A Letter to the Temple Chamber Membership & Community
Whitney Theriot, Temple Chamber of Commerce
As we mark the midpoint of the year, I feel privileged to pen this update as the new President & CEO of the Temple Chamber of Commerce. Stepping into this role, I am deeply honored to continue the legacy of leadership that has defined our organization for 117 years.
JULY 2024
U.S. SBA DISASTER LOAN WEBINAR
Monday, July 8, 2024 11:00 am
Registration Required https://bit.ly/3xebfOW
SMALL BUSINESS CONNECT DIGITAL BOOTCAMP
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Registration Required
https://bit.ly/DigitalBootcampTemple
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Sponsored by: Extraco Banks
While I have had the privilege of serving the Temple Chamber for the past nine years, stepping into the role of President & CEO has been a new and welcome challenge. I am committed to building upon and advancing our mission with renewed dedication and enthusiasm.
During my interview, I emphasized the importance of architecting a bold future for the Temple Chamber. Boldness, to me, is not just a trait but an action, and our Chamber has a rich history of bold leadership.
Since our founding in 1907 by a visionary group of leaders who paved sidewalks for downtown shoppers, the Temple Chamber has been instrumental in shaping our community's growth. From pioneering initiatives like the Blackland Experiment Station to establishing educational institutions, our history is a testament to our commitment to community progress.
The growth and development we see in our community today—from our lakes and interstate to our community college and Fort Cavazos (formerly Hood)—are the legacies of bold and pioneering leaders within the Temple Chamber. Drawing strength from this courageous spirit, we are charting a bold new course for our future.
This blueprint is not a solitary endeavor; it is a collaborative process. Together with the Board of Directors, our dedicated Chamber Team, community partners, and Members, we have embarked on a journey of shaping our future. My top priority remains listening, understanding, and identifying areas where we can enhance value for our Members and the broader community.
To date in 2024, we have welcomed 55 new Members to the Temple Chamber, reflecting a thriving business climate in our region.
Our Membership of over 1,000 Members includes
industry titans like Wilsonart and McLane Company, healthcare leaders such as Baylor Scott & White Health, and innovative firms like PDI and Meta, alongside numerous small businesses that enrich our city's fabric.
We have celebrated 22 ribbon-cutting ceremonies, symbolizing the birth of new ventures and the expansion of existing ones.
In March, we held the State of Temple College Public Policy Council Luncheon, highlighting the present accomplishments and future vision of the institution. Temple College is redefining its physical landscape with new construction and renovations, providing students with cutting-edge facilities and resources to excel in their educational journeys and career paths.
Leadership Temple graduated its 35th cohort in May and remains pivotal in cultivating the next generation of community leaders. Our new seminar series with Small
Whitney Theriot, President & CEO , Temple Chamber of Commerce
June Renewing Chamber Members
Airrosti Rehab Centers
Bell County Court-at-Law #2
Central Counties Services
InHouse Systems, Inc.
Kristen Distributing
Morether Creative Agency
Priority Janitorial Services, LLC
Reliant, an NRG company
Total Placement Staffing
June New Chamber Members
Bank of Texas
Martha Johnson | (347) 284-7999 Temple, TX
www.bankoftexas.com
Banks Mortgage Loans
Eleven Intuitions
Melissa Ainslie | (254) 931-1361 Temple, TX
www.elevenintuitions.com
Psychics
Javier Automotive, LLC
Javier Martel | (254) 791-9015
6859 Level Acres Drive Temple, TX 76502
www.javierautomotive.com
Auto Repairs and Service
Landeros Law Office, PLLC
Kayla Landeros
10 N. Second Street Temple, TX 76501 Legal Services
Maria Talamo Consulting
Maria Talamo | (512) 299-7771
Cedar Park, TX Consultants
Mathnasium of Temple
Colby Street | (254) 231-0464
7424 W. Adams, Ste. 130 Temple, TX 76502
www.mathnasium.com
Schools - Private
NutriStation Pro
Leon McCall | (254) 314-2025 1022 S. 31st Street Temple, TX 76504
www.nutristationpro.com
Nutritional Supplements
Pink Bulldog Boutique
Micah Springston | (254) 831-3133
208 N. Penelope Dr. Belton, TX 76513 www.pinkbulldogboutique.com Boutiques
Suncrest Hospice
Tami Martin | (512) 543-1381 Temple, TX
www.suncrestcare.com Hospice
A Letter to the Temple Chamber Membership & Community Cont.
Business Connect has hosted two seminars to date and aims to empower local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
We have hosted three signature events: Salute to Business in January, the Spirit of Santa Fe Trail in April, and the 14th Annual Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase in June. Each of these events showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Temple’s business community.
These events, along with our ongoing networking opportunities and community engagement initiatives, reinforce our Chamber’s role in fostering an environment where businesses can thrive without unnecessary obstacles. We’re talking about growth, development, and endless possibilities.
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024, the Temple Chamber stands committed to supporting our Members and advancing our community's interests. We will continue with the program of work we began at the beginning of the year with upcoming initiatives like the Summer Sizzle “Seltzer” in August, the Golf Classic powered by Amos Electric in September, and the 40th Military & First Responders Salute in October.
While our 2024 programming and events are underway, recent challenges have reminded us of the need for adaptability. The flooding of our Chamber building twice in May and the devastating tornado that struck our community have tested our resilience but have also showcased our strength and unity.
In response to these challenges, our community has rallied together under the banner of Temple Strong. The Chamber has actively supported recovery efforts assisting affected businesses and collaborating with local organizations
and volunteers. From coordinating donation drives to aiding in relief efforts, our Members and community partners have demonstrated unparalleled compassion and determination. As adaptability relates to the future of the Temple Chamber, we have initiated a strategic planning process to guide us for the next 3 to 5 years. Through this process, our focus remains on innovation, collaboration, and resilience. We are committed to expanding our programming, enhancing Member benefits, and strengthening our partnerships with local stakeholders.
Your feedback continues to be invaluable as we navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and architect a bold, visionary future for the Temple Chamber of Commerce. A Membership Satisfaction Survey and Focus Groups will be conducted later this summer to continue our exploration of new opportunities and initiatives that align with our strategic priorities and address emerging needs within our community.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Temple Chamber Membership and the community for your ongoing support and collaboration. Together, we are shaping a vibrant and resilient business community in Temple, poised for continued growth and success.
Kindly,
Whitney Whitney Theriot President & CEO Temple Chamber of Commerce
PROUDLY SERVING THE TEMPLE COMMUNITY
Extraco Banks is committed to building businesses in the Temple community with tailored banking solutions and investing in community projects to foster growth and prosperity.
We provide innovative technology to fuel your business growth while ensuring an exceptional customer experience.
Temple Chamber’s 14th Annual Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
The Temple Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the 14th Annual Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase, continuing its tradition of offering an exceptional welcome to new resident physicians, fellows, nurses, senior staff, and their families.
"Temple is dedicated to providing a warm and exceptional welcome to the new resident physicians upon their arrival to the community. With our annual Showcase, now in its 14th year, and the street banners, we strive to ensure our new arrivals and their families feel genuinely embraced and supported," noted Whitney Theriot, President & CEO of the Temple Chamber of Commerce.
The Baylor Scott & White Community Showcase offers a unique opportunity for newcomers to meet and explore their new community. Set in a trade show format, Temple Chamber Member exhibitors introduce their businesses and services to the latest residents. This event aims to ease the transition for these new community members by showcasing the various goods and services available in Temple.
Moving to a new city involves numerous challenges: packing, relocating, finding housing, unpacking, and preparing for a new job are time-consuming
and stressful. Recognizing this, Baylor Scott & White Health and the Temple Chamber of Commerce collaborate annually to host the Showcase every June, welcoming over 150 new residents and fellow doctors. The showcase featured over 85 local Chamber Member businesses.
The event received positive feedback from local businesses, with many exhibitors impressed by the warm reception from the new residents. "It was amazing to welcome such an important part of our community to the Temple area," commented one exhibitor. Another added, “Several attendees commented on how nice it was of the Temple community to give them such a warm welcome.”
In an age that is more digital than analog, a more traditional meet and greet creates a lasting impression and has the potential to build lifelong relationships.
For more information on the Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase or other initiatives of the Temple Chamber of Commerce to strengthen the ties between local businesses and the community, visit www. templechamber.com.
United Way of Central Texas Opens Applications for Local Tornado Relief Fund
United Way of Central Texas
The United Way of Central Texas has created the 2024 Tornado Relief Fund to help meet the immediate needs of Temple residents who were affected by the recent tornadoes.
The fund is intended to help households with utility payments, home and building repairs, vehicle repairs, mortgage payments, rental assistance, food and food supplies, and prescriptions and medical supplies.
Residents wanting to apply for assistance can download and complete the application form from the United Way of Central Texas website, www.uwct. org/who-we-help/2024-tornado-relief-fund.
Completed applications can be submitted via email to info@uwct.org or dropped off in person at the United Way office located at 4 N 3rd Street, Temple, Texas 76501.
Only applications with all the required attachments will be reviewed for eligibility, and there are limited funds available.
For more information, to donate to the Tornado Relief Fund, or to apply for assistance, please visit www.uwct.org.
Questions regarding the fund and the application process should be directed to the United Way of Central Texas at (254) 778-8616 or by calling 2-1-1.
Save the Date for July Business After Hours
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
Join us for our July Business After Hours sponsored by Extraco Banks. The event is Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the branch location in downtown Temple, 102 S. First Street.
Business After Hours is an opportunity for Temple Chamber Members to develop new business relationships in a relaxed, social environment by joining other busy professionals after hours. This event will be full of fun, food, and networking!
Registration is not required for this event. For questions, call (254) 773-2105.
About our sponsor:
At Extraco, corporate social responsibility is part of our culture.
We understand that to sustain a healthy business, you must sustain a healthy community. It’s imperative to what we do every day for future economic growth and stability.
Our success as a company results from the care and compassion of our 330 team members who bring our culture to life each day.
They care for our customers. They develop relationships. They run our operations. They unselfishly donate their time, talent and personal financial resources to causes important to them.
Chamber Ambassador Spotlight: Stacy McGinnis
Bobbie Jo Young, Temple Chamber of Commerce
Stacy McGinnis has been a radiant addition to the Ambassadors of the Temple Chamber, bringing joy and laughter to every event she attends. Known for her infectious smile and straightforward humor, Stacy has a unique ability to keep the Ambassadors entertained and uplifted.
She is easily recognizable in her signature blue coat worn over stylish dresses, exuding a youthful and glowing presence, with her natural curls adding to her unmistakable charm.
Balancing her responsibilities at the Temple Chamber with her demanding role at Extraco Banks, Stacy's dedication is commendable. As the Branch Manager at the Downtown Temple location, she has climbed the career ladder through hard work and determination.
Stacy's journey at Extraco Banks began 12 years ago as a Relationship Banker. Her talent and commitment quickly propelled her to the roles of Senior Relationship Banker, Supervisor, and eventually, Branch Manager. Reflecting on her career, Stacy states, "At Extraco, we build people, businesses, and communities with creative and innovative excellence."
Originally from Germany, Stacy moved to Colorado Springs as a child and found her way to Texas 13 years ago.
Outside of her professional life, Stacy is a devoted mother to her two teenage daughters. She enjoys spending her free time gardening or powerlifting, demonstrating her dynamic and multifaceted nature.
Although Stacy's demanding job prevents her from attending many ribbon cuttings, she prioritizes volunteering at the Chamber's Signature Initiative events.
Her commitment to the community is unwavering, often spending hours on her feet, assisting with event setup, and greeting guests with her characteristic bright smile. Stacy's exceptional communication skills and encouraging spirit make her a beloved figure in the Temple Chamber community.
Stacy McGinnis exemplifies dedication and community spirit in her role as a Chamber Ambassador. Her ability to balance her professional responsibilities with her volunteer efforts is truly admirable.
Stacy’s presence at Chamber events, her supportive nature, and her tireless work ethic make her an invaluable asset to the Temple community. Through her contributions, Stacy continues to inspire and support those around her, embodying the true spirit of a Chamber Ambassador.
Elevate Your Social Media Game: Join Our Half-Day Digital Bootcamp
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
Are you looking to enhance your social media presence and engage your audience more effectively on Facebook and Instagram? The Temple Chamber of Commerce is excited to present an immersive half-day digital bootcamp where we will provide you with the tools and strategies to optimize your content on these powerful platforms. Join us on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn-Temple. Registration for the event is $15 and includes breakfast and printed materials for the event.
Our bootcamp kicks off with the session "Creative Optimization for Facebook and Instagram." In this 90-minute session, you'll learn how to craft and optimize engaging content tailored specifically for Facebook and Instagram. We'll delve into best practices for content creation, providing you with the tools needed to test and iterate your performance using the Meta Business Suite. By the end of this session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to identify tools and creative formats that can help you build a community on these platforms. You’ll also understand how to increase awareness of your business offerings through various content types, including posts, Stories, Reels, and Live video, and how to effectively test and improve your content's performance.
Following a brief intermission, we'll dive into our second session, "Instagram Deep Dive: Designing and Optimizing Your Instagram." This session will take you deep into Instagram's creative features, uncovering innovative techniques to effectively engage your audience. Over the next 90 minutes, you'll learn how to craft impactful posts, Stories, and Reels, building a strong and cohesive Instagram presence. We'll explore methods to create visually appealing content that aligns with your brand identity and target audience. Additionally, you'll develop effective caption-writing techniques that include storytelling, calls-to-action, and the strategic use of hashtags. You'll also learn how to
incorporate your brand’s tone-of-voice into your Instagram content, ensuring a consistent and engaging user experience.
Join us to learn from Amanda Robinson, Founder & CEO of The Digital Gal Inc., and a Meta Certified Lead Trainer. Amanda brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. She is widely recognized in the digital marketing industry for her expertise in Facebook Ads, creative chatbot skills, and her dynamic teaching style. Through her Swift Kick In the Ads Membership and Facebook Ads Training Bootcamp, she has helped thousands of business owners and entrepreneurs master Facebook Ads.
Amanda is not only an expert but also an engaging speaker, author, consultant, and educator who regularly presents on behalf of Meta at various events. Her sessions are packed with actionable insights and strategies that you can implement immediately to see real results. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your social media skills, network with like-minded individuals, and take your online presence to the next level.
This event is part of Small Business Connect, an initiative of the Temple Chamber of Commerce launched in 2023. The goal of Small Business Connect is to resource small business owners to accelerate and enhance their businesses through training from subject matter experts. This initiative is sponsored by Meta, Extraco Banks, Ludwick, Montgomery & Stapp, P.C., Hilton Garden Inn-Temple, and McLane Intelligent Solutions.
Don’t miss your chance to learn from one of the best in the industry. Mark your calendars and register now to secure your spot at this event.
Understanding U.S. SBA Disaster Loans: Financial Assistance for Severe Storms, Tornadoes,
and Flooding
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
The Temple Chamber of Commerce is hosting an upcoming webinar on Monday, July 8, 2024, featuring the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
We will delve into the disaster loan options available for individuals and businesses affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that hit Texas from April 26 through June 5, 2024. This session aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the SBA's disaster loan programs, covering essential details like eligibility criteria, application processes, and key deadlines.
Key Topics
1. Overview of the Disaster Declaration (TX-20010)
Understand the scope and impact of the disaster declaration, which sets the stage for the available SBA disaster loan programs.
2. Types of Disaster Loans Available
• Business Physical Disaster Loans: Designed to help businesses repair or replace disaster-damaged property.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Aimed at small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture businesses, and non-profit organizations to assist with financial obligations during the recovery period.
• Home Disaster Loans: For homeowners and renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged property and personal belongings.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Learn who qualifies for these loans and the specific requirements needed to apply.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE OR REGISTER
4. Application Filing Deadlines
• Physical Damage: July 16, 2024
• Economic Injury: February 18, 2025
5. Step-by-Step Guidance on the Application Process
Receive detailed instructions on how to navigate the application process, ensuring you have all the information needed to successfully apply for assistance.
Who Should Attend
• Business owners
• Non-profit organization representatives
• Homeowners and renters in the affected areas
Don't miss this valuable opportunity to gain insights on how the SBA can assist you in recovering and rebuilding after the disaster. Secure your spot today and take the first step towards recovery.
Register on the Temple Chamber’s website at https://bit.ly/3xebfOW to receive the webinar login credentials and ensure you don’t miss out on this crucial information session.
Join us to learn more about the resources and support available to help you overcome the challenges brought by the recent disasters in Texas.
