Business Link

An official publication of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

Vol. 7, Issue 9 • February 2019

BusinessLin

Inside: Intern Spotlight: Rachel Barringer Business Spotlight: Moore’s Home Furnishings

Ambassadors of commerce

BusinessLin

KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028 PHONE: 830-896-1155 | FAX: 830-896-1175 | kerrvilletx.com

CHAMBER BOARD OFFICERS Lisa Winters Chairwoman of the Board, Peterson Health Tim Rye Chairman-Elect, Peterson Medical Associates Mike Wittler First Vice Chairman, Kerrville Public Utility Board Gregg Appel Immediate Past Chairman of the Board, Centennial Bank Justin Foster Treasurer, Community First National Bank Tricia Byrom Secretary, Guadalupe National Bank

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Michael Anglin, ARTIFEX42 Brian Bowers, Centennial Bank Rose Bradshaw, So Fast Printing Allison Bueche, Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly Pete Calderon, Kerrville State Hospital David Reast, Schreiner University Kerry Sutton, HCTC Sue Tiemann, Brinkman Preferred Properties

CHAMBER STAFF E. Walter “Walt” Koenig III President and CEO, walt@kerrvilletx.com Rachel London Vice President and COO, rachel@kerrvilletx.com Theresa Metcalf Director of Finance and Human Resource, theresa@kerrvilletx.com Angela North Membership Director, angie@kerrvilletx.com Jennifer Lord Receptionist, jennifer@kerrvilletx.com

BUSINESSLINK STAFF Carlina Villalpando, Publisher Travis Webb, Managing Editor Tom Holden & Bonnie Donaldson, Photographers John Doran, Advertising Director Advertising: Brandon Baldwin, Jeff Herring and Luly Miller Composing: Manager Dean Heep and Johanna Rangel

A PUBLICATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Chairman’s CORNER Resolve to Get Involved!

Ironically, or maybe by divine intervention, that tag line/title was one I used eight years ago in a February episode of the Kerrville ISD Channel 2 show I produced weekly to encourage parental involvement. Standing at the phenomenal first chamber mixer of the year in front of an excited 225 members, that tag line popped into my head — and heart — as I thought of my hopes for the chamber and the potential of our strong and dedicated members in the new year.

In my proud 12 years at KISD, I learned that children are much more successful in school, and life, if they have strong parental involvement. So, my goal in my cable show was to inundate parents with countless opportunities to get involved. Campus by campus, I listed monthly PTO meetings, school field trips, needs for mentors, class celebrations, school events, teacher needs. Every week. And slowly, but surely, new parents started to show up.

Because in every organization you have your regulars — and we are grateful!

But new blood is critical and refreshing and energizes a campus.

What a win-win for our district, the kids and parents, as well. While I worked for the school district and had to be involved, by seeing the new wave of enthusiasm and involvement it energized me and my children and opened up new opportunities and new friendships we might not have ever had. To this day, I openly share that some of my best lifelong friends came from the school events and causes we supported as our children worked their way to graduation.

The same rings true for our chamber … and you!

Our chamber is what you make it. A chamber is only as strong as its members. As we stand over 900 strong, what your board and your chamber staff want in 2019 is not only your paid membership, although we thank you greatly and are here to serve your business needs, but we also want your personal involvement. We want to see you at a monthly mixer, at a Coffee Talk or at least at one major chamber event (golf tourney, awards banquet, Economic Summit, Business Expo). It can be as easy as taking out an ad in BusinessLink or updating your business information on our website.

What about sponsoring an employee for Leadership Kerr County and filling the Class No. 35 before we’ve even seen the awesome Class No. 34 graduate? Or better yet, just stop by our chamber offices and visit with the staff. Thank them for their hard work. Find a board member and share your thoughts and concerns. All of these are ways to be involved and make a difference. Like your level of membership ... find the level of involvement that best fits your business, but then push it up a notch.

Getting involved is easier than you think. Your Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce is positioned for growth and success in 2019 but only if you Resolve to Get Involved!

Lisa Winters

Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman of the Board, 2019

On the Cover Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors line up for a photo during a recent ribbon cutting.

Photo by: Bonnie Donaldson

2 BusinessLink • February 2019

Table of CONTENTS Membership

4 New and returning chamber members 5 Ribbon Cuttings: The Botanical Shoppe and The Parenting Resource Center

Get to Know People & Places

6 Business Spotlight: Moore’s Home Furnishings 8 Intern Spotlight: Rachel Barringer Leadership & Education

16 Leadership Kerr County: Environmental Day 17 January CoffeeTalk: Gil Salinas of the Kerrvile Economic Development Corporation.

10 Cover Story Events

18 Snapshots from the January After Hours Business Mixer at STUFF Safe Secure Storage

20 Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic, Easter

Fest coming up soon.

22 February and March events calendar

Half Page PRMC 0040

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 3

Membership

New and returning chamber members The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome the following businesses and organizations that recently joined or renewed memberships with the chamber. Learn more about them by visiting the chamber’s membership directory at business.kerrvilletx.com/list.

Interested in joining the chamber?

The KACOC is a resource for everything related to growing your business and networking with other professionals in the Kerrville area. The KACOC is the front door of Kerrville, and the door is always open.

For more information, visit kerrvilletx.com and select “Membership Information,” then “Join the Chamber.”

Welcome, new members!

Bronze • Collectors Edition Band — Regina Tumbarello | 830-486-8568 • D&D Mechanical — Donald Kampfhenkel | 830-257-4303 • El Sol De Mexico — Cruz Aleman | 830-257-9777 • Full Fusion — Roger Hall | 210-587-7560 • Joshua Cade, Craftsman | 830-955-5625 • Medical Arts Pharmacy — Sachin Patel | 830-896-0167 • Monroe’s East End Grill — Lee Howard | 830-955-5572 • Power House Academy — Jesse Olvera | 830-377-2510 • Satterfield & Pontikes Construction — Calen Shearer | 210-875-5283 • Texas Iron Fit — Kenneth Carpenter | 830-285-1964 Silver Headwaters Building & Contracting — Lacey Elliott | 830-955-9069 Tinsley Realty Group, Realty Executives — Somer Tinsley | 830-928-7193 Quest Publishing — J Clint Morris | 830-895-1544 Individual • Koy Coffer

Who are these members?

Thank you, returning members!

Bronze • A to Z Small Engine Repair • Air Med Care/Air Evac Lifeteam • Baublit’s Jewelers • Ben E. Keeith Beers • Billy’s Western Wear • Brinkman Preferred Properties • Centennial Bank • Cowboy Steak House • Genesis Gynecology, PA • Guadalupe Signs • Habitat for Humanity – Kerr County • Hampton Inn • Hill Country CASA • Ingram Oaks Retirement Park • Jesko & Steadman • Kerrville Auto Body, Inc. • Kerrville Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery • Kerrville Ranch & Pet Center • Kersey, Gary E, P.C. • LaQuinta Real Ranch • Lone Star Containers • Optimal Wireless • Pioneer Moving Co. • Project Control • River Hills Mall Management • Republic Services • Shonto Ranch • Steel Fram Solutions • Texas Railing Systems • Three Hills Mobile Home Park • Wilson’s Ice House • World Finance Corp Kerrville • WorldMark huntStablewood Springs Resort Silver • Alamo Hospice • Brinkman Commercial

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Properties • Symphony of the Hills Association, Inc. • Lanfear and Associates Rockoff Tree Solutions Gold • Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country • Crenwelge Motors • Hidden Springs • L. Duff Enterprises, Inc. • River Point of Kerrville • University Health System Platinum • Hill Country Memorial • Hill Country youth Event • Center • Kerr County Abstract & Title • Co. • Steel Frame Solutions Diamond • JAM Broadcasting 94.3 • Ken Stoepel FordLincoln • Ronnie Gesell Construction, LLC Individual • Samuel David • Robert Parmley

k n a Th ou! y

Membership

Ribbon cuttings

Thank You to Our Diamond & Platinum Investors

Diamond Investors

• Jam Broadcasting 94.3 • Lotus recovery Foundation • Adapting Online, LLC • martin marietta • Alamo Colleges • moore’s Home Furnishings • