40th Annual Military & First Responder Salute to Service
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
BUSINESS LINK LUNCH
Thursday, October 10, 2024
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Sponsored by: Crawford Bowers Funeral Home
Registration Required
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Thursday, October 24, 2024 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Sponsored by:
McLane Intelligent Solutions & Security Bank
40TH MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDER SALUTE TO SERVICE
Tuesday, October 29, 2024 11:15 am - 1:00 pm
Learn more & register at www.templechamber.com
OCTOBER 2024 TempleChamber.com
The Temple Chamber of Commerce is honored to host the 40th annual Military & First Responder Salute to Service, presented by H-E-B and the American Legion Post 133, on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. The event will take place from 11:15 am to 1:00 pm at the Mayborn Convention Center in Temple.
“The 40th Military & First Responder Salute is special to us for many reasons,” said Whitney Theriot, President and CEO of the Temple Chamber of Commerce. “Our Chamber has a long history of supporting the Military in Central Texas. This commitment goes back to the 1930s when our Defense Projects Committee, led by Frank W. Mayborn, played a huge role in establishing Camp Hood, now Fort Cavazos, and the Olin E. Teague Veterans Center, now the Central Texas Veterans Healthcare System, in Temple.”
After going virtual with a drive-thru pick-up lunch for two years due to the pandemic, we returned to our in-person luncheon in 2022. Both the 2020 and 2021 events were reimagined with virtual presentations and drive-thru boxed lunches to keep the tradition alive. Our Chamber team, H-E-B Partners, and local volunteers stepped up to serve our Central Texas Military Partners, veterans, first responders, and the community with gratitude and a meal.
“We are proud to continue honoring our Armed Forces through the presence of Fort Cavazos and the Texas Army
National Guard here in Temple, along with our incredible local veteran community,” added Theriot.
This year, we are thrilled to welcome active-duty soldiers from Central Texas Military Partners from Fort Cavazos, as well as the 3rd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment from the Texas Army National Guard based right here in Temple. We’ll also have veterans from the American Legion Post #133 and VFW Post #1820 as our honored guests.
“And of course, we’ll continue to celebrate the brave men and women who serve as First Responders, keeping our community safe 24/7,” Theriot shared.
Since 2020, the Chamber has proudly included First Responders in this recognition. We’ll be welcoming local law enforcement, fire and rescue teams, EMS, and medical and healthcare professionals as honored guests.
This year’s event will feature a special presentation by Colonel (R) Thomas “Jerry” Curtis, the second longestheld Prisoner of War from the Vietnam War.
Through this annual tradition, the Chamber brings the business community together to give back and show appreciation to those who’ve sacrificed so much for all of us. For more information, visit www.templechamber.com or call (254) 773-2105.
September New Chamber Members
1st Response Occupational Health & Safety, LLC
Jeremy Layton | (903) 574-0846 Temple, TX
www.1stresponseoccupational.com Training & Development
9Round
Klaudia Kincaid | (254) 727-4004
7425 W. Adams Ave. #140 Temple, TX 76502
www.9round.com/TempleTXWestAdamsAve Fitness
Acme Brick
Shawn McElroy | (254) 778-8088
4040 S. General Bruce Dr. Temple, TX 76502 www.brick.com/dealers/temple Building Materials
Heaven and Hair Salon
4224-A S 5th Street Temple, TX 76502
heavenandhairsalon.com Beauty Salons
ITAC Solutions, LLC
Kristen McLaughlin | (205) 326-0004 Temple, TX
https://itacsolutions.com Employment Services
September Renewing Chamber Members
Boley's Smart Foundation Repair
Brandon Whatley Homes
Cedarwood Financial Partners
MRB Group
Pendley Party Productions, Inc.
Pustka Family Barbeque VeraBank
MM Concrete
Christi Mooney | (254) 223-3699
95332 E. US Hwy 84 Gatesville, TX 76528 www.facebook.com/MMConcreteConstruction Construction Companies & General Contractors Concrete
Smokey Mo's BBQ
Leslie Smith | (512) 528-0090 6768 W Adams Ave, Ste. 104 Temple, TX 76501
smokeymosbbq.com/locations/temple Restaurants
Tommy's Express Car Wash
Kevin Gottschalk | (254) 203-5346 5703 W Adams Ave Temple, TX 76502 Tommys-express.com/temple Car Washes
Temple Chamber of Commerce Networking Events: Igniting Business Success
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
In the realm of business, networking is not a mere buzzword; it's the lifeblood of growth and opportunity.
Temple Chamber of Commerce networking events hold the promise of opportunities yet unexplored. However, the prospect can be equally exciting and daunting. But fear not, here are a few tips:
Break the Ice:
Approach these events with a genuine curiosity about others' businesses. It's less about the sale and more about cultivating authentic relationships.
Initiate Conversations:
Discover common ground that ties your businesses. It could be community engagement or emerging industry trends.
Leave a Lasting Impression:
Post-event, make a connection on social media or send a personalized email. This gesture underscores your commitment to nurturing any newfound relationships.
To all local business owners with visions of expansion and innovation, the Temple Chamber of Commerce is your conduit to a world of infinite potential. So, let this be a call to action – embrace the Temple Chamber's network, and in doing so, embrace a journey toward boundless success in our vibrant community.
The Temple Chamber of Commerce extends an invitation to entrepreneurs
seeking to broaden horizons and establish connections that fuel prosperity. Not sure if your organization is a member? Visit our Business Directory at www. templechamber.com to find out.
The October Networking Events are:
Business Link Lunch | Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Registration is required
Business After Hours | Oktoberfest
McLane Intelligent Solutions & Security Bank of Texas
Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Further information about upcoming networking events can be found on the Temple Chamber Event Calendar at www.templechamber.com or on the Temple Chamber Facebook Page www.facebook.com/templechamber.
Extraco Banks | Temple: Downtown 102 S. 1st St, Temple, TX 76501 Extraco Banks | Temple: S. 31st 3615 S. 31st St, Temple, T X, 76502 SOPHISTICATED OFFERINGS. PERSONALIZED TOUCH.
Extraco Banks’ innovative business banking solutions empower Temple’s thriving businesses throughout Central Texas to grow and succeed. With tailored ser vices and a commitment to local relationships, we’re here to suppor t your unique business needs, helping our community grow stronger together.
RIBBON CUTTING
Pain Specialists of America Temple location celebrated its first anniversary in their new facility located in west Temple. At Pain Specialists of America, they provide interventional pain management to those who suffer from chronic pain. They have 13 locations and 3 surgery centers throughout central Texas that all share the same goal: To get patients back to living a functional and fulfilling life again. Because at PSA, for every pain, there is a plan.
Professional Pool Solutions is a family-owned and operated, CPO® Certified service provider for commercial and residential pools and spas in the Central Texas area. Offering regularly scheduled cleaning and maintenance, equipment repairs, and pool school training, they are the local neighborhood "pool guy." Recently, Professional Pool Solutions expanded with the Pro Patio division, providing outdoor living installations such as above-ground pools, louvered pergolas, decks, BBQ kitchens, and Caldera® hydrotherapy spas.
Caleb Almanza
1422 Berger Road, Ste. B
Temple, TX 76501
(254) 913-1016
www.pro-poolsolutions.com
RIBBON CUTTING
Expand Your HORIZONS
Take our CDL training course in Temple, TX
If you're growing tired of your current career and want something new, you've come to the right place. Texman CDL Training provides CDL training courses in the Temple, TX area. Our team can't wait to hear what new opportunities are available to you once you finish. Call our truck driving school today to get started. You won't regret it.
Tommy's Express Car Wash Grand Opening
Tommy's Express has everything you need to keep your vehicle clean inside and out. In addition to our world-class automated exterior car wash, we'll keep your vehicle's interior cleaner than ever with our detail kits. Kevin
(254) 203-5346
tommys-express.com/temple
Chamber Ambassador Spotlight: Kevin Thomas
Bobbie Jo Young, Temple Chamber of Commerce
Kevin Thomas didn’t initially plan on becoming an Ambassador for the Temple Chamber of Commerce, but his natural dedication to the community made it a perfect fit. After joining the Chamber, Kevin quickly stood out. He regularly stopped by the office, becoming a familiar face to both the staff and fellow members. Kevin also started attending ribbon-cutting ceremonies—not as an official Ambassador, but as a supportive member and experienced financial professional.
Before long, Kevin became a dependable presence at these events, consistently showing up with enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute. His participation and leadership made it clear that he was an ideal candidate for an official Ambassador role. Since taking on this responsibility, Kevin has continued to bring his positive attitude and professionalism to every Chamber event.
Despite having a busy schedule, Kevin has always found time to serve the Chamber and its members. He works full-time as a financial professional at Equitable Advisors, where he’s been for the past five years. With 13 years of experience in the financial industry, Kevin provides valuable expertise to his clients. In addition to his work with the Temple Chamber, he is also active in two other local chambers.
Even though Kevin lives in Killeen, he regularly makes the drive to Temple, often arriving just in time to lend a helping hand at Chamber events. His
dedication to supporting the Chamber’s members has made him a reliable and valued figure within the community. Kevin’s bright smile, infectious laugh, and professional demeanor bring warmth to every event, making him a welcome and trusted presence.
A Navy veteran who previously worked on rescue helicopters, Kevin’s passion for helping others extends into his work and community involvement. When not meeting with clients or attending Chamber events, Kevin enjoys spending time with his wife of 12 years and their two children, ages 9 and 6.
