2019 Sept/Oct. Connections

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BOARD CHAIR PHIL SHACKELFORD DIVES DEEP INTO 2020

CONNECTIONS BRYAN / COLLEGE STATION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019 CHAMBER PROGRAMS Brazos Valley
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Footing
COMMUNITY INSIGHTS Meet the Board of Directors PULLING
NEW
Gives
The Bill
UP A CHAIR

10 Years of Housewarmings

At The Bank & Trust, we’ve worked hard over the past decade to gain both your business and your trust! Over the past 10 years, we have contributed to the development of Bryan/ College Station by financing the construction of more than 5,000 new homes and provided loans to turn 1,000 home buyers into homeowners. It’s been our pleasure to help our customers become our neighbors and we’re honored to call this community home!

If you’re in the market for a new home, call 979-260-2100!

MELISSA J. KEELING

Assistant Vice President MLO ID#1671843

Team Member since 2017

SIERRA D. CUNNINGHAM

ID#1824464 Team Member since 2015

Calendar SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 09.16.19 GOLF CLASSIC The City Course at Phillips Event Center 09.15.19 LOBSTERFEST The Brazos Center 09.30.19 LUNCH & LEARN WITH NAMI BRAZOS VALLEY B/CS Chamber of Commerce 09.19.19 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Sterling Auto Group 10.17.19 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Chrome: A Salon Experience 10.16.19 YOUTH TO CAREER FAIR Brazos County Expo Complex Features 2 PRESIDENTIAL PERSPECTIVES A Message from Vicki Reim 3 NEW MEMBERS Welcoming New Businesses to Bryan/College Station 5 AMBASSADOR OF THE MONTH 8 12 CHAMBER PROGRAMS Brazos Valley Gives COMMUNITY INSIGHTS Filling the Seat 16 22 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT The Floor is Yours... 24 DELUXE RIBBON CUTTINGS Celebrate the Start of Something New in B/CS (LEFT TO RIGHT) CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR ELECT, PHIL SHACKELFORD, CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR, VICKI REIM, WHATABURGER CHIEF RESTAURANT OPERATING OFFICER, ROB RODRIGUEZ, AND CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO, GLEN BREWER ChamberConnections/Copyright © 2019. All Rights Reserved. 8/19 Member FDIC Originating Organization NMLS ID# 495002
Senior Vice President MLO ID#510014 Team Member since 2009 All loans subject to credit approval and collateral review. Rates, products, programs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Underwriting terms and conditions apply. Some restrictions apply. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend.
MELANIE N. MOTLEY
Local bank. Local bankers. www.banktbt.com
MLO
Mortgage Lending Representative
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Footing
10.08.19 MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON WITH TAMU ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, ROSS BJORK 1 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019
the Bill

Presidential Perspectives

Another successful Chamber year is coming to a close. Most notably because of everyone’s involvement! As with any successful organization, business, or worthwhile endeavor, it takes dedicated people. I am very proud to say that our Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce has an abundance of very dedicated, hard-working people!

The Chamber is an amazing organization for many reasons. First and foremost, we are comprised of a wide variety of business people and businesses, we have more than 1,550 Chamber members. We are fortunate to have a huge number of very involved and interested individuals, an amazing Ambassador Committee, an effective Board of Directors and an extremely hard-working and dedicated staff. A combination of these people run our many productive committees, are involved with our leadership endeavors, are active in our legislative events, and support the many networking and business events we host. This combined effort throughout the year allows us to make a direct impact in our community. These are just a few of the many reasons that our Chamber of Commerce is, the BEST!

It is impossible to thank everyone enough for their expertise and time given to our Chamber. We truly appreciate our members and we are here to help each one succeed. I must recognize the remarkable work of our Chamber staff. You can imagine the level of detail that is required to coordinate over 200 events in one year!

Your Chamber staff did that and did it well every time! To me, their dedication and drive resonates from the solid leadership of our Chamber President and CEO, Mr. Glen Brewer. Respect and appreciation go a long way--thank you to Glen and to all of our Chamber employees and volunteers!

Our fabulous Chamber will continue to make great things happen. I can assure you that our incoming Chairman, Mr. Phil Shackelford, is stepping in with great ideas and will lead us with tremendous passion. Phil is a mover and shaker with the Blinn College Foundation and is a well-respected leader in our community, I am honored to give the reins to Phil and he will do an outstanding job leading our great Chamber!

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Chairman during this “Chamber 101” year, it has been extremely rewarding. Thank you for your kind words and support, and especially for your time and commitment to make so many positive things happen. Cheers to our very bright future, on to our 102nd!

