June Amarillo Chamber eNewsletter

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President/CEO Gary Molberg Finance & Administration Dianne McClish, VP Christy Bigler Mary Garcia Membership Andrea McClintock, VP Lupe Fasano Linda Palmer Communication Penni Bentley, Director Business Development & Governmental Affairs Jason Harrison, Director Kim Woolsey Quality of Life & Arts Becky Zenor, VP Lupe Fasano K. Lynn Kiihn Convention & Visitor Council Jerry Holt, VP Mindy Bradley Jutta Matalka Eric Miller Rick Matchett Tina Teague Tiffany Redinger K. Lynn Kiihn Dulcy Carden Visitor Information Center & Gift Shop Mary Ramirez, Manager Helen Martinez Nancy Simpson Ann Beach Kay Cochran PO Box 9480 Amarillo, TX 79105 806.373.7800 806.373.3909 fax AmarilloChamber.org

S O U T H

P O L K - A M A R I L L O ,

T E X A S

Summer Fiesta is Thursday, June 24th Networking with Fun, Food, Drinks & Music Amarillo Chamber of Commerce is throwing a networking party. The 3rd Annual Summer Fiesta is just around the corner on Thursday, June 24th. We’ve teamed up with some great local restaurants/food service providers to provide Fiesta attendees with some mouthwatering munchies and beverages. On the list to participate so far are: Carino's Italian Grill, Cheddar's Casual Café, Chick-Fil-A, Country Barn Steakhouse, Desperado's Catering, Famous Dave's of Amarillo, Gatti's Pizza, Joe Taco Mexi-Café, La Fiesta Grande, Rudy's Country Store & Bar-B-Q, Schlotzsky's Deli, Taco Villa, The Plaza Restaurant, and United Supermarkets. The fine folks from Budweiser, CocaCola, Coors, Glazers and Miller will be serving cool drinks to wash it all down.

The Fiesta is a great event to meet and mingle with other Chamber members, our staff and board members in a fun, relaxing environment.

We’ve got Tom Velasquez and the Global Nomads to provide great live music for our guests playing country, classic and southern rock. We like to think of this event as happy hour...but better.

Tickets are available now at the Chamber for $10 each, but don’t wait, because tickets are $20 on the day of the event. You may even purchase tickets on our website.

Click here to view the http://bit.ly/bFhaQR Fiesta page on our website, then click the

REGISTER NOW link on the right of that page.

Restaurants, caterers and food providers can still participate, but time is running out. Call Andrea for more details at 342-2007.

Special Thanks To: Arctic Glacier Ice, Budweiser Distributing Co., Chambers Electric Ltd., Coca Cola of Amarillo, Coors of Amarillo, Tom Velasquez and the Global Nomads Band, Glazer's Wholesale Distributors, KGNC AM/FM & The Eagle, Mayfield Paper, Miller of Amarillo, Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice, and Waste Wranglers.

Thursday http://bit.ly/bFhaQR June 24th 5p-8p Chamber Grounds Entrance Gates at 10th & Polk http://bit.ly/bFhaQR 11th & Polk 11th Between Polk & Tyler

$10 advance

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1803 students attended Ready for the Real World on May 13, 2010 from 4 AISD high schools. They attended sessions on Career Choices, Living on Your Own, Education and Training Beyond High School and Managing Your Money.

The event was sponsored by: AISD, Amarillo Area Foundation, Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Xcel Energy, Josephine Anderson Charitable Trust, Gilliland Family Foundation, Mays Foundation and Junior League of Amarillo.

Of the 1,131 surveys received, 920 answered yes to all questions and only 211 had one or more no’s.

Denise received this note from a parent:

Denise, I just wanted to say THANK YOU! My youngest daughter went to R4RW and was very impressed and moved by the experience. She came home a little more mature and maybe seeing the forest on the other side of the trees. Thanks again for all your hard work and efforts. Please know you are having an impact that you may never know about – B.H.

http://texaswheat.org/ Amber Waves of Grain By: Steelee Fischbacher, Texas Wheat Producers Board & Association Over the past two months, articles in this newsletter have outlined the tremendous economic impact of agricultural production on the High Plains and the story for wheat is no different.

The 26 counties classified as the ‘Texas High Plains’ are home to more than 50 percent of the wheat grown in the state, and the region ranks thirteenth in wheat production when compared to states nationwide.

You would be hard pressed to drive anywhere in the Panhandle during the spring and not see green wheat either growing in the fields or being grazed by the thousands of cattle who call the Texas Panhandle home. In fact, the lush winter wheat pastures have elevated the region to one of the most concentrated areas of stocker cattle production in the country. Each year wheat sales from this region alone total more than $300 million with a large percentage of that being reinvested in the local economy.

Despite the rise in popularity of low-carb fad diets, wheat consumption has stayed strong domestically and around the world. In

recent years, wheat has received a major face lift as more information about the health benefits of consuming whole grains has come to the forefront. Nutritionists worldwide have confirmed that people who eat three daily servings of whole grains have been shown to reduce their risk of heart disease by 25-36 percent. The good news is that it’s not just whole grains that have significant health benefits, products made from white flour are enriched with four major B vitamins, including folic acid, which plays an important role in healthy pregnancies.

The wheat industry is also facing challenges on the production level. As producers move to more profitable crops acreage is declining and less technological investments are being made. There is also the threat of a new wheat disease, Ug99, which is devastating wheat crops overseas.

While all of these factors serve as a threat to domestic wheat production, all one has to do is think back to elementary school and the song America the Beautiful to realize the importance of wheat and the staying power of a grain that is literally consumed by millions every day.

