SEGUIN C H A M B E R
ANNIVERSARY
Centennial Celebration 1921 - 2021
Thank You, Seguin For Partnering to Do the Work in Seguin
The world needs more doers. That’s why Caterpillar is honored to be in the Seguin community for over 10 years. This is a community of doers, making the world around us a better place.
Thank You, Seguin
The Caterpillar Seguin facility began production in 2010 – 10 years ago! In that time, our community of Seguin and our neighbors have had significant growth and success, even amidst challenging times. From significant population growth, residential construction activity, to coming together and supporting each other during a global pandemic…in Seguin, “It’s Real!” For Partnering to
Do the Work
Over the past decade, YOU have helped us build more than 500,000 in Seguin engines and 8,000 generator sets. Our Seguin Cat® and Perkins® products are shipped across the globe, with over 70 percent exported. Our products are used by our customers to build a better world by powering hospitals, building roads and more. The world needs more doers. That’s why Caterpillar is honored to be in the Seguin community for over 10
Congratulations years. This is a community of doers, making the world around us a better place.
The basis of a community is the people that build it up. Caterpillar has
and a big thank you to the been honored to partner with the United Way and many other organizaSeguin Chamber of Commerce tions locally to help take care of our neighbors and friends during their The Caterpillar Seguin facility began production in 2010 – 10 years ago! In that time, our community of times of difficulty. Since 2010, Caterpillar and the Caterpillar Foundation at this significant milestone. Seguin and our neighbors have had significant growth and success, even amidst challenging times. From have invested more than $2 million to support welfare, education, workA century of supporting busi- residential construction significant population growth, activity, to coming together force development, family and child services,and andsupporting more in the each Seguin and nessother and during community growth is a global pandemic…in Seguin, “It’s Real!” surrounding areas. something to be proud of.
Over the past decade, YOU have helped usSeguin build more thanthat 500,000 enginesmodern and 8,000 generatorassets. has shown it appreciates manufacturing a techniOur Seguin Cat® and Perkins® products are shipped across the globe, with over 70 percent exported. Our cal industry essential to keep our country and the world running. ManuWhile Caterpillar Inc. hasn’t products are used by our customers to build a better world byare powering hospitals, building roadsconsistency, and more. facturing technicians expert builders focused on quality, been here in Seguin as long as andbuild continuous improvement. hashonored led to signifi cant manufacturing The basis of a community is the people that it up. Caterpillar hasThis been to partner with the job growth in Seguin, and our community being recognized a leader in the Seguin Chamber of ComUnited Way and many other organizations locally to help take care of our neighbors and friends as during their manufacturing excellence. merce, weofcelebrated our 10times difficulty. Since 2010, Caterpillar and the Caterpillar Foundation have invested more than $2
While many of our Seguin from surrounding to support welfare,in education, workforce development, familyemployees and childcome services, and more inareas, the yearmillion anniversary in Seguin most of our employees call Seguin home. Like them, Caterpillar is proud Seguin and surrounding areas. 2020. We value our memberto call Seguin home. It is said that here in Seguin, we make the things that shipSeguin in the has Seguin Chamber of shown that it appreciates modern manufacturing as a technical industry essential to keep our make America go, grow, build, and take on the world. Caterpillar is proud Commerce andthe weworld look running. forcountry and Manufacturing technicians expert focused community on quality, members to to help contribute are to the workbuilders done by countless and continuous This hasa led to world, significant in Seguin, wardconsistency, to the continued success improvement.help build better right manufacturing here in our own job backgrowth yard, with impact and our community being recognized as a leader in manufacturing excellence. of our community. across the globe. While many of our Seguin employees comeMany from surrounding areas, most of our employees callfrom Seguin thanks for helping us continue building the world, right here home. Like them, Caterpillar is proud toincall Seguin home. It is said that here in Seguin, we make the Seguin, Texas. things that make America go, grow, build, and take on the world. Caterpillar is proud to help contribute to the work done by countless community members to help build a better world, right here in our own back yard, with impact across the globe. Many thanks for helping us continue building the world, from right here in Seguin, Texas. Real business, leaders, community.
Centennial Celebration A NNIVE ERSARY ANNIVERSARY
1920 - 2020
© 2020 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow”, the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used
Mark Stratton General Manager, Large Engines Caterpillar Inc.
CMC Steel Texas Supporting, serving and working in Seguin since 1947.
For more than 70 years we’ve been a proud employer and contributor to the Seguin community. We look forward to many more years as an integral part of the community while we continue to make the steel that builds America!
cmc.com
This special publication is a highlight of our history, and is dedicated to everyone that has been a part of our journey.
Thank you for being a part of our celebration. Seguin Chamber President Kendy Gravett Business Development Director Gordon Daniels - Editorial Writer April Canik Canik Communications
Design Desiree Gerland Seguin Gazette
Photo Editor Felicia Frazar Seguin Gazette
Photo Credit The Seguin Gazette, Heritage Museum, Gordon Daniels & Stanley Naumann 116 N. Camp St. (830) 379-6382 www.SeguinChamber.com
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
WHAT’S INSIDE
Keynote: Chet Garner, The Day Tripper
CELEBRATION
HISTORY
PRESENT & FUTURE
8 EVENT PROGRAM
10 HONORING OUR PAST
24 2020 RECAP
9 WORDS FROM AWARD WINNERS
12 BUILDING BUSINESS
26 2021 & BEYOND
13 BUILDING LEADERS
28 PHOTO GALLERY
14 BUILDING COMMUNITY 20 OUR HISTORY - A TIMELINE
Help Us Celebrate
Seguin Chamber
100 YEARS
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CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER.
