Lubbock Business Network November 2014 Newsletter by Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

LUBBOCK

Business

Network

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

2014 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon December 4th

Vol. 22 No. 11 November 2014 Lubbock Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon

Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork

State Legislative Appreciation Luncheon

pg. 2, 6

pg. 7

Congratulations to the 2014 Annual Award Winners! Ambassador of the Year: Myndee Pool, Carpet Tech Sponsored by Parkhill, Smith & Cooper Volunteer of the Year: Preston Weems, Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas Sponsored by The Volunteer Center of Lubbock Business Person of the Year: Tim Collins, Collins Stone Sponsored by CEV Multimedia Business of the Year: Reagor Dykes Auto Group Sponsored by Windsor Creek Apartments

see page 6 for more on the 2014 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon

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Lubbock Business Network

In the News this Month:

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Dream Big Awards...........................5 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon...............................................6 2014 Twenty Under Forty Recipients................................................6 Introducing New Chamber Staff: Stevie Poole..............................7 State Legislative Appreciation Luncheon........................................7 Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork..........................7

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 benefitted 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 about your business, to purchase Lubbock Business Network sponsorships, contact the Chamber’s Communications and Marketing Division at (806) 761-7000.

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

2014 Board of Directors

Executive Committee

Chairwoman Alona Beesinger, Suddenlink Chairman-Elect Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialties, Inc. Immediate Past Chairman Carlos Morales, Caprock Home Health Treasurer Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall 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, 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 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 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 Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District 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

Lubbock Business Network

Upcoming November 4 YPGL First Tuesday Networking hosted by Gene Messer Ford November 6 Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork Business After Hours hosted by Stella’s Restaurant November 12 State Legislative Appreciation Luncheon November 13 Young Professionals 20 Under 40 Banquet November 20 Business After Hours hosted by Las Brisas Southwest Steakhouse

Business After Hours 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. November 6, 2014 4646 50th St.

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. November 20, 2014 4701 112th St.

TWENTY UNDER FORTY 2014

20 Under 40 Banquet

6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. November 13, 2014 Lubbock Scottish Rite, 1101 70th St. See page 6 for recipients. ®

November

4 5

Ribbon Cutting: Diane’s Bridal Quinceanera – 9:30 a.m. – 1602 Ave Q Young Professionals Lunch & Learn – 11:30 a.m. MCM Elegante, 801 Ave Q Young Professionals First Tuesday Networking – 5:30 p.m. Gene Messer Ford, 6000 19th St.

Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork – 8 a.m. San Jacinto Room, 1500 Broadway 2nd Floor Wells Fargo Center Agriculture Committee Meeting – 8 a.m. – LCOC Business After Hours hosted by Stella’s Restaurant & Catering 5:30 p.m. – 4646 50th St.

Transportation Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: The Polkadot Alley – 4:30 p.m. – 4615 50th St.

Chamber University Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Groundbreaking: CH Foundation & Lubbock Area Foundation 4p.m. – 6201 82nd St.

Leadership Lubbock Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: FirstCare Health Plans – 4 p.m. 1901 W. Loop 289, Suite 8B

State Legislative Appreciation Luncheon – Noon Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Rd. New Century Leadership Committee Meeting – 1 p.m. – LCOC

Ribbon Cutting: Twisted Root Burger Co. – 4:30 p.m. 116 W. Loop 289, Suite 200

13 Ribbon Cutting: Red, White and You Hiring Event for Veterans – 9:45 a.m. – Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Ln. Ribbon Cutting: Toys for Tots – 4:30 p.m. – MCM Elegante, 801 Ave Q Young Professionals 20 Under 40 Banquet – 6:30 p.m. Lubbock Scottish Rite, 1101 70th St. 14

Ribbon Cutting: Scrubs n Style – 9:30 a.m. – 5102 60th St., Suite M Government Relations Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: The Fig & Flower Co. – 4:30 p.m. – 2019 Broadway

Ribbon Cutting: Home Instead Senior Care’s Be a Santa to a Senior – 9:30 a.m. – 1010 Slide Rd. Young Professionals Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Sunrise Canyon Hospital – 4 p.m. – 1950 Aspen Ave.

