Issuu

Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce

January/February 2024

CELEBRATE BUSINESS A recap of the 2023 winners page 8

ALSO INSIDE:

UNLOCKING SUCCESS Content Marketing Tips page 22

A WORD FROM LEADERSHIP As we step into a new year filled with boundless possibilities, it is our pleasure to welcome you to the January/ February issue of Connect Magazine, the vibrant voice of the Lufkin Angelina County Chamber of Commerce.

1615 S. Chestnut St. Lufkin, TX 75901 (936) 634-6644 LufkinTexas.org

Connect Staff Creative Director Megan Buckley megan.buckley@lufkindailynews.com

Advertising Director Peggy Rains peggy.rains@lufkindailynews.com

Contributors Ginger Trotter Burt Hairgrove Tara Hendrix Amanda Crocker Tara Watson-Watkins

CONNECT WITH THE CHAMBER

In this edition, we celebrate the spirit of community that defines our region and propels us forward. As the heart of East Texas, Lufkin and Angelina County boasts a rich tapestry of businesses, innovators, and community leaders who contribute to our collective success. In this month's issue, we are proud to showcase the winners from our 2023 Celebrate Business Awards including small, medium, and large Business of the Year and Diplomat of the Year, just to name a few. From startups to long-established enterprises, each story is a testament to the dynamic and diverse economic landscape we are fortunate to have. We encourage you to explore the pages of this issue, discover the incredible talent within our community, and find inspiration for your own ventures. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our readers, advertisers, and contributors for making Connect Magazine a vibrant reflection of our community's achievements. Your continued support allows us to spotlight the exceptional individuals and businesses that make Lufkin and Angelina County a truly exceptional place to live, work, and thrive. Thank you for being an integral part of our community, and we look forward to connecting with you through the pages of Connect Magazine throughout the year. Warm Wishes,

Tara Watson-Watkins President/ CEO

@LufkinChamber

Connect is a publication in partnership with

For advertising information, call (936) 631-2630 2

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

A Word from Leadership

Content Marketing Tips

January/February Chamber Calendar

October First Friday Luncheon/ Silver Spike Award

Navigating 2024 with Purpose and Progress

October Women's Networking Luncheon/ Farm Feast

Chamber Celebrations

Chamber Business Awards 2023

Cheers with the Chamber/ October Power Networking Breakfast

Salute to Healthcare Awards 2023

November First Friday Luncheon/ November Power Networking Breakfast

Visit Lufkin Texas

Greetings from the Expo!

Angelina Arts Alliance

Cheers with the Chamber/ December Women's Networking Luncheon

Angelina Beautiful Clean

December First Friday Luncheon/ Business Hall of Fame

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF Executive Committee Will Alvis, Chairman of the Board, Six Degrees Wealth Management Taylor Haney, Incoming Chair, Lufkin Coca Cola Bottling Company Melinda Moore, Immediate Past Chairman, Moore Accounting Services Jeff Walker, Secretary, PRI-East Texas Kevin Pratt, Treasurer, Etech Forest Griffin, Vice Chairman, Merrill Lynch Cassidy Kirkland, Vice Chairman, Southside Bank Chris Gaw, Vice Chairman, VeraBank Mary King, Vice Chairman, Woodland Heights Medical Center

Directors Ashley Berry, East Texas Alliance of Hope Monte Bostwick, St. Luke's Health Memorial Maira Carrillo, Law Office of Maira Carrillo,PLLC Jack Ellis, UBank Herb Johnson, Naskila Gaming Corry Lankford, Brookshire Brothers Chase Luce, Austin Bank Yana Ogletree, Georgia-Pacific Justin Risner, Central ISD Nolan Smith, Oncor Electric Delivery CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

Kurt Stephens, Lufkin ISD Hilary H. Walker, Regions Bank Greg Weatherbee, Lufkin Daily News