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

VICKI REIM

Board Chair

PHIL SHACKELFORD Chair-Elect

CRYSTAL DUPRE

Immediate Past Chairman

JASON CORNELIUS

Vice Chair of Leadership

JAMES LARKIN

Vice Chair of Finance & Physical Resources

SUSAN GIPSON

Vice Chair of Business Development

MARY MIKE HATCHER

Vice Chair of Communications

RICARDO DIAZ

Vice Chair of Community Enhancement

TAI LEE

Vice Chair of Membership Enhancement

BRAD BEARD

JOHN BUSH

AUSTIN BRYAN

SPENCER CLEMENTS

JOHN C. “JACK” CULPEPPER III

DAVID DOSS

ZACH ETHERIDGE

JILL GALLAGHER

TRACY KYLE

BARBIE PATTERSON

SHANE PHELPS

KORI RICH

TRAVIS ROLLINS

PAT SHIELDS

GREG ZWEIACKER

STAFF

GLEN BREWER President/CEO

ROYCE HICKMAN Community Liaison

CARRIE ARCHER Manager of Membership

TOM TILTON Manager of Finance

JORDAN PRIHODA Manager of Business Programs

BRIAN MILLER Membership Investment Representative

TAYLOR CLARK Communications Coordinator

ALLISON BATTE

Special Projects Coordinator

RACHEL NAVE

Executive Assistant

LINDA ESPIRIQUETA Receptionist

Welcome New Chamber Members

9764 S. Business Hwy 6 Navasota, TX 77868 (936) 825-2441

3CDisposal.com

AERIFY A/C CONTRACTORS

P.O. Box 11334 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 224-4537

AggieAirConditioning@gmail.com

MYCON GENERAL CONTRACTORS INC. 1702 Ponderosa Drive, Ste D College Station, TX 77845 (979) 429-4005

Mycon.com

ONLY 1 RENTALS, LLC

9782 S. Business Hwy 6 Navasota, TX 77868 (936) 825-2444

Only1Rentals.com

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION 6055 South Loop East Houston, TX 77807 (713) 314-1313

1620 W Loop 340, Suite A Waco, Texas 76712 (254) 732-1363

REECE HOMES, LLC

3900 State Hwy 6, Ste 110 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 635-4800

Reece-Homes.com VERABANK, N.A. 4282 Boonville Road, Ste 200 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 704-6556

VeraBank.com

STEINBERGER INSURANCE & FINANCIAL

100 N. Parker Ave., Ste 112 Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 398-2690

SteinbergerAgency.com

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY VETERINARY MEDICAL MEDICAL TEACHING HOSPITAL Hwy 60 Bldg 508 College Station, TX 77843 (979) 845-9108

VetHospital.tamu.edu

GRANDCHAMP RENOVATIONS 5792 Andert Road Bryan,

77808 (979) 215-7330

Chamber Connections is a publication of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce and a public service to Chamber members. Editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Taylor Clark by email at taylor@bcschamber.org. FAJITA PETE’S COLLEGE STATION 711 University Dr, Suite 100 College Station, Texas 77840 (830) 708-0331 INTERLINC MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC 1645 Greens Prairie Rd W #403 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 307-7667 CLUB PILATES COLLEGE STATION 910 William D Fitch Pkwy, Suite 600 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 999-1896 CARRIAGE INN 4235 Boonville Rd Bryan, TX 77807 (979) 731-1300 UNLIMITED POTENTIAL (UP) MENTORING 3806 S. Texas Ave. Bryan, Texas 77802 (979) 492-3610 THRIVE AGAIN MINISTRIES 404 Jane St, Suite 100 College Station, TX 77840 (888) 548-2750 DAVID’S JEWELRY AND COIN EXCHANGE 522 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840 (979) 846-2400 PIE IN THE SKY PIE CO BCS 4344 State Hwy 6 South College Station, TX 77845 (979) 977-3795 ONWARD RESERVE 166 Century Court, Suite G-30 College Station, TX 77840 (404) 618-0751 KRISHA SEATON INSURANCE AGENCY 2205 Longmire Dr, Suite B College Station, TX 77845 (979) 258-0160 ICC NTA, LLC 6151 Mumford Rd Bryan, TX 77807 (574) 773-7975 PAULIN RESEARCH GROUP 110 Lincoln Ave., Suite 101 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 422-0028 MIKESKA CONTRACTORS, LLC 3707 Sweetbriar Dr Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 255-6165
3C DISPOSAL
THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC 11671 FM 2154 Rd, Suite A150 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 250-5000 BOUNDS
CONSTRUCTION
MICROTEL INN & SUITES 1820 Ponderosa Drive College Station, TX 77845 (979) 202-4770 TEXAS A&M VENTURES 166 Century Court, Suite 200 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 315-7892 JANET DUDDING, MBA, CPA 811
Bryan,
TX
COMMERCIAL
N Rosemary Dr
Texas 77802 (979) 436-2229
VICKI REIM BOARD CHAIR
BRYAN CREATIVE GROUP Publication Design NEWMAN PRINTING Printing 3 JULY AUGUST 2019 2 CONNECTIONS

Chamber Photos Ambassador of the Month

Iam honored to be recognized as ambassador of the month for both July and August. I am grateful to be a part of an organization that promotes volunteerism, networking and a sense of community. I enjoy being a part of the ambassador program for a few reasons. First, I have the opportunity to volunteer with a great group of other community members. This group has helped me develop both professionally and personally. Secondly, I have the privilege to learn about and help promote businesses that are vital to our community. As the Marketing and Public Relation Manager for Baylor Scott & White Health College Station Region, the ambassador program allows me the opportunity to share the work Baylor Scott & White Health is providing to the community through highlighting our physicians, service lines and philanthropic initiatives. To me being an ambassador means being part of a support system that helps you to grow both as an individual and to further develop your profession.

Baylor Scott & White Health mission is to promote the well-being of all individuals, families and communities. Baylor Scott & White Health strives to be the trusted leader, educator and innovator in value-based delivery, customer experience and affordability. Healthcare is changing, and at Baylor Scott & White, we are changing it for the better. In addition, we are a non-profit organization committed to bringing awareness to philanthropic endeavors that benefit our community in College Station. From numerous locations to extended hours and services, Baylor Scott & White Health is here to care for all of your healthcare needs. Visit BSWHealth.com or call 979-2073300 to learn more about Baylor Scott & White Health.