New Century Leadership: Ag & Energy Day – All Day Ambassador Luncheon – Noon – Science Spectrum 2579 S. Loop 289, #250

20 Executive Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Business After Hours hosted by Las Brisas Southwest Steakhouse – 5:30 p.m. – 4701 112th St. 21

Ribbon Cutting: Tascosa Office Machines – 2:30 p.m. – 1502 Ave Q

27-28Chamber Offices Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

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

Lubbock Business Network

U.S. Chamber of Commerce DREAM BIG Awards Program recognizes Small Business Success! Applications & Nominations are now being accepted. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce takes great pride in honoring small business leaders who embody the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship through the 2015 DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award. The award program, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, is designed to honor our nation’s job creators and recognize their significant contributions as drivers of economic growth. Small businesses are encouraged to apply directly for the award. In addition, chambers, associations and companies may nominate a small business to show their support. Learn more about the application process. Eligibility: A business must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the Small Business of the Year Award: - Fewer than 250 employees - Gross revenues of less than $20 million in both 2012 and 2013 - If selected as a Blue Ribbon Winner, must attend America’s Small Business Summit 2014, in Washington, D.C., at company’s expense. Criteria: Eligible applicants will be judged on the following: - Business strategies and goals - Staff training and motivation - Customer service - Community involvement Timeline: January 7, 2015: Nomination Submission Deadline February 2, 2015: Application Submission Deadline February 16, 2015: Blue Ribbon Winners Announced March 18, 2015: Regional Finalists (7) Announced June 8-10, 2015: America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C. Click here to view “Frequently Asked Questions”. Blue Ribbon Award® winners will receive one complimentary registration to attend the Summit, courtesy of Sam’s Club. Award winning applicants must be willing to attend the June 8-10, 2015 Summit in Washington, D.C. at their expense. Last year, three Lubbock Chamber members were honored as Blue Ribbon Winners, including Battery Joe, Benchmark Business Solutions and Slate Group (formerly Copy Craft). For more information, contact Norma Ritz Johnson, Executive Vice President – Govt. & Community Relations at the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce at norma.johnson@ lubbockbiz.org or (806) 761-7000. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity for your business!

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 Membership & Investor Relations Colleen Evans, IOM Leadership Director Amy Marquez Education Director Allison Cottrell Marketing Specialist Haily Assiter Event Specialist Haley Howey Government & Community Relations Specialist Stevie Poole Administrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Patricia Picon Accounting Assistant Susan Bailey Interns Keely Hamman Peyton Waldrip

Lubbock Business Network

2014 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host its Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon on Thurs., Dec. 4, at 11:30 a.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. The 5-Star celebration will include recognizing annual award winners and celebrating the 5-Star Chamber and its member businesses. This year’s award honorees include: Ambassador of the Year: Myndee Pool, Carpet Tech, Sponsored by Parkhill, Smith & Cooper Volunteer of the Year: Preston Weems, Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas, Sponsored by The Volunteer Center of Lubbock Business Person of the Year: Tim Collins, Collins Stone, Sponsored by CEV Multimedia Business of the Year: Reagor Dykes Auto Group, Sponsored by Windsor Creek Apartments The luncheon’s featured speaker will be Lubbock native and Texas Tech University graduate, Libby Spears. Her presentation is titled, “What’s Your Plan Be?”. For the last 10 years, Spears has

worked with professionals, teams and organizations across all industries and found that many of them are operating from a play book that is out of date and out of touch, leaving them just another face in the crowd. Who can survive under these conditions? The people and organizations who write their own rules for success and take a risk to do things that no one else is doing not only survive, they thrive. They confidently answer the question “What’s Your Plan Be?”.

call the Chamber at (806) 761-7000, or email sheri.nugent@lubbockbiz.org. Thanks to our sponsors! Annual Meeting Presenting:

Annual Report Presenting:

Annual Meeting Diamond: George McMahan Development, LLC, Southwest Airlines, Suddenlink Libby Spears

The cost of the luncheon is $50. Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. A table of eight may be purchased for $400 for a silver level sponsorship, $550 for gold level and $1,000 for platinum level. Deadline to purchase tickets is noon on Mon., Dec. 1. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit LubbockChamber.com,

