september / october 2013 vision 1 -...

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 VISION 1

VISION SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 2

CORPORATE PARTNERS

PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL

PARTNERS OF DISTINCTION

COMMUNITY PARTNERS MEDIA SPONSOR

Contributors


I am honored to lead The Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as President and Chief Executive Officer and collaborate with Jessica Davila-Burnett our Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, our Team of Board of Directors, and our Staff as we work together to grow the Chamber and build membership value.

We have been implementing our long-term strategy to guide the Chamber for the many years to come. Our strategic plan has numerous initiatives across brands, regions, and functions that are designed to leverage our strengths, make us more cost efficient, and fuel our membership sales. Today, we are pleased to report that it is working. In our latest membership drive, thanks to the teams that piloted our first annual membership drive, we have increased our membership by 10 percent.

We are a strong organization with 75 years of history with the same objective in mind, to serve our members with excellence. Our mission is to serve the business community by developing positive changes through active participation in education, leadership, public affairs, and creating business opportunities for our members, particularly small, minority owned business, while increasing awareness of the Hispanic Heritage. With the mission as our guiding light, we strive to build our membership by offering successful events and activities where our members can network their business. Wherever the future takes us, the members will always be at the center of our philosophy.

One of the ways we differentiate ourselves is by being “creativity-driven and business-inspired.” This is one of our unique strengths. It means we use the area businesses as our muse to inspire our creative talents. Another distinguishing trait is our customer service as demonstrated by the networking events and publications the Hispanic Chamber provides.

This is an exciting time for The Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as we evolve into a truly international organization that understands our diverse members’ aspirations, no matter who they are or the type of business that they have. Thank you for electing to have the Hispanic Chamber as your Chamber of choice and let us know how we can serve you better.

Sincerely,

Teresa Rodriguez BartlettPresident/CEOCorpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Jessica Davila-BurnettChairwoman / Stripes® Convenience Stores

John VallsChair-Elect/Valls Consulting Group

Philip RamirezSecretary/Turner + Ramirez & Associates, Inc.

Eddie L. GarciaTreasurer/E.L. Garcia Insurance Co. /New York Life Insurance

Cathy Colomo RiojasPast-Chair / Outside the Box

Ken TreviñoParliamentarian/Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend

Tom BecquetJason’s Deli

Clarissa Beltran, CRPC®Financial AdvisorWells Fargo Advisors, LLC

Jim BoundsCoastal Community and Teachers Credit Union

Barbara CanalesPort of Corpus Christi Authority

Dr. Luis CifuentesTexas A&M University – Corpus Christi

Rosie CollinCITGO Corpus Christi Refinery

Alex GarciaMike Shaw Toyota

Regina GarciaH-E-B

Debbie Lindsey-Opel3DD Results

Chad MagillStewart Title of Corpus Christi

Fred SegundoCorpus Christi International Airport

Carlos VargasMV Transportation

Eric VillarrealLNV

Teresa RodriguezPresident/CEO

Amanda ElizondoDirector of Business Development

Shannon GabrielDirector of Membership Services

Executive Board

Board of Directors

Staff

PRESIDENT’S message


CONTENTSEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2013

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MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT

TOP 10 THINGS WOMEN NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING A MAMMOGRAM

MYOPIC BUSINESS DISORDER

V BAR DRY BAR SALON & SKIN LOUNGE

ON THE COVERTop Row from Left to Right:Michelle D. Hinojosa, TPCO America CorporationSamuel Longoria, Kleberg First National Bank

Bottom Row from Left to Right:Carla Falconi Swallow, Swallow Design Studio, LLCLeAnn Hutchison, Holiday Inn Downtown Marina

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this Vision articles are those of the authors and do not neces-sarily reflect the official policy or position of the CCHCC or its members and the articles are provided for information purposes only.

Graphic Design Provided by:

CONNECT WITH USCORPUS CHRISTI HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE615 N. Upper Broadway, Suite 410Corpus Christi, TX 78401Tel. (361) 887-7408Fax (361) 888-9473

Es un honor para mi el estar al frente de la Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Corpus Christi como su Presidente y Director Ejecutivo, y colaborar junto con Jessica Davila-Burnett nuestra Presidenta de la Junta de Directores, nues-tro equipo de la Junta de Directores y nuestro personal trabajando unidos para seguir fortaleciendo a la Cámara Hispana y sus miembros.

Hemos estado implementando nuestra estrategia a largo plazo como guía para la cámara en muchos años por venir. Nuestro plan estratégico tiene numerosas iniciativas en todas las áreas, regiones y las funciones que están diseñadas para aprovechar nuestras fortalezas las cuales nos hacen más eficientes en materia de costos y ventas de nuestras membresías. Hoy por hoy tenemos el agrado de informarle que se está trabajando. En la reciente campaña de afiliación a nuestra Cámara Hispana, gracias a los equipos que participaron en esta primera campaña de afiliación anual, hemos incrementado en un 10% el total de nuestros miembros.

Somos una organización sólida y con 75 años de historia con el mismo objetivo en mente, servir a nuestros miembros con excelencia. Nuestra misión es servir a la comunidad empresarial desarrollando cambios positivos a través de la participación activa en el ámbito de la educación, liderazgo, relaciones públicas, y creando oportunidades de negocio para nuestros miembros, en particular a las pequeñas empresas de sectores minoritarios, mientras creamos más conciencia de nuestra Herencia Hispana. Con esto en mente queremos seguir aumentando el número de miembros afiliados a nuestra organización, ofreciendo eventos de éxito y actividades en las que nuestros miembros pueden incrementar su red de contactos para asegurar el éxito su negocio. Donde sea que el futuro nos lleve, nuestros miembros estarán siempre en el centro de nuestra filosofía.

Una de las formas en las que nos diferenciamos es por estar “motivados por la creatividad e inspirados en el bienestar de los negocios.” Estas son unas de nuestras fortalezas. Lo que significa que utilizamos a los negocios del área como nuestra musa de inspiración para nuestro talento creativo. Otro rasgo distintivo es nuestro servicio de atención al cliente, lo cual demostramos, en la Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Corpus Christi, al ofrecer eventos, actividades y publicaciones que apoyan a incrementar sus ventas a través de las redes de contactos de nuestros miembros.

Este es un momento muy emocionante para la Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Corpus Christi, evolucionamos en una auténtica organización internacional que comprende la aspiración de nuestros diversos miembros, sin importar quiénes sean o el tipo de negocio que tienen. Gracias por eligir a la Cámara de Comer-sean o el tipo de negocio que tienen. Gracias por eligir a la Cámara de Comer-sean o el tipo de negocio que tienen. Gracias por eligir a la Cámara de Comercio Hispana como su Cámara de predilección y déjenos saber cómo podemos servirle mejor.

Respetuosamente,

Teresa Rodriguez BartlettPresident/CEOCorpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

MENSAJEdel Presidente

ABC Pediatrics, P A 3533 S. Alameda Suite 303Corpus Christi, Texas, 78411(361) 853-3222

American Bank PO BOX 6469Corpus Christi, Texas 78466(361) 992-9900

American Diabetes Association 500 N. Shoreline, Suite 610 NCorpus Christi, Texas 78471(361) 850-8778

Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend520 N. StaplesCorpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 882-7491

Coastal Community Teachers Credit Union 6810 Saratoga BlvdCorpus Christi, Texas 78414(361 )985-6810

Daisy Charters and Shuttles1602 N. Tancahua StreetCorpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 883-8876

Denny Bales Diamonds7009 S. Staples #101Corpus Christi, Texas 78413(361) 887-7408

Dewbre Petroleum Corporation 902 N. CarancuhuaCorpus Christi, Texas 78465Corpus Christi, Texas 78465(361) 888-7978

Gulf Shore Anesthesia Associates1734 Sante FeCorpus Christi, Texas 78404Corpus Christi, Texas 78404Corpus Christi, Texas 78404(361) 883-6211(361) 883-6211

Hub City Overhead Door Co., INC 1626 N. Lexignton1626 N. Lexignton1626 N. LexigntonCorpus Christi, Texas 78409Corpus Christi, Texas 78409Corpus Christi, Texas 78409(361) 289-7083(361) 289-7083(361) 289-7083

Humpal Physical Therapy P.C.5026 Deepwood Circle5026 Deepwood Circle5026 Deepwood CircleCorpus Christi, Texas 78415Corpus Christi, Texas 78415Corpus Christi, Texas 78415(361) 992-9911(361) 992-9911(361) 992-9911

Hurricane Alley Waterpark615 S. Upper Broadway615 S. Upper BroadwayCorpus Christi, Texas 78401Corpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 884-8857(361) 884-8857

Jennings & Co. 4444 Corona Suite 215Corpus Christi, Texas 78411Corpus Christi, Texas 78411Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 985-1221

Jos. A Bank Clothiers411 DoddridgeCorpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 814-3900

KZTV Channel 10 301 Artesian Corpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 883-7070

L.K. Jordan & Associates321 Texan Trail, Suite 100Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 814-9700

La Palmera 5488 S. Padre Island DriveCorpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 991-3755

Link Staffing Services 5230 KostoryzCorpus Christi, Texas 78415(361) 854-5465

Linnie Madden - Certified Consultant, Scentsy Flameless Candles”https://linniemadden.scentsy.us(361) 563-3253

Luby’s1510 SPIDCorpus Christi, Texas 78416Corpus Christi, Texas 78416Corpus Christi, Texas 78416(361) 852-7477(361) 852-7477(361) 852-7477

Newton Mfg Company4455 S Padre Island Dr Ste 47, Corpus Christi, TX 78411(361) 814-8193

NuStar Energy, L.P. 410 SPID Ste 200Corpus Christi, Texas 78405Corpus Christi, Texas 78405Corpus Christi, Texas 78405Corpus Christi, Texas 78405(361) 696-7569(361) 696-7569(361) 696-7569

Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds 1213 Terry Sahmsie Blvd1213 Terry Sahmsie Blvd1213 Terry Sahmsie Blvd1213 Terry Sahmsie BlvdRobstown, Texas 78380Robstown, Texas 78380Robstown, Texas 78380(361) 387-900(361) 387-900(361) 387-900

Roggeman Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 803 Market St. Portland, Texas 78374Portland, Texas 78374(361) 643-4034

San Patricio County Teachers Federal Credit Union501 W. Merriman501 W. Merriman Sinton, TX 78387 Sinton, TX 78387 Sinton, TX 78387 (361) 364-3683(361) 364-3683(361) 364-3683

Security Service Federal Credit Union P.O. Box 270623P.O. Box 270623P.O. Box 270623P.O. Box 270623Corpus Christi, Texas 78427Corpus Christi, Texas 78427Corpus Christi, Texas 78427Corpus Christi, Texas 784271-800-527-73281-800-527-73281-800-527-73281-800-527-7328

Senator Juan J. “Chuy” Hinojosa2820 SPID, Suite 291Corpus Christi, Texas 78415(361) 225-1200

South Texas Vocational Technical Institute2000 SPIDCorpus Christi, Texas 78416(361) 232-5057

St. Peter’s Home Health, Inc.1801 E. Main St.Alice, Texas 78332(361) 664-7001

State Farm Insurance-Ray Paiz5425 SPID, Suite 122Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 993-3553

State Representative Todd Hunter445 Cape HenryCorpus Christi, Texas 78418(361) 884-8777

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5756Corpus Christi, Texas 78412Corpus Christi, Texas 78412(361) 825-5700(361) 825-5700

Time Warner Cable Business Class602 Highway NorthNederlad, Texas 77627(409) 720-5564

Town and Country Café LLC4228 AlamedaCorpus Christi, Texas 78412(361) 993-9310

Turner + Ramirez & Associates, Inc.5525 S. Staples Street Suite A-7Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 (361) 994-8900

Webb, Cason and Covich, P.C. 710 N. MesquiteCorpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 887-1031

Wells Fargo Bank615 N. Upper Broadway 2nd FloorCorpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 866-6550


Thank you, RENEWING MEMBERSYour Continuing Support makes the Chamber succesful and we will keep working for you!


Winning Team

The Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce held its First Annual Membership Drive at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel on Thursday, August 22, 2013. While the Chamber is always open to new members, the first annual Membership Drive provided the Chamber with an opportunity to focus specifically on reaching out to prospective members in the community.

The preliminary results indicate that the event was a success. “Not only did the membership drive increase our membership by 10% but it provides the chamber the opportunity to impact that many more businesses in our community”, said Chamber President and CEO, Teresa Rodriguez. In Challenging economics times, membership dues are an easy budget item to cut, which is not the best move for businesses. A chamber membership can provide even more value to a business facing adversity. Local chambers are extremely valu-able recourse for business planning, marketing and stability. Tak-ing advantage of the networking opportunities with programs and events like Our Office Is Your Office, Buenos Dias Corpus Christi, Volunteer Day, The Embajador Program, as well as our many oth-er services can help your business keep moving forward through tough times.

Director of Membership Services, Shannon Gabriel, spends her days on the road, working to remind area business owners and managers of the value and benefits associated with membership in the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Some of the most obvious benefits of Chamber membership include the networking and mar-keting opportunities that the organization provides. The Chamber hosts Chamber Business After Hours, ribbon cutting ceremonies, educational programs, and other events that bring people together. The success of the Membership Drive was due in large part to the dedication and hard work of the Chamber’s Embajadores and over 15 other volunteers that donated their time to call local businesses and advocate for the Chamber. The Membership Drive also featured a friendly competition between three teams to see who could obtain

the most new members during the month of August. The teams consisted of the following Chamber members:

Team 1: Shawna Armendariz-Funtrackers (Captain); Deana Lara-Funtrackers; Crystal Deleon-High Touch Technologies; Yasminda Rector-Security Services; Linda Salinas-Mission of Mercy; and Karen Lopez-Outside the Box

Team 2: John Garcia-Comfort Suites Texas A&M (Captain); Alma Ramos-Jason’s Deli; Rosie Collin-Citgo

Team 3 (The Winner of the Competition): Carla Swallow-Swallow Design Studio (Captain); Sam Longoria-Kleberg Bank; Judge Perks-13th Court of Appeals; Michelle Hinojosa-TPCO American Group; LeAnn Hutchison- Holiday Inn Bayfront Marina; Liz Gallagher - Texas State Aquarium and Ryan Garza - Unique Employment Services.

One of the Chamber’s volunteers, Deana Lara, Sales and Market-ing Director of Funtrackers Family Fun Center said, “I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the membership drive—not only informing potential members of the benefits of the Hispanic chamber, but introducing myself as a member of the business community. I was able to promote my company to some of the elite business companies in the area and showcase the possibilities of hosting an event or company retreat at our facility.”

Without the dedication and guidance from our Board of Directors and Embajadors, the chamber could not spread our mission to the community. We thank each and every one of you for the ongoing support!

For more information about the Chamber and its programs, visit www.cchispanicchamber.org; stop by our office at 615 N. Upper Broadway, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401; or call (361) 887-7408

2013 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE 2013

CARLA FALCONI SWALLOW

OWNER / GRAPHIC DESIGNERSWALLOW DESIGN STUDIO, LLCCCHCC Member since: 2012

MICHELLE D. HINOJOSA

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/HR GENERALISTTPCO AMERICA CORPORATIONCCHCC Member since: 2013

LEANN HUTCHISON

HOLIDAY INN DOWNTOWN MARINASMERF SALES MANAGERCCHCC Member since: 2009

SAMUEL LONGORIA

KLEBERG FIRST NATIONAL BANK BANKING CENTER MANAGER CCHCC Member since: 2012

Membership Drive 2013


Barclay Custom Design(361) 445-8234

CMM Insurance Agency, LLC1901 Baldwin Ste CCorpus Christi, Texas 78404(361) 654-0085

Corner Bakery Café 4935 South Staples Suite D12Corpus Christi, Texas 78412(361) 500-6548

Dahill Industries 802 N. Carancahua, Ste 2200Corpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 289-0900

Davita 4300 SPID Suite 1-3 Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 (361) 225-2126

Dress for Success Corpus Christi 4639 Corona Drive Suite 9Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 232-5226

Drs. McIntyre, Garza, Avila &Jurica488 S.P.I.D. Suite 2042Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 994-0310

Harbor View Care Center 1314 3rd St. Corpus Christi, Texas 78404(361) 888-5511

Herbalife Distributors 6019 Lostcreek DriveCorpus Christi, Texas 78413(361) 980-1450

Kosmo’s Kloset 5840 S. StaplesCorpus Christi, Texas 78513(361) 334-1226

Kramer Insurance Agency 5866 S. Staples Suite 102Corpus Christi, Texas 78314(361) 850-1857

Max Pro Water Sports www.maxprowatersports.com (855) 994-6359

Mikel Mays Beachside Bar and GrillBall Hall Pier/15820 Park Rd 22 Corpus Christi, Texas 78418(361) 774-6640

Monster Vape 5425 Spid Suite 103Corpus Christi, Texas 78411(361) 991-8273

National Electric & Hardware3220 FM 802Brownsville, Texas 78526(956) 548-6677

Overhead Door Co. of South Central Tx 1959 Saratoga Blvd #3102Corpus Christi, Texas 78413(361) 826-0672

Roland Barrera Insurance 5134 Williams DriveCorpus Christi, TX 78411(361) 853-7717

Ruben Bonilla Insurance Agency2727 Morgan Ave. Suite 300Corpus Christi, Texas 78405(361) 881-1033

The Salvation Army 521 Josephine St. Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 (361) 884-9497

V Bar Dry Bar Salon and Skin Lounge 7426 S StaplesCorpus Christi, Texas 78414(361) 960-0545

Work Injury Wellness Center1231 Agnes Suite A-1Corpus Christi, Texas 78401(361) 888-8889

Welcome, NEW MEMBERSTHE CCHCC IS PROUD TO WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBERS.

New Members


By Yolanda Garcia OlivarezSBA Regional AdministratorRegion VI – AR, LA, NM, OK, TX

America’s 28 million small businesses are the backbone of our econ-omy, creating two out of every three net new jobs and employing half of America’s workforce. From mom-and-pop stores and restaurants, to high-tech startups and productive manufacturers, 2.3 million small businesses are helping to drive Texas economy and create jobs in our local communities.

Many small business owners consider their employees to be part of their family, and providing benefits such as health care is one important tool they have to help retain their talented workforce and compete for skilled employees. But even though many businesses want to offer their workers health insurance, in the past they have often been unable to afford it, for reasons like steadily climbing rate increases and limited coverage.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is committed to giving small business owners the resources they need to start and grow a business-- including access to critical information about how the Affordable Care Act is opening up better health care options for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Under the Affordable Care Act, small employers will have more options than ever when it comes to health insurance. As these provisions continue to go into effect in the next several years, it’s important for small business owners to stay informed about what they need to do to comply with and take advantage of the Affordable Care Act.

First, starting January 1st, 2014, small businesses with generally up to 50 full-time equivalent employees will be able to purchase health insurance through the online health insurance marketplace for small businesses, known as SHOP.

The SHOP Marketplace will offer employers a choice of qualified health plans from different private health insurers and make it easier for employers to make side-by-side comparisons between these plans, based on price and benefits.

SHOP also offers employers and their employees access to health insurance plans that must include a package of “Essential Health Benefits” like coverage for doctor visits, preventive care, hospitalization and prescriptions. Any many small employers may be eligible for tax credits of up to 50% of their premium costs if they choose to purchase coverage through SHOP.

Enrollment starts on October 1st for coverage beginning January 1, 2014.

The Affordable Care Act calls on all employers that are covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act (generally, those firms that have at least one employee and at least $500,000 in annual dollar volume of business), to notify their employees about the coverage options available to them through the health care Marketplace, whether or not the employer currently offers health coverage. Employers are required to provide this notice to all current full-time and part-time employees by October 1, 2013, as well as all new employees at the time of hire beginning October 1st.

The Affordable Care Act allows small employers to offer health coverage in a way that makes sense for their business and works for their bottom line, and the SBA is committed to leveraging our resources and federal partnerships to connect you with the facts and resources you need to understand the law.

To learn more, contact the Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office at 956-427-8533 or call the Regional Health and Human Services Office at 214-767-3301.

THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: Attainable Coverage for Small Businesses

The Affordable Care Act allows small employers to offer health coverage in a way that makes sense for their business and works for their bottom line, ...

Health


It’s a well-known fact that early detection is the key to saving lives when it comes to cancer – especially breast cancer. Unfortunately, lots of women today still don’t get regular annual mammograms for a wide variety of reasons.

“No more excuses!” exclaims radiologist Dr. Kenneth Cook.

“Mammograms are the single most important tool we can utilize to find breast tumors before they have the chance to become a dangerous cancer,” he states referencing a 30% reduction in breast cancer mortality since the early 90’s.

Dr. Cook is Chairman of Women’s Imaging at Radiology Associates and a member of Radiology Associates Pink Dream Team specializing in women’s imaging and the company’s proverbial “pink calling card.” 16 board-certified radiologists are on staff, but five truly “think pink” day in and day out.

“We put five talented people together who were really, really interested in women’s services and mammography, and let them do quite a bit of it. And, they do it extremely well,” says Dr. Strong, one of the five womens imaging radiologist with Radiology Associates.

Each year, Radiology Associates takes and interpret more than 30,000 mammograms. Current data finds that some masses grow for eight to ten years before they were even felt or detected, but could be seen in a mammogram.

Embarrassment, pain and fright are the most commonly heard excuses for not getting a mammogram.

“Bottom line … mammograms are readily available, convenient, affordable – even free in some cases. There just aren’t any excuses as to why a woman should not get a mammogram in today’s day and age,” says Dr. Strong.

Get a yearly mammogram if you are over 40-years-old or have a family history of breast cancer.

Go to an accredited facility that regularly performs all-digital mammograms. This ensures that they have adequate experience in regularly dealing with mammograms. Ask to see their FDA certificate and American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation. Both show that the facility has met high quality professional standards. Ex-perience is also important when it comes to accurately reading and interpreting images. Radiologists who execute a large volume of a certain type of exam are more familiar with how a disease looks and progresses. For example, interpreting 100 mammograms a year versus 10,000 breeds the highest quality.

Go to the same facility each year, if you are happy with the quality they provide. The same radiologists will look at your mammograms each year making better comparisons. However, if you go to a new facility, re-quest copies of previous mammograms to be shared.

Most insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid usually cover the cost of a mammogram up to a certain percentage. Low-cost mammograms are also available - just ask!

Every mammogram facility must send your results to you within 30 days. If they find a problem they are to notify you within 5 days. Call your physician or the x-ray facility if you don’t get your results within these time frames.

You will have to undress down to your waist, but a wrap or gown will be provided.

Avoid deodorant, powders or creams under the arms as they may interfere with the exam.

Most mammogram x-ray technologists are women. They will be the only person present during most of your mammogram.

Most mammograms take less than 20 minutes to perform, including 2 views of each breast. There may be discom-fort – not pain - during the breast compression. Let the technologist know immediately if there is pain during the procedure. Try not to schedule a mammogram during the week of your period.

Less than 1% of mammograms lead to cancer. National statistics show that 10% of women may require a second mammogram - and only 8-10% of these women will need a biopsy. 80% of those biopsies will not be cancer.

TOP 10 THINGS WOMEN NEED TO KNOW About Getting A Mammogram

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Health


Altus Hospice Ribbon Cutting - July 17

Corner Bakery Ribbon Cutting - July 17

Kosmo’s Kloset Ribbon Cutting - August 15Embajador Meeting - August 7

Jason’s Deli Ribbon Cutting - August 17

Corner Bakery Ribbon Cutting - July 17

ChamberAT WORK

YOUR HISPANIC

Chamber at Work

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 VISION

JULY / AUGUST 2013 VISION 11

Membership Drive 2013 - August 22 Membership Drive 2013 - August 22

Volunteer Day at CC Metro Ministries - July 30 Volunteer Day at CC Metro Ministries - July 30

NSIDE Magazine Monthly Mixer - August 22 Bokenkamp Ribbon Cutting - August 29

Bokenkamp Ribbon Cutting - August 29 Bokenkamp Ribbon Cutting - August 29

11


FAJITAVILLEGains Some Caribbean Culture this Summer By Amy Lee

Locally owned Fajitaville is participating in the Summer Work and Travel pro-gram, which was established by the

Department of State for students pursuing degrees at colleges and universities outside the country who come to the U.S. to gain work experience and familiarize themselves with life in the United States. This program provides numerous opportunities for inter-national cultural exchange by providing students from all over the world with an op-portunity to live and work alongside locals in the United States during their summer vacation and to be exposed to American customs, culture, and values through work activities and local events sponsored by their host company or employer.

The Summer Work Travel Program is ben-eficial not only for the students to gain work experience in the U.S. but also for Fajitaville and similar businesses who have a need for a seasonal workforce to supplement staff-ing needs during months when tourism or other seasonal business fluctuations are at their peak.

The Students participating in the Summer Work Travel Program employed by Faji-taville are currently pursuing a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees in Jamaica ranging from Primary Education, Business, Travel and Tourism, and Hospi-tality Management and have been all been valuable additions to our staff throughout the duration of their employment.

Fajitaville opened its doors in October 2011 in Corpus Christi, Texas. Fajitaville is a locally owned three-story restaurant on North Beach. Fajitaville has been an avid supporter of the North Beach Community Association and has partnered with other organizations to bring the public to revital-ized North Beach. Since opening its doors, Fajitaville has brought jobs to many, has been a consistent support to local organiza-tions year round and hopes to inspire more development in the historic area of the city that houses two of the region’s most active tourist attractions. Fajitaville values the education of both local and international students and is in the process

of establishing a tuition assistance program and is taking the steps to participate in the Sand Dollar Program at Texas A & M. Fajitaville is also proud to offer all Del Mar Students and Texas A & M Students a 10% Discount and Free Chips and Salsa during each visit with a Student ID card.

Quotes from the employees:

Why were you drawn to Corpus Christi? “A job on the beach for the summer sound-ed great!”“I am studying hotel and resorts and am interested in working in that field, Corpus to me was an option after an opening here arose.”“Having a job over the summer.”“We wanted to travel. We wanted to experience different cultures and make money, your currency is different than ours is. We want to meet different people.” “I wanted to explore and for the experience, and I wanted to see some cowboys.”

What do you like best about Corpus Christi? “It’s picturesque; I think it’s beautiful from the moment I saw in from the airplane window, I also really love the bridge! I love our beach house, the view of the bay and the water is breathtaking and it’s quiet and peaceful on North Beach.”“The beach, even though it may not be as beautiful as the beaches in Jamaica, it reminds me of back home.”“It is near the beach.”“I like how similar the interest and activities are here to back home, like fishing and the beach.”“I went to the WWE Smackdown and that was awesome. I like the scenery, the water and the Oceanside with the breezes.”“I haven’t been around very much, but the work environment has been very friendly.” What do you like best about working at Fajitaville? “I like the staff here, everyone is really friendly and cool, we all get along great and

can play around and joke with one another and I love that I get to work on the beach.”“My co-workers are awesome, well, most of them! It is near the beach and reminds me of memories of back home.”“The work environment.” “I like the people here, they are nice. I heard that here was really racist but when I came here it wasn’t that way. I also like the food here.”“I like the staff and the environment, the atmosphere is good.”“The staff, they are friendly, I like the experi-ence of being around the kitchen and new food.” What was your biggest surprise about the United States?

“The heat down here is shocking, it is so humid here! I will never complain about the heat again when I go home to Jamaica. I expected to see more cowboys and horses with their stars on their boots.”“Just the experience of seeing everything for the first time.” “It was huge!” “The culture is different, people are friend-lier, always smiling and greeting you and say hello.”

Fajitaville has been an avid supporter of the North Beach Community Association and has partnered with other organizations to bring the public to revitalized North Beach.

Business

MARCH / APRIL 2013 VISION 13MARCH / APRIL 2013 VISION 13

VISION SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 14Embrace Our Culture

Business Card Size $ 25 per issue $ 60 (3 issues) $110 (6 issues)

NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH By Valery Mijangos

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to cele-brate Hispanic culture and appreciate the courageous battles five Latin American countries fought for their own independence.

September 15 to October 15 in the United States is when the United States recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic people to America. Early Latin American people were being slaughtered and oppressed by Spain until 1821 when Latin Ameri-cans had enough. It takes intense courage to riot and fight against organized governments and armies, however when faced with overwhelming challenges Latin Americans have shown they are willing to fight for what is right.

We celebrate and recognize the contributions His-panic Americans have made to American culture and society and to honor five of our Central American neighbors who celebrate their independence in Sep-tember. National Hispanic Heritage Month started in 1968 when Congress passed a proclamation, which authorized and requested President Lyndon Johnson to issue an annual proclamation assigning the week including September 15 and 16 as National Hispanic Heritage Week. By designating that this week should include September 15 and 16, this law celebrated Hispanic Americans and the anniversaries of inde-pendence for the Latin American countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador as well

Nicaragua’s independence on September 16. President Johnson issued the first such proclamation, Presiden-tial Proclamation 3869. September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the 1821 anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Honduras. Mexico, Belize and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18, and September 21.

In Mexico, Father Miguel Hidalgo of Dolores delivered a passionate speech about the many Spanish abuses of the Mexican people in the town church of Dolores. In 1810, Father Hidalgo was planning a revolt to free the country from Spanish rule. On September 15, 1810 at 11:00 pm, Father Hidalgo rang his church bell as loud as he could to call his followers, and rally them to fight off the oppressive Spanish rule. He then made an empowering speech to his congregation, and the bloody fight for freedom began.

Today, Mexican people mark this very special holiday, by repeating the ringing of the bells at 11:00 pm on the 15th. It is followed by a day of celebrations on the 16th. This act became known as El Grito de Dolores” or “The Shout of Dolores.” Within days, Hidalgo had an army of thousands of angry commoners. Although Hidalgo was not able to see his people win, he started the unstoppable movement for independence.


By Connie Laughlin

There’s more than one way to do business. Are you shortsighted in your business savvy?

A business suffers from Myopic Business Disorder when the busi-ness owner has a lack of discernment, long-range perspective in thinking, or planning. Why would any business leader not want to investigate viable options in business?

A well known fact in business is you must be protected. “Protection”, we sure hear that word frequently. I wonder why? If you do not want something to happen you need “Protection”.

If you own or operate a company from 2 – 100+ employees there’s a good chance you’re not really sure if your company’s legally protected in a myriad of ways. You probably don’t know what a lot of worksite employee laws mean or if your business manager walked out how you handle any of the HR admin duties. What would you do if a workers’ compensation insurer was going to continue to pay on a claim you believed to be fraudulent? Is your safety manual and employee handbook up-to-date? Do you have the appropriate safety meetings, ever? How can you keep the cost of your em-ployees predictable? Seriously, what different kinds of training and risk management strategies do you have in place?

Are you an agent of change? Or, are you doing the same thing you’ve always done, the very same way, day after day expecting a different outcome? I have read that we spend less than 25% or our work day doing what we went into business to do. That means we are spending 75% of our time doing other things.

Big Brother is bigger than ever and employees seem to instinctively know how to work the system. Don’t you feel some days it’s you against them? Employees and managers need access to human resources expertise and training programs. You need the very best risk management practices in place right now. If you’re operating without observing all the worksite employee laws and without appropriate processes and paperwork in place you might want to keep your attorney on retainer. Every business owner needs the advice of a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), or you could find yourself sitting across from your attorney or worse yet, in court.

Are you looking for “Protection”? You need to do a little homework and implement best practices. The outsourcing of things that don’t generate revenue is a perfect example of where to start.

Are you still working blindly with an uneducated myopic view of your business? Get your facts first, and then you can distort them as much as you please. Facts are stubborn, but statistics are more pliable. - Mark Twain

If you outsource non-revenue generating duties within in your business to certified professionals for around the very same cost as what you’re spending in house – wouldn’t that make sense? Of course, it does. Typically non-revenue generating duties are payroll, human resources, safety, and employee related risk management.

If you consider the option of outsourcing anything that has to do with money, ensure they’ve got the very highest credentials! For example, some unscrupulous staff leasing companies were only out to make a fast buck, when they went out of business they left their clients in a financial pickle.

Now staff leasing companies are referred to as PEO’s (Professional Employer Organizations). Highly accredited PEO’s bring best practices into place with a vast offering of services and certifications to protect you from liability. You can easily verify their credentials at NAPEO (National Association for Professional Employer Organizations) - http://www.napeo.org.

It makes a lot sense to outsource non-revenue generating duties. It clears your desk and mind to manage your plan of action to keep revenue streaming in.

Let your small to medium business lighten the load, wipe the sweat off your brow, get a strong risk management program in place, and get back to work.

Connie Laughlin is a business journalist and PEO Business Consultant for UniqueHR. For more information, you may contact Connie at (361) 852-6392 or [email protected].

MYOPIC BUSINESS DISORDERDoes Your Small-to-Medium Sized Company Suffer From This?

A well known fact in business is you must be protected. “Protection”, we sure hear that word frequently. I wonder why? If you do not want something to happen you need “Protection”.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 VISION 17SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013

Embajadores are important people to the chamber! They represent the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (CCHCC) and are goodwill representatives for the chamber. Embajadores are outgoing, pro-active employees with in their company. They proj-ect a positive image for the company they represent as well as for the Chamber. Embajadores perform a wide variety of duties in the Chamber, but their main function is to help promote the Chamber, welcome new members to the Chamber and make Chamber events successful and enjoyable for our members. Our Embajador in the Spotlight takes her duties seriously and has always been a constant within the chamber. We’d like to congratulate Alma Tobias Ramos as your Embajador in the Spotlight.

Alma Tobias Ramos is currently the Catering Sales Manager for Jason’s Deli; she has been with Jason’s Deli for 17 years. Alma has helped market and open franchise stores in Rio Grande Valley, New Mexico, and El Paso. She started out in the restaurant business in 1986 working for Whataburger becoming a General Manger. In 1996 her career at Jason’s Deli began and looking back she knows that marketing is her specialty. She always remembers a quote that

her CEO Joe Tortorice once said “ We are truly in the people business, our product happens to be food.”

“Being involved in the CCHCC has helped me be more of a servant leader in the community, not only behind the four walls of our deli,” said Alma. Alma was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas and a graduate of Foy Moody High School. She is a mother of three, two sons and a daughter. In addition, she loves volunteering at the Corpus Christi Metro Ministries, Harbor Lights and Dress for Success. She has also been involved spiritually in a team for Journey to Damascus, she is a big believer of hard work and dedication returns many blessings.

Go visit Alma at Jason’s Deli at one of their two locations; congratulate her for being our featured Embajador in the Spotlight! To learn more about the Embajador program, contact Shannon Gabriel CCHCC Director of Membership Services, at (361) 887-7408 or via email at [email protected]

EMBAJADOR In The SpotlightAlma Tobias Ramos


You are probably wondering what all the buzz is about. V is designed to be the new concept salon unlike any other in the Coastal Bend. The salon space has been described by many of its guests as artsy, relaxing and as something you would experience in NYC. V is comprised of different spaces designed for a specific tasks; The Dry Bar, Color Bar, cutting floor, and Skin Lounge. Each space was thoughtfully created to seamlessly work with its counterparts and create a relaxing escape for every guest.

The Dry Bar is a new concept trending in the hair scene. It is designed for the woman on go, the working mom, or just your typical Fri-day night gals! The bar is solid vintage white with white plush couch styling chairs and a solid 25 ft. mirror so each guest can witness their transformation from every vantage. The mirror was designed to be one solid piece to achieve a communal environment so each guest is more inclined to visit with one another. The Dry Bar concept is fairly simple actually, any length, any texture, any time! No res-ervation needed unless you have a favorite V Pro. Our guest love the no commitment appointment so they are free to pop in any time of day and choose from six different V signature looks. Each and every blowout comes with one on one instruction from

your V Pro on how to recreate your look at home and how to extend the life of your “do” throughout the week. The Dry Bar is also often reserved for large bridal parties and the occasional practical joker maid of honor who brings in photos or videos to play on the V big screen. After all, it’s fun to make the bride blush! Bridal parties also have the option to book the V Pink package which serves mimosas, champagne, and hors d’oeuvres.

The Color Bar is designed all in black with luxurious seating and licorice sleek black bar tops. The bar also has a built in flat screen so guest can watch anything from vintage movies to up to the minute styling trends coming off the runway. All coloring and chemical services are performed at the bar so that each and every guest gets a behind the scenes first-hand look of what it is like to see a colorist formulate, mix, and create their individual color. The bar houses many color swatches and inspirational books to make color choices broader than just your typical magazine picture. Also each stylist has their own individual V iPad with look books to insure that the end result will be on point each and every time.

The cutting floor is where our V Pro’s cre-

ativity truly flows. We specialize in open ended razor cutting; a technique that we are schooled in at Bumble & Bumble University in NYC. In this area, each team member must earn his or her own work space by extensive auditioning and craftsmanship. You can rest assure your stylist has worked hard and perfected their craft. This is another reason why V houses some of the most dedicated hair crafters in the industry.

The Skin Lounge is a spa like space where one can escape from the outside grind for an hour or two. The Skin Lounge offers all things skin; from peels, to machine work, waxing, and tanning. The space is always dimmed, quiet, and infused with lavender aromatics. You may not want to leave after your service! Catered lunches and snacks are always available for all day packages. We love to see extended stay guest!So now you’ve had a taste of what V is all about and who we are. Our work space was designed with you in mind. We are here to offer a supreme level of professionalism, skill, and inspiration where you will be encouraged to evolve with what’s trending and what best suits you. See you there!

Yours in Style,The V Team

V BarYou are probably wondering what all the buzz is about. V is designed to be the new concept salon unlike any other in the Coastal Bend.

MARCH / APRIL 2013 VISION 19


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