THANK YOU TO PARC AT TRADITIONS STAFF FOR HOSTING SUCH AN AMAZING BUSINESS AFTER HOURS EVERY YEAR. WE HAD A GREAT TIME! OUR ANNUAL INSIDE B/CS EVENT HAD AN AWESOME TURNOUT. THANK YOU TO ALL PARTICIPANTS AND SPEAKERS FOR MAKING THIS DAY SUCH A HUGE SUCCESS! L TO R: B/CS CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR ELECT, PHIL SHACKELFORD, REPRESENTATIVE JOHN RANEY, B/CS CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR, VICKI REIM, SENATOR CHARLES SCHWERTNER, REPRESENTATIVE KYLE KACAL, B/CS CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO, GLEN BREWER CHAMBER AMBASSADOR CHAIRMAN, JARED SALVATO, STOPS FOR A QUICK PHOTO WITH CASH AT GUARANTY BANK AND TRUST BUSINESS AFTER HOURS! PHOTO CREDIT: BOB MORRIS WITH SPECIALTIES PHOTOGRAPHY MEMBERS OF THE LEADERSHIP BRAZOS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE WITH ROB RODRIGUEZ, WHATABURGER’S CHIEF RESTAURANT OPERATING OFFICER, AFTER THE ANNUAL LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON. WE HAD A WONDERFUL TURNOUT AT OUR BUSINESS AFTER HOURS WITH GUARANTY BANK AND TRUST! PHOTO CREDIT: BOB MORRIS WITH SPECIALTIES PHOTOGRAPHY
CHAMBER AMBASSADORS, CHRISTINA SEIDEL AND KATHYRN LANGSTON, “TWINNING” AT BUSINESS AFTER HOURS!
B/CS
THANK YOU BRYAN COLLEGE STATION TOYOTA FOR HOSTING SUCH AN AWESOME BUSINESS AFTER HOURS. 5 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 4 CONNECTIONS
KATERINA HALL BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE HEALTH

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

The Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce offers a monthly networking opportunity hosted by business owners for business owners just like you! Socialize, engage and network with entrepreneurs across the Brazos Valley. Our Business After Hours events begin at 5:30 PM and wrap up around 7:00 PM. See you at the next event!

NOVEMBER 21, 2019

CHAMBER PROGRAMS
SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 OCTOBER 17, 2019
Hosted By: CHROME: A SALON EXPERIENCE Hosted By: STERLING AUTO GROUP Hosted By: CHI ST. JOSEPH HEALTH
979.779.7788 2019 YOUTH TO CAREER FAIR
qSCIENCE xTECHNOLOGY uENGINEERING wMATH rBUSINESS yPUBLIC SERVICE nARTS zHUMANITIES brazos county expo complex TO REGISTER YOUR SCHOOL OR SIGN UP FOR A BOOTH, CONTACT JORDAN PRIHODA AT JORDAN@BCSCHAMBER.ORG OR CALL (979) 260-5200. 6 CONNECTIONS
Wednesday, October 16 t 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

Brazos Valley Gives

Have you heard the buzz about an upcoming event called Brazos Valley Gives? This buzz is evolving into what is sure to be one of the most unifying and exciting days of giving for our 7-county region.

So, what is Brazos Valley Gives? Brazos Valley Gives is 18-hours of on-line giving that brings the region together on one day and as “one community” to raise critical funding and awareness for nonprofit organizations throughout the Brazos Valley. This day of giving will provide citizens and businesses an easy platform to support the mission and “good works” of local nonprofit organizations that serve the Brazos Valley – strengthening nonprofits, empowering donors and building community.

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, October 22 for Brazos Valley Gives—the first annual giving day where a donor can go online to support their favorite nonprofit(s). “To date, over 65 nonprofits have registered to participate in the 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. fundraising extravaganza,” said Patricia Gerling, president of the Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley, the organization that is powering the first annual giving day. “These 18 hours of giving will provide all small and

large nonprofits with an equal opportunity to raise awareness about their programs and seek funding to support their mission.

In addition, any community member can be a philanthropist, with a minimum $10 donation or more going to their nonprofit(s) of choice.”

In addition to the online giving platform, the Community Foundation is partnering with The Eagle to host a drive-thru donation station at 1729 Briarcrest Drive [Bryan, Texas] from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. for individuals wishing to drop off a check or monetary donation on Tuesday, October 22. Donors can also begin prescheduling their contributions on October 8, but the transactions will not be processed on their credit card until Tuesday, October 22.

Other giving days in Texas have shown great success. Communities Foundation of Texas hosts North Texas Giving Day – the largest community-wide giving day in the nation –which raised over $48 million in one day last

9 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 8 CONNECTIONS

year. Earlier this year, East Texas Giving Day raised more than $1.3 million, according to the event’s website.

Each participating nonprofit can rally their constituency for a matching gift, which can give them a goal to shoot for. Matching gifts can give donors a goal, too. If a donor makes a match, the organization will try to raise the same amount from the public during Brazos Valley Gives. Gerling said the Community Foundation will not receive any portion of the transaction fee or profit from Brazos Valley Gives Day. All donations, except for a 5.1% event/credit card fee per transaction goes to the participating organizations. These minimal fees are passed to the donor, or the donor can opt-out.

The Community Foundation has set a lofty goal of raising $500,000 for participating nonprofits during Brazos Valley Gives. Chair Julie Porter explains, “The Brazos Valley is known for its generosity and support of our nonprofit community. We live here and we want to give HERE! We have no doubt that this event will be well supported, and we will make our goal.” Local individuals, corporations and businesses are also taking part in sponsoring each hour of giving—to offer over $20,000 in incentive prizes for the participating nonprofit raising the most money per hour, or having the most donors, among other categories.

where we live,” noted Molly Watson, media and marketing chair. “Our hope is that this online event on October 22 will transform an idea to help raise awareness of nonprofits, into a broad movement and culture of communitywide giving. During Brazos Valley Gives, everyone has the opportunity to be a philanthropist to build a stronger and more vibrant community.”

The Prenatal Clinic in Bryan, Texas which was founded in 1985, is participating in Brazos Valley Gives because it is trying to increase awareness of the mission and work of the Clinic, said Lynn Clary Yeager, executive director of the clinic. She said the organization’s mission of ensuring that all babies have the best chance for a healthy start in life begins before that baby is born. Early entry to prenatal care, and controlling factors like diabetes and hypertension, can prevent low birth weight and reduce the incidences of a premature birth. We are all about having healthy babies at The Prenatal Clinic. The clinic has set a goal of raising $15,000 during Brazos Valley Gives.

Visit www.brazosvalleygives.org to make sure your favorite nonprofit organization is participating and see how easy it is to donate. If you are interested in participating or supporting Brazos Valley Gives or need more information, please contact Patricia Gerling at 979.589.4305 or brazosvalleygives@gmail.com.

MOLLY WATSON

MEDIA & MARKETING CHAIR

BRAZOS VALLEY GIVES

“WE ARE GRATEFUL THAT WE LIVE IN A GENEROUS COMMUNITY WHICH BELIEVES THAT WE ARE ALL RESPONSIBLE FOR TAKING CARE OF EACH OTHER”

“It will go into supporting what we already do and help us plan for the future,” Yeager said. “We are grateful that we live in a generous community which believes that we are all responsible for taking care of each other.”

Media partners KBTX, The Eagle and Bryan Broadcasting are rallying around our community to support Brazos Valley Gives. “All of our media partners are an essential part of promoting the day, our nonprofits and unifying our community as we encourage giving

the 7-county Brazos Valley region through philanthropy as we raise and steward a $8.4M community endowment for donors and charitable organizations.

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS HAVE

COMPLETED THEIR GIVING PORTAL OR HAVE INITIATED REGISTRATION FOR THEIR BRAZOS VALLEY GIVES PORTAL. www.brazosvalleygives.org

88.5 FM RED-C Radio

Aggieland Humane Society

Aggieland Pregnancy Outreach, Inc.

Amber Alert Network Brazos Valley

BCS Sister Cities International

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Brazos Valley

Books and a Blanket

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Brazos Valley

Brazos Heritage Society

Brazos Maternal & Child Health Clinic, Incd/b/a The Prenatal Clinic

Brazos Valley African American Museum

Brazos Valley Chorale

Brazos Valley Community Action Programs

Brazos Valley Community Band

Brazos Valley Food Bank Inc

Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History

Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center

Brazos Valley Worldfest

CASA for Kids of South Central Texas

Catholic Charities of Central Texas

CHI St. Joseph Health

Coach Blair Charities

College Station ISD Education Foundation

Community Foundation - Infinity Fund for Community Grants

Covenant Presbyterian Church

Dabney Hill Missionary Baptist Church

Encore SCHR Orchestra

Family Promise of Bryan-College Station

Fun For All Playground

Girl Scouts of Central Texas

Habitat for Humanity

Health For All

Hispanic Forum of Bryan-College Station

Hope Pregnancy Center of Brazos Valley

Hospice Brazos Valley, Inc.

Junction 505

K9s4COPs

Miracle Farm

Mobility Worldwide Brazos Valley

Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Museum of the American G.I.

OnRamp

Pink Alliance

Project Unity

Rebuilding Together Bryan / College Station

Refresh Lam Moi

Richards Volunteer Fire Department

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas

Sam Houston Area Council Boy Scouts of America

Scotty's House

Sexual Assault Resource Center

SHIP International

St Joseph Catholic School

St. Vincent de Pau Thrift Store of B/CS

Texas Ramp Project B/CS

The Arts Council of Brazos Valley

The BEE Community

The Bridge Ministries

The Children's Museum of the Brazos Valley The Queen Theatre (Downtown Bryan Association) The Salvation Army of Bryan/College Station Tiny Hope Village Twin City Mission

Unbound BCS

Wienerspiel

• An additional 25 nonprofits have indicated their interest and are in the process of submitting their eligibility information for registration.

• Deadline for Nonprofit Registration is 9/30/19.