Ex-Officio Jason Arnold, Diboll City Manager Brian Bray, Assistant City Manager of Lufkin Brenda Cox, Mayor of Zavalla Dee Ellis, Angelina College James Freeman, City Manager of Hudson Tara Hendrix, Visit Lufkin Director Bob Samford, 4B Director Kelly Shrout, Angelina Beautiful Clean Director Bill Stewart, Huntington City Administrator Donnie Webb, Governmental Relations Chair Keith Wright, Angelina County Judge

Delivery in Lufkin

Staff Tara Watson-Watkins, President & CEO Amanda Crocker, Director of Marketing & Communications Colleen Murray, Director of Events & Engagement Donna Parish, Recruiter Cris Pearson, Administrative Assistant Shameka Steward, Director of Leadership Programs Janice Tidwell, Chief Financial Officer

Jeffery Abeldt, RPh

Locally owned since 1979 200 Gaslight Blvd Lufkin, Texas Voted Best Pharmacists and Best Pharmacy 2021

12 15 18 26 1 2 8 13-15 19 20 23 4

STATE OF THE COUNTY FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON Presented by Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Chamber Office Closed

104TH ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET & MEETING POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST Presented by Angelina College Small Business Development Center

CHEERS WITH THE CHAMBER Hosted by UBank FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON Presented by Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co. STATE OF THE CITY Presented by Lufkin Economic Development Corp. & Woodland Heights Medical Center WOMEN’S NETWORKING BREAKFAST Presented by Regions Bank CHAMBER DAYS IN AUSTIN Chamber Office Closed CHEERS WITH THE CHAMBER Hosted by St. Luke’s Health–Memorial POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST Presented by Angelina College Small Business Development Center

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NAVIGATING 2024 WITH

PURPOSE AND PROGRESS

Each passing year brings with it a wave of renewed energy and enthusiasm, propelling us forward into a realm of fresh possibilities. Now, as we stand at the threshold of 2024, it's an opportune moment to engage in introspection, devise plans for the future, set goals, and strategize on how to achieve them. Crafting a well-thought-out plan not only kickstarts the year on a positive note but also ensures continued personal and professional growth. As you reflect on your achievements in 2023, both in your personal life and business endeavors, consider the valuable lessons learned that can pave the way for an exciting 2024. Do you aspire to witness substantial growth in your business, implement improved systems, introduce new products, or acquire new skills? For business owners and dedicated employees alike, this contemplative phase involves not just looking back but also forward, prompting the question of whether you've taken the time to prepare or are simply navigating through. As 2024 is upon us, it is essential to leverage resources that can contribute to your success. Did you explore the array of opportunities provided by the Chamber in 2023? Throughout the year, the Chamber facilitates networking events, leadership development programs, skill-building sessions, business showcases, and community engagement initiatives. CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

Ask us how we can help you make better informed business decisions. • Accounting & bookkeeping • Payroll processing • QuickBooks consulting • Bill pay

The collaborative efforts of the Chamber and its Investors aim to fortify Angelina County, making it a robust and flourishing community. Regardless of how you concluded the previous year or embarked on the current one, the Chamber stands ready to assist you. Monthly events such as the First Friday Luncheon, Women’s Networking Luncheons, and Power Networking Breakfast offer diverse topics to cater to the needs of business owners and professionals. Have you considered participating in the Chamber University sessions? This series addresses crucial topics, providing growth and development opportunities for individuals across all levels of the corporate hierarchy, from entry-level employees to executive leadership. Active participation in Chamber events not only enhances your return on investment but also fosters meaningful connections. Take a look at our updated calendar for upcoming opportunities to engage, support fellow Chamber Investors, and expand your business network. Our commitment remains unwavering — we strive to serve as the connector of leaders and influencers, a catalyst for business growth, and a steadfast champion for building a stronger community. Let us know how we can collaborate to make 2024 your most successful years yet!

Lufkin • Nacogdoches • Livingston • Jasper 936.634.6621 • axleyrode.cpa

Carroway FUNERAL HOME

Locally Owned and Managed in Lufkin & Huntington

The name you know. The people you can trust.

