THE LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER
LUBBOCK BUSINESS NETWORK N O S T E TICK ! W O N SALE
Learn more on pg. 6
Vol. 25 No. 9 September 2016
Don’t Miss the Deadline - Directory Sales Ending Soon!
Texas Secretary of State to Speak at Upcoming Luncheon
Chamber Takes on Five Lawsuits; Learn How We Advocate for Your Business
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pg. 9
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Thank you to our 5-Star Sponsors!
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Lubbock Business Network
In the News this Month:
Don’t Miss the Deadline - Directory Sales Ending Soon.............5 Get Your Hub City BBQ Cook-off Tickets Today..............................6 Texas Secretary of State to Speak at Upcoming Luncheon.......9 Don’t Miss the Millenial Retention Seminar................................ 10 Chamber Takes on Five Lawsuits..................................................... 12 Meet Ruben Trujillo, July Ambassador of the Month............... 14
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 over 2,000 members who employ over 79,000 workers, and account for over $2 billion in annual household earnings in Lubbock and West Texas, all without tax dollars. Each day, the Chamber strengthens, promotes and serves its member businesses through numerous programs and events. The Chamber advocates on local, state and federal levels and offers diverse programs for both large and small as well as minority-owned businesses.
2016 Board of Directors Executive Committee Chairwoman Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Immediate Past Chairman Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialities, Inc. Chairwoman Elect Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Treasurer David Park, Atmos Energy Secretary Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman - Chamber Services and Member Engagement Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust Co. Vice Chairwoman - Communications and Public Relations Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society Vice Chairman - Community Development Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech - Institutional Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement Vice Chairman - Programs, Services and Events Scott Fagin, First United Bank
Board of Directors
Share Your News! To submit an article about your business or to purchase Lubbock Business Network sponsorships, contact the Chamber at (806) 761-7000. Click here to visit our new website, log into the members only portal, submit events/job openings and much more!
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Byrnie Bass, R. Byrn Bass, Jr., Attorney at Law Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center Lubbock Alona Beesinger, Suddenlink Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes Kevin Bryan, Digital Base Productions Keith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School District Renee Gonzales Davis, Alderson Enterprises/Mercedes-Benz Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/Ratcliff Jeff Horn, Benchmark Business Solutions Chris James, United Supermarkets Brent King, UMC Health System Chris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’s Dave Marcinkowski, Madera Companies Richard Parks, Covenant Health Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System Vanessa Reasoner, Grace Health Systems Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District Shannon Spencer, Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc. Marcie Truby, Hyatt Place Lubbock Polly Vann, V-tech Environmental Services Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health Plans Connie Wharton, Consultant Tyler Young, Texas Tech Federal Credit Union
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Lubbock Business Network
Young Professionals of Lubbock Tuesday Networking sponsored by:
1021 University Ave.
September 13, 2016 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Business After Hours
sponsored by:
S E P TE M B E R 1
Business After Hours sponsored by The Legacy Event Center 5:30 p.m. – 1500 14th St.
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Ribbon Cutting: RGS Flooring, LLC – 11 a.m. – 725 B Hwy 62/82 Ribbon Cutting: The Esplanade at City View – 12:30 p.m. 4525 Milwaukee Ave.
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Labor Day - Chamber Office Closed
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Leadership Lubbock Steering Comittee – 3:30 p.m. – LCOC
Ribbon Cutting: Carpenter’s Church Housing First Project – 11 a.m. 1903 13th St. Hub City BBQ Committee – 4 p.m. – Wells Fargo Building,1500 Broadway, San Jacinto Room - 2nd Floor
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Ribbon Cutting: Upland Heights Elementary – 9 a.m. – 10020 Upland Ave. Agriculture, Transportation and Government Relations Committees with Jodey Arrington – 10:30 a.m. – Wells Fargo Building,1500 Broadway, San Jacinto Room - 2nd Floor Ribbon Cutting: The Tailgate Sports Bar & Grill – 4 p.m. 417 Frankford STE 200
Chamber Basics: Pizza with the President sponsored by Exit Realty’s Lori Daniel – 11:45 a.m. – Wells Fargo Building,1500 Broadway, San Jacinto Room - 2nd Floor
12 Hub City BBQ Team Leads Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC 13 Young Professionals Tuesday Networking sponsored by University Custom – 5:30 p.m. – 1021 University Ave. 14 Ribbon Cutting: DBS Kids – 10:30 a.m. – 4322 Justice Ave. Ambassador Luncheon – Noon – Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 3201 South Loop 289 15
Executive Committee – Noon – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Communities in Schools – 2 p.m. – 1946 Ave. Q, 3rd Floor Texas Tech President’s Reception – 5:30 p.m. – Merket Alumni Center
16 Ribbon Cutting: CanTex Roofing & Construction, LLC – Noon 9813 Hwy 62/82 20 Young Professionals of Lubbock Steering Committee – Noon – LCOC 22 15th Annual Hub City BBQ Cook-Off – 5 p.m. – Downtown (Broadway between Avenues Q and M)
September 1, 2016 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. 1500 14th St.