Annual Report Diamond: McDougal Companies Annual Meeting Platinum: Atmos Energy, Centennial Bank, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Awards: CEV Multimedia, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, Volunteer Center of Lubbock, Windsor Creek Apartments

Congratulations to the 2014 Twenty Under Forty Recipients The Chamber’s Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Twenty Under Forty Banquet will be held on Thurs., Nov. 13, from 6-9 p.m. at the Lubbock Scottish Rite, 1101 70th St. The following recipients will receive their Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Twenty Under Forty Award at the banquet: Dr. Candy Arentz, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Mr. Dustin Brooks, Brooks Law, LLP; Ms. Kathleen Burrel, South Plains

Chapter, Texas Society of CPAs; Mr. David Crews, United Supermarkets, LLC; Ms. Aimee Carol Doane, Suddenlink Communications; Mr. Nicholas Dragga, Ballet Lubbock, Inc.; Mr. Chris Felton, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Ms. Terri Furman, KLBK TV 13; Mr. Miles Hardaway, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, Inc.; Mr. Jared Higgins, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, Inc.; Ms. Heather Keister, Freese and Nichols, Inc.; Ms. Amber McCloud, Prosperity Bank; Ms. Amber Miller, Brady

& Hamilton, LLC; Mr. Rhett Newberry, Pros Company; Ms. Abie Rampy, Chick-fil-A at South Plains Crossing; Mr. Raymond Richardson, Lubbock Christian University; Ms. Aleesa Ross, Texas Tech University College of Media & Communication; Ms. Libby White, Lubbock-Crosby-Garza Co. Medical Society; Ms. Katie A. Wragg, City Bank; Ms. Anna T Young, Texas Tech University National Wind Institute.

Colleen Evans Celebrates 10 Years at the Chamber The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Colleen Evans for her 10 years of service to the Lubbock Chamber. On Nov. 15, 2004, Evans began working at the Chamber as Administrative Assistant. She was later promoted to Membership Director and then to her current position as Vice PresidentMembership and Investor Relations. Evans is responsible for all new member sales and is responsible for all retention efforts and member relations.

She has been recognized by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Circle of Champions for her sales efforts and has placed in the top six in the nation for membership sales every year since 2008. Evans previously worked with the Lubbock Chamber Ambassador program helping it grow and become one of the largest and most successful nationally. In August 2011, Evans received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organizational Management (IOM) professional designation and served on

the Board of Regents for the Northeast Institute from 2012-13.

Lubbock Business Network

Meet New Chamber Staff Member, Stevie Poole Stevie Poole has been hired as the Government and Community Relations Specialist. She began her duties on Oct. 6. A native of Plainview, Poole graduated from Monterey High School in Lubbock and Texas Tech University with a degree in media strategies. Prior to her appointment at the Chamber, Poole served as the

Government and Business Reporter at the Lubbock AvalancheJournal. As the Government and Community Relations Specialist, Poole will coordinate the Chamber’s Imagine Lubbock Together efforts and assist with activities in support of the Government and Community Relations Program of Work. 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 Chamber has twice earned the distinguished 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is a two-time Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives.

State Legislative Appreciation Luncheon Join the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce in thanking our elected officials at the Legislative Appreciation Luncheon on Nov. 12 at the Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Rd. Those in attendance will have an opportunity to hear from State Sen. Charles Perry and State Rep. John Frullo as well as remarks from Lubbock’s next state representative from District 83 just days after the election. The event begins at 11:45 a.m. Sponsorships are still available for a reserved table of eight. Contact Norma Ritz Johnson at norma.johnson@lubbockbiz.org or 806.761.7000 for more information. Reservations for individual seats are $45 each and can be made online. Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. The deadline to reserve a seat is noon on Fri., Nov. 7.

Thanks to our Sponsors!