“O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain, for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain!” – America the Beautiful

Welcome New Members Thanks for Joining in May Ace's Taxi Service Etc. Anna Powell 1708 E Central Amarillo, TX 79108 (806) 676-7263 Fax: (806) 381-2137 For the best and most dependable taxi in town. Now accepting Visa, MC, Amex and Discover with a ($10 minimum).

Advanced Eye Care Janet Townsend, O.D. Kevin Appel 1801 4th Ave Canyon, TX 79015 (806) 655-7748 Fax: (806) 655-2871 Advanced Spinal Correction Clinic Dr. Trent Sewell 7620 Hillside Rd. Ste 100 Amarillo, TX 79119 (806) 351-2722 Fax: (806)351-2725

www.ascclinic.com Dr. Sewell specializes in chiropractic and scoliosis care. We help our patients achieve their highest level of health through spinal and postural correction.

ALSTOM Power Inc. Scott E Jones 1915 Benchmark Street Amarillo, TX 79108 www.alstom.com Ascent Communication Technologies, Inc. Joey Gooch P O Box 7688 Amarillo, TX 79114 (806) 322-8669 Fax: (806) 322-8670 www.ascentcomtech.com Business Telephone systems, phone, data, fiber optic cabling, Telephone and Internet services consulting.

www.xcelenergy.com

supplierdiversity@xcelenergy.com

www.xcelenergy.com

www.xcelenergy.com

VOICE OF AMARILLO By: Jason Harrison, Director of Governmental Affairs Council The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce was the “Voice of Amarillo” to government officials in Washington, D.C. this past April. The Chamber partnered with local industry leaders to secure a productive business environment for the city of Amarillo’s future.

Government officials’ action or inaction on key issues can affect the economic strength of our business community. Therefore, the Chamber and local business leaders traveled to our nation’s capitol to be the “voice of Amarillo” on issues such as agriculture, education, defense, energy, and healthcare. The goal is to make sure our elected officials are aware of the importance their decisions can have on the growth and future of our community. At these meetings we were able to make aware our stance on key issues, so that the committees and officials involved can make informed decisions which could ultimately have a positive impact on Amarillo.

The Chamber represents the interest of local businesses to government officials on the local, state and federal levels. If you have any questions about the Chamber's legislative agenda, contact Jason Harrison, Director of Business Development and Governmental Affairs, at 342-2018.

Right: Gary Purser, SW General Contractors; Ray Grenier, NWTHS; Kay Peck, Triumph Hospital; Steve Hall, First Bank & Trust.

Below: Jason Harrison, Gary Molberg, Buzz David and Dale Williams pose with Congressman Mac Thornberry as he receives an award from a US Chamber of Commerce representative.

Txtng & Drivng... It Can Wait

http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=2964

Learn about the dangers of texting and driving. http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=2964

A resource for all wireless users on the dangers of texting while driving.

Take out your wireless device. Read the last text message you received out loud. Would reading or responding to that message from behind the wheel of a moving vehicle be worth the risk of getting into an accident or worse? Chances are it could wait.

In today's 24/7/365 world, staying connected is no longer an option. It's a necessity. With a tenfold increase in text messaging over the last three years according to CTIA – The Wireless Association, there is no question that texting is increasingly becoming the way many communicate today. And, for many, the allure to quickly read and respond – even from behind the wheel of a moving vehicle – can be tempting.

Our goal is to educate all wireless users, but especially teen drivers, that there is a smart way to text.

Our message is simple, yet vital: When it comes to texting and driving, it can wait.

Jun 21

Women’s Council Luncheon

Jun 24

Summer Fiesta

July 29

Chamber Open Golf Tournament

Aug 26

Business Awards Banquet

Sep 9

Good Times Celebration Barbecue Cook-Off

Oct 19

Chamber Annual Banquet

amarillo-chamber.org/cwt/external/wcpages/wcevents/eventsstartpage.aspx

Check out our Chamber and Community Calendars online. You can submit events to the Community Calendar. This is a great way to show locals and visitors to the city the many things to see and do in our community. Please keep in mind the Chamber reserves the right to include or exclude events as we deem appropriate.

www.Amarillo-Chamber.org We appreciate Warden John Adams and the staff for getting a new podium built for the Chamber.

LtoR: James Selman, Jason Bell, Gary Molberg, and Lt. Steve Renteria of the Clements Unit.

Insurance Now Available Through Chamber of Commerce Insurance agents and businesses interested in the Amarillo Chamber Healthcare Cooperative insurance products must be members of the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce and agents must be certified by UnitedHealthcare. Call Dianne McClish at 342-2002 or email her at Dianne@amarillo-chamber.org for more information.

Certified Agents are listed on our website and the eight United HealthCare insurance plans available to members at a 7% discount are also described on our website under the “Healthcare” tab. A shortcut to the link is: http://bit.ly/rBmhu

Chamber Facebook: www.facebook.com/AmarilloChamber CVC Facebook (Tourism): www.facebook.com/AmarilloTravel.Tourism CVC Facebook (Conventions): www.facebook.com/AmarilloConventions Chamber Twitter: http://twitter.com/amarillochamber CVC Twitter: http://twitter.com/amarillocvc Chamber Videos: www.youtube.com/amarillochamber Chamber Event Photos: www.flickr.com/photos/amarillochamber/

Convention & Visitor Council 2009-10 Year-To-Date Statistics Tourism

www.visitamarillotx.com/

Occupancy Rate Room Nights Overnight Visitors

WELCOME THESE CONVENTION GROUPS TO AMARILLO

Visitor Center Guests

June 2010

Overnight Travel Impact ($)

4-6

Coor’s Cowboy Club Coor’s Ranch Rodeo

250

5-6

Amarillo Area Tennis Association June ZAT Tournament

100

8-12

Hale Publishing Company Human Lactation, Clinical Research & Clinical Implication