Introducing the Chamber’s new show:
Member Focus
“Working for Business, Believing in Lubbock.”
23 Ribbon Cutting: 2016 World Congress on Ultrasound in Medical Education Conference – 8 a.m. – 15th & Akron Ave., Allen Theater 27
Chamber University: Millennial Retention – 8 a.m. – FirstBank & Trust Ribbon Cutting: Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure Registration 9:30 a.m. – 1655 Main St. STE 203 Business Mercado Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC
28 State Legislative Forum Reception – 5 p.m. – Overton Hotel & Conference Center, 2322 Mac Davis Lane 29
Leadership Lubbock: City/County Government – ALL DAY State Legislative Forum – 7:30 a.m. – Overton Hotel & Conference Center, 2322 Mac Davis Lane State of the Texas Tech System Luncheon – Noon – Overton Hotel & Conference Center, 2322 Mac Davis Lane
30 Ribbon Cutting: LHUCA’s Plaza Stage & Amenties – 4:30 p.m. 511 Ave. K *LCOC = Lubbock Chamber of Commerce
Highlighting a variety of businesses each month.
Follow us on Social Media!
You won’t want to miss it, PLUS you could be next! 4
For a complete list of Chamber and member events, visit our calendar online at lubbockchamber.com/events.
Lubbock Business Network
DON’T MISS THE DEADLINE!!!
Sponsorship sales are underway for the 2017 Business Directory & Resource Guide. Don’t miss your chance to promote your business with the Chamber! The final deadline for sponosring is September 11th. For more information on sponsoring the directory, please contact Brenda Richardson at (806) 761-7003 or Brenda. Richardson@lubbockbiz.org. Verification Forms Please update this form and return to us by the deadline. If you do not receive a form, please contact Patricia Picon at our office at (806) 761-7000 or Patricia. Picon@lubbockbiz.org and we will send you the verification form.
LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2017
Chamber Staff President/CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Executive Vice President Norma Ritz Johnson, CCE, IOM CFO/COO Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President - Communications & Public Relations Tammi Boozer Vice President - Programs, Services & Events Christye Weld Community Development Director Amy Marquez, IOM Member Relations Director Cathy Potter Business Development Coordinator Brenda Richardson Communications Specialist Haily Assiter Event Specialist Allison Cottrell Government Relations Specialist Stevie Poole Event/Government Relations Specialist Kyle Jacobson Administrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy Moffett Accounting Assistant Patricia Picon Intern Mallory Barnett
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY and Resource Guide
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Lubbock Business Network
Get Your Hub City BBQ Cook-off Tickets Today! Mark your calendars and plan to attend this popular and unique event, presented by Suddenlink on Thurs., Sept. 22! The event is held downtown on Broadway, between Avenue Q and Avenue M and in the parking lot west of the Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway. Grab your friends and taste the best BBQ on the South Plains, listen to some rockin’ Texas country music and enjoy a beautiful evening downtown. Tickets are available at the Chamber office, 1500 Broadway, Suite 101, or via Select-A-Seat. Ticket prices for adults are $25 in advance or $30 at the gate. Children between six and 10 years old get in for $15 while those five and under are free.
Featuring: • Live music from headliner Zane Williams, - a true singersongwriter, William’s hits include “Texas Like That” and “Jayton and Jill”! He will get the crowd moving with some great Texas country sounds. • Opening band Lubbock’s own School of Rock • Family-Friendly area with activities and snacks for the kids • Plenty of BBQ for tasting, all drinks and food is free with your entry fee There is still time to register your team to compete! Team registration deadline is September 9! Entry fee for teams is $150 and includes your first 10’ x 10’ space. Additional spaces are $100. For more information contact Christye Weld at Christye. Weld@lubbockbiz.org or by calling the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce at (806) 761-7000. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook to get updates about the event, teams and sponsors, as well as check out photos of the 2015 winners! A BIG thanks to all of our 2016 sponsors! Presenting:
Competition Meat: Diamond and Media: Arctic Glacier USA Inc., KCBD News Channel 11, KING FM, Red Dirt Rebel 105.3 Band: Allstate Insurance – Recruiting Texas Region Emerald: Acme Electric Co., City of Lubbock, Griffin Wink Advertising Platinum: Action Printing, American National Bank, Atmos Energy, Bud Light, Coca-Cola Refreshments, Coors Light, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Lubbock National Bank, Lubbock Power & Light, Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, Republic National Distributing, Scarborough Specialties
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Copper: 123 Recycling, Caprock Waste , Choice Media, MBCO/ OEI Engineering, Taco Bell/Pizza Hut – Border Management Group Gold: ABF Commercial Roofing & Foam, B&J Welding Supply, Blue Sky Texas, Centennial Bank, Custom Electronics, Domino’s TTU, First United Bank, Llano Estacado Winery, Lubbock Welding Supply, Pavecon, Ltd., Prosperity Bank, Robinson Burdette Martin & Seright, L.L.P., Safelite AutoGlass, Southwest Bank, United Supermarkets, WesTech Plumbing Bronze: AMA TechTel Communications, Designscapes, Grace Clinic, Tigris Real Estate Signage: Sign Pro of Lubbock Golf Cart/ATV: AMA TechTel Communications, Family Power Sports, Hillcrest Golf & Country Club, Hurst Farm Supply Silver: Alderson Enterprises, Brookdale Shadow Hills, Buildrite Construction, Carizma Motors, Collins Stone, Courtyard by Marriott - Lubbock Downtown, Dunkin’ Donuts, Ferguson Enterprises, FirstCare Health Plans, Flip Flop Wines, Forrest Tire Co., Happy State Bank, Jack Daniel’s, New Amsterdam Vodka, Overhead Door Company of Lubbock, Overton Hotel & Conference Center, South Plains Mall, Tailgate Express, The Butler, Tito’s Vodka, WestMark REALTORS, West Texas Gas, Ya’ Making Me Hungry, Yates Flooring Center VIP Gift: Llano Estacado Winery, Texas Tech Club
Learn more about Zane Williams and listen to his music here.
