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Vol. 26 No. 3 March 2017March Business of the Month

pg. 7

®

Salute to Ag Luncheon

pg. 8

Lubbock Day in Austin

pg. 12

LUBBOCK DAY

at the State Capitol

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Thank you to our 5-Star Investors!

Lubbock Business Network

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In the News this Month:

A Message from the Chamber

March Calendar of Events ....................................................................... .4Total Resource Campaign ........................................................................ 6Meet the March Business of the Month ............................................ .7Get to Know Board Member, Alona Beesinger ..................................7Salute to Ag Luncheon ............................................................................. 8Lubbock Day in Austin............................................................................12

Since 1913, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s mission of strengthening, promoting and serving its member businesses has positively benefited 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 ove.r 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.

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!

2017 Board of DirectorsExecutive CommitteeChairwoman Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance AgencyChairman Elect Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech - Institutional Diversity, Equity and Community EngagementImmediate Past Chairwoman Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Treasurer Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust Co. Secretary Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of CommerceVice Chairman - Business Advocacy Scott Fagin, First United BankVice Chairman - Chamber Services and Member Engagement Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health PlansVice Chairwoman - Communications and Public Relations Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center of LubbockVice Chairman - Community Development Gabe Vitela, Twisted Root Burger Co.Vice Chairwoman - Programs, Services and Events Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society

Board of DirectorsByrnie Bass, R. Byrn Bass, Jr., Attorney at LawSteve Beck, Covenant HealthAlona Beesinger, SuddenlinkRon Betenbough, Betenbough HomesKevin Bryan, Digital Base ProductionsKeith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School DistrictFernando Bustos, Bustos Law Firm, PCChristi Chadwell, Texas Tech University/Young Professionals of LubbockRenee Gonzales Davis, 4ORE! GolfCasey Doyle, Casey Carpet OneLinda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/RatcliffJeff Horn, Benchmark Business SolutionsChris James, United SupermarketsBrent King, UMC Health SystemChris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’sDana Madison, Calvert Home Health CareDave Marcinkowski, Madera CompaniesBecky Palmer, Atmos EnergyBill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAsTony Pena, FirstCapital BankL. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian UniversityCathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health SystemVanessa Reasoner, Grace Health SystemsDr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School DistrictShannon Spencer, Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc.Marcie Truby, Director’s Choice

Lubbock Business Network

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March2 Ag Committee – 8:30 a.m. – LCOC Groundbreaking: FirstCapital Bank – 11 a.m. – 81 St. and Milwaukee Ave. Ribbon Cutting: Burger Fi – 3 p.m. – 4210 82nd St., Ste. 220

3 Transporation Committee – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Benchmark Family Services – 11 a.m. 4415 71st St., Ste. 11

6 Ribbon Cutting: Congressman Jodey Arrington’s New Office Location – 10 a.m. - 1312 Texas Ave., Ste. 219 Hub City BBQ Team Leads – 4 p.m. – LCOC

7 Chamber Basics: Pizza with the President – 11:30 a.m. – Wells Fargo Center – 1500 Broadway, Second Floor, San Jacinto Room Uncorked Team Leads – 3:30 p.m. – Campisi’s Restaurant 4414 82nd St., #218 YEA! Lesson 18 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub, 3911 4th St. Young Professionals of Lubbock: First Tuesday Networking 5:30 p.m. – Lubbock Moonlight Musicals – 413 East Broadway

8 Ribbon Cutting: Sam’s Scan and Go App – 9:30 a.m. 6016 Marsh Sharp Fwy. Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee – 3:30 p.m. – LCOC

9 Young Professionals of Lubbock: Lunch & Learn: Servant Leadership through Volunteerism – 12 p.m. – Hyatt Place Lubbock 2309 Mac Davis Lane Ribbon Cutting: Pinkerton’s Distillery – 4 p.m. – 8901 Hwy 87 Community Prayer Luncheon Committee – 4 p.m. – LCOC Business After Hours: Courtyard Marriott Downtown – 5:30 p.m. 308 Ave. V

10 Government Relations Committee – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC

15 Ambassador Monthly Luncheon – 12 p.m. – Buffalo Springs Lake 9999 High Meadow Road (Party House) Business Expo Committee – 4 p.m. – Wells Fargo Center – 1500 Broadway, Second Floor, San Jacinto Room

20 Young Professionals of Lubbock Committee – 4 p.m – LCOC

21 Salute to Ag Luncheon – 11:30 a.m. – Texas Tech McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center, 17th St. and University Ave. YEA! Lesson 19 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St.

22 Leadership Lubbock Class Day – All Day Uncorked Full Committee – 4 p.m. – Llano Estacado Winery 3426 East FM 1585 Ribbon Cutting: Lubbock Lemonade Day Kickoff – 4 p.m. 1215 Ave. J

23 Executive Committee – 12 p.m. – LCOC Business After Hours: Ferguson Enterprises – 5:30 p.m. 6602 42nd St.

24 Ribbon Cutting: Avalon Apartments (opening of Community Park) – 11 a.m. – 3420 Milwaukee Ave.

28 YEA! Lesson 20 – 4:30 p.m. – Texas Tech Innovation Hub 3911 4th St.

30 Board of Directors – 10 a.m. – Frenship ISD Casey Administration Building – 501 7th St., Wolfforth

31 Ribbon Cutting: United Way’s Go Blue Kickoff – 8 a.m. 1655 Main St.

Upcoming EventsMarch 7Chamber Basics: Pizza with the PresidentYPL: First Tuesday Networking sponsored by Lubbock Moonlight Musicals

March 9 YPL: Lunch & Learn: Servant Leadership through VolunteerismBusiness After Hours sponsored by Courtyard by Marriott Downtown

March 15Ambassador Monthly Luncheon sponsored by Buffalo Springs Lake

March 23Business After Hours sponsored by Ferguson Enterprises

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

Thursday, March 912-1 p.m.

Hyatt Place Lubbock2309 Mac Davis Lane

The cost is $10/person for YPL members and $12/person for non-members.

yplYOUNG PROFESSION

ALS OF LUBBOCK

Young Professionals of Lubbock

Lunch & Learn: Servant Leadership through

Volunteerism

Join the Young Professionals of Lubbock for their March Lunch & Learn! Featuring Executive Director of the Volunteer Center, Sharon Hyde Bass. You will learn ways to serve your community as a leader through volunteerism.

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber Staff

President/CEO Eddie McBride, IOMExecutive Vice President Norma Ritz Johnson, CCE, IOMCFO/COO Sheri Nugent, IOMVice President - Communications & Public Relations Tammi BoozerVice President - Programs, Services & Events Christye WeldCommunity Development Director Amy Marquez, IOMMember Relations Director Cathy PotterBusiness Development Coordinator Brenda RichardsonCommunications Specialist Haily AssiterEvent Specialists Allison Cottrell Korryn McMinnGovernment Relations Specialist Stevie Poole Kyle JacobsonAdministrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy MoffettCustomer Service Representative Jamie SherrillIntern KC Torres

Business After Hourssponsored by:

March 9, 20175:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

308 Ave. V

March 7, 20175:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

Young Professionals of LubbockFirst Tuesday Networking

hosted by:

413 East Broadway

Business After Hourssponsored by:

March 23, 20175:30 p.m.-7 p.m.6027 45th Street

Lubbock Business Network

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Thanks to all of our hardworking volunteers for making this possible!Chairman: Marcus Young, United Supermarkets

Co-Chairman: Mark Williams, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency

Total Resource Campaign, TRC Network, Underway!The 2017 Total Resource Campaign (TRC),

TRC Network, kicked off in February and will run through April 14. The eight-week campaign features the best volunteers in town. They are out in the community securing sponsorships from local business members for all Chamber events and programs.

By participating in the TRC, businesses receive significant exposure by being included in the marketing and promotions for the events they choose to sponsor.

The TRC has more than 60 dedicated volunteers this year with a goal to raise $535,000. Last year, with a goal of $510,000, the TRC volunteers were able to exceed expectations by raising more than $540,000.

Volunteers form divisions having a minimum monetary goal. The volunteers who reach benchmark achievements are

awarded prizes throughout the campaign at weekly reward sessions.

If you’re interested in sponsoring an event, please contact Sheri Nugent at sheri.nugent@lubbockbiz.org or call (806) 761- 7000.

Members of the Chamber who have sponsored previous events or would like to sponsor future events should make plans to speak with a TRC representative prior to April 14.

Thank you to all of our 2017 TRC hosts/sponsors!

J.T. & Margaret Talkington YWCA Sun ‘n Fun, Montelongo’s Mexican Restaurant, FirstBank & Trust, PrimeWest Mortgage, Campisi’s Restaurant, BodyWorks Family Sports Centers, Chop Chop Japanese Steakhouse, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency, Hilton Garden Inn and United Supermarkets

Vice Chair: Mark Williams (Sanford & Tatum)Emily Solis (Slate Group)

Carlos Diaz (Sanford & Tatum)Heather Keister (Freese and Nichols, Inc.)

David Vaughn (Centennial Bank)Roger Karr (American National Bank)

Valorie Duvall (South Plains College)Christy Reeves (Identify Corporate Innovations)

Monica Tracy (My Place - Lubbock)

Vice Chair: Bobby McCloud (Wayland Baptist University)Amanda Kuhn (Benchmark Business Solutions)

Constance Barbian (Benchmark Business Solutions)Jennifer Byrd (Kinetico Quality Water System)Renee Payne (Benchmark Business Solutions)

Grant McMillan (FirstBank & Trust Co.)Kayla Davis (Wayland Baptist University-Lubbock Campus)

Tammie Sansom (Prosperity Bank)Eric Schaff (Vista Bank)

Tony Garcia (Chop Chop Japanese Steakhouse)Molly Harris (Brookdale Remington Park)

Freida Henderson (Suddenlink Communications)Jordan McKay (Peoples Bank)

Vice Chair: Myndee PoolRenee Gonzales Davis (4ore! Golf)

Brad Wilson (SouthWest Bank)Phebe Ellis-Roach (PrimeWest Mortgage Corp.)

Jessica Carrillo (TTU Office of the President)Chris Abers (United Supermarkets)Scott Assiter (R C Taylor Distributing)

Brian Duncan (Llano Logistics)

Alex Martinez (Atmos Energy)Bill Breitweiser (Great Plains Distributors)

Tanner Noble (Progressive Properties)Allison Pace

Vice Chair: Nathan Scarborough (Lubbock National Bank)

Drew Gray (The Stellar Family of Companies)Meg Hunter (SunLover Travel)

Ryan Hunter (FirstCapital Bank)Travis Hillman (FirstCapital Bank)

Kelsey Johnson (YWCA)Rex Andrews (Keller Williams - Rex Andrews)

Heather Gifford (PrimeLending)Hacee Hughes (Keller Williams - Hacee Hughes REALTOR)

Nick Mears (Caprock Business Consulting)Krystyl Glenn (Weston Taylor Insurance Agency)

Vice Chair: Tyler Young (Texas Tech Federal Credit Union)Christi Chadwell (TTU CASNR)

Nick Atwood (MassMutual Southwest)Casey Doyle (Casey Carpet One)Jake Webb (First United Bank)

Jennifer Bledsoe (Happy State Bank)John Burk (Synetra)

Nick Reid (Marsh & McLennan Agency – SW Region)Emie Young (Amerigroup Corporation)

Renee Cook (Prosperity Bank)Grace Garza (Amerigroup Corporation)

Brandi Ivey (StarCare Specialty Health System)Ashley Knox (South Plains Mall Office)

Zoe Metcalf (Junior League of Lubbock)

Lubbock Business Network

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Introducing our March Business of the Month, Wayland Baptist UniversityHow has being a member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce helped to increase your business, relationships in the business community and/or community involvement? Being a part of the Chamber has allowed us to raise our awareness in the community and reach out to our target student base, which is primarily members of the business community that are looking to advance their careers.

When/Why did the Wayland Baptist University join the Chamber? We have been a member of the Chamber for as long as any of us have been here. We joined the Chamber to be a good corporate citizen and community partner in Lubbock. We realize the strength of the Lubbock Chamber is something that is unique and allows Lubbock to be a great place to live and work.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the Chamber? The relationships you build with fellow chamber members, whether it is serving on committees or meeting at business after

hours, you are able to build friendships through the chamber while promoting your business.

In what ways is Wayland Baptist University involved with the Chamber? We are sponsors and participants of the Community Prayer Luncheon, the Business Expo, and this year we will be at the Hub City BBQ. We also host the annual TRC trainings for new TRC volunteers.

Does Wayland Baptist University have a favorite Chamber event? We love that the Chamber does the prayer breakfast and luncheon every year. It is a great event that brings the community together and helps spread the love of Jesus. We also are very fond of the Hub City BBQ. We have several employees that have been judges in the past and we look forward to cooking in it this year. There is nothing as tasty as a good Texas BBQ!

Don’t miss Wayland Baptist’s 11th Annual Lubbock Lights Scholarship Gala in Memory of Jon Randles. Click here for more information.

Get to Know Board Member, Alona BeesingerWhere do you work and what does your job entail? I am employed with Suddenlink Communications. I am the Sales and Community Manager. I have a Direct Sales Department with two supervisors and 24 employees and the Retail Lobby with one supervisor and 10 employees. I oversee both of those departments and also anything to do with Community or PR for all of Lubbock.

How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I have been involved with the Lubbock Chamber for many years. Working for another company, SPS, I was a member and my boss served as Chairman so very quickly was immersed in all things Chamber. One of best memories was serving on the inaugural Committee for Champions. I was selected to be a part of one of the classes of Leadership Lubbock and was also on the Steering Committee for that great group for a couple of years. When Irasema Velasquez was Chairwoman, she asked me to serve on the Board of Directors, which was a dream of mine. I served as Chairwoman of the TRC, Board Treasurer, Board Chair Elect and in 2014 served as Chairwoman of the best and awarding-winning Chamber. What a thrill and honor. I stay involved because of the great staff and fellow board members. They provide a voice for the Lubbock Business Community and I am very proud of their record.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? All of the events and programs are awesome. My personal favorite is the Hub City BBQ. What a fun event that just keeps on growing. I think it provides great awareness to our community about the Chamber and its programs and benefits. You are able to network with so many people and it is a wonderful team builder for the companies that participate.

Alona BeesingerSales and Community Manager

Suddenlink Communications

What are some of your other community leadership roles? I have served in many capacities for different groups and boards throughout the community. We have so many worthy organizations that it is hard to refuse anyone. However, since Suddenlink has been involved with a work transition and I have accepted an early retirement offer, I have stepped down from most of the boards I have served on and just concentrate on the Chamber Board. Finish this sentence: Never again will I...think that I cannot learn something new. I just love how much you can still learn and grow in all areas of your life if you just open up to the possibilities!

Lubbock Business Network

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The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host a Salute to Ag Luncheon on Tues., March 21, at the Texas Tech McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center.

The Salute to Ag Luncheon recognizes and celebrates the abundance provided by agriculture and is held during the month of March on or around the time of National Ag Day.

The Chamber’s Salute to Ag Luncheon will feature former Congressman Larry Combest and Tom Sell from Combest, Sell & Associates as they join a discussion with Steve Verret from Plains Cotton Growers.

The serving line will begin at 11:30 a.m., with the program beginning promptly at 12 p.m.

Tickets for the luncheon are $35. Chamber members get a discounted price of $25. Reservations are required by 5 p.m. on Wed., March 15. Register at LubbockChamber.com or by calling the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Celebrate Agriculture at the Salute to Ag Luncheon

Presenting: Diamond: Bayer CropScience-FiberMaxPlatinum: AgTexas Farm Credit Services, Capital Farm Credit-Lubbock Credit Office, Texas Agribusiness Insurance

Business Expo: Superheroes! Take Part in the Action! The 2017 Business Expo presented by American National Bank will be held May 11, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. A private networking event for exhibitors only will be held from 9-10 a.m. and a ribbon cutting will be held at 9:45 a.m. to officially kickoff the event and open the doors to the public. This year’s theme is Superheroes developed by RD Thomas, the official advertising agency for the 2017 Business Expo. This year’s event will focus on connecting businesses to local community heroes. Hosted each year by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, the Business Expo showcases over 200 exhibitors and will welcome between 6,000-7,000 attendees throughout the day. Booths and sponsorship opportunities are still available through the Total Resource Campaign (TRC). Please call the Chamber if you would like to be contacted by a TRC volunteer to discuss sponsorship or reserve a space at the 2017 Business Expo. Back by popular demand, a variety of business seminars will be held throughout the day and are free to attendees of Business Expo. These seminars are designed to help businesses hone their social media skills, make sure their business web sites are designed to increase revenue and learn how to solve

common business issues and problems. You won’t want to miss this year’s Business Expo! If you haven’t participated in the past, now is the year to consider having a booth at this very popular event. There is still space available, so call Allison Cottrell at (806) 761-7000 or email her at allison.cottrell@lubbockbiz.org to reserve a booth!

Thanks to our sponsors!

Presenting:

Diamond: RD Thomas, Ramar CommunicationsGold: European Wax CenterBanner: Courtyard by Marriott Lubbock Downtown

Thanks to our sponsors!

Lubbock Business Network

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Make Plans to Attend the 2nd Annual Lubbock Uncorked

Make plans now to attend the 2nd Annual Lubbock Uncorked Wine Festival, sponsored by Casey Carpet One and Market Street, celebrating the impact grape-growing and wine-making is making on the South Plains! This year’s event will be held at the American Wind Power Center from 4-9 p.m. It’s a party you won’t want to miss! Attendees of Lubbock Uncorked will get to taste plenty of wine made from grapes grown in the Lubbock area, along with tastings offered by wineries from all over the state. A special section of wines from Washington State and Germany will also be available, starting a tradition of featuring wines from one state outside of Texas and a specific country. If you don’t drink wine, never fear – there will be some special regional beer there to taste, if wine isn’t your thing! There will be food trucks and restaurants there, offering a variety of food from local restaurants and catering companies. As for music, you won’t be disappointed! The Chamber has a great line-up of entertainment available and will be announcing the artists via Facebook Live soon! Interested in learning more about wine and food? Plan to attend a class entitled “The Chef’s Table: Wine & Dine Texas Style”.

Two class times will be available for this popular feature. Ticket prices for the class are $20 and can be purchased in advance at the Chamber office. Speaking of parties, mark your calendar for Thursday evening, April 27, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Texas Tech McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center for “A Taste of Lubbock Uncorked” a food and wine pairing event that will kick-off the celebration! The Chamber will honor an individual in grape-growing or wine-making from the South Plains area that has made an impact on the industry worthy of special recognition. This event will also feature tastes of local wine paired with food from the Chefs at Top Tier Catering that have been specially selected to feature with each winery’s special selection of wine for the evening. Sponsorships are still available, but going fast, so please call the Chamber if you are interested in promoting your company in front of a few thousand attendees that love the wine industry! Call Christye Weld at (806) 761-7009 or email her at christye.weld@lubbockbiz.org. Tickets for Uncorked go on sale March 15 and will be available at the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and at www.selectaseatlubbock.com. Advance tickets are $30 and $40 at the gate the day of Uncorked. Select parking passes will be available for $20 in advance.

Diamond: KCBD News Channel 11, Lamar Outdoor AdvertisingPlatinum: Arctic Glacier USA, Inc., KING FM 105.7, Parkhill Smith & Cooper, Red Dirt Rebel 105.3 FM, Suddenlink CommunicationsBand: Carpet Tech, V-tech Environmental ServicesPrinting: Craftsman PrintersWine Tasting Tent/Room: Western BankWine Bag: Western Bank

A Taste of Lubbock Wine & Food Pairing Awards Event:Pairing Station: Llano Estacado Winery, Suddenlink Communications

Interested in the Chamber’s Advocacy Efforts?Visit our Advocacy page: www.LubbockBusinessVotes.com

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

Thanks to our sponsors!Presenting Sponsors:

Lubbock Business Network

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Growing Community LeadersMeet Leadership Lubbock Committee Member, Mattie Been

Attend Chamber Basics to Learn More about the Lubbock ChamberThe next Chamber Basics: “Pizza with the President” is

scheduled for 11:30 a.m., Tues., March 7, in the Wells Fargo Center at 1500 Broadway, second floor, in the San Jacinto Room.

Chamber Basics is for more than just new members. This event is a great way for not only new members to get involved, but also for those who are a new employee of a long-standing member company or for those who haven't been active in the Chamber.

You'll learn about the Chamber and meet other members as well as volunteers and staff. Plus you will have the opportunity to promote your business!

For more information on this free event, please contact Cathy Potter, Membership Realtions Director, by e-mail or by phone at (806) 761-7000. Registration is also available online by clicking here.

Sponsored by:

Pizza donated by: Johnny Carino’s

Why did you accept the role of Committee Member for the 2017 Leadership Lubbock Class? I wanted to be a part of the committee after the first few classes of Leadership Lubbock. I felt like it was even a bigger opportunity to network and build lasting relationships with people in Lubbock.

How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? I started out with the class of 2015.

What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? My absolute favorite day was the Ag Day. I grew up in a small farming community in the Panhandle so seeing how much of an impact agriculture has on Lubbock was awesome!

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being part the Leadership Lubbock Committee? The relationships.

Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you?I think that this organization is vital to future leaders of Lubbock. I have had the opportunity to learn so much about the community and gain great friendships as well.

What do hope to do to leave your stamp on the Leadership Lubbock Class? I hope I can meet Leadership Lubbock Chairman, Casey Doyle’s, challenge and know every single persons name!

What is your favorite memory of your whole Leadership Lubbock experience over the last few years? Ag Day breakfast at the chuck wagon...the sunrise was amazing!

Who do you work for? Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

What is your position? Director of Development

Share some info about your family: I have been happily married to my high school sweetheart, Cody Been, for almost five years and we have a new light of our life, Everett Gruver Been, who is five months old!

Lubbock Business Network

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YEA! Spotlight: Meet Young Entrepreneur Alpha Garcia

Click here to APPLY for the 2017-2018 class!

yplYOUNG PROFESSION

ALS OF LUBBOCK

Click here to meet some of the Young Professional of Lubbock

members in our community!

JOIN YPL TODAY!contact Korryn McMinn at

(806) 761-7000 to learn more!

Contact Amy Marquez at (806) 761-7002 to learn more!

Meet Young Entrepreneur’s Academy participant Alpha Garcia. Garcia is 18 years old and attends Springboard Academics. He is eager to learn about entrepreneurship and how to start his own business. His mother has always encouraged him to want more for himself. “The world is full of opportunity, you just have to take it”, a motto she reminds him of regularly. She inspires him to be more and to give more in all that he does. Garcia learned of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy by attending the Workforce Solutions Youth Job Fair in April of 2016. He was so excited to learn that this type of program existed in Lubbock. He left his resume and applied as soon as he could. Having a love for animals and volunteering, Garcia has begun working on a business plan to start his own dog training business. He will come to your home and work with your furry animals one-on-one. He bought his first puppy, Rachel, when he was 15 years old, and he said “it was the best investment I have ever made”. So he wants others to make an investment in their pets and get them trained the right way.

GET YOUR BUSINESSIN THE SPOTLIGHT!

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR E-COMMUNICATIONS!Business Network Newsletter | Monday Memo

Young Professionals of Lubbock E-Blast For more information and pricing contact Brenda Richardson at 806.761.7003!

Lubbock Business Network

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Voice of Business

Legislative Benefactor:

Chamber and Local Business Leaders Spend Day at State Capitol More than 130 local city officials and business leaders flooded the Texas State Capitol on Feb. 22 to give the Lubbock community a spotlight as well as the opportunity to meet legislators and discuss issues important to the area economy. Every two years the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce plans a trip for business leaders to go to Austin to meet with legislators. While there for the 85th Legislative session, Chamber leadership discussed issues important to the Lubbock business community, including: • Amend the Tax Code to allow Lubbock to pledge the

revenue derived from the municipal hotel occupancy tax for the payment of bonds issued for an eligible project.

• Support LP&L’s efforts to move into ERCOT.• Create a TCEQ funding stream to pay for failed permitted

recycling centers around the state. Lubbock’s I-27 site is by far the largest of these in the state.

• Support adequately increasing the amount allotted for facility maintenance in the budget of the Texas Army

National Guard to receive matching federal funds designated to complete the necessary upgrades and renovations of the Lubbock Armed Forces Reserve Center and other like projects.

• Support Texas Tech University in its pursuit for a substantial increase in formula funding--for both instruction and infrastructure. This will allow all higher education entities to fulfill their missions of instruction, research and public service with less cost shifting to the students (ie, tuition and fee increases).

Lubbock Day at the State Capitol kicked off with a Legislative Reception at the Sheraton Austin Hotel on Tues., Feb. 21, and was made up of a Legislative Breakfast at the Sheraton, group photo and legislative briefing at the Capitol, and recognition in the House and Senate. The day wrapped up with a luncheon featuring Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush.

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Congressman Arrington Joins Government Relations MeetingOn February 10, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s Government Relations Committee was joined by U.S. Representative Jodey Arrington. Congressman Arrington provided updates to the committee regarding the work being done by Congress during the first month of the current administration and outlined how crucial issues to West Texas business can be addressed moving forward.

Texas Legislature • 85th Regular Session Key Dates

60-day bill filinge deadline: March 10, 2017Adjournment sine die: May 29, 2017Post-session 20-day deadline for Governor to sign or veto: June 18, 2017Effective date (91st day after adjournment): August 28, 2017

Lubbock Day in Austin

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relationships. In true Chamber Ambassador spirit, some of his favorite Chamber events to volunteer for include The Business Expo, Hub City BBQ Cook-off and the Chamber Golf Classic. Soliz lends much of his time to the chamber and continues active with Chamber events over the years. He recently joined the Agriculture and Hub City BBQ Cook-off committees. Outside of the chamber Soliz enjoys serving as a Board of Director for local Society of Human Resources 186. He also volunteers at his church, is the President of Lubbock Girls Basketball, Inc. and just recently completed six years on the Board of Directors for the Children’s Home of Lubbock. Again, congratulations to Danny Soliz for earning his fourth Ambassador of the Month award! We appreciate the time and commitment he has dedicated to the Chamber and our Ambassador Program.

Meet Danny Soliz, January Ambassador of the Month!

Danny Soliz receives his Ambassador of the Month Award from Chairwoman Diannah Tatum.

Chamber Ambassador Program

Congratulations to Danny Soliz for being named the January Ambassador of the Month. Soliz joined the Chamber Ambassador Program 16 years ago and has won this award four times! “I chose to become an Ambassador for the various networking opportunities and to follow up with businesses to inform them of Chamber services and programs. It also allows me the opportunity to tell others about Workforce Solutions,” Soliz said. Soliz has been employed by Workforce Solutions South Plains for 16 years as the Director of Business Development. “In this capacity, I have the opportunity to work with Economic Development Corporations, Chamber of Commerce’s, Employers and Dislocated Workers. I assist in organizing a fall and spring job fairs as well as a Veterans Job Fair. In our 15 county local workforce development area, I work closely with local businesses, educational institutions, other Boards and related organizations to plan and coordinate training opportunities, such as Skills Development, Skills for Small Businesses and other related training programs,” stated Soliz. Soliz has worn many hats as an Ambassador over the last 16 years and strongly believes that the most rewarding part of being an ambassador is meeting new people and building

Congratulations to Team Putman!January Team of the Month

Ambassadors brought donation items to the February Ambassador luncheon at the Texas Boys Ranch.

Lubbock Business Network

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Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings – FebruarySponsored by:

Blazing Grill3701 N. Frankford Ave.

Clear Channel Airports5401 North MLK Jr. Blvd.

Murphy USA1809 Marsha Sharp Fwy.

HubCity Mobile Billboards

Hyatt Place Lubbock1 Year Anniversary2309 Mac Davis Ln.

Lubbock National Bank100th Anniversary

1001 Main St.

Merle Norman2400 Glenna Goodacre Blvd., Ste. 105-B

Rock Solid Athletics6205 43rd St.

Snapshots Lubbock: Digital Selfie Spot, LLC

UMC Orchard Park Family Medicine4420 114th St.

Whisk’d Lubbock9810 Slide Rd., #400

World of Beer2910 W. Loop 289, Ste. 405

Atlas Audiology4702 A 67th St.

Betenbough HomesBella Mia Model Home

3018 125th St.

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Welcome New Chamber Members!

A Social Key(806) 252-37564709 101st St.Lubbock, TX 79424Marketing Firms & Services

Brad J. Davidson Law Firm, PC(806) 412-600012405 Quaker Ave., Ste. BLubbock, TX 79424Attorneys

BSLT Triathlon, Inc.(806) 535-122436 E. Lakeshore Dr.Ransom Canyon, TX 79366Sports Marketing

Carpet Solutions(806) 866-03136211 114th St.Wolfforth, TX 79382Carpet Cleaning

Flying M, LLC(806) 438-75928409 FM 400Idalou, TX 79329Aircraft Sales & Services

Grease Monkey/Monkey Splash(806) 701-439010401 Slide Rd.Lubbock, TX 79424Oil Change

Henderson Well Testing, LLC(806) 632-03176410 York Dr., Unit ALubbock, TX 79414Oil & Gas Developers, Exploration and/or Producers

Hoof & Claw Men’s Spa(806) 722-00975901 63rd St., Ste. ALubbock, TX 79424Skin Care Products

J. Cruse Christmas Gallery and Decor(806) 687-69836028 82nd St.Lubbock, TX 79424Gift Shops

J & M Barbeque(806) 796-11643605 34th St.Lubbock, TX 79410Restaurants

J & M Barbeque(806) 798-25257924 Slide Rd.Lubbock, TX 79424Restaurants

Let There Be Light(806) 747-51283201 E. Kent Ave.Lubbock, TX 79403Assisted Living

Lubbock Whitewood, LLC(806) 773-31603632 50th St.Lubbock, TX 79493Bowling

Murphy USA Corp(870) 866-6499Convenience Stores

Paramount Financial Group-An Agency of Family Heritage(806) 928-53474712 67th St.Lubbock, TX 79414Insurance

Pheasant Ridge Winery(806) 746-60333507 E. CR 5700Lubbock, TX 79403Wineries

Sanex(806) 781-5145PO Box 65017Lubbock, TX 79464Janitorial Service

The Bridge of Lubbock(806) 687-07721301 E. Redbud Ave.Lubbock, TX 79403Non Profit Organizations

U.S. Representative Jodey Arrington(806) 701-5714611University Ave., St. 220Lubbock, TX 79401Elected Officials - Local, State and/or National

Weston Taylor Insurance(806) 783-87358605 Milwaukee Av., Ste. 103Lubbock, TX 79424Insurance

Community Prayer Luncheon to Feature Stars from Movie: I’ll Push You Mark your calendars for this year’s Community Prayer Luncheon that will be held on Thurs., May 4, at 11:30 a.m., at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. We are excited to bring you two phenomenal speakers in Patrick Gray and Justin Skeesuck, best friends who completed the 500-mile pilgrimage called Camino de Santiago. This was not your ordinary pilgrimage as Skeesuck lives life in a wheelchair due to a progressive neuromuscular disease. Over the past 20-plus years, the disease has slowly taken away Skeesuck’s ability to use his arms and legs. In the spring of 2012, Skeesuck learned about the Camino de Santiago and asked his lifelong friend, Gray, what he thought about tackling the ancient pilgrimage. Gray’s response was “I’ll push you.” Two years later, they started their 34-day journey. Both Gray and Skeesuck are married and each have three children. They founded Push, Inc. where they help organizations and individuals realize they can achieve more, together. Since their return from Spain, Skeesuck and Gray have been delivering messages of hope, faith, friendship, leadership and the power of community. The two have a film being made about their friendship and journey, which is scheduled to be released in early fall of 2017. Tickets for the Community Prayer Luncheon will go on sale the end of March at LubbockChamber.com.

Thanks to our CPL sponsors!Presenting:

Diamond: First United Bank, Happy State BankPlatinum: Deerwood Construction, Inc., PrimeWest Mortgage Corp., Thrivent Financial, Wayland Baptist University - Lubbock