200

Group Tours Inquiries for Amarillo Information

54% 648,055 1,190,586 4,529 238 28,116 $187,287,980

Film Office Information requests

9

Conventions # of Conventions/Groups in Amarillo Delegates Room Nights Delegate Spending ($)

9-11

Texas Historical Commission Board Meeting

35

11-13

Amarillo Area Tennis Association USTA Texas Section Senior Mixed

250

11-13

Texas Junior Shorthorn Association Texas Jr. Shorthorn/Maine-Anjou Shows

200

13-17

County and District Clerks Association Annual Meeting

450

16-20

Texas Junior Hereford/Texas Junior State Show

300

23-3

American Quarter Horse Association Youth World Cup

600

24-26

American Quarter Horse Association Leadership Conference—Youth Excellence Seminar (YES)

400

24-27

Jehovah Witnesses Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness

24-25

Texas Municipal League City Managers Association

5,000

41 16,822 9,895 $8,031,623

Delegates Booked-Future Conventions

22,238

Delegate Room Nights Booked

17,486

CVC Website Ave Monthly Visits

28,127

Ave Monthly Page Views

182,613

Page Views / Visit

6.49

CVC Communications Publicity Advertising Equivalency

$1,165,529

http://www.visitamarillotx.com/eventsMeetingsWelcome.cfm

50

July 2010 7-8

Railroad Commission of Texas Oil & Gas Procedures Seminar

100

10-11

Cargill Cattle Feeders Rock Club Excursion

186

14-18

Xcel Energy Lineman’s Rodeo

450

23-25

Andrew-Benson Family Reunion Family Reunion

60

26-29

Region 16—Academy for Teachers of Young Children Region 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19

850

http://www.visitamarillotx.com/eventsMeetingsWelcome.cfm

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http://www.visitamarillotx.com/coupons.cfm http://www.visitamarillotx.com/coupons.cfm http://www.visitamarillotx.com/coupons.cfm

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Welcome New Members Thanks for Joining in May Batteries Plus Bud Keiber Kristy Gomez 5073 S Coulter, Ste 1 Amarillo, TX 79119 (806) 358-7667 Fax: (806) 322-0108 www.batteriesplus.com America's Battery Experts! One source supplier for "ALL" types of batteries, from laptops to forklifts.

Cell phone, camcorder, and auto installs. Commercial accounts and recycling services.

Borger Chamber of Commerce Beverly Benton Crystal Irvin 613 N. Main Borger, TX 79008 (806) 274-2211 Fax: (806) 273-3488 www.borgerchamber.org Decorating Den Interiors Dessie Davis Kathie Sarchet 21 Cypress Pt. Amarillo, TX 79124 (806) 463-7878 Fax: (806) 352-6520 www.decoratingden.com Decorating Den Interiors is a fullservice interior design firm. We specialize in unique custom window treatments, furniture, accessories and seasonal decorating.

First Baptist Church of Canyon, Texas Kayla Ebenkamp 1717 4th Ave Canyon, TX 79015 (806) 655-2501

Fax: (806) 655-8401 We are a Baptist Church. We exist for the Glory of God by discovering, developing and deploying fully devoted followers of Jesus.

Good Karma Cigar Todd Dailey 110 SE 12th St. Amarillo, TX 79101 (806) 373-8116 www.goodkarmacigar.com Good Karma Cigar is a quality cigar store and lounge conveniently located in Downtown Amarillo.

HC Comply Clay Stribling 112 SW 8th Ave. Amarillo, TX 79101 (806) 350-7422 Fax: (806) 350-7423 www.hccomply.com Providing corporate compliance consulting services for health care organizations throughout the United States, including medical equipment providers, pharmacies, physician practices, and hospitals.

Help U Sell, Consumer Choice Realty Mikki Hart 3110 S Georgia St. Amarillo, TX 79109 (806) 231-1402 Fax: (806) 352-7292 www.husamarillo.com We are consumer-centric Real Estate office that believes that the traditional percentage commission is an outdated practice and has no correlation to the cost of performing a real estate transaction.

Sports Committee During the 2009-10 school year, the Chamber’s Sports Committee held 8 luncheons from October-May to recognize 134 athletes from 40 schools in 12 different sports. Almost 700 people attended the luncheons to recognize outstanding athletic achievement.

The athletes recognized in 2009-10 are listed on the next page.

2009-10 Sports Committee Members Jim Brock, Chair Jan & Chuck Bailey Wayne Craig Bert Bytheway Chris Clark Wendell Coston Lupe Fasano Don Handley Jerry Ivy John Johnson

Regena Ladd Lance Lahnert Anthony Leal Ron Lee Peggy McGuire Pat Nolan Tex Nolan Emilea White Phil Woodall Becky Zenor Tina Teague

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Baseball Rawley Gomez, Bushland High School, 2A/3A High School Johnny Gaines, Clarendon High School, 2A/3A High School Dex Kjerstad, Randall High School, 4A/5A High School Derek Odell, Canyon High School, 4A/5A High School Adam De La Garza, West Texas A&M University, College Rob Mann, West Texas A&M University, College Basketball Boys Jacob Cameron, Panhandle High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Michael Matthews, Bushland High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Tyson Turnbow, Muleshoe High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Swifts Basketball Team, Nazareth High School, 2009-10 1A State Champions James Castleman, Amarillo High School, 3A/4A High School Joseph Scott, Randall High School, 4A/5A High School Michael Cobbins, Palo Duro High School, 4A/5A Highs School Basketball Girls Autumn Chidester, Canadian High School, 1A/2A High School Ashlyn Knoll, Happy High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Sklyer Warrick, Wellington High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Sheri Haynes, McLean High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Lady Patriots Basketball Team, San Jacinto Christian, 09-10 TAPPS State Champs Casey Land, Canyon High School, 4A/5A High School Jasmine Patterson, Palo Duro High School, 4A/5A High School Caitlin Wallace, Amarillo High School, 4A/5A Highs School Basketball Mens LaDarius Hall, West Texas A&M University, College Nick Burns, West Texas A&M University, College Basketball Womens Joni Unruh, West Texas A&M University, College Holly Isaacs, West Texas A&M University, College Megan McClain, West Texas A&M University, College Ceciley Johnson, West Texas A&M University, College Coach Krista Gerlich, West Texas A&M University, Special Award - 100 Wins Coach Brandon Schneider, Emporia State University, Special Award - DII Nat’l Champs Cross Country Boys Sterling Lepard, Muleshoe High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Will Welling, Canyon High School, High School Swasey Brown, Boys Ranch High School, High School Cross Country Girls Taylor Sparks, Wheeler High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Lady Lynxettes Cross Country Team, Spearman High School, 2009-10 2A State Champs Alyssa Diaz, Hereford High School, 4A/5A High School Cross Country Womens Betzy Jimenez, University of Texas, College Football Ty Dooley, Sunray High School, 1A High School Westin Williams, Wellington High School, 1A High School Sawyer Cornelius, Bushland High School, 2A/3A High School Chris Perez, River Road High School, 2A/3A High School Shane Hodge, Perryton High School, 3A High School Jamar Johnson, Caprock High School, 4A/5A High School Heath Herrington, Amarillo High School, 4A/5A High School Parker Bridwell, Hereford High School, 4A/5A High School Brandon Robinson, Canadian High School, 6 Man/1A High School Eugene Sims, West Texas A&M University, College Keithon Flemming, West Texas A&M University, College Taylor Harris, West Texas A&M University, College Brittan Golden, West Texas A&M University, College Golf Boys Hunter Wade, Perryton High School, 2A/3A High School Parker Grotegut, Gruver High School, 2A/3A High School Colt Melton, Amarillo High School, 4A/5A High School Golf Girls Tiffany Schumacher, Dalhart High School, 2A/3A High School Macy Davis, Memphis High School, 2A/3A High School Catherine Musser, Amarillo High School, 4A/5A High School Alisa White, Hereford High School, 4A/5A High School Soccer Boys Ricardo Tavarez, Palo Duro High School, High School Kyle Ward, Amarillo High School, High School Soccer Girls Devan Glover, Amarillo High School, High School Andrea Carpenter, Randall High School, High School Soccer Mens Ben Everson, West Texas A&M University, College Sebastian Furness, West Texas A&M University, College Nicki Nielsen, West Texas A&M University, College Soccer Womens Lindsay McHorse, West Texas A&M University, College Kelly Skehan, West Texas A&M University, College

Kayla Sisco, West Texas A&M University, College Softball Kelsey Fincher, River Road High School, 2A/3A High School Kaitlyn Patterson, Bushland High School, 2A/3A High School Carlyn Teichman, Pampa High School, 4A/5A High School Taryn Schenk, Canyon High School, 4A/5A High School Kimberly LeComte, West Texas A&M University, Co-College Marci Womack, West Texas A&M University, Co-College Sarah Blair, West Texas A&M University, College Amber Farr, West Texas A&M University, College Swimming Jessica Covil, Pampa High School, High School Julie Dotson, Amarillo High School, High School Christian Hinkle, Pampa High School, High School Zeek Wright, San Jacinto Christian Academy, High School Tennis Boys David Ojeda & Diego Garcia, Claude High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Tennis Girls Emily Lusk, Canadian High School, 1A/2A/3A High School McCall Kjerstad, Randall High School, 4A/5A High School Track & Field Boys Westin Williams, Wellington High School, 1A State Champion 110M Hurdles Caleb Berry, Canadian High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Jonny Diaz, Panhandle High School, 2009-10 2A State Champion 300M Hurdles Dontae Flemons, Childress High School, 2A/3A High School David Mogi, Palo Duro High School, 4A/5A High School Michael Stigler, Canyon High School, 4A/5A High School Logan Brittain, Randall High School, 4A/5A High School Track & Field Girls Shelby McKnight, Wellington High School, 1A State Champion 100 Meter Dash Dusty Armstrong, White Deer High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Victoria Flemons, Childress High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Melissa Velazco, Shamrock High School, 1A/2A/3A High School McKensie Rogers, Perryton High School, 2A/3A High School Talore Kelley, Tascosa High School, 4A/5A High School Alyssa Diaz, Hereford High School, 4A/5A High School Track & Field Mens Servell Dandridge, West Texas A&M University, College Eldon Grimslid, West Texas A&M University, College Luke Irwin, West Texas A&M University, College Track & Field Womens Kelsey Lloyd, Texas Tech University, College Aries Bazaldua, West Texas A&M University, College Volleyball Morgan McDowell, Fort Elliott High School, 1A/2A/3A High School Lady Raiders Volleyball Team, Randall High School, 2009-10 4A State Champions Lady Sandies Volleyball Team, Amarillo High School, 2009-10 5A State Champions Kaitlyn Patterson, Bushland High School, 2A/3A High School Marlee Reynolds, Dalhart High School, 2A/3A High School Aubree Piper, Randall High School, 4A/5A High School Sheridan Burgess, Amarillo High School, 4A/5A High School Torri Campbell, Baylor University, Co-College Katie Rickwartz, West Texas A&M University, Co-College Melissa Harper, West Texas A&M University, College Kori Cooper, University of Nebraska, College Laura Prinsen, West Texas A&M University, College Amarillo Rockets Volleyball Team, Amarillo Rockets, 09-10 Nat’l Home School Champions Lady Lions Volleyball Team, Arbor Christian Academy, TAPPS 2A State Champions Wrestling Boys Victor Dotson, Randall High School, 2009-10 State Champion Nick Hermann, Tascosa High School, 2009-10 State Champion Ivan Castenada, Amarillo High School, High School Henry Zepeda, Boys Ranch High School, High School Dalton Carter, Amarillo High School, High School Crockett Gillmore, Bushland High School, High School Nick Hermann, Tascosa High School, 2009-10 National Champion Wrestling Girls Hilary Cordero, Caprock High School, 2009-10 State Champion Miriam Moreno, Hereford High School, 2009-10 State Champion Shelby Morrison, Bushland High School, 2009-10 State Champion Lady Longhorns Wrestling Team, Caprock High School, 2009-10 State Champions Sion King, Hereford High School, Special Award - Coach of the Year Kelsey Baker, Palo Duro High School, High School Jessica Brito, Amarillo High School, High School China Saucedo, Hereford High School, High School Jaki Thompson, River Road High School, High School Britnee Barbosa, Caprock High School, 2009-10 National Champion Miriam Moreno, Hereford High School, 2009-10 National Champion Tori Adams, Bushland High School, Special Award - World Grappling Champion