Lubbock Business Network
Introducing our September Business of the Month, Pepsi Beverages Company Pepsi Beverages Company of Lubbock has been selected as September’s Business of the Month! They have beverage solutions for every business need, with brands such as Pepsi, Lipton, Starbucks, Gatorade, Mountain Dew, Rockstar, Aquafina, Muscle Milk, Schweppes, Propel, Ocean Spray, and Big Red. More and more customers are concerned with healthier beverage options, and Pepsi has been at the forefront of product innovation that will continue to evolve with the changing packaged beverage market. Pepsi’s passionate and hardworking team is dedicated to the selling, delivery, and merchandising of Pepsi products in order to deliver a profitable partnership with their customers. The company has been a Chamber member for four months, and Frank Van Loon, Unit Sales Manager, said that they joined the Chamber in order to give back to the community that has supported them. “We felt that joining the Chamber would give us great insight into community events and organizations that have the same appreciation for the citizens of Lubbock,” Van Loon said. In these short months, Pepsi has been a Presenting Sponsor for the Chamber Golf Classic and they look forward to being
more involved as time goes on. Van Loon said that providing such a significant sponsorship so early on in their membership has allowed Pepsi to make great connections and network with other businesses in Lubbock. “This year we decided that we were going to make a splash by supporting the Lubbock Chamber Golf Classic as the Presenting Sponsor. In doing so, we were able to make great connections and network with many business owners across Lubbock,” stated Van Loon. Van Loon said that Pepsi’s favorite part about being a member of the Chamber is there are countless opportunities to network with other businesses in Lubbock. Again, congratulations to Pepsi Beverages Company on its September Business of the Month award. We look forward to a long relationship with them and appreciate its Lubbock Chamber of Commerce membership.
The Chamber is proud to congratulate Pepsi Beverages Company on its September Business of the Month achievement. Pepsi along with all the other businesses of the month for 2016, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award, in December 2016.
Ward Recognized for Outstanding Sales Volume in July
Congratulations to Kay Ward of WestMark Commercial for closing over $9.2 million in sales volume for July 2016! Ward has been with WestMark Commercial for over 16 years and specializes in Industrial, Office, Retail and Land properties. If you are looking to buy, sell or lease, call Ward today at (806) 776-2817. Ward is a native Lubbockite, which allows her to see the phenomenal growth Lubbock has experienced. Prior to real estate, she was involved for several years in the medical community
as a Registered Radiographer. Ward is married to Gerald Ward, Vice President at US Foodservice for 30 years. They have two adult sons, Brandon and Matthew. Ward was happy to welcome a daughter-inlaw to the family, Jami Jones Ward, in 2014 and looks forward to becoming a grandma this November. The entire family loves sports and are avid supporters and fans of Texas Tech University football, basketball and baseball.
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Lubbock Business Network
Considering Total Cloud for Your Business? 5 Questions to Ask First
By now most of us have part of our lives in the cloud. Family photos, videos, home entertainment, sure. But there are some business owners who are still hesitant in giving everything over to an “entity” they can’t see, touch, or visit. If you’re considering cloud services and placing all of your business’ data assets in the cloud, read on. What is the Cloud? It sounds a little ominous but the cloud isn’t new. It’s merely a term for web-based storage and application hosting. The benefits of cloud-based operations are that someone else handles some of the risk, the servers, the maintenance, and pushing auto updates out increasing your business’ efficiency. Since the cost is spread over all the vendor’s clients, it drastically reduces costs for most businesses. The downside is putting all of your most valuable information into someone else’s hands. Yet it’s not as risky as it sounds when you vet the company that will handle the different portions of your operation for you. 5 Questions to Ask of Cloud Vendors Businesses embrace the cloud in a multitude of ways from running a paperless environment with everything being stored virtually to some that only use it for document exchanges and collaboration between employees. If you’re considering moving all or most of your operations to the cloud ask these questions. Maintenance Virtual systems need to be maintained and updates will roll out at times beyond your control. Ask about when maintenance is generally conducted and if you’re given any warning. Most companies will tell you days in advance but don’t assume that of the company you’re auditioning. Also ask them what their “up time” rating or percentage is. Most cloud companies rarely go offline for maintenance but you want to know how fast it generally takes for them to return should something go wrong. Upgrade Process and Schedule One of the great benefits of the cloud is no time-consuming installs. You turn on your system and – BAM! – new features. While most of us understand this can happen at any time on platforms like Facebook, it’s not any fun in business. Ask the company if they adhere to a schedule of when you can expect upgrades to be rolled out, what training is provided for new features or interfaces, and how much notice you receive. The last thing you want is a major upgrade rolling out sans warning in the middle of your business’ busiest time.
Don’t expect you can tell your cloud business that the upgrade scheduled for that evening doesn’t work for you. But you can explain that it is a business critical time for you and you can’t afford downtime due to lack of training on new tools. A vendor partner will help you understand the changes ahead and work through the transition to make it painless for your business. Backups Back in the day, when you maintained your own server and a file went kerpluey you could pull the backup tape and restore it to a certain point. Sure, you might have lost some data but some is better than none. Understand what the vendor has in place for those times when something goes wrong on your end. Can you access older data and restore it to a previous point in time? What’s the process involved? Data Portability You want to believe this new vendor is the answer to your storage dreams but what if you change your mind, merge with another company who uses a different vendor, your business outgrows this solution, or something happens that causes you to switch vendors years in the future? Make sure you understand the process of moving on. You don’t want your data to be held hostage or in a format that cannot be used by other systems. Security This is the biggest issue for businesses considering the cloud, especially for those in data sensitive industries like healthcare and the law. Ensure you have a full understanding of the company’s security procedures and safeguards. A data breach could cause legal problems for you, even though the breach didn’t occur in your direct operation. You may wonder who would want your data but when you become a client of a company with high-profile clients (like Target) your data can get caught in the hacking crossfire. Some business owners say they’ll never go to the cloud, but chances are there’s some portion of your operation that already is. Like any big change, moving to the cloud can be disconcerting but ultimately if you weigh the positives versus the negatives, you’ll make a decision that fits your business.
Christina R. Green teaches small businesses, chambers and associations how to connect through content. Her articles have appeared in the Midwest Society of Association Executives’ Magazine, NTEN.org, AssociationTech, and Socialfish. She is a regular blogger at Frankjkenny.com and Event Manager Blog.
Register for the State of the Texas Tech System Luncheon Today! The State of the Texas Tech System Luncheon presented by AimBank will follow the State Legislative Forum. Tickets are $45. Chamber members receive a discounted rate of $35. Click here to register. Sponsorships are still available for both events. Please contact Kyle Jacobson at (806) 761-7000 or Kyle.Jacobson@ lubbockbiz.org for more information. Out-of-town attendees can receive a special block rate of $250 at the Overton Hotel and Conference Center by clicking here. The deadline for hotel reservations is September 15.
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Thanks to our sponsors! Presenting:
Diamond: AJ - Lubbock Business Inc., Parkhill, Smith & Cooper Texas Tech University - Office of the President Platinum: Atmos Energy, Happy State Bank
Lubbock Business Network
Get to Know Board Member, Marcie Truby How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I started as an ambassador with the Chamber when I first moved to Lubbock and was working at The Price Group. It was a great way to meet people and start to network.
What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? I was honored to graduate from the Leadership Lubbock program in 2006 and still have connections and friendships that I built during that amazing year. It is a wonderful program for anyone to be a part of. If you are new to Lubbock or have lived her all your life, I promise you will learn things you did not know about the Hub City.
Finish this sentence: Never again will I...miss a mammogram. I have a childhood friend battling breast cancer currently and early detection could have made a big difference in her fight. Don’t skip your mammogram ladies!
Marcie Truby
Director of Operations Director’s Choice
What are some of your other community leadership roles? I serve as the Vice President of the Hotel Motel Association and on the Go Red for Women committee. I have been involved with American Advertising Association Lubbock, Women in Communication, the Better Business Bureau and the Fearless Champions Committee.
Texas Secretary of State to Speak at the Hispanic Heritage Luncheon We are excited to announce that the Texas Secretary of State, Carlos Cascos, will be the keynote speaker at the Hispanic Heritage luncheon on Thurs., Oct. 6, at the Overton Hotel Sunset Ballroom from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Make plans now to attend this very special luncheon to help celebrate the culmination of Hispanic Heritage Month and the Hispanic culture and rich diversity in our business community. Cascos is the 110th Texas Secretary of State and a Certified Public Accountant, as well as a former county commissioner and judge. Born in Mexico, the Secretary became a U.S. citizen in adolescence, and brings a unique perspective to his position in the hopes of bolstering Texas’ relations with Mexico and improving life along the state’s southern border. The Texas Secretary of State’s office houses the states elections division and also oversees Texas-Mexico relations.
Click here to register. Sponsorships are still available! Contact Christye Weld if you would like more information on sponsorships at (806) 7617009 or by email at Christye.Weld@lubbockbiz. org. Thanks to our sponsors! Presenting:
Diamond: Mi Casita Care Center
Platinum: FirstCapital Bank
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Lubbock Business Network
Growing Community Leaders Meet Leadership Lubbock Class Member, Curtis Diaz Why did you choose to become part of the Leadership Lubbock? I’m not from Lubbock, so learning about all of its history and the businesses is something I have always wanted to do; especially if I wanted to succeed in the community and the company I work for. How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? This is my first year. What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? Sports day was by far my favorite, but all the other days have definitely been a learning experience for me. What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being part the Leadership Lubbock Class? Going on all the trips to the local businesses and meeting all the awesome speakers. The speakers have all been very knowledgeable on how to be a
positive leader in a group and at your job with your co-workers. Also, meeting everyone in my class has been super awesome. Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you? It’s important because I want to be more knowledgeable and become more involved in my community, while having a positive impact in my work place. I want to learn how to lead by example and I want people to let me lead because they see my vision through my passion for my work. Who do you work for? American National Bank What is your position? Operations Manager/Bank Officer What all does your position entail? Making sure all my tellers balance along with the vault. Ordering money, scheduling tellers, proofing work, opening accounts, making sure reports are balanced and mailed out correctly, etc. How long have you been with your current company? Two years
Don’t Miss the Millennial Retention Seminar The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host a Chamber University seminar on “Millennial Retention” on Tues., Sept. 27, from 8-11:30 a.m. at FirstBank & Trust Operations Center conference room. Rich Jones, Hillside Christian Executive Pastor, and Christy Reeves, CEO of Identify Corporate Solutions, will be the featured speakers. This is the first time in American history that there have been four different generations in the same workplace. People may encounter Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X or Millennials within the same company, or even the same department. Each new generation has unique strengths and weaknesses. As these differences are encountered, people can either be frustrated by their lack of understanding and appreciation or they can recognize the value in each generation and use that to their advantage. This session will help to identify and understand the unique characteristics of each generation. The featured speakers will examine social traits, workplace attitudes and strategies for effectively managing each of these groups. This is an interactive session with case studies and a generational self-examination. Chamber University is designed to address critical business topics and offer tools to navigate and thrive in the ever-changing demands of the 21st century workplace.
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The cost of the seminar is $50. Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. Breakfast and check-in will be from 8-8:30 a.m. Registration is open and reservations can be made by visiting LubbockChamber.com or by calling (806) 761-7000. Changes to reservations may be made until 5 p.m. on Fri., Sept. 23. For more information on Chamber University, please contact Allison Cottrell at (806) 761-7000 or allison.cottrell@lubbockbiz. org.
Thank you to our sponsors: American National Bank Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas United Supermarkets Workforce Solutions South Plains
Lubbock Business Network
Meet Young Professionals of Lubbock Member, Hailey Rottenberry Why did you chose to be a member of the Young Professionals of Lubbock? I was encouraged by my boss at work to get involved with the Chamber and the Young Professionals of Lubbock program was the perfect fit! I have been in Lubbock for about two years and I have always wanted to get more involved with the community and happenings around town!
How long have you been a YPL member? A little over a year. What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YPL member? Definitely the networking and the people. I also love being “in the know” about what is going on in the city and what exciting events are coming up. There is someone from almost every sector involved and they are always sharing what is going on for people to get involved with. Why is being a YPL member important to you? I think any community that you live in – whether you are only there for a few years or plan to stay a lifetime – it’s important to do your best
to get involved and see how you can help make it a better place. Coming together in YPL – especially as YOUNG professionals – we have a big opportunity and responsibility to make change in the city – whether it’s for a day or something that could impact the future of Lubbock forever. Where do you work? Llano Estacado Winery What is your position? Event Coordinator What all does your position entail? I book and execute all events at the winery, anything from corporate happy hours to weddings, Christmas parties and beyond! I also run our social media accounts, help with marketing efforts, and of course make sure the wine tastes good! How long have you been with your current company? One year and three months. Share some info about your family. My husband, Charles, is a fourth-year medical student at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. We have a black lab named Ranger and he is a perfect pup!
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Amrita Ram, CEO Fresh Steps, Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, Washington Chad Bingo, CEO, Dogstar Pet Products, Rochester, NY
Amrita Ram is currently a senior at Ram pitched her business plan to a panel Newport High School. the and making caring for them more fun and enjoyable. of top Inbusiness leaders at her local YEA! Chad Bingo hasRam alwaysapplied had a lovefor for dogs the Academy, Chad launchedclass the Gotta Go Button, the first product from his company, Dogstar Pet Products. Young Entrepreneurs Academy of 2014, Investor Panel, as part of the Academy class, TheBellevue Gotta Go Button “speaks” for your dog and lets owners know when Fido’s “gotta go”! The button comes funding and was named hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, where she received complete 2 week training system. The Gotta Go Button has been featured on Good America with a big idea! Shewith wasa delighted to have the theMorning Bellevue YEA! Saunders Scholar SemiWalmart’s the Shelf” in development, opportunityand tointurn that “Get big on idea into acontest. real Chad has two more Dogstar Pet products Finalist. Ram was selected, out of 23 semioverseas business! the Waterback Leash and the Doggy Door Stand. Chad is increasing production, managing finalist businesses competing, to advance to manufacturers and fi lling orders all from his dorm room! www.gottagobutton.com Ram was inspired by children’s sneakers the Finals in Washington, DC and compete that “light-up” as they walk. Ram knew that against the nation’s top young entrepreneurs simple technology could be applied in a bigger at America’s Small Business Summit in 2014. Rachel CEO, Gladiator Lacrosse, Boca Raton ChamberClick of Commerce, Florida way. This is when Fresh StepsZietz, was born—a here to learn more about Ram and piezoelectric tile system that can power a her company. Gladiator Lacrosse was founded in 2013 by then 13 year old seventh grade entrepreneur and lacrosse player, building from the kinetic produced bywishing to improve his or her game, Rachel’s coaches advised her to play Rachelenergy Zietz. Like every player people walking! “wall ball” and practice her shot as much as possible. However, the quality of the products she purchased for use in the backyard would not hold up to the weather outdoors and were expensive.
Click here to APPLY!
For more information Participating in the YEA! Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce program, Rachel decided to start a business that contact Amy Marquez produced high-quality lacrosse equipment at an affordable price and Gladiator Lacrosse was born. Since at (806) 761-7000. graduating from the YEA! program in 2013, Rachel has been growing her business is currently a ninth-grade student and attends school in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. www.gladiatorlacrosse.com
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Lubbock Business Network Legislative Benefactor:
Voice of Business Chamber Takes on Five Lawsuits; Learn How We Advocate for Your Business
Always a strong advocate for business and industry at City Hall, the State Capitol or in Washington, D.C., the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has taken efforts to speak out on behalf of job creators to the courts. Beginning earlier this year, the Chamber took on a "Full Court Press" by taking part in legal efforts challenging the federal government on overreaching regulations, which threaten local job creators. The Chamber would like to share a few updates, as there has been significant movement throughout the summer.
PERSUADER RULE
The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce joined forces with four other business organizations to challenge changes to the U.S. Department of Labor’s (USDOL) “persuader rule.” The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Lubbock asked the court to impose an injunction on the new rule and ultimately to overturn it. This new rule could deprive business owners of the right to consult a lawyer about workplace policies and potentially violate the attorney-client privilege and constitutional rights of virtually all employers. Update: On June 27, Senior United States District Judge Sam R. Cummings granted the Lubbock Chamber’s request for a nationwide injunction to block USDOL from enforcing changes to the Persuader Rule. In his ruling, Judge Cummings wrote of the need for preliminary injunctive relief: “The chilling of speech protected by the first Amendment is in and of itself an irreparable injury…DOL’s New Rule is not merely fuzzy around the edges. Rather, the New Rule is defective to its core…” USDOL has filed a notice of appeal to the Fifth Circuit. Meanwhile, the Chamber and other plaintiffs on August 22 filed a motion for a permanent injunction and summary judgement.
REGIONAL HAZE RULE
Along with 27 other Texas Chambers of Commerce, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is a co-plaintiff as an intervenor in a lawsuit filed by Texas challenging EPA’s federal takeover of the regional haze air permitting process. The regulation would likely incur $2 billion to business’ bottom line. The new rule could force some power plants to go offline and drive up electricity costs for Texans. Update: On July 15, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued an injunction putting the brakes on implementation of the regional haze air permitting process in Texas and Oklahoma.