65
As of 8/28/2019 Names listed in bold are members of the Bryan College Station Chamber of Commerce. BRAZOS VALLEY GIVES
Brazos Valley Gives Day is powered by the Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley. We are a Bryan-based nonprofit focused on strengthening
11 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 10 CONNECTIONS

PULLING UP A CHAIR

An interview with 2020 Board Chair: Phil Shackelford

We take a seat with Associate Director of the Blinn College Foundation and Alumi Relations, Phil Shackelford to highlight his aspirations as he steps into his new role as Board Chair for the B/CS Chamber of Commerce.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I grew up in Plainview Texas and from as early as I can remember have fond memories of working in my grandparent’s clothing store, Masso’s Department Store, which was founded in 1963 and is still in existence. Starting out, I shined shoes, cleaned showcases and mirrors, and swept the floor. In my middle school and high school years, I came to work after school helping with inventory, sales, accounting, and many other facets of the business. While I am confident that child labor laws were skirted, this opportunity provided me with invaluable experiences that helped form my opinion of the importance of small businesses and the impact they have on our local economy.

After achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and graduating from Plainview High School in 2002, I left Plainview for Texas A&M and have lived in Bryan/College Station, with exception to a couple of years, ever since. I then was hired to work for Congressman Chet Edwards as a field representative in a five county area including Burleson, Grimes, Madison, Robertson and Brazos Counties. Each day in the Congressional Office could range from working with local officials on transportation or public safety projects, to providing aid for a

downed grain elevator in Calvert, to tracking over $243 million dollars in innovative research at Texas A&M. The project I am most proud of is when I worked with Brazos County, the City of Bryan, and the Brazos Valley Economic Development Corporation by way of the B/CS Chamber to secure a $1.5 million dollar Economic Development Administration Grant for a Rail Spur for the Next Generation Industrial Park in Northern Brazos County. Today the park is branded Texas Triangle Park and is home to Axis Pipe and Tube, one of the largest private sector investments in Brazos County with a significant number of jobs among others.

After Congressman Edwards lost his race in 2010, I established a consulting firm that managed or assisted with almost fifty political races as well as a few non-profit consulting projects across the Brazos Valley and state of Texas. I currently serve as the Associate Director of the Blinn College Foundation and Alumni Relations at Blinn College where I raise funds for special projects, scholarships, and initiatives in support of the Blinn College District. I married the love of my life, Kyndra, in 2012 and she works for Texas A&M University in the Sponsored Research Office as a Senior Project Administrator. We have a schnauzer named Kennedy and we enjoy traveling.

NEW BOARD CHAIR PHIL SHACKELFORD DIVES DEEP INTO 2020
13 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 12 CONNECTIONS

2019 - 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AS OUR INCOMING BOARD CHAIR?

I consider it an absolute honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Board of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce. With over 1,500 members and over 100 years of service to businesses in our community, the B/ CS Chamber is poised to chart a path forward with an even brighter future than its historic past. There are three important communication initiatives that I hope to highlight throughout our many events and activities. Having been a small business owner and being raised in a small business family, I hope to promote the significance of small businesses by drawing attention to and recognizing long-term family owned small businesses. As we take time to promote long time and family owned small businesses, we must also ensure that start up small businesses receive as much support as possible enhancing the chances that they will succeed beyond the crucial “make or break” benchmark of their first five years in business. I also look forward to the continuing success of our “Why I’m A Chamber Member” campaign. This effort shares what draws businesses and organizations to the B/ CS Chamber, and I believe is extremely effective in communicating the value of our Chamber.

The B/CS Chamber is the principle and historic organization where influence can be leveraged in support of business in our community. Bryan/College Station is a great place to live, work, raise a family, and conduct business and the B/CS Chamber continues to be positioned to positively affect businesses, influence governments, and ensure that our local economy remains strong. Together we as an organization must share the benefits of membership with new businesses that have been attracted to our community and continue to grow our chamber.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT AS BEING THE NEXT BOARD CHAIR?

I am excited to work with others to continue to make a positive difference in our community. The B/CS Chamber has had leaders in business, government, and philanthropy in its ranks for over 100 years, and it was a humbling experience to join the board, much more so to have been nominated and elected Chair. I am excited about the potential that our organization has to become even better then we already are. Whether it is the Ambassadors, Board of Directors, staff, our working committees, or our general membership; we are all one team focused on our business community, the strength of our local economy, and the positive trajectory of Bryan/ College Station.

WHY DO YOU THINK THE CHAMBER IS SUCH AN ASSET TO OUR COMMUNITY?

With over 100 years of history, leadership, and precedent, the B/ CS Chamber is best positioned to confront the challenges that our business community, and our community as a whole face. Our Transportation Committee is at the forefront of working with government and the private sector to allow our regional leaders to invest in transportation infrastructure to catch up and plan ahead for the future growth of the Brazos Valley. Every year, our Legislative Committee plans a trip to Washington, D. C. to meet with our elected leaders about issues that are important to our business community and local governments. One of the

projects I highlighted as one I was most proud of having a role in, the rail spur for the Texas Triangle Park in Northern Brazos County, was initiated in a meeting with the Department of Commerce on a B/CS Chamber Legislative Trip to Washington, D.C. The reason why I choose to highlight this project again, is it is a small example of what can happen when local governments, private industry, and the U.S. Government all work together utilizing the B/CS Chamber of Commerce and local partners. This is an example of what can happen when everyone works together to improve our local economy right here in the Brazos Valley.