Welcome New Members Thanks for Joining in May Laxmichand Kamnani, M.D. Laxmichand Kamnani Angela Kyle 1045 E 30th Pampa, TX 79065 (806) 665-0815 Fax: (806) 665-0817 Maurices #2037 Monica Dornon 7701 W. Interstate 40, Space #364 Amarillo, TX 79121 (580) 821-2854 www.maurices.com Women's Clothing

Fax: (806) 669-3244 www.pampachamber.com Paul Harpole Motors, LLC Paul Harpole Terry Bixler 2106 S Grand St Amarillo, TX 79103 Fax: (806) 372-2203 www.harpsauto.com We have over 60 years of Automotive experience. We can take care of your vehicle needs.

Oreck Clean Home Center Scott Campsey Jerry Campsey 5807 SW 45th, Suite 310 Amarillo, TX 79109 (806) 353-3040 Fax: 806-353-9305 Sales and Service of vacuums, air purifiers, cleaning products and floor machines.

PuroClean Property Paramedics Chris Dyer P O Box 3984 Amarillo, TX 79116 Fax: (806) 318-9701 www.puroclean.com/ppp-tx Nationwide franchise system of certified professionals specializing in emergency response, restoration and rescue of property owners suffering from water, fire or smoke damage.

Pampa Chamber of Commerce Joe Weaver 200 N. Ballard Pampa, TX 79066 (806) 669-3241

Specialized Therapy Services Karen Day Deana Porter 2400 Lakeview, Ste 102 Amarillo, TX 79109 (806) 468-9400

Fax: (806) 468-9401 Amarillo's premiere pediatric outpatient occupational, Speech and physical therapy facility. A loving and caring environment where children with disabilities can reach their potential.

The Zone: A Family Chiropractic Life Center Stephen & Janie Vincent 8910 W 34th Suite 300 Amarillo, TX 79124 (806) 356-1362

www.mychiropracticzone.wordpress.com

The Zone restores the nervous system's flow of information and the normal balance of life. We thrive to meet the needs of whole families.

www.actx.edu/ce/ www.amarilloedc.com/ www.entrepreneuralliance.org/ www.prpc.cog.tx.us/ www.incubationworks.com/ www.smallbusinessdevelopmentcenter.com/

Sensible Solution...an Alternative Coverage to Workers’ Comp For more info: Dianne@amarillo-chamber.org Policy highlights are available on the chamber website www.amarillo-chamber.org under the HEALTH CARE tab and INSURANCE COVERAGE quicklink. An exclusive http://amarillo-chamber.org/cwt/external/wcpages/health/Insurance_Coverage.aspx panel of local insurance agents will assist the Chamber membership with sales and service.

Diane Wall Insurance Agency

468-9034

Edmond Deaton & Stephens

356-6000

www.edsinsurance.com

Fuqua-Bryson Benefits Group

350-6660

www.myfbbenefits.com

Hilb Rogal & Hobbs Co of Amarillo (HRH)

376-8275

www.hrh.com

Neely Craig & Walton

376-6301

www.neely.com

PIA Insurance

374-4621

www.piainsurance.com

Upshaw Insurance Agency

468-0400

www.upshaw-insurance.com

Williams-Boyce Agency, LLP

376-4247

www.williamsboyce.com

Willis HRH

376-4761

www.hrh.com

WRCA Several members of the CVC staff recently attended a WRCA Lunch & Learn event at the Ambassador Hotel. The WRCA is the host/parent organization for the annual Working Ranch Cowboy Association World Championship Ranch Rodeo that has been held annually in Amarillo for 15 years. This years event is scheduled for November For more information on the WRCA, call who or visit http://wrca.org/

amarillo-chamber.org/cwt/external/wcpages/health/Insurance_Coverage.aspx

www.jackson-lloyd.com/

www.upshawbrownins.com/

www.upshawbrownins.com/

www.upshawbrownins.com/

Welcome New Members Thanks for Joining in May

United Country - Alliance Auction & Realty Brent Graves Ashley Graves 2744 Duniven Circle Amarillo, TX 79109 (806) 553-1960 Fax: (806) 553-1964 www.AllianceAuctionRealty.com For 85 years, United Country has been selling the finest rural properties across America. Let us find the property of your dreams, and make tomorrow the first day of the rest of your life.