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FIDUCIARY RULE
The Lubbock Chamber and eight other plaintiffs have sued USDOL in Dallas Federal Court to overturn a new rule expanding the definition of “fiduciary investment advice” provided to retirement plans, plan participants, and IRA owners. The rule exposes financial services providers to lawsuits, creates an entirely new regulatory regime for IRAs, limits the types of investment advice an adviser may provide, effectively makes DOL the primary regulator of financial professionals already extensively regulated by federal and state laws. Update: A hearing has been set for mid-November before the Dallas Federal Court.
CLEAN POWER PLAN
The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce joined an amicus brief against the Environmental Protection Agency’s costly carbon regulations. The brief explains the economic impact posed by the Environmental Protection Agency’s carbon regulations and supports the overturning of the rule. The new rule will pose significant harm to regional and local communities, particularly in economically challenged rural areas. In issuing these regulations, the EPA attempts to regulate how states generate, transmit, and use electricity without any authority from Congress to do so. Update: As of the last week in May, the DC Circuit Court of Appeals decided to bypass oral arguments scheduled before a threeperson panel June 2, and instead hear the case before the full court September 27. Meanwhile, the Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA) released initial data related to its 2016 Annual Energy Outlook projecting the CPP to have significantly greater economic impacts than projected by EPA and others.
OVERTIME RULE CHANGES
USDOL formally issued the final rule regarding changes to overtime regulations on May 23. The most significant change, doubling of the salary threshold, was finalized without an extended comment period and without taking the time to study the economic impact of such a profound change on employers of all sizes and industries. These new overtime regulations will hurt job and economic growth as well as the very employees the DOL claims this will help. Update: Although litigation challenging the Overtime Rule has not yet been filed, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce would likely participate in such a legal challenge were an effort to be launched.
Lubbock Business Network
BUSINESS MERCADO 2016 LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OCTOBER 20 | 1 P.M. - 5 P.M. MCM ELEGANTÉ HOTEL & SUITES | 801 AVE. Q
Thank you to our sponsors!
Diamond: FirstCare Health Plans | Platinum: Mi Casita Care Center | Media: Magic 106.5, Telemundo Lubbock | Print: The Copy Outlet Gold: Caprock Home Health Services, Inc., Venture Connected, Workforce Solutions South Plains Board Administration
Join the State Legislative Forum Waiting List! In a half-day session on September 29, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce State Legislative Forum, presented by the Lubbock Association of REALTORS®, connects local business leaders to top state lawmakers to discuss key West Texas issues. Texas enjoys a healthy economic environment, especially after the last Texas State Legislative Session. To ensure that remains the case, solid business influence and advocacy must take place even between sessions. Seize this opportunity to join in on the discussions and support the Lubbock Chamber’s advocacy efforts. The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce State Legislative Forum will feature elected officials from across Texas, as well as Lubbock's very own Senator Charles Perry, Representative John Frullo and Representative Dustin Burrows. This event is sold out, but we have formed a waiting list. If you are interested in being put on this list please contact Stevie Poole at (806) 761-7000 or Stevie.Poole@lubbockbiz.org.
T U O D L O S
Presented by:
Thanks to our sponsors! Presenting:
Diamond:
Platinum: Atmos Energy, Texas Tech University SystemDepartment of Political Science Gold: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
Thank you to our sponsors! Diamond: Prosperity Bank, Vista Bank | Platinum: AgTexas Farm Credit Services, Capital Farm Credit - Lubbock Credit Office, Hurst Farm Supply, Inc., Texas Agribusiness Insurance
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Lubbock Business Network
Chamber Ambassador Program Meet Ruben Trujillo, July Ambassador of the Month!
Ruben Trujillo, an Outside an Ambassador is sharing in the Sales Representative from UDawg excitement of new business owners Graphics, has been chosen as the when they open their doors at the Lubbock Chamber’s July Ambassador Ribbon Cuttings. of the Month. Trujillo has worked for “It’s such a fun opportunity to UDawg Graphics for seven years and get to share that day with those said that his position helps businesses individuals and to learn about their and organizations grow their brand services and what they bring to our awareness by offering promotional community,” said Trujillo. products, screen printed and Trujillo’s favorite Chamber event embroidered apparel, signs, vehicle to attend as an Ambassador is the wraps, and graphic design. He works Business After Hours networking with clients to help them understand events. He enjoys getting to visit their marketing goals and then find with new friends and old, and loves Beth Bridges (R), 2016 Chairwoman, presenting Ruben Trujillo (L) with his Ambassador of the Month award. the best advertising products to help the laid-back atmosphere and them achieve their desired results. delicious food. While Trujillo has “I chose to become an only been an Ambassador for three ambassador to continue building relationships with other months, he said he has heard great things about events like the business leaders in the community,” Trujillo said. “Relationships Business Expo and Hub City BBQ Cook-off, and would love to are the building blocks of networking, so I knew that’s where I play a part in those events this next year. needed to start if I was to continue growing my business.” “Outside of the Chamber, I’m very involved with small group Trujillo enjoys attending Ribbon Cuttings and Business After leadership at Redeemer Church. I also serve on the board for Hours networking events. Since they happen regularly, Trujillo Family Counseling Services and attend a weekly Referral Group,” said he is able to keep building on the friendships he has with Trujillo stated. many of the Ambassadors, as well as establish new ones. Again, congratulations to Ruben Trujillo on this achievement! “Being an ambassador is important to me because it allows We look forward to getting him and UDawg Graphics more me to play a larger role in the community. I get to keep up with involved in our various opportunities! the way Lubbock is growing and inform friends and family about all the new and existing businesses in town,” stated Trujillo. Among the many rewards that accompany being an Ambassador, Trujillo said the most rewarding part of being
Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings – August Sponsored
by:
806 Concepts, LLC (The Library Bar)
1701 Texas Ave. 14
Adventure Park 5110 29th Dr.