American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning created the Building a Higher Standard program to honor the dealers who truly exemplify our commitment to doing things right for their employees, customers, and communities. This year, we’re excited to honor Seguin’s own Tri-County A/C, one of four 2020 winners. Visit tricountyac.com to schedule an appointment.
CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER. American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning created the Building a Higher Standard program toStandard honor the dealers who truly exemplifycreated our commitment to doing things right American Heating and AirAir Conditioning the Building Higher Standard American Standard Heating and Conditioning created the Building a HigheraStandard for theirto employees, customers, and communities. This year,towe’re excited to honor program honor the dealers who truly exemplify ourour commitment doingto things right program honorto the dealers who truly exemplify commitment doing things right Seguin’s own Tri-County A/C, one of four 2020 winners. for their employees, customers, andcommunities. communities. ThisThis year,year, we’re we’re excited to honor to honor for their employees, customers, and excited Seguin’s own Tri-County A/C, one of four 2020 winners. Seguin’s own Tri-County A/C, one of four 2020 winners. Visit Visit to schedule an appointment. tricountyac.com tricountyac.com to schedule an appointment.
Visit tricountyac.com to schedule an appointment.
510 North Austin Street, Seguin, TX 78155 • 830-303-8624 • www.tricountyac.com 510 North Austin Street, Seguin, TX 78155 • 830-303-8624 • www.tricountyac.com
510 North Austin Street, Seguin, TX 78155 • 830-303-8624 • www.tricountyac.com
510 North Austin Street, Seguin, TX 78155 • 830-303-8624 • www.tricountyac.com
WORLD-CLASS MEDICAL CARE. Close to home.
1215 E. Court St. Seguin, TX 78155 830.379.2411 grmedcenter.com
SEGUIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2020 - 2021 AMBASSADORS
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors include (front row, from left) Norma Johnston, Maria Castilleja, Polly Hay, Barbara Behal, Mickey Cavin, Missy Sagebiel, Pat Sagebiel, (second row) Katie Dickey, Lynn Lamprecht, Kristine Edwards, Charles Villenueve, (third row) Tricia Coe, Gay Lynn Olsovsky, Michelle DeLeon, Amy Riojas, Pat Grigg, (fourth row) Shelley Wade , Glenda Layton, Frank Starcke, Stanley Naumann and Marilyn Naumann. Not pictured are Tim Bird, Dee Dee Burns, Lisa Burns, Mary Hargrave, Rebecca Kallies, Jennifer Schultz, Bryan Spahn, and Barbara Welsh.
2020 - 2021 EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lea Phelps Keller Williams Heritage CHAIR
Natalie Jones First Commercial Bank CHAIR-ELECT
Bernadette Buchanan Texas Lutheran University VICE CHAIR
Bill VanderWaal CMC Steel Texas VICE CHAIR
Gregg Woodall 1916 Bar & Bistro at the Aumont VICE CHAIR
Elizabeth Engelhardt Seguin Gazette TREASURER
Randy Bennett Cargill Animal Nutrition ASSISTANT TREASURER
Doug Parker Parker’s City Pharmacy PAST CHAIR
DIRECTORS
Rev. Marcus Bigott Emanuel’s Lutheran Church
Marcella Binkley Wal-Mart Supercenter
Nicole Bruton GRMC Wellness Center
Bill Lewis Jennifer Meservey Seguin Independent Meservey Group School District
Nancie StephensGonzales Habitat for Humanity
Carlos Moreno Lonestar Home Solutions
Lacey Gosch Navarro ISD
Flavio Reis Caterpillar
Tammi Guthrie GVEC
Chelsea Roberts Coldwell Banker Realtors – D’Ann Harper
Austen Hill State Farm Insurance
Lauren Smith Allstate Insurance
Kendy Gravett PRESIDENT
AWARD
WINNERS
Robert Haynes Guadalupe Regional Medical Center Outstanding Community Service
Doug Parker Outstanding Community Service
H-E-B Business Excellence
Charles Villeneuve Ambassador of the Year
1916 Bar & Bistro at the Aumont Business Excellence
Mayor Don Keil Chairman’s Award Forward Thinking Leadership
Kasie Tankersley Woman of Inuence
Seguin Economic Development Corporation Champion for Education
Dr. Matthew Gutierrez Servant Leader
Chelsea Roberts Rising Star Young Professional of the Year
1921-2021 HONORING OUR PAST
Kendy Gravett President, Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce
A
s we celebrate the Seguin Chamber’s Centennial birthday, we have countless business, political and civic pioneers, members, volunteers and visionary leaders to thank, several of whom will be spotlighted in this commemorative magazine. You will be astonished to see the impressive milestones and legacy of accomplishments featured on our historical timeline on page 18. Inspirational stories and a reminiscent photo gallery will also enhance your walk down memory lane. As we flash back to when the ‘new’ Chamber was organized in 1921, we are reminded in Seguin, Texas by Father L.J.FitzSimon, that, under the leadership of Max Starcke as the first elected president, the Chamber “became a very active and progressive organization”. Later, FitzSimon states that the newly chartered Seguin and Guadalupe County Chamber of Commerce “ has played an important role in the progress of Seguin”. The rest, as they say, is history! Thank you for sharing your time and treasures with us through this first 100 years as we are stronger together. I am beaming with pride to contribute to this legacy for the last 16 years and look forward with great anticipation as we head toward the next Centennial Celebration. I hope you enjoy looking back and looking ahead, and that you will be inspired to renew your commitment by supporting YOUR Chamber of Commerce.