West Texas Provisions, Inc. Neal Smith Derrick Martinez 314 S. Fannin Amarillo, TX 79106 (806) 374-4240 Fax: (806) 350-7748 West Texas Provisions is a USDA inspected, high quality meat processing facility. We provide beef and pork to food service industry, institutions, the

Amarillo High School

Caprock High School

Randall High School

Alexis Allison Trey Bowen Elissa Bryan Kevin Guttenplan Sarah Jaffar Cortney McGinnis, Jr. Tyler Perry Sally Polk Michael Ripperger Claire Usala Tianne Yarbrough

Jennifer Bourque Laura Gonzales Amanda Hargesheimer Aman Majok Malia Martinez Kayla Mendez Jackeline O’Connor Rachel Wedell Cheryn Woodard

Miranda Bassett Joshua Dolezal Andrew Fields Christopher Havard Megan Huey Kyle Moore Daniel Stroud

Arbor Christian Academy

Sarah Bird Courtney Studer Ascension Academy

Hannah Boren Haley Boren

Highland Park High School

Andrea Chavira Jana Swann

Marshall S. Hinders Joseph E. Huseman Colby A. Meyer Luke C. Porter Josiah D. Robinson

Rachel Michelle Crook Flint Taylor Smith San Jacinto Christian Academy

Holy Cross Catholic Academy

Seth Adams Chambree Kimbrell

Blase Musick Joey Sorenson

Tascosa High School

Palo Duro High School

Canyon High School

River Road High School

Ivette Bravo Brenda Carrillo Kimberly Chau Demi Hoang Tiffani Khoutxaysana Vi Tran Esly Tremillo Ramiro Garcia Trevizo

Levi Bagwell William Bloomer Joy Brosier Caitlin Campbell William Combs Megan Nazworth Andrew Riekenberg Joanna Ritchie Sarah Sellers

DID YOU KNOW… If you receive an invoice from the Chamber via email, you can click on the link and pay it directly online with your credit card through our secure site. Save a

stamp…use the web.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce’s Quality of Life Council celebrates the academic achievement of the Amarillo and Canyon graduating seniors. The Top Two Percent Awards are held in honor of elite students from the public and private school sectors. We recognize today’s students will one day lead our community, own businesses, and change the world.

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Interested in advertising in this electronic publication? Get a 1/4 page ad for $50 or a 1/2 page ad for $100. For more information, contact Penni Bentley at 342-2005 or email penni@amarillo-chamber.org.

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PRESENTING SPONSORs ®

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In-Kind Sponsors: Amarillo CVC, Amarillo On-Site Massage, Amarillo Residence Inn, Display Concepts, Document Shredding & Storage, Education Credit Union, Glazer’s, Johnson & Sheldon, Midas, Sleep Inn & Suites, WTAMU Athletic Department

Call Becky at 342-2010 or Lupe at 342-2003 for more info or to be put on the waiting list!

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Are you a new Chamber Member?

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Opening a new location?

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Remodeling or expanding?

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GOLDEN NAIL AWARDS HONORS CONTRIBUTORS By: Becky Zenor, VP of the Quality of Life Council / Arts The winners accepted honors at the Twentyeighth annual Golden Nail Awards on Saturday, May 22, 2010 in the Heritage Ballroom at the Amarillo Civic Center. Approximately 250 were in attendance.

The Arts Committee of the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce sponsors the gala to recognize financial, in-kind, and volunteer contributions to the fine arts in Amarillo and the surrounding communities in the Texas Panhandle.

tion, Mr. Smith serves on the ALT and Amarillo Symphony Board of Directors and will be the President of the Amarillo Symphony Board this coming year.

The third award was presented to Lois Hull of Canyon. Lois has provided financial assistance over the years to the Amarillo Youth Choirs and Amarillo Symphony.

The third award was presented to Wendell Goin of Claude. Wendell has been an active Board member of the Armstrong County Museum and has devoted many hours to the museum. He helped convert the oldest historical building in Claude and developed an attractive meeting room with kitchen facilities and restrooms.

The fourth award was presented to Beverly Plank of Canyon. Beverly has been very active with the Chamber Music Amarillo and the Amarillo Opera. She serves on the Opera Board and helps plan their events and parties through BRAVO.

The fourth award was presented to Sena Brainard of Pampa. Sena is very active in Pampa and has served on the Pampa Fine Arts Russell and Natrelle Long Board and past Chair of the city-wide celebration, Chautau(pictured right) chaired this year’s event. The comqua. The Pampa Fine Arts purSpecial Awards are given when warranted and mittee members include chased a train depot to hold art one was presented this year. The award was Molly Caviness, Sarah classes and art gallery shows. presented to Mrs. Maureen Poole Roberts. She Caviness, Kathy Price She organized a fundraiser to has been a generous long time patron of the Dryden, Jim Jordan, Whithelp pay off the notes on the Amarillo Little Theatre. She provided funding ney Kelly, Anne and Pat building. Not only does she help support for two ALT productions and ALT’s June http://www.flickr.com/photos/amarillochamber/sets/72157624002200071/ Northcutt, Dr. Neal Nosin Pampa, she also donated special event. This fall, she made the largest saman, Bobby and Paula money to the Heritage Foundacash contribution to the ALT to allow ALT to Steele, Marian Stroup, tion Trail Drive. purchase the property just north of the ALT Parie Villyard , Kay Paine, Mainstage facility. This purchase opens an excitarts committee Chair; and The Business Award is preing realm of possibilities for ALT’s future growth Becky Zenor, Chamber of sented for exceptional financial and development.

Commerce liaison. support of the fine arts by a business or corporation in Amarillo and the PanTwo Special Media awards were given this Over 400 nominations were received from handle. Two awards were presented tonight. The year. The first award was presented to the 100.9 throughout the Panhandle. The Golden Nail first award was presented to B&W Pantex. They The Eagle. The Lone Star Ballet partnered with Awards categories are the Summit, Individual, have provided financial support to the Amarillo this radio station to help with the promotion of Business, Foundation, and Distinguished VolunSymphony, Amarillo Museum of Art, Lone Star one of the most successful LSB productions teer. One Special Award and two Special Media Ballet and Amarillo Opera. called “TimeSteps: Rock of the Ages.” The oldies Awards were also presented. Three Golden music was a perfect way to promote this producTouch Awards were presented to recognize new The second award was presented to Glazer’s tion. or innovative ideas and projects.

Wholesale Distributors. They have provided support to the Amarillo Museum of Art and the The second award was presented to the PlainThis year’s award winners were announced at Amarillo Symphony Guild’s “Vintage Amarillo.” view Daily Herald. This newspaper is a benefit to the Golden Nail Awards: many local constituents and greatly enhances The Foundation Award is presented for excepthe artistic community in and around Plainview.

The Summit Award is presented for outstanding tional and generous The media quality was superb and the scope of devotion and support of the fine arts in Amarillo support of the fine arts in Amarillo and the Pancoverage are expansive. and the Panhandle over a period of years, inhandle. Two awards were presented tonight. The cluding meaningful public involvement and unfirst award was presented to the Paul F. & VirThe Golden Touch Awards are presented for stinting personal services as well as generous ginia J. Engler Foundation. They provided assisnew, unique, or innovative arts event or activity financial help. This year’s award was presented tance to the Amarillo Museum of Art and the that adds a “golden touch” to the arts fare in to Jim Jordan. Jim gives his time to many arts Lone Star Ballet.

Amarillo and the Panhandle. Three awards were organizations by serving on their boards for the presented and the first was presented to the Amarillo Museum of Art, Chamber Music AmaThe second award was presented to the David Lone Star Ballet’s “TimeSteps: Rock of the rillo, Amarillo Opera, and Friends of AeolianD. and Nona S. Payne Foundation, Inc. of Ages.” This multimedia dance program featured Skinner Opus 1024. In addition to his volunteerPampa. They provided financial assistance to classic rock and roll music from the 50’s through ism, he also provides financial assistance and the Lone Star Ballet. the 80’s. The cast of 68 included Lone Star Balrecently donated an art collection of nearly 140 let Company members and dancers from pieces to the Amarillo Museum of Art. WTAMU. The Distinguished Volunteer Award is presented to an individual for exemplary volunteer The Individual Award is presented for outservice in Amarillo and the Panhandle. Four The second award was presented to the “Nights standing support and service to the fine arts both Distinguished Volunteer Awards were presented. at the Museums.” Four museums partnered to financially and personally by an individual or The first award was presented to Betty Farrell. offer dinner and fun activities for children 4-11 individuals in Amarillo and the Panhandle. Four Betty has provided financial assistance and volfrom 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Participating museums awards were presented tonight. The first award unteered with the Lone Star Ballet, Amarillo Muwere the Amarillo Museum of Art, Don Harringwas presented to Dr. Victoria Thompson. Victoria seum of Art and Amarillo Symphony. ton Discovery Center, Panhandle Plainssponsored an Amarillo Symphony concert and is Historical Museum and the American Quarter an annual fund supporter and provided lodging The second award was presented to Doris Horse Museum & Hall of Fame. for the Amarillo Opera’s guest artist.

Kaczmarek. Doris has been a long-time patron, board member and volunteers for the Amarillo The third award was presented to High Plains The second award was presented to Mr. and Little Theatre. She has chaired the ALT AdvertisPublic Radio’s “Visit with the Artists.” This was a Mrs. Alfred J. Smith. This couple provided undering Committee that compiled advertisers and unique collaboration with the Chamber Music writing for an Amarillo Little Theatre Mainstage their contracts for the ALT’s Playbill each seaAmarillo. This project centers on a pre-concert production an sponsored an Amarillo Symphony son. talk with audience members and the performing concert and is an annual fund supporter. In addimusicians.

For More Golden Nail Photos Visit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/amarillochamber/sets/72157624002200071/

AAA Signs of Amarillo Aark Drilling Acapulco Mexican Restaurant Account Recovery Services, Inc Advanced Eye Care - Amarillo Albertson's #4203 Amarillo Area CASA, Inc. Amarillo Association of Realtors Amarillo Business Concepts Amarillo Globe News Amarillo Spine & Rehabilitation Center Amarillo's Parkview Realty, LLC American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum Americas Best Value Inn Another Attic Self Storage (1) Another Attic Self Storage (2) Another Attic Self Storage (3) Another Attic Self Storage (4) Another Attic Self Storage (5) Baptist Community Services BeautiControl Mobile Spa Ben E Keith Foods Best Western Amarillo Inn Better Business Bureau Big Brothers-Big Sisters of the TX Panhandle Blackburn-Shaw Funeral Homes Blackmon Mooring of Amarillo, Inc. Cal Farley's Cleartalk Click Builders, Inc. Custom Homes/Remodeling Coldwell Banker First Equity/Regena Ladd Colonies at Hillside Courtney, Countiss, Brian & Bailey, L.L.P.