Lubbock Business Network
Avalon Apartments
Bike Fix It Station in Canyon Lakes
City of Lubbock Activities Center
Feed Seniors Now Kick Off Party
Harmony Science Academy
Hospitality Nursing & Rehab
Lubbock Eye Clinic 3702 34th St.
Sanford & Tatum Insurance
Hilton Garden Inn
Upbring Foster Care
Ya’ Making Me Hungry
3420 Milwaukee Ave.
DEFINE body & mind 4413 82nd St. STE 130
2517 74th St.
4710 Slide Rd.
6027 45th St.
7412 S. University
2001 19th St.
1516 53rd St.
5241 98th St.
1602 Main St.
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Lubbock Business Network
Welcome New Chamber Members! Adventure Park Lubbock (806) 535-8543 5110 29th Dr. Lubbock, TX 79407 Entertainment
Freshii (806) 319-9678 7604 Milwaukee Ave., Ste. 600 Lubbock, TX 79424 Restaurants
Quality Coating of Lubbock, Inc. (806) 765-0203 624 E. Lehigh St. Lubbock, TX 79403 Manufacturing
Brad’s Self Storage (806) 794-0377 7304 Upland Lubbock, TX 79424 Storage Service
Hometrust Mortgage (806) 698-6853 4213 85th St., Ste. A Lubbock, TX 79423 Mortgages
Bright Star Electric (806) 281-3603 5004 Grinnell Lubbock, TX 79416 Electrical Contractors
Hub City Trucking (855) 737-7447 12210 University Ave. Lubbock, TX 79423 Trucking Companies
Sharon Dykes Foundation/ Alzheimer’s Football League (806) 831-5543 4703 S. Loop 289 Lubbock , TX 79414 Non Profit Organizations
CanTex Roofing & Construction, LLC (806) 475-0010 9813 Hwy 62/82 Wolfforth , TX 79382 Roofing Contractors
Impact Fire Services (806) 771-2841 1120 E. Slaton Rd. Lubbock, TX 79401 Fire Alarm Systems
Define body & mind (806) 368-0829 4413 82nd St., Ste. 130 Lubbock, TX 79424 Wellness Centers, Health Clubs
JSA Tires (806) 438-8134 309 N. University Lubbock, TX 79415 Tire Dealers
Desert Communications, Inc. (806) 474-2707 4625 71st St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Technology
Lubbock Entertainment Performing Arts Association (806) 747-3200 1500 Broadway, Ste. 1254 Lubbock, TX 79401 Non Profit Organizations
WestMark Commercial - Kirk Schneider, CCIM (806) 776-2815 4105 84th St. Lubbock, TX 79423 Real Estate - Commercial
My Place - Lubbock (806) 701-4196 6219 62nd St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Hotels & Motels
Yuyo Japanese Resturant (806) 368-7861 5130 80th St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Restaurants & Bars
GoodLife Senior Living and Memory Care (806) 794-1600 6317 112th St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Retirement and/or Assisted Living High Cotton (806) 500-6601 1500 Broadway, Ste. 1400 Lubbock, TX 79401 Restaurants
TB Trailer Sales (806) 543-4641 8901 N Interstate 27 Lubbock, TX 79403 Trailers - Sales & Service The Esplanade at City View, LP (806) 781-2148 4525 Milwaukee Ave. Lubbock, TX 79407 Retail Sales The Tailgate SportsBar and Grill 417 Frankford Ave., Ste. 299 B Lubbock, TX 79416 Restaurants
Premier Sportsplex (806) 771-4263 9000 Memphis Ave. Lubbock, TX 79423 Recreation and/or Youth Sports Leagues
Interested in the Chamber’s Advocacy Efforts? LubbockChamber.com Visit our Advocacy page on:
Here you’ll find all the tools you’ll need to contact your members of Congress and keep them informed on issues relating to Lubbock business as well as to help you keep up-to-date with the political process, issues and candidates in order to make informed decisions.
Questions or Concerns? Contact Norma Ritz Johnson, Executive Vice President 16