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
1921-2021 CHAIR OF THE BOARD
Terry Boehnke 2004-2005
1921-1923 1923-1924 1924-1925 1925-1926 1926-1927 1927-1928 1928-1929 1929-1931 1931-1932 1932-1933 1933-1934 1934-1935 1935-1936 1936-1938 1938-1939 1939-1940 1940-1941 1941-1942 1942-1944 1944-1945 1945-1946 1946-1947 1947-1948 1948-1949 1949-1950 1950-1951 1951-1952 1952-1953 1953 1953-1954 1954-1955 1955-1956 1956-1957
Max Starcke C.H. Donegan C.E. Tips H.H. Starcke W.F. Lovett Joe P. Gibbs A.J. Wirtz Walter Fey Rudolph Weinert Glen Vaughan H.H. Starcke R.J. Burges, Jr. W.M. Bryan Rev. L. J. Fitzsimon Benno deMenil Dr. Allen Heinen Casper W. Traeger Dan Blumberg Hugo Schmitt R.G. Jung A. J. Briesemeister H.A. “Lefty” Ulbricht A. Schlafi Carl Sagebiel John Traeger James Schuessler D.W. “Twin” Reneau M.F. Primeaux Ed Sagebiel Richard Willmann Fred Fuhrmann Otha Grisham Ralph Giles
1957-1958 1958-1959 1959-1960 1960-1961 1961-1962 1962-1963 1963-1964 1964-1965 1965-1966 1966-1967 1967-1968 1968-1969 1969-1970 1970-1971 1971-1972 1972-1973 1973-1974 1974-1975 1975-1976 1976-1977 1977-1978 1978-1979 1979-1980 1980-1981 1981-1982 1982-1983 1983-1984 1984-1985 1985-1986 1986-1987 1987-1988 1988-1989 1989
H.A. “Lefty” Ulbricht Al Koebig Bruce Gregg Warrenn Kothmann Stanley Naumann Gene Dietert Keith Hutson James Vordenbaum Dr. Henry Moore Clyde Selig Charles Wegner Kermit Westerholm Robert Koennecke Herb Schubert Edmund Kuempel Jack Taylor Bobby Wuest Jack Dwyer Bill Ermel Bob Linder Tom Mast Roy Reichenbach Keith Hutson Jim Cooksey Gary Sandercock Nick Costas David Baenziger David Welsch Gregg Sublett John Donegan Allan Dreibrodt Stan W. McKenzie Mike Graxiola
1990-1991 1991-1992 1992-1993 1993-1994 1994-1995 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 1998-1999 1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021
James C. Lee, M.D. Doyle Bebee Charles W. Rushing Mark Herbold Larry Lippe Bonnie J. Bartels Joe L. Patterson, Sr. Bill Keller Jim Price Leroy Alves Kathy Nossaman Larry Taylor Robert Haynes Bill Ermel Phil Seidenberger Terry Boehnke Darren Dunn Mark Stautzenberger Steve Johnson Shawn Martinez John Gesick Neice Bell Deana Henk Deana Henk Lisa J. Dudley Tavie Erwin Jeff Fowler Mark Long Mary Andrews Elaine Bennett Doug Parker Lea Phelps
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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1921-2021 BUILDING
BUSINESS
L
ocal business man Rene Sepulveda can trace his roots back to the 1800s, when his great great grandfather, John Campbell, became one of the first landowners in Seguin. The historic Campbell Log Cabin is located downtown in Heritage Village.* (See page 13) Rene’s late uncle Jessie Sepulveda was on the Chamber
Board of Directors in the 1980’s and, more recently, his wife Elizabeth served on the Chamber Board. “Over these first 100 years, I am proud to say my family has had a hand in helping the Chamber grow and, in turn, the Chamber has helped our business grow.”
HOW THE CHAMBER HELPS THEIR BUSINESS
Since Rene and Elizabeth now operate AutoWorx and Serenity Boutique, they have developed a special appreciation for how the Chamber has helped grow their businesses. “Initially,” Elizabeth shares, “joining the Chamber just seemed like the right thing to do, but at the time we did not have any idea exactly what that meant!” In no time they were benefitting from the #ShopSeguinShopLocal campaign, customer service training and facilitated opportunities to do business with other members. Elizabeth says, “Both of us are more than thankful for the Chamber’s training resources and business development opportunities.” On a very practical level, the Chamber provided her business with a storefront website until she could develop her own. “I am sure most folks don’t know how many resources
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
the Chamber can provide.” The Sepulvedas know firsthand that the Chamber is promoting them while promoting the city. “As small business owners, we don’t have time to keep up with all the meetings and changes,” Elizabeth adds, “so we are thankful to have the Seguin Chamber as an advocate working on our behalf to keep us connected and successful.”
1921-2021 BUILDING
LEADERS
L
eadership Seguin – a program of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce – seeks to prepare, involve and sustain leaders from diverse backgrounds who are committed and competent to address community challenges and improve the quality of life in the Seguin area. Each year Leadership Seguin provides participants with 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
LEADERSHIP PROJECTS
Welcome Home Signs Hwy 123 SOLC Amphitheatre Bell Tower in Heritage Village Starcke Park Golf Entrance Women’s Shelter Renovation Activity Center Reno Low Water Crossing Gates Wilson Pottery Museum Walking Trail - Weinert Elem World’s Largest Pecan - Red Barn SAYLA Donation
2004 Starcke Park Entrance Project
the opportunity to meet and discuss issues with key community leaders. Participants study the qualities that make an effective leader, analyze individual leadership roles and develop personal leadership styles and skills. They are then challenged to apply their talents by joining professional associations, civic clubs, public boards and commissions.
Take the Brass Ring Challenge
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
SAYLA Donation SAYLA Donation Wave Pool Mural Silver Center Upgrades Seguin Fire Museum Juan Seguin Burial Site Boys & Girls Club Gym Floor Little League Shade Structures Habitat for Humanity Trailer Upgrades to Heritage Village*
Capitol Hill Tour with Rep. Edmund Kuempel
2014 Wave Pool Mural Project
THE POWER OF CONNECTION
The Seguin Chamber has a 100-year track record of building leaders, businesses and community by facilitating critical and meaningful connections. When Brett Dillon, CEO of The Dillon Group, moved to Seguin, he integrated quickly by getting involved in the Chamber. Most leaders love to cultivate and mentor other leaders. As a new resident and Chamber member Brett Dillon, CEO of The Dillon Group, quickly found a local niche to share his passion for leadership and training. “I taught a few sessions of the Seguin Area Chamber’s Youth Leadership Academy and helped out with Seguin’s Live2Lead Event,” he shares. One of his key leadership lessons can save people of all ages a good deal of frustration, but it is best learned at a young age. “Many people forget to do a realistic assessment of where they are starting from before they determine where they want to go with their education and career. So that was an important topic we covered in the Youth Academy.” SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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1921-2021 BUILDING
COMMUNITY
T
MAX STARCKE PARK: AN ICON OF THE SEGUIN CHAMBER’S LEADERSHIP LEGACY
he Chamber’s 100th anniversary provides an excellent opportunity to highlight key accomplishments and spotlight visionary leaders like its first paid executive, Maximillian Hugo Starcke. In the early 1900s, Max Starcke was instrumental in the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce’s formative years. He guided other business leaders in the Chamber and city to acquire a scenic 43 acres along the Guadalupe River in 1933 that would later bear his name. It was a pivotal time for the city and the Chamber. Historical records show the park was financed through the Works Progress Administration created by Franklin D. Roosevelt — a bill to stimulate the economy during the ongoing depression. Robert Hugman developed the site plan and design for the park. He later became famously known as the architect of the San Antonio Riverwalk. “Yes, my great uncle Max was quite the organizer and gogetter,” long-time Seguin resident Hilmar Starcke said. Max served the city as mayor and was later recruited by Lyndon Johnson to manage the Lower Colorado River Authority, Hilmar said. “My brother Frank and I are living out the legacy of Chamber involvement that our great uncle and grandfather H.H. Starcke started before us.” H.H. Starcke served as president in 1925 and again in 1933. In Starcke fashion, Hilmar has stayed involved with the Chamber, both as a board member and various committees. His brother, Frank Starcke, is one of the original Chamber Ambassadors — 37 years and counting. “I have done this for decades because I truly enjoy welcoming new residents and businesses to town, and helping them integrate into the Chamber and community,” said Frank, who has lived in Seguin most of his life. “I believe that
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
name recognition has helped our furniture business to thrive for 42 years. I also think it is beneficial to stay involved with various community organizations because people like to do business with people they know.” Along with Starcke Furniture, Frank and Hilmar are proud to have a park named after their family. Since the park’s official opening in 1938, Max Starcke Park is a continued source of pride for residents, tourists and the state of Texas. The Starcke golf course is one of the last “parks” style courses in the state. Today, the park encompasses 227 acres, including an 18-hole golf course, disc golf, baseball and softball fields, a wave pool, amphitheater, hike, bike and paddling trails, a dog park and more. “It’s the top attraction that’s open to all in the city,” Hilmar said. Starcke Park is known for several other things — from its origins in a sprawling pecan orchard to its reputation for hosting spring training for the 1922 Chicago White Sox. The park has recently served as the venue for many baseball and softball tournaments, Fourth of July fireworks shows, family reunions, and much more. Residents and the Starcke family were particularly proud of their community asset when the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) recognized Max Starcke Park as one of six “2018 Lone Star Legacy Parks” for its historic and distinctive significance. Flagship Reminder of Local Leadership “Both Max Starcke and Starcke Park have played a vital role in the development of Seguin throughout its history and the Chamber’s first 100 years,” Chamber President Kendy Gravett said. “The Starcke family continues to be one of the Chamber’s longest, most loyal supporters, for which we are deeply grateful.”
1921-2021 T
TLU: ONE OF THE EARLIEST SUCCESS STORIES WITHIN THE CHAMBER’S LEGACY
exas Lutheran University’s story began in the late 1800s when the Seguin Chamber of Commerce was then known as the Men’s Business Club. The college originated in Brenham, about 115 miles away from Seguin and was initially known as Texas Lutheran College, says historian and current TLU President Dr. Debbie Cottrell. “It is so interesting to me to learn that Lutheran leaders were
free utilities,” Dr. Cottrell said. “Residents may not realize that there were three possible sites in Seguin, and that is why we have a College Street downtown — assuming that is where it would be located. Instead, the Lutherans decided to locate the school farther west on the Fritz farmstead”. Records show that the farm was owned by Louis Fritz, who was both a Lutheran and a member of the Mens Business Club.
concerned about the school’s long-term future in Brenham, knowing Blinn College was also in the area,” Cottrell said. “At the same time, Seguin leaders were seeking to bring a college to town as an anchor institution for the future.” Strategic conversations took place at Seguin’s First National Bank, where Seguin representatives offered Lutheran leaders an attractive incentive package to relocate. “Those Seguin business leaders in 1910 were savvy enough to recruit the college by offering them a sweet deal — 15 acres of land, $24,000 cash and the promise of 10 years of
In exchange for the generous incentive package, the college pledged to take charge of the building program, stay at least 15 years, and commit to keeping a robust curriculum. “I love that part of the story because we are still talking about our strong curriculum today,” Cottrell said. Eventually, the college expanded into a university, offering a variety of degree plans. The TLU president is thankful to the Seguin Chamber for this impressive and continuing success story, especially when the university celebrates record enrollment of 1,400 students and a new strategic plan that will guide its academic program and its links to its hometown into the future. “Reaching the 100-year milestone is quite an accomplishment for the Chamber and says a great deal about the importance of this type of organization that looks ahead to strengthen the success of our region,” Cottrell said. “No doubt the Chamber will be needed now more than ever to bring people together as we move forward from the current pandemic and beyond.” One thing is certain, Texas Lutheran University leaders — and students — will continue to support events and partner with the Chamber for decades to come, knowing it is critical to Seguin’s future. SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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1921-2021
G
eneral Manager and Partner of KWED/ SeguinToday.com, Darren Dunn, says he became involved with the Seguin Chamber “because it felt like the place to find the heartbeat of the local business community.” “It always stuns me to hear a member or prospective member say they don’t know what the Chamber is doing for
them,” he says, “because in reality the Chamber is ALWAYS working for members and the local business community via the shop-local initiatives, providing networking opportunities, and collaborating with city leaders to make sure policies and laws benefit local businesses and industries.” “We can easily trace new business that has resulted from our tradeshow or Chamber event,” notes Dunn.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Dunn believes this Centennial anniversary marks an exciting time for the Chamber. Although the pandemic hit retail pretty hard, the housing and manufacturing sectors are going strong. “As the Chamber continues to promote the Seguin business community, it will be more relevant today than it
was even 100 years ago. It has a strong reputation for being balanced – leaders know when to get involved in important issues and politics without it being all-consuming. Seguin is on the precipice of tremendous growth – and poised to handle it,” he adds. “This is a great time for business and our Chamber.”
“As the new Police Chief for Seguin, I believed Leadership Seguin would be the perfect opportunity for me to learn more about all facets of the community. Not only was I able to do this during the program, but I developed lasting professional relationships with my fellow classmates. I now have friends I can call on across the community and they have a direct line to the Police Department any time they need help or have questions. I would highly recommend Leadership Seguin to anyone who understands the value of networking, building relationships, and just learning more about this wonderful community.” -Terry Nichols, Chief of Police Seguin Police Department
“The Leadership Seguin program through the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce provided me the opportunity to engage with what makes Seguin a special place: the people. I had the opportunity to connect with business professionals, public service employees, and other community members. The experience that I had with the Leadership Seguin group helped jump start my career in the city of Seguin. The connections that I made are everlasting and I would not have been able to develop my current relationships without my involvement with Leadership Seguin.” - Steve Gonzales, Seguin ISD
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
tulatio gra ns n Co
Congratulations
Seguin Chamber of Commerce
0UR STATE REPRESENTATIVE Paid Political Advertisement by John Kuempel Congratulations to the Seguin Chamber for 100 years of Service to our Community. Together, We Prosper.
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1331 EAST COURT STE 104 SEGUIN, TX | 830.303.4846
DOWNTOWN SEGUIN
THEN & NOW
Formed League of Business Men & secured lighting on city streets
Democratic Club Created 1892
1895
1902
League of Business Men renamed Chamber of Commerce 1910
Recruited Texas Lutheran College to Seguin
Renamed Seguin Board of Trade
TEXAS LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY
THEN & NOW
1921
THE SEGUIN-GUADALUPE COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM
THEN & NOW W.F. Lovett – president
Charles E. Tips – president Projects: baseball, roads, hospital and industry 1922
Recruit Chicago White Sox Training Camp and game vs. New York Giants Entertained the Teachers Institute, investigation of fake stock schemes, development of highways and roads, new equipment for the Fire Department, stocking streams with fish, fire insurance rates reduced, better livestock campaign
1924
Propositions to city include: National Pecan Show, recommendation that Lutheran College raise its standard to a Junior College; completion of the dams along river 1925
H. H. Starcke elected president; helped secure the necessary land for the construction of dams on the Guadalupe River; helped to recruit and pay portion of the salary of County Agricultural Agent
1922 Seguin Fire Department
1926
1928
Recommendations to City Council: car for Fire Chief, obtain area water purification plant A.J. Wirtz – president
TLU Chapel J.E. Gantt – president
Glenn D. Vaughan - president
Printed pamphlet illustrating advantages and opportunities offered in Seguin, helped establish free mail service for residential areas; Vigilance Committee organized
Work on designation of Highway 123 from Stockdale to Karnes City; sponsored the Good Will program welcoming Lutheran College students
1929
Programs include agricultural cooperation, resort promotion, new hospital, helped raise $10,000 for Lutheran College, assist Mayor Starcke in installation of water meters Walter Fey – president
1930
1931
Worked to raise the standard of local milk production to Grade A; crepe myrtles planted throughout Seguin; sponsored the War Veteran’s Memorial Highway from San Antonio to Houston