“THE CHAMBER IS THE PRINCIPLE AND HISTORIC ORGANIZATION WHERE INFLUENCE CAN BE LEVERAGED IN SUPPORT OF BUSINESS IN OUR COMMUNITY”
PULLING UP A CHAIR PHIL SHACKELFORD BOARD CHAIR BLINN COLLEGE FOUNDATION GREG ZWEIACKER CHAIR - ELECT ZWIEACKER ASSOCIATES VICKI REIM IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR BRYAN TEXAS UTILITIES WADE BECKMAN 3RD ON MAIN, AMICO NAVE, ADMIRAL CATERING, SHIPWRECK GRILL MONICA BROWN MONICA D. BROWN, DDS AUSTIN BRYAN THE BANK & TRUST OF B/CS JOHN BUSH EXTRACO BANKS SPENCER CLEMENTS WILLIAM COLE COMPANIES JASON CORNELIUS BB&T JOHN C. “JACK” CULPEPPER III CULPEPPER REALTY CO. RICARDO DIAZ CHI ST. JOSEPH HEALTH ZACH ETHERIDGE HBI OFFICE SOLUTIONS DOUG FRENCH STYLECRAFT BUILDERS, INC. JILL GALLAGHER 1ST ALLIANCE MORTGAGE SUSAN GIPSON THE RANCH HARLEYDAVIDSON WALTER HINKLE LASER ANSWERING SERVICE JORDAN JANUSE AMERICAN MOMENTUM BANK JAMES LARKIN THOMPSON, DERRIG & CRAIG P.C. BARBIE PATTERSON PATTERSON ARCHITECTS HEATH POOLE HOELSCHER, LIPSEY, ELMORE & POOLE, P.C. MARIE PORTALES RODRIGUEZ RODGERS, MILLER & RODRIGUEZ, P.C. AMY RESTIVO BREWER, EYEINGTON, PATOUT & CO. KORI RICH THE PHYSICIANS CENTRE HOSPITAL TRAVIS ROLLINS DOWNTOWN EVENT SERVICES, LLC PAT SHIELDS CAPITAL FARM CREDIT TAYLOR CLARK COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR B/CS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 15 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 14 CONNECTIONS

Footing The Bill: Big Budgets, Property Tax Reform, & Public School Funding

The 86th Session of the Texas Legislature ended on May 27, 2019. While the official work of the Legislature may be finished, the work of implementing the new legislation is just beginning.

The 86th Session proved to be a very busy time. Overall, there were a total of 10,877 bills and resolutions filed. Of those filed, 4,581 were passed into law and the Governor vetoed 58. In looking at the bills that passed, several will have a direct impact on our local economy. Those items include the state budget, property tax reform, and finally public school finance.

The first bill, and arguably the most important, is the state budget or House Bill 1. Under the Texas Constitution, the only bill the Legislature is required to pass is the budget. Further, the Constitution also requires that the Legislature pass a balanced budget. Since the Texas Legislature meets every other year, the budget covers the next biennium for the state. House Bill 1 appropriates approximately $250.7 billion for the 2020-2021 biennium. Of that $250.7 billion, state general revenue makes up roughly 50% of the total. Further, federal funds represent 34.5% while the remaining 15.6% or so comes from other funds such as the state highway fund and the economic stabilization fund.

The budget contains funding for all of the state’s priorities. We all know that Texas is a growing state. By 2060, the population of Texas is projected to

increase by almost 80%. Because of this growth, the Legislature must ensure that the state continues to provide adequate funding for items such as transportation infrastructure, public education, and development of the state’s natural resources. House Bill 1 is the vehicle that attempts to accomplish these goals.

Another important element included in the budget are several economic development tools. One of the main economic development tools is the Texas Enterprise Fund, also known as the TEF. The TEF is a business incentive tool used to attract companies considering a new project in Texas. The Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House review all applications and must unanimously agree to support the use of TEF funds for each applicant. Currently, the TEF has a balance of around $76 million. House Bill 1 adds an additional $74 million to bring the total balance of TEF funds to $150 million. TEF continues to be a major tool in attracting new businesses to the state of Texas.

One of the other focuses of the Legislature in the 86th Session was property tax reform. These items were addressed under Senate Bill 2 and the bill contains three main components. First, the bill adds restrictions on property tax

increases for cities, counties, and other special districts beginning in 2020. Second, the bill provides for improved ‘real time’ tax notices. Finally, the bill makes improvements to the process of disputing property values. By far, the most discussed portion of Senate Bill 2 involves the tax increase restrictions.

In order to understand the changes found in Senate Bill 2, we must first briefly discuss the history surrounding property tax increases. Before this bill, the standard rollback rate for property taxes was 8%. This meant that if a taxing unit adopted a tax rate that included an increase of more than 8% in the effective maintenance and operation rate, the citizens had the ability to petition to call an election to either approve or reject that increase. This election is commonly called a rollback election. Under Senate Bill 2, the rollback rate was changed from 8% to 3.5%. Further, if the proposed rate increase goes over the 3.5% amount, the bill creates an automatic rollback election without the need for a petition. This means that going forward, if a taxing unit that is subject to the rules of Senate Bill 2 adopts a tax rate that exceeds the 3.5% cap, there is an automatic rollback election without the need for the citizens to submit a petition. One very important thing to remember about Senate Bill 2 is that it regulates the property tax rate. The bill does not regulate the appraised value of property. That value is set by the local appraisal district. As you know, generally speaking, in order to determine the amount owed in property taxes, you multiply the appraised value of a piece of property by the tax rate. Senate Bill 2 only addresses the tax rate side of this equation and does not alter the appraised value of property.