2704 S. John Redditt Dr. Lufkin 936-634-2255 5

Ribbon Cuttings Chamber Celebrations A&D Nutrition and Vitamins 3007 S. John Redditt Dr., Ste. 3007A | Lufkin adsupps.com

Corrigan OSB, LLC 1923 US HWY 287 W. | Corrigan RoyOMartin.com/location/corrigan-tx-osb

Doctor's Choice Home Care and Hospice 415 S. First St., Ste. 207 | Lufkin DoctorsChoiceTX.com

East Texas Premier Pediatrics 1 Medical Center Blvd., Ste. B | Lufkin ETxPediatric.com

Heavy C Entertainment 113 Gaslight Blvd. | Lufkin HeavyCEntertainment.com

Integra Insurance Services 502 N. Main St. | Huntington IntegraInsuranceServices.com

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Jane Byrd Properties International 4100 S. Medford, Ste. 200 | Lufkin JaneByrd.com

M and M Roofing Texas 2216 N Timberland Rd. | Lufkin MandMRoofingTexas.com

Puff N Stuff 923-B Ellis Ave. | Lufkin

Stout Seamless Gutters StoutGutters.com

T-Mobile 2906 Brentwood Dr., Ste. 200 | Lufkin T-Mobile.com

US Dermatology Partners 1105 W. Frank Ave., Suite 320 | Lufkin USDermPartners.com

Waukesha-Pearce Industries, LLC 4006 Ellen Trout Dr. | Lufkin WPI.com

Yoki's Cakes & More 1005 E. Denman Ave. | Lufkin

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n the realm of business, success is not merely a destination, but a continuous journey marked by innovation, dedication, and unwavering commitment. As we begin the new year, we are excited to acknowledge the outstanding achievements within our business community. It is our honor to announce the winners of the 2023 Celebrate Business Awards. When we support local businesses, we invest in our community's well-being. The money spent at these establishments tends to circulate within our local economy, creating a positive ripple effect. It's a coordinated relationship where these businesses flourish, and, in turn, they reinvest in our schools, charities, and services. The result is a thriving local ecosystem that enriches the lives of everyone who calls this place home.

DIPLOMAT STARS Our Diplomats are truly the outreach arm of the Chamber. They are connectors of leaders and influencers. Diplomat Stars are those Diplomats who have put in the highest number of hours attending and volunteering at Chamber events. The 2023 Diplomat Stars are: • Bonnie Dowdy, Music World • Chelly Farr, Connections Counseling • Dylan Richardson, TSS Photography • Jessica Baker, Hospice in the Pines • Lin Lentz, Carroway Funeral Home • Melissa Roberts, Integra Insurance • Michelle Briley, Commercial Bank of Texas • Nolan Smith, Oncor Electric • Terri Parker, 90.9 KSWP • Tim Edmond, Seventy Nine Photography Congratulations to Dylan Richardson with TSS Photography for being recognized as the 2023 Diplomat of the Year. 8

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items, but the thrift stores are also a source of support for survivors. The proceeds generated from thrift store sales play a pivotal role in providing critical funding for the agency's programs dedicated to assisting and empowering those affected by domestic violence and abuse.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR The Chamber takes great pride in recognizing outstanding individuals and companies who have joined us as an investor over the past year and are already leaving an indelible mark on the community. Congratulations to The Big Picture Events!

In 1999, the Lufkin/ Angelina County Chamber of Commerce established the Small Business of the Year awards to recognize the important role those small businesses play in the American free enterprise system. These awards shine a spotlight on the growing numbers of businesses that continue to set the standard for small businesses very high. To celebrate Lufkin and Angelina County’s brightest business stars, The Chamber expanded its awards to include the following categories. • Small businesses (1-10 employees) • Medium businesses (11-50 employees) • Large businesses (51+ employees) The Chamber also made it possible for a business to win a second time if 10 or more years had passed since their previous win.

NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR The Family Crisis Center of East Texas is a nonprofit organization that empowers survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by providing crisis intervention and advocacy services. They also engage the community through education to build awareness and prevent domestic violence and sexual assault. In 2022, the agency provided 175,100 units of service to over 1,280 clients, while delivering 376 community education and prevention presentations. Since 1979, the Family Crisis Center of East Texas (Women’s Shelter of East Texas, Inc.) staffs a full array of professionals specializing in assistance for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. These services include an emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, access to food and clothing, information and referrals, legal and personal advocacy, child advocacy, self-sufficiency advocacy, counseling, support groups, transitional housing, prevention services, Battering Intervention & Prevention Program, and more. The agency operates two thrift stores, located in Lufkin and Nacogdoches. Not only do they offer the local community a place to shop and donate gently-used CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR In the summer of 2013, Caitlyn and her husband Kris took a leap of faith and purchased Lesa's Bridal in Downtown Lufkin. This local business was closing its doors and they hated to see it go after being customers of theirs over the years. Although Caitlyn knew she wanted to have her own business one day, the bridal industry was unknown territory. Over the past 10 years, Rubie & Jane has morphed into a Formal Wear-focused storefront with the expansion of Prom, Tuxedos, and ready-to-wear formal options replacing the bridal department. Caitlyn not only believes in promoting her business but also believes that a thriving downtown Lufkin is vital to all businesses being successful. She is constantly organizing events and promoting downtown retail to shoppers both local and those visiting Lufkin. 9

bank that offers personal banking, business banking, and a wide range of other services, including wealth management and insurance. CBTx knows that offering the latest technology and tools makes banking easier. They also know that being accessible is about more than convenience, it’s about personal service. That’s why they offer expert advice and fast decisions made locally by neighbors who care. Commercial Bank of Texas is a true hometown bank that invests in the communities they serve. That’s Banking Texas Style.

MEDIUM BUSINESS Founded in 1983 by the late Rex Lowery, Integra Insurance Services is based in Huntington, Texas with branch office locations in Lufkin and Atlanta, Texas. What began as a single box of files in the front seat of a Chevy pickup is now a growing organization of 31 amazing employees. With annualized written premiums of $160 Million, Integra has experienced an average annual growth rate of 26% over the past 5 years, making it one of the fastest-growing insurance brokerages in Texas. Integra operates each day through its 5 core values: Honesty Wins, Serve Others, Dependability, Earn Your Way, and Make It Personal. This year they celebrated their 40th anniversary!

LARGE BUSINESS Commercial Bank of Texas was founded in Nacogdoches in 1901 with a clear vision: to become the financial cornerstone of the community by providing a path to prosperity for the people who live there. A lot has changed over the last 122 years, but that guiding principle has not. It has informed every decision the bank has made as it has grown and expanded across the state. Today CBTx has 22 banking centers in 17 different cities, including three here in Lufkin, one in Diboll, one in Kennard, and one in Wells. It is a full-service community 10

CHAMBER CHAMPION A “Chamber Champion” is a term often used to describe individuals, organizations, or businesses that play a vital and proactive role within the Chamber of Commerce. These Champions are typically known for their exceptional dedication, commitment, and contributions to the chamber and the broader business community. We were honored to recognize Bonnie Dowdy with Music World this year for her service to the Chamber.

CHAMBER CATALYST In the midst of our thriving community, a new driving force has emerged within our Chamber. A force that ignites innovation, fuels growth, and accelerates the progress of our business community. This year’s recipient of the Chamber Catalyst, The T.L.L. Temple Foundation, is a wonderful example of what it truly means to be a catalyst for positive change. The history of the Temple family cannot be separated from East Texas, East Texans, or the family’s former business JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2024