1938 Centennial Celebration
1932
1933
Sponsored and endorsed erection of new Municipal Building; continued charity work; worked with Hearst Motor Boat Regatta, with TLC Music Contest; organized the Retail Credit Bureau; assisted Lutheran College in building gymnasium & organizing home baseball team H. H. Starcke – president
W.M. Bryan president Worked for building new Court House; work on Flood Control Project; published first Chamber Directory; help secure a Symphony Orchestra in Seguin; South Texas Chamber of Commerce Walnut Branch Beautification Project; worked to secure Holly Farms chicken processing plant in Seguin; printed an area illustrated folder; raised $1000 toward Guadalupe County Building Fund; sponsored the Guadalupe College Music Contest; Sponsored a National Youth Administration in Seguin - an early workforce development organization 1935
Provided leadership during World War II with things such as USO, Defense Stamps and Bonds, Aluminum Drives, Industrial Inventories, Housing Surveys, Industrial Salvaging 1938
1939 - 1945
Seguin & Guadalupe County Chamber of Commerce and Seguin Centennial Association host Grand Opening of Max Starcke Park and Seguin’s Centennial Celebration
1957
H.A. “Lefty” Ulbricht, Chamber President honored by KENS5 and presented a key to the City of San Antonio
CHAMBER OFFICE
THEN & NOW
Stan Ledbetter, Chamber Executive Director, moves offices to 425 Austin St.; Ambassador Program Launched 1983
PARK PLAZA HOTEL
THEN & NOW City of Seguin creates Economic Development Corporation 1994
Seguin Area Youth Leadership Academy Launched
Leadership Seguin Program Launched 1995
2000
2001
Beautification Award Program Begins
2006
Help Seguin Shine Program Launched
– 2020 – SEGUIN CHAMBER RECOGNIZED AS BUSINESS CHAMPION FOR TALENT PIPELINE PROJECT Talent Pipeline Manufacturing Summit Spotlights CTE programs and Manufacturing Industry Educational Needs
S
eguin, Texas- Great solutions often start with great discussions. Problems openly lead to ideas, which lead to plans and then to actions. That is the intent behind the Talent Pipeline Manufacturing Summit, a joint effort organized by the Seguin Chamber of Commerce, the Seguin Economic Development Corporation, the Central Texas Technology Center and the Texas Workforce Commission. These sessions have brought together an array of community partners who explored what the city’s manufacturing economy needs to thrive, grow, and continue to provide jobs. “It is an exciting time to live and work in Seguin,” says Kendy Gravett, President of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce. “The extraordinary partnerships between city, county, schools, businesses, and individuals are truly creating a synergy that is
moving this community forward. The Manufacturing Summit and the Talent Pipeline Project are a great example of what can be done when people work together. We are making great strides in improving the communication lines between businesses, education, and community. The desired result is to develop and keep our local talent plugged into the jobs that we have available right here.” On August 10, 2017 from 11 AM to 1PM, nearly 50 representatives from the manufacturing and education sectors came together to discuss our regional workforce needs and to work together to build a stronger employee pipeline within the region. In addition to the discussion on workforce, the event also provided attendees with information on our local Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs available through Navarro ISD and Seguin ISD, information on the Alamo
STARCKE PARK
THEN & NOW
George P. Bush Keynote speaker at Banquet
Peter Holt Keynote Speaker at Banquet 2009
Shanta Kuhl, Chamber President moves office to 116 N. Camp St.
2010
2011
CVB moved to Department of City of Seguin
Academies offered at the Central Texas Technology Center and highlighted a collaborative success story between CMC Steel Texas and Navarro ISD. The recurring theme during the pipeline discussion is not an easy problem to solve. The parents of today’s teenagers – the future generation of workers – still tend to believe the old clichés of manufacturing floors being grimy, hot, and dangerous. While that can be true for some, it is not true for all of the manufacturers that are operating in Seguin. Few of those parents, let alone their kids, have never seen a modern, advanced manufacturing facility where workers are more likely to work on computers or alongside robots. There are more than 50 manufacturing companies in Seguin, Texas. The household-name companies such as Caterpillar and Continental employ thousands, but the vast majority of manufacturers are much smaller. These smaller companies manufacture metal roofing components, gears and gear shafts, resealable plastic bags, private labeled bottled water, oilfield storage tanks, reinforced concrete pipe, and just
2013
2016
Talent Pipeline Project Launches
about anything else you can imagine. The manufacturing industry is struggling to find the workers it needs – this is a problem not only being faced here in Seguin but across the country. From entry-level production technicians to highly credentialed engineers, manufacturers are having a hard time filling their talent pipelines. For manufacturing to continue to provide good-paying careers and economic vitality to Seguin, we’ll need ongoing, active participation and ideas from our businesses and our education system to make sure we stay ahead of the curve. “Manufacturing has been an essential component to Seguin’s economy since the town was incorporated back in 1838,” said Josh Schneuker, Director of Economic Development for the City of Seguin. “Despite the challenges highlighted in our Talent Pipeline Manufacturing Summit, we are confident that through these continued collaborative efforts, we can make positive strides in improving our regional workforce needs. This will help ensure that manufacturing will continue to be the cornerstone of the Seguin economy for many more centuries to come.”
Congratulations Seguin Chamber on 100 years Serving this Community! From then until now we’re here to help you Spend Life Wisely. Congratulations
We’ve got a ton of love for Seguin 109 E Court St - Seguin 830-372-9466 Locally Owned and Operated
WWW.ANDERSPIERCE.COM
480 S Seguin ave - New braunfels 830-214-6002
to the Seguin Chamber of Commerce on their 100 years of commitment to our community.
Seguin - East • 1539 E. Court St. • (830) 401-1170 Seguin - Main • 200 N. Austin St. • (830) 401-1100 Seguin - West • 901 N. State Hwy 46 • (830) 401-1175
FirstUnitedBank.com
Member FDIC.
Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025.
Congratulations
From our family to yours, we congratulate the Seguin Chamber of Commerce on its 100th Anniversary.
We have 132 years of history covering Seguin and Guadalupe County. No one covers the news that matters to you like your community newspaper. We are your newspaper.