Presenting: StarCare Specialty Health System

Diamond: Parkhill, Smith & Cooper Platinum: Texas Tech University System Atmos Energy Ag Texas Farm Credit Services Lubbock Association of Realtors

Don’t Miss the All New Chamber University Seminar: “The Trenches of Teamwork” Don’t miss the all new seminar Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork, that will be held on November 6, at Workforce Solutions South Plains on 1301 Broadway, in Suite 201. Texas Tech Athletics Director Kirby Hocutt, Director of Training and Development for Covenant Knipling Education Conference Center, Heather Smith, and Executive Coach at Spirit Ranch, Mark Persall, will be the keynote speakers for this event. They will be giving presentations on how teamwork has helped them find success, and how you and your business can also find success through teamwork. Kirby Hocutt will be giving a presentation on how to overcome obstacles within a team, Heather Smith will be enlightening attendees on how to better work as a team with their coworkers, and Mark Persall will be discussing diversity within teams. There will also be a question and answer period at the end of each presentation. Chamber University will also award certificates for Continuing Education Units for those interested. This seminar

will award .3 credit of 1 CEU (3 out of 10 hours). If you wish to sign up for a CEU credit, please call the Chamber of Commerce. Registration is open until 5 p.m., Nov. 5. Changes to your reservation may be made until 5 p.m. Nov., 5. If you are unable to attend, you may send another representative in your place. The doors open at 8 a.m. with a complimentary breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A. The program begins at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude by 11:30 a.m. Chamber University: The Trenches of Teamwork, is sponsored by American National Bank, United Supermarkets, and Workforce Solutions South Plains. The cost of the seminar is $70. Chamber members get a discounted price of $60. Group pricing is also available. You can register at www.lubbockchamber.com or call (806) 761-7000. For additional information or to inquire about group pricing, contact the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce at (806) 761-7000 or info@lubbockbiz.org.

Lubbock Business Network

Texas Tech Federal Credit Union Ravenwood Branch Named Fall 2014 Quarter Water-Smart Business In April of 2012, when the Lubbock and surrounding areas were experiencing signicant drought, Texas Tech Federal Credit Union, Ravenwood Branch, took extra precautions to conserve water. Abbi Brickey, Chief Marketing Officer, said that her branch took measures into their own hands for making sure water was saved. “Recognizing the essential need to sustain Lubbock’s long-term water resources,” Brickey said, “Texas Tech Federal Credit Union actively designed a responsive landscape strategy for their new branch with consultant Rex Andrews, Company Representative for Metro Lawn & Landscaping, L.L.C., and Sandia Construction. The new design featured green-friendly, waterwise plants and an underground watering system.” Brickey said they chose the Waterwise Landscape for their Ravenwood Branch because of the high benefits for water conservation including: • Reduced consumption of imported or ground water: waterwise plants reduce water use by 50-75 percent, making more water available for community use. • Increased advantage of rainfall retention. • Reduced use of fertilizers and

pesticides: native plants eliminate the need for heavy chemicals. • Reduced pollution and maintenance: fuel consumption from gas mowers is minimized or eliminated, and labor expended on weeding and edging is reduced. • Increased value: waterwise designs have been shown to raise property values and offset the costs of installation. • Distinguished appearance: waterwise landscapes are often more visually interesting than lawns. • Sustainability: during water restrictions, waterwise landscapes can survive and thrive, while more ornamental plants may be unable to adapt. After doing a cost analysis between a traditional landscape and the Waterwise Landscape over a 100-year period, Brickey said they were surprised to learn that the water-smart landscape would actually cost less over time. She said they were also surprised by the color and variety of plants available in a water-smart landscape. Texas Tech Federal Credit Union has been an active member of the Chamber since 2001 and have been sponsors or have participated in events such as including: Business Expo, Football Kickoff Breakfast, Community Prayer Breakfast,

Harvest Breakfast/Luncheon, Business After Hours, Fiestas Luncheon, Leadership Lubbock, Total Resource Campaign, and many more. Brickey said that winning the Chamber’s Water-Smart Business award was a happy moment for them. “We are proud to be a part of the water conservation efforts in the Lubbock Community and appreciate the Chamber’s efforts to recognize local businesses that do the same,” Brickey said. “It is everyone’s responsibility to conserve this valuable resource.” Congratulations to Texas Tech Federal Credit Union. Thank you for going the extra distance to conserve water and make Lubbock beautiful.