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interests—Temple-Inland and First Bank and Trust of East Texas. For more than 100 years, descendants of T.L.L. Temple have lived, worked, and served in East Texas. In 1962, Georgie Temple Munz created the foundation in honor of her father, Thomas Temple, who formed the Southern Pine Lumber Company (later Temple-Inland) in 1893. Mrs. Munz intended to enhance the quality of life for East Texans—for the people and communities that helped the family build its business. The foundation has been about that work for more than 50 years and remains committed to her hopes and dreams for our region. The T.L.L. Temple Foundation was established by Mrs. Munz with an initial gift of 1,000 shares of Southern Pine Lumber Company stock worth $56,000. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $440 million, primarily in East Texas. The Foundation works alongside rural communities to build a thriving East Texas and to alleviate poverty, creating access and opportunities for all. These awards stand as a testament to the remarkable individuals and enterprises that have not only weathered the storms of the business landscape but have emerged as true champions. From visionary leaders steering their companies toward unprecedented success to trailblazing startups making waves with their ingenuity, the Celebrate Business Awards recognize the diverse tapestry of brilliance woven by our local business community.

DIVERSITY IN BUSINESS

The Diversity in Business award embodies the essence of progress, inclusivity, and the transformative power of diversity in the business world. We have long recognized that embracing diversity is a key driver of innovation and economic growth. This new award is a testament to our commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive business landscape. It is an acknowledgment of those individuals and organizations that have not only recognized the importance of diversity but have actively championed it, making it an integral part of their business practices. Diversity is not just about differences in gender, race, or background. It's about the diversity of ideas, perspectives, and experiences that enrich our workplaces and communities. It's about recognizing that businesses thrive when they create an environment where all individual's unique strengths are valued and embraced. Congratulations to Ivorie Ford with F.I.F.T.H Quarter Performance!

ADVOCATE FOR OPPORTUNITY This award recognizes those whose unwavering commitment to advocacy has opened doors for countless individuals, and their tireless efforts have paved the way for opportunities where none existed before. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, advocates for opportunity stand as beacons of hope and resilience. They confront adversity head-on, challenging the status quo, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Their dedication transcends personal achievements, as they devote their time, energy, and resources to uplift their communities, fostering growth and prosperity for all. We were honored to recognize Dr. Guessippina Bonner for her service to our community.

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In 2008, The Chamber established the Salute to Healthcare Awards, and we are honored to continue the tradition of recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

NURSE OF THE YEAR This year’s recipient, Stephen Bennett, is dedicated to keeping not only the hospital he works at safe but he is also dedicated to his community. His staff considers him a leader and his patients know that he is their biggest advocate. You never hear him say, “That’s not my job,” instead he is always ready to step in and lend a hand. His director says that he is always looking for new technology and plans of care. He assisted with implementing code sepsis within his facility to ensure patients who receive a sepsis diagnosis get the best quality care. Currently, Stephen serves as the chairman of the hospital preparedness committee for the North Corridor. He works with a team to identify the needs within our service area and to develop plans and drills to make sure we are ready-- if and when a disaster occurs. Each year, he takes a week of vacation to volunteer and work at band camp as their camp nurse. He is the first to sign up to volunteer at the school, church, and the hospital. He is a master on the grill- grilling up hotdogs and hamburgers for our local EMS and also helps at the Texas State Forest Festival manning and setting up our EMT area.

INDIVIDUAL OF MERIT For the past 20 years, Judge Paul White served as our District Judge living each day to make Angelina County better. Judge White’s drug court has helped hundreds of people in East Texas combat the impacts of drugs and alcohol. Fellow Judge and friend, Bob Inselmann said that Judge White was instrumental in starting not only one drug court here in Angelina County but actually two. Representative Trent Ashby said that our drug court is heralded across the state as one of the brightest success points that we have in trying to treat citizens responsibly and humanely who deal with drug and alcohol abuse issues. His leadership and his vision for transforming people’s lives has been revolutionary. A graduate of the program said that while his rules were strict, she believed the only people who ever had a problem with White were those not ready to work toward the life he was helping them build. The program was not set up to make people fail; it provided advice, rules, and structure needed to find success. He is still known as a man with a huge heart who always looks at the whole picture—not just the black and white of the issue. JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2024