Seguin
Let us do the work for you! Order in the store, over the phone, and now all services online through Curbside! 1340 E Court St, Seguin TX 78155 1-830-379-8384
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
THE SEGUIN H
GAZETTE DELIVERING LIFE TO YOUR DOORSTEP SINCE 1888
Newspaper | Magazine | Online 830.379.5402 | www.seguingazette.com
2020 2020 RECAP
W
SUPPORTING OUR MEMBERS THROUGH COVID-19
hen an unexpected pandemic arrived in Seguin in March of 2020, residents and the local business community had to adjust to this major disruption and create a ‘new normal’ for the remainder of the year. The Seguin Chamber suspended meetings and events and began collaborating with city and health leaders to create COVID-19 related resources and information for the region. The Chamber focused on helping the local retail and restaurant/bar businesses by helping them move to online shopping and promoting their new offerings. The Chamber website became a major source of information
for the local community to learn about how to do business safely under the new pandemic guidelines and restrictions. 2020 will forever be known as the Year of Reinventing. The Chamber transformed in-person learning, networking and recognition events such as the annual teacher recognition, annual meeting and mixers to virtual online events. Additionally, the Chamber hosted panel discussions featuring local subject matter experts on the topics of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Education and Workforce Development.
To support the local business community, the Chamber provided members with training to increase visibility online and launched other COVID-response initiatives including: * Providing resource information for funding, promotion, and Personal Protective Equipment * Reaching out to community to provide the hospital with PPE during a national shortage * Flexible membership options * Virtual Pub Crawl to promote bars during shutdown * Enhanced website member listings to give businesses a place to promote their products while developing their online shopping options.
TO COMMEMORATE THIS UNIQUE MOMENT IN THE CHAMBER’S 100-YEAR HISTORY, WE ARE PROVIDING MASKS WITH OUR CENTENNIAL LOGO. 830.549.5912
Family Owned and Operated
165 Tor Dr. – Seguin www.TresHewell.com
CONGRATULATIONS Guadalupe County SEGUIN CHAMBER ON
Congratulations Seguin Chamber of Commerce
100
United Way thanks you for serving this community for 100 years
YEARS OF SERVICE
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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2021 2021 & BEYOND
BE THE VOICE OF BUSINESS
2021 STRATEGIC PLAN ENABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ENHANCE COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE
AMPLIFY VALUE TO MEMBERS
Strengthen the shared vision for the greater Seguin area
Improve quality of life in Seguin
To provide members valuable connections
Objective: Balanced and inclusive growth
Objective: Quality education
Objective: Increased exposure for members
• Strategy: Be business-friendly
• Strategy: Partner with schools to prepare students to prosper in our local economy
• Strategy: Advocate for a balanced community growth plan
• Strategy: Support initiatives that address the diverse needs of all students
Objective: Workforce solutions
Objective: Downtown as a destination
• Strategy: Offer improved Memberto-Member business development
• Strategy: Foster collaborative partnerships for a skilled workforce
• Strategy: Support Main Street and the Downtown Business Alliance
• Strategy: Provide Member-toCommunity reach
• Strategy: Offer opportunities for real-world workforce experience
• Strategy: Increase opportunities to better utilize downtown spaces
Objective: Ensure preparedness for growth
• Strategy: Promote downtown activity
• Strategy: Create a pipeline of leaders
• Strategy: Increase pride for Seguin Area Schools
• Strategy: Offer support to entrepreneurs
Objective: Inclusive community
• Strategy: Develop and provide programs for all sectors of membership
• Strategy: Boost new member recognition
Objective: Improve V.O.I. (Value on Investment) for membership • Strategy: Encourage members to communicate the value of membership to others • Strategy: Tell the Chamber story • Strategy: Improve member retention • Strategy: Meet expectations of chamber members
OUR VISION: To make Seguin the best choice to live, work, play and prosper. OUR MISSION: To promote and strengthen the prosperity of our members and our community.
I’m so proud and excited to lead the Chamber into its 100th year of excellence.
Thank you for making our first 100 years Shine so Bright!
Lea Phelps REALTOR®/Associate Selling and Listing Guadalupe and Surrounding Counties
830.305.8829
Central Texas Technology Center ACentral GREAT PLACE TO START Texas Technology Center A GREAT PLACE TO START 2189 FM 758 New Braunfels, TX 78130 2189 FM 758 (830) 609-2100 New Braunfels, TX 78130 (210) 486-7400 (830) 609-2100 Fax: (830) 486-9224 (210) 486-7400
Fax: (830) 486-9224
Seguin, Tx
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
Alamo Colleges District has partnered with New Braunfels 4B Economic Development Board and Alamo Colleges District has partnered with New Seguin 4A Economic Development Board to bring Braunfels 4B Economic Development Board and Central Texas Technology Center to New Braunfels, Seguin 4A Economic Development Board to bring Seguin and surrounding area residents. Central Texas Technology Center to New Braunfels, We provide education technical skills Seguin andhigher surrounding areaand residents. training to promote employment opportunities in We provide higher education and technical skills high-demand occupations. training to promote employment opportunities in high-demand occupations.