Finally, the Legislature also addressed public school finance in the 86th Session. These changes were made in House Bill 3. There are two general sources of funding for public education in Texas: state appropriations and local property tax dollars. From a historical perspective, the amount of the state’s contribution to public education in Texas has fluctuated. Over the years, the state contribution to public education

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in Texas has varied between roughly 30% and 60%. Recently, the state’s contribution has been consistently closer to the 30% mark. Since there are only two main sources of this funding, when one source reduces, the other source must increase. Because of the reduction in state funding, the local property tax side of the equation has shouldered the vast majority of the funding of public education in Texas as of late. For instance, if you look at your property tax bill from last year, you will notice that around 53% of the total amount goes to funding public education. This is the main reason there has been a steady increase in property taxes in Texas over time. Simply put, as the amount the state contributes decreases, the contribution from local property taxes must increase.

This is the situation that House Bill 3 attempts to remedy. The bill increases the state’s contribution to public education by $11.6 billion. Of that amount, $6.5 billion is new funding for public education and $5.1 billion is for property tax reductions. The bill itself is over 300 pages long and contains numerous provisions that relate to public school finance and other related matters. While everyone may not agree with the bill, it is a direct attempt by the Legislature to invest more state funding in public education. This investment is vitally important to the economic future of the state of Texas. We have mentioned the incredible growth rate of our state. The public education system also experiences this growth. Each year, the state of Texas adds around 80,000 students to our public school system. Without additional investment, the public school system simply cannot keep up with this growth. This growth is the future workforce of our state and we must have the resources to prepare them for the demands of tomorrow’s economy. Truly, this future workforce holds the key to the continued economic prosperity of Texas.

I applaud the Legislature for investing in the future of our great state. Texas is a special place. And in the 86th Session, the Legislature demonstrated its commitment to keeping it that way.

86TH SESSION: AT A GLANCE

LEIGHTON SCHUBERT VICE CHANCELLOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND STRATEGIC RELATIONS BLINN COLLEGE DISTRICT B/CS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR, 2019 LEGISLATIVE ACTION PLAN LEGISLATIVE UPDATE HOUSE BILL $74 MILLION ADDRESSES STATE BUDGET FOR 2020-2021 1 $250.7 BILLION ADDED TO TEXAS ENTERPRISE FUND ($150 MILLION TOTAL) 50% PROVIDED BY STATE REVENUE 34.5% PROVIDED BY FEDERAL FUNDS 15.5% OTHER SENATE BILL 8% 3.5% ADDRESSES PROPERTY TAX REFORM 2 ROLLBACK RATE REDUCED I. RESTRICTIONS ON PROPERTY TAX INCREASES II. PROVIDES FOR IMPROVED “REAL TIME” TAX NOTICES III. IMPROVEMENTS TO THE PROCESS OF DISPUTING PROPERTY VALUES HOUSE BILL ADDRESSES PUBLIC SCHOOL FINANCE 3 $11.6 BILLION NEW FUNDING FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION INCREASES THE STATE’S CONTRIBUTION TO PUBLIC EDUCATION BY $11.6 BILLION FUNDING FOR PROPERTY TAX REDUCTIONS $6.5 BILLION $5.1 BILLION 18 CONNECTIONS
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The Floor is Yours...

The Chamber Spotlight shares company news with the community. New leadership, major changes, anniversaries, employee achievements - celebrate milestones with a message!

David Gardner’s Jewelers

On Sunday, July 28, Julia and David Gardner with David Gardner’s Jewelers were inducted into National Jeweler’s 2019 “Retailer Hall of Fame” in New York City under the category of Single-Store Independent. National Jeweler’s “Retailer Hall of Fame”, first introduced in 1989, recognizes jewelers who have inspired their peers and made significant contributions to jewelry retailing.

Aggieland Printing

is excited to celebrate the retirement of Johnny Stimson after 40 years in business in Bryan/College Station. Mr. Stimson joined the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce when he opened his business almost 40 years ago, and he has been a longtime supporter of the business community. For years he has printed the “Chamber Member” decals that welcome customers through the doors of over 1,500 Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce members. Congratulations Johnny!

Bryan Texas Utilities is proud to announce that Vicki Reim, Division Manager of Customer Operations and current B/CS Chamber of Commerce board chair, was awarded the Paula J. DiFonzo Industry Achievement Award at the Texas Public Power Association Meeting in August. Vicki has been at BTU, and serving the community, since 1986. Thank you for your service Vicki!

Birds Nest Gifts & Antiques

has opened the second floor of our shop for a new and exciting Vendor Market! The Vendor Market will feature local artisans and entrepreneurs showcasing their antiques, artwork, boutique clothing, and craftsmanship. The vendors in the new upstairs market have been carefully selected by the owners of Bird’s Nest Gifts and Antiques so that the inspiring atmosphere and quality of merchandise will be continued throughout the store. We encourage you to drop by Bird’s Nest Gifts and Antiques and browse through our new vendor market on the second floor. Bird’s Nest is open Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 117 North Main Street in Downtown Bryan, Texas.

TDI - Brooks International Inc

and Drs. James Brooks and Bernie Bernard celebrate 23 years in business serving Oil & Gas clients worldwide. We continue to enjoy hosting the CS Noon Lions Club, sponsoring the Youth to Career Fair, and supporting a variety of other BCS organizations.