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HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Dr. Capellan is known at the hospital for being courteous and friendly and always greeting everyone with a smile and hug. His leadership in pulmonary medicine in Angelina County has affected and helped many people live longer and healthier lives. Because of his knowledge, many people can receive pulmonary care without ever having to leave our county. One of his nurses says that he is always smiling when he comes into the office. ALWAYS! He never misses an opportunity to ask you how you are doing even if he might not be having such a good day himself. He always puts others first. Another nurse said that during Covid things were extremely difficult for him. It was a very tough time for the medical community. Losing a patient is never easy but there were so many that he lost. She said that she will never forget a conversation they had when he told her he wasn't just treating patients, he was treating families. She said that he is a man with a gigantic heart! I wish there were more people like him in this world. To work for him is an honor, to be his friend is a privilege. I have been blessed to have both!

allowed him to heal patients both physically and mentally however, not all of his patients have been the human species. Due to his expertise, the Ellen Trout Zoo called on him years ago to assist with an injured jaguar. Realizing the need to improve access to healthcare for their employees, in 2007 Brookshire Brothers contacted him to establish a clinic at their Gaslight store. Since that time, hundreds of employees have been cared for at this clinic which is staffed by a nurse practitioner and overseen by this physician. As a result, employees are healthier, and the company has experienced last time off due to illnesses. This clinic has helped diagnose diabetes, cancer, and heart disease in a number of patients that might not have been found until much later stages. Not only is he a talented physician but he also is a very talented musician. If you didn't know, he plays the drums in a local band. He also shares a passion for farming and can often be seen riding on his tractor around his tree farm. He has always been a vocal leader for the medical community, assuring that patients always come first. The lives that he has touched are countless. He has made a tremendous impact on the state of healthcare in East Texas.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Dr. Rick Martin was born and raised in San Augustine, Texas, and is a graduate of San Augustine High School. He received his Bachelor of Science from Lamar University and is a graduate of North Texas State University Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Texas medical branch in Galveston. He began his medical practice in Lufkin as a solo provider in 1984 and has been a champion for the people of East Texas ever since. He has served as chief of family practice at both hospitals in Lufkin and served on the board of trustees at Woodland Heights Medical Center for many years. He also has served as president of the Angelina County Medical Society. For the past 15+ years, he served as the Medical Director for the wound healing center at Woodland Heights establishing it as one of the best wound care centers in deep East Texas. His special calling has CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

As we applaud the winners, let us also celebrate the spirit of collaboration and shared success that makes our business community a thriving hub of achievement. The journey to success is rarely solitary, and behind every victorious enterprise lies a network of support, dedication, and a community that believes in the power of entrepreneurship. Mark your calendar for the 4th Annual Celebrate Business Awards on November 14, 2024, and come celebrate with us!

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Events

Greetings from the Expo! By Burt Hairgrove I am hopeful that everyone reading this had a great Christmas and New Years’ celebration. 2024 is off to a great start for us and our calendar is already full. I will be attending the League of Agricultural and Equine Centers’ Annual Symposium in Fort Worth on January 8-10. Managing and operating a facility like the Expo has its unique challenges. To have the opportunity to gather with others in the industry over the past few years has become a great resource that helps me do a better job here in Lufkin. The relationships and great contacts made through the LAEC have become invaluable. There are several cases where I was struggling with some issue related to our daily operation and thought… “Let me find out how they handle this at another facility”… and then pick up the phone. In every case, my counterpart at each Expo Center or Fairground understood my issue and was more than willing to offer any advice or contacts they had available. Hopefully, I’ll meet a some new friends and possibly be able to help others in our business. On January 6-7, we are proud to welcome back Region V Jr. High division of the Texas High School Rodeo Association for their first event of 2024. They are halfway through the 202324 season and will compete for points to qualify for the State Finals and from there to Nationals. On January 13-14, the Texas High School Rodeo Association will be back for more rodeo action. January 20-21 will see a return of the Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association for 2 days of rodeo. Free admission. 9am start each day. As Lufkin has become the headquarters for youth rodeo in East Texas and Western Louisiana, we continue to attract new events. We were flattered several years ago when we were approached by Mike and Sherrylynn Johnson about hosting one of their 5-Star / Vegas Tuffest World Championship Junior Events. We are over the top proud to announce that we will have two of their events here in 2024. Young contestants have the opportunity to come to Lufkin for a chance to compete in Las Vegas! Come out and see some great roping and barrel racing on January 26-29. Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association will return to get February off to a great start on the 3-4. Region V Jr. High division of the Texas High School Rodeo Association returns to the Expo on February 10-11. Texas High School Rodeo Association is the very next weekend on the 17-18. Make plans to come out and attend. As always, See you at the Expo! 18