November Business of the Month: Walgreens

Congratulations to the November Business of the Month, Walgreens! Walgreens has been an active member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce since the late 1990s. Ty Jones, the Regional Manager for Walgreens said that being an active member with the Chamber has had many positive effects on their relationships with the community. “We have created lasting relationship from being involved in the Business Expo and Business Mercado,” Jones said. “ Also, we have formed many lasting relationships from being involved in the Ambassador program, this has led to other business partnerships within

Lubbock and has had a significant impact on growing our business within the Lubbock market.” In addition to being involved with the Business Expo, Business Mercado, and having employees in the Lubbock Ambassador Program, Jones said the company also enjoys attending and hosting Business After Hours, which is a great networking tool for growing and staring business relationships. With all the Chamber events that are put on, Jones said Walgreens’ favorite is

the Business Expo. “We love the excitement it brings along with getting to meet other businesses and interacting with the public,” Jones said. “ It is a great event that brings all of those things together.” Again, congratulations to Walgreens! Can’t wait to see you at the next Business After Hours! The Chamber is proud to congratulate Walgreens on its November Business of the Month achievement. Walgreens, along with all of the other businesses of the month for 2014, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award, in December 2014.

Lubbock Business Network

35th Annual Holiday Happening: Unwrap the Magic! The Junior League of Lubbock, Inc., is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Founded 60 years ago, The Junior League of Lubbock is proud of the 150 active members and 450 sustaining members that volunteer more than 15,000 hours each year to our Lubbock community. The JLL continues to concentrate our volunteer efforts in the area of education through our three Signature Projects: Food2Kids, Kids in the Kitchen, and SPARK. A partnership with the Lubbock Independent School District and the South Plains Food Bank, Food2Kids provides food sacks every Friday for over 1,200 elementary-aged children, who are at high risk for suffering from hunger over the weekend. Sacks contain food such as peanut butter, shelf-stable milk, juice, fruit snacks, pop-top cans of spaghetti, cereal, nut snacks, pop-tarts, etc. Kids in the Kitchen, allows the League to educate young children about healthy food choices and the importance of living an active, fit lifestyle. Our newest project,

SPARK, is a mentorship program for atrisk teenage girls concentrating on selfimage, leadership, college preparation, and volunteerism. Our signature projects require funding and so the JLL reaches out to the community. Holiday Happening is an annual fundraiser of the Junior League of Lubbock. For 35 years, a group of women have spent countless hours planning, organizing, and creating the “magic” that has become synonymous with the start of the Christmas season in Lubbock—Holiday Happening! This event is recognized as a Lubbock tradition and one of the most exciting events in the Lubbock community. Each year these women poured their hearts into creating a one-of-akind experience filled with shopping, and special events to get the Lubbock community into the Christmas spirit. While the themes, the décor trends, and the aprons have changed over the years, one thing has remained the same - our mission to raise funds that go directly back into our community through our projects. Holiday Happening, the Junior League of Lubbock’s largest fundraising event celebrates its 35th Anniversary this

November. Since the event’s inception in 1979, the Junior League of Lubbock has been able to return more than $5 million to the Lubbock community. And those funds? They support the League’s work in the community: providing the resources to make the Food2Kids program possible, to support Hope Lodge, to help teach children about good nutrition, to impact the lives of young women and the list goes on. Lubbock and West Texas – you have made those funds possible! We would like to thank you for 35 years of support and partnership in making Lubbock a better place. Please join us this year as we Unwrap the Magic! Save the Dates: Holiday Happening 2014 – Unwrap the Magic! Celebrating 35 Years November 19–23 at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center For more information call 806.794.8894, visit our website www. jllubbock.com or find us on www. facebook.com/jllubbock.

Lubbock Business Network

Business Mercado The 6th Annual Business Mercado was held on Tues., Oct. 14, at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center in the Pedestrian Mall. Fifty-six exhibitors and more than 450 attendees enjoyed free food, prizes, and live entertainment. Businesses ranging from dentistries to supermarkets were given the chance to network with other businesses as well as connect with the attendees of the four-hour event. Ballet folklorico dancers and a mariachi band

from Lubbock High School performed throughout the event, providing a lively and fun environment for the event. Thank you to all businesses that participated in the 2014 Business Mercado and our generous sponsors. Diamond: FirstCare Health Plans, Suddenlink Media: Magic 93.7, Telemundo Platinum: Lubbock KIDS Dental Printing: Action Printing

Gold: Allstate Insurance – Russell Donaway, American National Bank, Caprock Home Health Services, First Mortgage Home Lending, Pavecon, United Supermarkets, Wells Fargo, Windsor Creek Apartments, Workforce Solutions Hospitality: Sam’s Club Door Prize: Edible Arrangements

Business Mercado ®

2014

Total Resource Campaign Volunteers Travel to Playa del Carmen The Total Resource Campaign markets sponsorships to programs, events, publications and electronic media as well as recruits new memberships. The 2014 Campaign “The Big Picture” was led by Brice Foster, City Bank, and exceeded the goal by over 14 percent. Volunteers received incentives throughout the eight-

week campaign and if they reached their monetary goal, they received a trip to Playa del Carmen. Eighteen people were awarded the trip and each took a guest to Playa del Carmen from Oct. 26-31. A big thank you goes to the trip sponsor, Robert Madden Industries and all the volunteers who participated.

Board Member Spotlight: David Park

How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I have lived in a number of cities in West Texas while working for Atmos Energy. I have been involved in the chamber in each of those cities. Getting involved with the Lubbock Chamber was very natural as it is one of the best Chamber of Commerce in the country. It’s a great way to meet people in the business community and give back to Lubbock. What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? The Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon in December is

always a fun time recognizing people that have made an impact and celebrating the year. What are some of your other community leadership roles? I’m on the Finance Committee for the United Way, Imagine Lubbock Together Steering Committee and I’m on the Executive Committee of the Texas Gas Association. Finish this sentence: Never again will I… Take a cruise on a small boat with an active five-year-old.

Lubbock Business Network

Hispanic Heritage Luncheon The Hispanic Heritage Luncheon, presented by Reagor Dykes Auto Group, occurred on Oct. 14, at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center in the Banquet Hall. With more than 320 seats filled, the luncheon drew 28 sponsors. Bill Hammond from the Texas Association of Business announced the TAB 2015 Jobs Agenda highlighting state priorities for the 2015 Legislative Session. The luncheon was followed by a press conference announcing the TAB jobs agenda to the public. Featured speaker Eddie Aldrete, Senior Vice President of IBC Bank, discussed cultural history and progress,

relating it to his own family history and the future of jobs and education. Thank you to all of our sponsors of the 2014 Hispanic Heritage Luncheon. Presenting: Reagor Dykes Auto Group Diamond: American National Bank, Suddenlink Platinum: First United Bank, Montelongoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mexican Restaurant, TTU Division of Institutional Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement (DIDECE) Gold: Amerigroup Health Plans, FirstCare Health Plans, Prosperity Bank, StarCare Specialty Health System, TTU HUB Office and Office of Procurement Services,

Velasquez Insurance & Worksite Benefits Silver: Abbeville Dentisty, Alderson Enterprises, Atmos Energy, Caprock Home Health Services, Entravision, Goodwill Industries, Great Plains Distributors, Law Offices of David Martinez, Lubbock Eye Clinic, Magic 93.7, Northwest Texas Small Business Development Center, South Plains College, Telemundo, Texas Association of Business, TTU Small Business Development Center Hispanic Heritage Luncheon 2014 ÂŽ

Join us for our

One-Year Anniversary in LUBBOCK

Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Costa Rica Trip Thirty-one members and friends of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce traveled in October to the beautiful country of Costa Rica. This is the third international trip the Lubbock Chamber has facilitated in the last four years, having previously visited China in 2011 and Italy in 2012.

Travelers flew from Dallas, Texas to the capital city of San Jose and enjoyed a half-day of guided sight-seeing and a half-day exploring the city on their own. The group then traveled to the Arenal Volcano region and got to experience being in an area considered to be one of the richest in biological diversity in Costa Rica. An afternoon and evening was spent at Baldi Hot Springs located at the base of the Arenal Volcano featuring 25 thermo mineral hot water pools flowing naturally from the base of the volcano. The medicinal waters in the pools range in temperatures from 93 ยบ F to 152 ยบ F. The last part of the trip was spent on the Pacific Coast in the Guanacaste region at an all inclusive hotel where everyone was able to take advantage of the beach and pools, go ziplining, four wheeling, and even a jungle boat cruise where they got up close and personal with white face monkeys and crocodiles. A small group even took a day trip excursion into the country of Nicaragua which is just north of Costa Rica.

Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Spotlight: Patrick Tran When did you win your 20 Under 40 Award? I won in the 2013 cycle of award winners. What were your feelings toward winning the 20 Under 40 Award? I was honestly surprised. It was humbling to see who the other winners were. It felt very surreal being on stage with the other 20 under 40 winners, because they had such a large impact on their industries. Afterwards, I felt empowered to push even harder in my career, and philanthropic endeavors. Why did you choose to be a member of Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock? What drew me to the Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock was how friendly all the members are. It is a great opportunity to network with fellow young professionals. How long have you been a YP member? Two years.

What are some of your favorite YP events to attend? First Tuesday Networking events are always my favorite to attend. You get to meet so many people! The catering is a nice plus as well. What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YP member? My favorite part is getting to meet new members, and hearing their stories.

Why is being a YP member important to you? Being a YP member is important to me because I think it is a great place to network and have fun with fellow young professionals in our area. It fosters an environment that allows young professionals to meet with fellow peers. This allows us to form connections and learn from each other. This, in my opinion, is very important to the young professionals of Lubbock and the community. Where do you work? South Plains Council, Boy Scouts of America What is your position? District Director What all does your position entail? Membership, fundraising, and volunteer management. How long have you been with your current company? It has been a very exciting three years.

Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Ambassador Program The Chamber’s ambassador program is comprised of 207 ambassadors, representing their member businesses. These 207 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 groundbreakings. 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 of the Month award and/or the Ambassador Team of the Month Award, 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. In the month of August, Judy Tyree was named Ambassador of the Month. Team Soliz won Ambassador Team of the Month. 49 percent of all 207 ambassadors participated in at least one event. Team Davis achieved 51 percent participation. Team Laughlin achieved 43 percent participation. Team Pool achieved 51 percent participation. Team Schooler achieved 42 percent participation. Team Soliz achieved 59 percent participation. The Chamber appreciates the efforts put forth by our Ambassadors, and the time they each devote to Chamber events. Great job in August, keep up the good work!

Ambassador of the Month: Danny Soliz Congratulations to Danny Soliz, September Ambassador of the Month. Soliz has been a Chamber Ambassador since 2001. He has won this award multiple times. “It’s an excellent way to meet small business owners in our community through ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings,” Soliz said about being a Chamber ambassador. “It’s an opportunity to network with them and make them aware of our services and products we offer to assist them at no cost.” Soliz is involved with the Chamber much more than just the Chamber Ambassador Program. His favorite Chamber event is the Business Expo. This year, Soliz joined the Business Mercado committee. “There are great people to work with on the Business Mercado committee,” Soliz said. Some of Soliz’s favorite Chamber events include the Business Expo, the Hub City BBQ Cook-Off, the Business Mercado and the Chamber Golf Classic. “[Chamber events] provide excellent opportunities to network and meet people,” said Soliz.

“Ambassadors come and go,” Soliz said. “By staying active and involved, it gives me an opportunity to interact with new ambassadors and learn about their businesses.” “The Chamber has a great staff and leadership who are pleasant to work with,” Soliz said about why his role as a Chamber ambassador is important to him. As the director of business development at Workforce Solutions South Plains, Soliz works with businesses, assists with job fairs in April and October, coordinates a Veterans Job Fair in November, and works with the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and Lubbock Economic Development Alliance. Soliz will celebrate his 14-year anniversary with Workforce Solutions in March. Outside of the Chamber, Soliz stays involved in the Children’s Home of Lubbock, the Society of Human Resource Management, Lubbock Girls Basketball and Bible Bowl competitions at Abilene, Andrews and Lubbock (home church).

Ambassador Team of the Month: Team Soliz

Members of Team Soliz were recognized for their achievement at the October Ambassador Luncheon.