Central Texas Technology Center offers: • Central CollegeTexas academic core courses Technology Center(humanities, offers: math, science) • College academic core courses (humanities, • Short-term workforce training programs that connect math, science) residents to emerging jobs in high-demandoccupations, •such Short-term workforce programs connect as Certified Nursingtraining Assistant, Medicalthat Assistant, residents to emerging jobs in high-demandoccupations, Industrial Maintenance/Mechatronics Technician, such asTechnology Certified Nursing Assistant, Welding and OSHA trainingMedical Assistant, Industrial Maintenance/Mechatronics Technician, • Information Technology, Medical Health Classes, Welding Technology and OSHA training and ESL classes utilizing the contextual format •through Information Technology, Health the Integrated BasicMedical Education and Classes, Skills and ESL classes(I-BEST) utilizing the contextual format Training Program through the Integrated Basic Education and Skills • Vocational Nursing Training Program (I-BEST)
• Vocational Nursing
& BEYOND “I believe one of the greatest assets the Chamber continues to bring to Seguin is the opportunity to network businesses with each other and the community to raise awareness of the valuable services available right here, without having to travel to surrounding areas.” - Darren Schauer, GVEC General Manager and CEO
CONGRATULATIONS Time to celebrate the Seguin Chamber on 100 years of service!
830-379-7280
2464 Hwy. 46 N. • Seguin, Texas 78155
www.cargill.com/careers
Feed & Nutrition
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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ZDT Chamber Mixer
ZDT Chamber Mixer
ZDT Chamber Mixer
GRMC VOLUNTEER SERVICES
100
congratulates the Seguin Chamber on celebrating their
Centennial Anniversary
Our Bingo game money goes toward helping support our community. We appreciate all players coming to play bingo on Thursday night for their help in supporting our community.
Thank you for your commitment to this community over the past years.
3211 FM 78 McQueeney, TX • P.O. Box 146, 78123
(830) 557-6621 • mcqueeneylionsclub.org Serving our local communities
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
Freedom Fiesta
Freedom Fiesta
Business Showcase
Freedom Fiesta
4th of July Parade
Honored to be a Charter Member since 1921. Congratulations on Celebrating 100 years
300 S. Austin 379-4622
www.fabiosjewelry.com Seguin, TX From a Name you trust with a 109 Year Tradition.
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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Betty & Gene Dietert
SOLC
Robert Raetsch Leadership at Fire Museum
Robert Haynes
New Board Room
Hilmar Starcke, Larry Taylor & Frank Starcke
WE BUILD MOWERS ALAMO GROUP (TX) INC. | 1502 EAST WALNUT ST. SEGUIN, TX | 800-882-5762
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
Chamber Staff 2002
Britney & Emily
Allan Dreibrodt
Leadership 2002
Fanny Harkins & Phil Seidenberger
Fair Mixer 2002
Edmund Kuempel
Eggs & Issues with County Judge Kyle Kutscher, Senator Zaffirini, Mayor Don Keil, State Rep. John Kuempel, TLU President Stuart Dorsey
CONGRATULATIONS
SEGUIN CHAMBER
100 on
Y E A R S
www.seguinisd.net
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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Pecan Fest 2011 - Wilson Pottery Brass Ring Challenge
Customer Service Training
Darren Dunn & Joe Patterson
Texas Theater Sign Replacement
Seguinopoly 2015
Seguin is a successful, flourishing, and thriving city. Prosperity Bank is proud to call it home. 1414 East Court St. | Seguin TX 78155
830-379-2222
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
Ribbon Cutting at New H-E-B
Ermel Passing Gavel to Seidenberger
Ribbon Cutting at ZDT’s Amusement Park
John Gesick, Shanta Kuhl, Keynote: Peter Holt – HOLT CAT, Spurs
Congratulations on Celebration 100 Years
1404 N. Camp St. Seguin, TX 78155 830-303-6256
Ribbon Cutting at CTTC
We’re more than electricity…
Solar
Internet
Electricians
AC/Heating
INTERNET I ELECTRIC I HOME
INTERNET | ELECTRIC | HOME 833.568.7304 | gvec.org TACLB00018344E | TECL32802
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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Carnival at Freedom Fiesta
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Writing, marketing and design support www.canikcommun that inspires results 713.416.6837
Writing, mark aprilcanik@gmail.com www.canikcommunications.com
design sup that inspires Writing, marketing and Writing, marketing and Writing, marketing design support and www.canikcommunications.com design support that inspires results design support that inspires results 713.416.6837 that inspires results 713.416.6837 713.416.6 Writing, marketing and design support aprilcanik@gm that inspires results 713.416.6837 www.canikcommunications.com www.canikcommunications.com
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EXPERTS SPECIALIZED IN EMERGENCY CARE
aprilcanik@gmail.com
CARING FOR INFANTS TO ADULTS OPEN 24/7
713.416.6837
1860 S. Seguin Ave. # 400 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-468-5600
aprilcanik@gmail.com www.riversideer.com
OUTPATIENT RADIOLOGY SERVICES CT SCAN - ULTRASOUND - X-RAY
PATIENT RESULTS AVAILABLE IN 1 HOUR 1860 S. Seguin Ave. # 200 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-302-2652
www.thecrossingimaging.com
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SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
Hablamos Español
SEGUIN CHAMBER - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 2021
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FAMILY FAMILYCOMES COMES FIRST FIRST
We community, Weare areproud proudmembers members of of the the community, serving servingour ourneighbors neighbors for for generations. generations.
Larry D. Moore CC BY SA3.0
We make it personal.®®
We make it personal. PALMER
M ORTUARY PALMER
MORTUARY & CREMATIONS 830-609-4906 830-379-2313 830-379-9430 713 N. Austin St. 1116 N. Austin Street 2951 S. State Hwy 46 830-379-2313 830-609-4906 830-379-9430 Seguin, TX 78155 S e g u i n , T X 7 8 1 5 5 New Braunfels, TX 78130
& CREMATIONS
N. Austin St. 1116 N. Austin Street 2951 S. State Hwy 46 713goetzfuneral.com guadalupevalleymemorialpark.com palmermortuary.com New Braunfels, TX 78130
Seguin, TX 78155
Seguin, TX 78155