TDI-Brooks maintains a state-of-the-art laboratory facility in College Station, Texas providing high-quality analytical services and scientific interpretation staffed with several Texas A&M College Station Alumni.

Brightway Insurance, The Thomas Hall Agency

The Thomas Hall Agency is proud to celebrate its 1st anniversary in Bryan/College

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Station! Also, we welcome Elvira Maynard to the team as a Bilingual Licensed Associate. Elvira, TAMU Class of ’16, is passionate about educating clients and finding the best coverage tailored to their needs.

The American Business Women’s Association (ABWA)

Bryan/College Station Charter Chapter would like to congratulate Debbie Holladay with Holladay & Associates for being named a 2020 Top Ten Business Woman in the nation. The Top Ten is the highest honor awarded to a member of ABWA.

Brazos Valley Pediatric Dentistry

congratulates Dr. John H. Case on his nomination for the Texas Academy of General Dentistry’s Texas Dentist of the Year Award. The award is considered the most prestigious honor a Texas dentist can earn. Dr. Case was nominated by the Brazos Valley Academy of General Dentistry, and he will be honored at the Texas Academy Awards on September 20th during the annual Lone Star Dental Conference in Austin. Dr. Case has volunteered with numerous local organizations, including Texas Mission of Mercy, Brazos Valley Dental Clinic, Give Kids a Smile, and Brazos Valley District Dental Society.

By participating in Chamber events, I have been able to network, exchange ideas, and form long lasting relationships with other businesses and community leaders. It has been a great way to show everyone what Aggieland Carpet One has to offer, as well as a way to volunteer and give back to this great community.

”CLAUDIA SMITH AGGIELAND CARPET ONE

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VISIT BCSCHAMBER.ORG OR CALL 979.260.5200 WHY INTRODUCING THE 2019 LEADERSHIP BRAZOS CLASS IAN ANDERSON The Physicians Centre Hospital SIDNEY BACKSTROM G-CON Manufacturing, Inc. SARA BAKALIAN Oak Forest Management, LLC ALLISON BATTE B/CS Chamber of Commerce CHANCE BLOODWORTH Dailey Company, Inc. SCOTT BRAY Bruchez & Goss KATELYN BROWN Downtown Bryan Association KARLA CASTILLO STUMPF KBTX Media ABB CAUTHORN ANCO Investment Services GEOFFREY CHRISTIAN Baylor Scott & White Health CAROL COTTER City of College Station PAMELA DE GRACA The Arkitex Studio, Inc. JOE FOSTER Titian Security Solutions RANDY GIBBS The Physicians Centre Hospital DESIREE GONZALES Wells Fargo Bank LINDSAY HACKETT City of Bryan ANDREW HARPER Evolve Impact Group KAREN HARRIS STORY UP Mentoring JILL JONES RE/MAX 20/20 NATALIE KIDD The Bank & Trust of B/CS GREG LANTING Binkley and Barfield Inc. BRETT LAWLER C.C. Creations GAIL LAZARINE CHI St. Joseph Health EVERETT LOWE Producers Cooperative Association BAYLOR LYON Commerce National Bank JUSTIN MANNING C&J Barbeque CHASE MCCLAIN Prosperity Bank RISA MEYER Caring Transitions DEMOND OLIVER New York Life Insurance Company ALEX PFEFFERKORN Jones Carter BAILI RHODES West, Webb, Albritton & Gentry, P.C. C. TYLER SMITH Higginbotham Insurance ZAC STEVENSON Cleary Zimmerman Engineers ROBIN TAYLOR Guaranty Bank & Trust AMY THOMPSON Corps of Cadets/Texas A&M University BRANDI TRUJILLO Texas Title - The Pearson Firm CELINA VASQUEZ Brazos County Justice of the Peace SYLVIANNE VELASQUEZ-MISZTAL Integ JO BETH WOLFE Experience Bryan College Station KELLY WOOD CHI St. Joseph Health 23 JULY AUGUST 2019 22 CONNECTIONS
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Are you celebrating an important milestone? Anniversary? Opened a new location? Re-branding? Let us help you! Call (979) 260-5200 or email Brian@bcschamber.org to schedule your B/CS Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting today!

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MEMBER FDIC in BLOG f extracobanks.com 254.761.2000 Extraco Banks announces the addition of Steve Boswell as SVP, Commercial Banker to our team in Bryan/College Station. Steve has 30 years of experience with financial services. He is a graduate of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at SMU and holds a BS in Business Administration, Risk Management from Cal State University at Fresno. He is a USA Hockey level 5 certified coach and continues to play recreationally and coach competitive youth hockey. Steve serves as Board Member of the College Station ISD Education Foundation, is part of the Texas A&M Commercial Banking Program and the Brazos Valley Economic Development Corp., and is a Leadership Brazos Alumni. We encourage our friends to drop by our College Station branch to meet Steve. STEVE BOSWELL DREAM BUILDERS MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. BRANDI TRUJILLO BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT (979) 492-8295 BTRUJILLO@TEXASTITLE.COM #PeopleAreOurBusiness VISIT CALL 2405 TEXAS AVE S, SUITE 302 COLLEGE STATION, TX 77845 (979) 272-8870 25 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2019 24 CONNECTIONS

Over the years our printing methods have evolved, but our dedication to achieving perfection remains the same.

We pride ourselves on what our customers have come to expect... printing excellence. Trust Newman Printing Company, we’ve been getting it right for seventy years.

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