Kevin Thomas is a true asset to the Temple Chamber of Commerce. His unwavering commitment to the community, positive energy, and ability to balance work and family make him an invaluable part of the Chamber family. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and look forward to many more years of his support.
A Nurse, a Pastor, and a Funeral Director walk into a Water Treatment Plant...
But It’s No Joke
Chantel Brooks, Texell Credit Union; Trey Simpson, P.E., Clark Associates; Micheal Smith, Temple Area Builders Association -
This isn’t the setup for a punchline, but the beginning of the latest Leadership Temple cohort’s deep dive into understanding the inner workings of the City of Temple and what keeps its government running smoothly.
One of the most fundamental expectations citizens have is that clean water will flow from their taps on demand, and we were fortunate to witness firsthand how this happens. We observed the entire process, from water being drawn from the Leon River to the removal of debris, followed by filtration and purification. Temple stands out as one of only 17 cities in Texas participating in the Texas Optimization Program, a voluntary initiative designed to enhance the performance of surface water treatment plants—an effort that is clearly paying off.
Following the water treatment tour, we visited City Hall to learn about another, sometimes equally dirty, aspect of government: the annual budget process. Temple takes a forward-thinking approach to budgeting, operating more like a business than a traditional government entity.
In addition to an annual budget, the City maintains a strategic plan to set long-term goals, a business plan to forecast future revenue and spending, and a Capital Improvement Plan focused on major projects and infrastructure. Together, these tools provide transparency, proactive planning, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Leadership Temple Class of 2025
After being thoroughly immersed in numbers and financials, we were given insight into the City’s decision-making processes through a presentation on the various Boards and Commissions, as well as the City Council.
Temple boasts 14 distinct boards and commissions, ranging from zoning to parks and recreation, to the airport and citizen oversight of law enforcement. These voluntary positions, which require specific qualifications such as occupation or residency, play a critical role in guiding City decisions.
The City Council, on the other hand, consists of elected representatives who serve voluntarily, dedicating countless hours without compensation. Each Councilmember represents a different district within Temple, with the Mayor elected at-large. The Council works alongside city staff and residents to ensure the needs of the community are met.
To bring the day’s lessons to life, we participated in a mock council meeting, where class members played the roles of city staff, citizens, a business owner seeking a zoning change, and the City Council. This exercise was a powerful way to apply everything we had learned and gain a deeper appreciation for the complex decisions our city leaders face on a daily basis.
The key takeaway from the day is clear: Temple is a remarkable place to live, with dedicated and innovative staff, compassionate leaders, and an incredible future ahead.
KTB Unveils New Website and Logo, Expands Community Engagement Initiatives
Natalie Alvara, Keep Temple Beautiful Board of Directors
Keep Temple Beautiful (KTB), a long-standing advocate for environmental safety and beautification in Temple, Texas, has recently launched a new website and logo as part of its efforts to engage the community and expand its impact. The organization, founded in 1988, continues to build on the vision set forth by Texas Representative Dianne White Delisi and the Temple Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee, which first sought to make Temple the State’s official Wildflower Capital. Today, KTB is a thriving 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a passionate volunteer board and a range of ongoing community projects.
The newly designed website—keeptemplebeautiful.com—reflects the organization's fresh branding, featuring user-friendly navigation and opportunities for residents to get involved. Visitors to the site can explore KTB's latest projects, learn about upcoming events, and apply for volunteer opportunities. The new logo showcases KTB’s commitment to making Temple a clean, green, and aesthetically pleasing city. This modern update reflects the organization’s growing focus on both beautification and environmental sustainability.
KTB’s current initiatives include the development of a "Yard of the Month" program, aimed at recognizing residents who excel in maintaining their yards, and its continued partnership with the City of Temple to support cleanup efforts. These efforts go hand-in-hand with KTB's commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all who live, work, and visit Temple. Additionally, KTB is playing a major role in beautifying the I-35 gateway to the city with landscaping, signage, and sculptures that will greet travelers with an alluring view.
As the organization grows, it invites community members to get involved by donating, becoming members, or volunteering in local cleanup events such as the upcoming El Paseo Clean Up on September 21 and United Way Day of Caring on October 4. These events provide a hands-on way to make a lasting difference and foster a sense of pride in the Temple community.
Keep Temple Beautiful’s mission remains clear: to envision and create a community where every neighborhood is a clean, green, and beautiful place to live. With the rollout of these new programs, KTB hopes to inspire more residents to participate in its efforts to make Temple a better, more vibrant city.
For more information about volunteering or donating, visit keeptemplebeautiful.com and discover how you can help Keep Temple Beautiful.
16th Annual Chamber Golf Classic Powered by Amos Electric
The 16th Annual Chamber Golf Classic, powered by Amos Electric, was September 23, 2024, at Wildflower Country Club. This year's event brought together local business leaders for an afternoon of fresh air, friendly competition, and valuable networking opportunities.