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ECONOMIC INCENTIVES FOR STARTING YOUR NEXT BUSINESS!

The City of Lufkin, in conjunction with Angelina County, Angelina College, and the Lufkin Independent School District, is proactively seeking “Quality Growth” and aggressively working to partner with industrial business enterprises that community leaders feel will provide quality jobs to local citizens, make a positive commitment of capital investment, and fit in with the vision of the community as a long term “partner”. CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

#LivefromLufkin

At Angelina Arts Alliance the Stars Shine Bright in 2024

2024 is here, and it’s ‘Our Time to Shine!’ The performing arts are ALIVE and WELL and thriving in East Texas! With a broad range of genres, including Broadway performances, concerts, and movies, appealing to all ages and tastes, there is truly something for everyone.

ON YOUR FEET - The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan Jan. 10, 7:30 pm –This National Broadway Tour is an inspiring true story about heart and heritage - and believing in each other – to become an international sensation. This musical will have YOU on your feet, with songs like “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga” and more. / Temple Theater VOICES OF CLASSIC SOUL – Jan. 18, 7 pm - They’ve performed around the world and back again several times each as the lead singers of four of the most legendary vocal groups of all time: the Temptations, Platters, the Four Tops, and Drifters, with music such as “My Girl,” “The Way You Do The Things You Do,” “Get Ready,” “The Great Pretender,” and much more! The trio of Joe Coleman, Joe Blunt, and Theo Peoples takes the stage for an evening of incredible showmanship and dance moves. A PERFECT DATE NIGHT! / Pines Theater

dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and theatrical effects, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. / Temple Theater THE LANGSTON HUGHES PROJECT – Feb. 15, 7pm, Experience the soulful and rhythmic journey of the Langston Hughes Project! Member of the Grammy Foundation and music professor at the University of Southern California, Ron McCurdy takes you on a musical extravaganza through the iconic poet’s life and works, with jazz music, poetry readings, and live performances that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired! / Pines Theater The DISCOVERY SERIES starts 2024 with a BANG as DRUM TAO the 30th Anniversary Tour takes over the Temple Theater stage Monday March 4, at 6 pm with unique costumes, sets, martial arts, and drums – LOTS of DRUMS! This Discovery Series performance is 60 minutes long and will be at the Temple Theater. General admission tickets are just $6 for youth (ages 17 and under) and $11 for adults. You will find show descriptions at www.AngelinaArts.org. The 2024 Pines Classic Film Series starts February 9, at 7 pm with The Wiz. The series continues with a notable film the first Friday of each month through December. Tickets are just $5 each, so bring a date or bring the whole family! The Pines has the BEST Yummy Movie Popcorn at the BEST price!

