 Insurance

Hub City Lending (806) 535-7779 7407 93rd St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Financial Services

Outdoor Chef (806) 748-7144 8802 Hwy 87 Lubbock, TX 79423 Home Accessories & Decor

Diversity D, Inc. (806) 637-0593 2023 FM 1698 Brownfield, TX 79316 Agricultural Related Businesses

Hungry Howie’s Pizza #1539 (806) 412-5999 7717 Milwaukee Ave. STE 100 Lubbock , TX 79424 Food Services

Preston Manor (806) 855-4510 922 Cantebury Ave. Wolfforth, TX 79382 Real Estate - Developers

East Lubbock Community Alliance (806) 535-7673 507 North Zenith Lubbock, TX 79403 Community Service Organizations

Inside Out Foundation (806) 677-3582 4630 50th St., Ste. 101 Lubbock, TX 79414 Non Profit Organizations

Sister’s Herbs (806) 939-8574 3308 82nd St. Lubbock, TX 79423 Wellness Products

Edward Jones - Byron Tyler (806) 786-9030 6820 6th St. Lubbock, TX 79416 Financial Planning

JST Concrete, LLC (806) 773-2905 5109 82nd St. #7, Box 1202 Lubbock, TX 79424 Contractors - Concrete

South Town Productions (806) 853-7423 Lubbock, TX Video Productions

G&A Partners (979) 329-6951 2700 Earl Rudder Fwy. South, Ste. 2200 College Station,TX 77845 Employee Leasing

Labor Max Staffing (915) 269-8965 4206 50th St., Ste. B Lubbock, TX 79413 Employment Agency-Permanent and/ or Temporary

H & E Equipment (806) 745-2600 3227 E. Slaton Rd. Lubbock, TX 79401 Construction Companies - General Contractors

Lubbock Steamer (806) 748-8400 506 82nd St. Lubbock, TX 79404 Carpet Cleaning

Hampton Inn & Suites - Lubbock SW (806) 797-9600 5614 Englewood Ave. Lubbock, TX 79424 Hotels & Motels

Vision Employment Group (806) 445-0426 2026 82nd St., Ste. 101 Lubbock, TX 79423 Employment Agency-Permanent and/ or Temporary

Madison Capital (806) 470-6572 6008 116th St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Finance Company

Reserve your seat here!

Working for Business, Believing in Lubbock | 15

RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

February 2018