Congratulations, Team Soliz, Ambassador Team of the Month! Team Soliz finished September with 96 points. Team Soliz, led by Danny Soliz includes: Sandy Abbe, Rex Andrews, Melinda Baker, Andy Bean, Tina Boneta, Donna Borden, Taylor Bristow, Scott Cain, Stacy Cain, Marie H. Evans, Christina Gandhi, Randy Gattis, Marie Gonzales, Kristin Lea Hagins, Shannon Hansen, Brandon Hart, Christy Haynes, Chuck Heinz, Vanesa Hyde, Abraham Lincoln, Christy McGill, Nick Mertens, Ricky Neelley, Frederic Popanz, Gloria Quinton, Amy C. Rock, Melenie Segura, Miles Seybert, Frank Silvas, Mike Sparks, Mona Spence, Ellen Spoon, Steve Sypert, Tori Sypert, Kristin Thomas, Louisa Vaca, Lewis Vega, Carmen Vige, Spike Wideman, Taysha Williams, Teresa Young, Valerie Zink, and Janie Zuniga.

Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Leadership Division Educator Appreciation Reception The Chamber congratulates the following 12 educators for being selected to receive the 2014 Educator Appreciation Award: Erin Castle, Lubbock High School; Elizabeth Duran, Estacado High School; Eben Emerson, Christ the King Cathedral School; Elizabeth McGinnis, Monterey High School; Shannon Powell, Trinity Christian School; Shelly Price, Lubbock Christian

School; Gustavo Rodriguez, Talkington School for Young Women Leaders; Mika Smith, Coronado High School; Kamber Smith, Shallowater High School; Jared Squires, Kingdom Preparatory Academy; Laci Talerico, Lubbock-Cooper High School; Patti Thompson, New Deal High School.

New Century Leadership: Positive Impact Day New Century Leadership’s October Class day was on Wed,. Oct. 22. The focus of the day was “Positive Impact”. Students learned from non-profits and business how to make a positive impact on their community. Giving of your time and

talents is just as important as giving of resources and money. Our next New Century Leadership class day will be on Wed., Nov. 19.

New Century Leadership Student Spotlight: Jared Martin Get to know New Century Leadership student, Jared Martin.

Martin is a high school junior, who represents Coronado High School in the New Century Leadership program. Ranked 53rd in his class, Martin is a member of National Honor Society at Coronado. “I value knowledge to its fullest extent because I believe that knowledge and intellect will take me farther than any amount of money or athletic ability will,” Martin said. Martin plays both Junior Varsity and Varsity football. “I participate in school and community related activities because I am willing to constantly increase my knowledge to prepare myself for the future ahead,” said Martin. “I strive to be as good as I can in everything I do so I may

be a productive citizen who contributes to this society and my community in a positive way.” Martin has been an active member of the Boy Scouts of America since kindergarten. He is a Life Scout. “I am working on my Eagle Scout Project which is a project that strictly benefits the community,” Martin said. In the Lubbock community, Martin is active in the youth group at Highland Baptist Church. “I assert myself into many communityhelping opportunities as they present themselves,” stated Martin. After graduation, Martin plans to join the Marine Corps.

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings

Back 40 Grill 5214 98th St. 14

Bayer Museum of Agriculture 1121 Canyon Lake Dr.

Big Brothers Big Sisters 3416 Knoxville Ave.

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings Sponsored by:

Custom Electronics 1214 18th St.

FirstBank & Trust Co. 7808 Indiana Ave

Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas 2121 Marsha Sharp Fwy.

Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas 5710 Spur 327

Goosehead Insurance West Texas Agency 4413 82nd St., Suite202

Hampton Inn & Suites 5614 Englewood Ave.

Hart Moving & Storage 3615 Magnolia Ave.

Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Business Mercado

Omni Pilates 4412 74th St., Suite D100

Roy W. Neal, Jr. Agency, Inc. 6004-B North Cedar Ave.

Servco 2701 E. 66th St.

Sheplers Western Store 6002 Slide Rd. 15

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings

South Plains Career Expo

South Plains Job Fair

Tracy R. Henson McBee, DDS, PA 8705 Milwaukee Ave.

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP NOVEMBER 7-8, 2014

NATIONAL RANCHING HERITAGE CENTER

Vision Audio 5181 69th St.

2014photographyworkshop.eventbrite.com

FEATURING: JEROD FOSTER