THE GREATEST LOVE OF ALL – A Tribute to Whitney Houston - Jan. 28, 7 pm - Whitney’s musical legacy comes to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show described as “mind-blowingly spot on!” Hear the stunning vocals of Belinda Davids — a chart-topping artist in her home country of South Africa. With the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists and choreographed Tickets are on sale now for every show, online, in-person, and by phone. Angelina Arts Alliance box office is at 108 S. First Street, Lufkin TX. For the latest information, and full show descriptions, and to buy tickets please visit www.angelinaarts.org. To receive e-mail updates or brochures by mail please contact: Angelina Arts Box Office, Monday – Friday 11 am -5 pm, 936-633-5454 20

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UNLOCKING SUCCESS: 5 Game-Changing Content Marketing Tips for Small Businesses.

CALLING ALL SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS! In the dynamic world of business, marketing stands tall as the key to growth. Among the myriad strategies, content marketing emerges as a formidable game-changer, providing the means to connect with your audience and propel your business to new heights. However, the challenge lies in the constant demand for fresh content, a task that often feels overwhelming. Fear not, for we bring you five invaluable content marketing tips that promise to not only ease the burden but also catapult your online presence, attract new customers, and help you achieve your business goals.

DEFINE YOUR AUDIENCE

CREATE VALUE-BASED CONTENT

INTEGRATE A LEAD MAGNET

Understanding your audience is paramount. Take the time to get to know your ideal customers – their preferences, challenges, and aspirations. Armed with this knowledge, tailor your content to resonate with them. By addressing their specific needs and interests, you forge a connection that goes beyond mere marketing, establishing a bond that breeds loyalty.

Gone are the days of mere advertisement; today's audience craves content that goes beyond the sales pitch. Engage, educate, and entertain with content that adds value to their lives. Solve their problems, offer insights, and guide them toward their goals. By positioning your brand as a source of valuable information, you not only captivate your audience but also position yourself as an authority in your industry.

Your hard work deserves recognition. Incentivize your audience to share their contact information by offering a lead magnet – a complimentary piece of content, an exclusive guide, or a promotional offer. This not only builds your email list but also provides a direct channel to communicate with potential customers. A win-win that transforms casual viewers into engaged leads.

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TURN UP YOUR EMAIL MARKETING Once you've amassed a list of engaged leads, leverage the power of email marketing. Craft personalized and targeted campaigns to nurture your relationships with customers. Whether it's sharing exclusive content, promoting special offers, or simply keeping them informed about your latest ventures, a well-crafted email strategy can turn one-time customers into longterm advocates.

ADJUST BASED ON REAL RESULTS The digital landscape is ever-changing, and so should your content strategy. Measure the performance of your content, analyze the results, and adapt accordingly. Be agile in responding to the evolving preferences of your audience. What worked yesterday may not work tomorrow, and by staying vigilant, you position yourself to achieve even greater success.

Consistency is key, and success is built on a solid plan. With dedication to these tips and a commitment to your longterm vision, you can navigate the intricacies of content marketing, realizing your marketing goals and witnessing the growth of your business. Ready to dive deeper into the world of content marketing? Your journey to business success starts with the right strategy!

"Remember, content marketing is a marathon, not a sprint." The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

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OCTOBER FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON presented by Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

SILVER SPIKE AWARD presented by Southside Bank

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OCTOBER WOMEN’S NETWORKING LUNCHEON presented by Regions Bank

FARM FEAST presented by Brookshire Brothers

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CHEERS WITH THE CHAMBER hosted by Lufkin Ford

OCTOBER POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST

presented by SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches, sponsored by McWilliams Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

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NOVEMBER FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON

presented by Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co., sponsored by Etech

NOVEMBER POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST

presented by SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches, sponsored by Angelina Beautiful/Clean

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CHEERS WITH THE CHAMBER hosted by GLS

DECEMBER WOMEN’S NETWORKING LUNCHEON presented by Regions Bank

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DECEMBER FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON presented by Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

BUSINESS HALL OF FAME

presented by Lufkin Economic Development Corporation

www.gencofcu.org | Insured by NCUA | 254.776.9550 www.gencofc

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Thank you for voting Express the Best Employment Agency in both Lufkin & Nacogdoches! CONNECT J A N U A R Y | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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