Cumulus Broadcasting Custom Printing Inc Cypress Creek @ Jason Avenue Apartment Homes DeWitt, Jerry & Georgie Diversified Interiors of Amarillo, Ltd. El Tejavan Elite Engraving Elliott/Russell Office Supplies & Furniture Financial Freedom & Futures Flash Tech French & Company Realtors Golden Light Equipment H & R Food Company H Gallery - Lifestyle Photography Harrington Cancer Center Hartman Roofing Herring Bank Homes and Land of Amarillo, Canyon and Pampa Host Equipment Ltd. Interim Health Care of West Texas, LLC. Interstate Insurance Agency, LLC John Smithee/State Representative Johnson Filtration Products Inc KGNC AM/FM L A Fuller & Sons Construction Inc Landscape Supply Latham Hometown Realty Leal's Mexican Restaurant Lizzie Mae's Mariposa Apartment Homes @ Jason Ave Master-E-Networks Medley Material Handling Inc

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Minka's Garden Skincare & Boutique New Neighbors of Amarillo Norris Audio Video Systems, L.P. Old World Construction P C Hickman D O Pacific Cheese Company, Inc. Panhandle Job Placement Services Pond Pest Control Pre Paid Legal Services/ Go Small Biz Presbyterian Home for Children Roberts Truck Center Route 66 Motor Speedway Saint Stephen United Methodist Church Servi-Tech Laboratories SERVPRO of West Amarillo Sprouse Shrader Smith, P.C. State Farm/Ronnie Mankin Sterling Properties Stonegate Apartments Tejas Industries, Inc. The Drawing Board The Hot Tub Doctor Triumph Health Care U.S. Cleaners Vintage Autohaus and Imports Way More Storage Western Bowl, Inc. Westminster Presbyterian Church Wonderland Amusement Park XanGo Independent Distributor/DeeAnn Dyas Ye Olde Pancake Station

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AMARILLO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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The Chamber eNewsletter is published by the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, 1000 South Polk, Amarillo, Texas 79101. It is provided free of charge to Chamber members. Address correspondence to Chamber Communications at the address listed above, or call 806.373.7800, fax 806.373.3909.

2009-10 Board of Directors Executive Committee

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Chair Chair-Elect President/CEO Past Chair Finance Membership Council Business Council Governmental Affairs Council Quality of Life Council Ag Council Convention & Visitor Council City of Amarillo

Laura Street J. Pat Richmond Gary Molberg Kelvin Betzen David Hemphill Al Cunningham Bill Jenkins Bill Harris Penelope Davies Dr. James Clark Guy C. Vanderpool Mayor Debra McCartt Commissioner Madison Scott

Directors Fredia Allen Tim Archer Roy Bara Scott Bentley David Craig Michael Cruz Jill Dana Buzz David Bob Garrett Brad Martin Cameron Monroe

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Shawn Morrison Robert Murray David Prescott John Salazar, Jr. Rod Schroder Les Simpson Janie Singleton William Ware Leah West James Wester Jeff Yarber

Visit our website at: Amarillo-Chamber.org

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Penni Bentley, Editor

News@Amarillo-Chamber.org

Editor’s Corner By: Penni Bentley, Chamber Director of Communications penni@amarillo-chamber.org My apologies to those that were patiently waiting to read our latest enews. If you are one of those readers, send me an email at news@amarillo-chamber.org and tell me you read this and I’ll enter you in a drawing for two free tickets to the Summer Fiesta for Thursday, June 24th. (I’ll announce on Tuesday afternoon).

I just got back from a much needed vacation, so that’s part of the reason for the delay in this month’s newsletter. Internet connections on South Padre Island can be slow, so even though I had intentions of launching this from there...it just didn't happen. But are you really surprised that even the internet has a laid back lifestyle on the beach?

I must say, I’m so glad I got to go enjoy time with family and friends on the great Texas coast. Tourist season is in full swing there, but it is booking up like crazy for the rest of the summer. Those who were planning beach trips to Florida or other spots along the Gulf Coast are apparently looking to one of the great clean beaches left to visit. Good news for the South Padre economy, but so sad for the folks on the Gulf Coast.

I had some fun experiences while on vacation—the standard day or two at the beach, some lounging by the pool, the husband and kids went fishing, and we trekked around in the dark wading though the bay looking for flounder or crabs with flashlights. But nothing really compares to the people that you meet that make for the best memories.

Take for instance a woman named Jackie who runs the Burger Shack at the Saida Condos. From spring break through September she works 1012 hour days in the heat over a grill fixing burgers and snacks served by the pool. She is an expert on things to see and do on the island. It is a part of her. Turns out she also had ties to Amarillo where she raised

her daughter, Chelsea, until moving to the island in ‘95. She has the greatest enthusiasm for her job, the people and the island...even though the island is where she lost her daughter and son-in-law. They were among the victims when the SPI bridge collapsed Sept 15, 2001.

Jackie is raising her grandson, William, who was just two at the time of the accident.

In the week I spent around Padre I overheard this a lot, “Life’s too short to be stressed out. There is no drama at the Burger Shack. It isn’t allowed,” said Jackie.

Isn’t it funny how something so tragic can either make a person or break a person? You have to make a choice to be happy, and chose to survive after a loss like that. I sometimes get wrapped up in my own pity party and forget that. And it never fails, I can hear someone else’s story of grief and actually be thankful that my own story isn’t all that bad considering. Sure, I would love to still have my sister around and wouldn’t wish a terminal illness on anyone, but in the grand scheme of things, I’d still take her brain tumor over a split-second freak accident any day.

It’s not surprising that after 20 years in the restaurant business winning awards for her culinary skills to find Jackie making up her special burgers (which are amazing) in a little hut just off the beach. She doesn’t have to work, but she does because she loves it...and that’s the key.

“Do what you really love, because life is short,” she says. And as hard as it was coming back from vacation today, I can honestly say that, right now, I’m doing what I love with a great group of people.

So as always, tell us how we are doing. Give us your suggestions, feedback, and input. Get involved. We are YOUR Chamber.

For more on the SPI bridge collapse, I found this article interesting. http://amarillo.com/stories/091502/tex_yearpasses.shtml

http://bit.ly/9HNof1

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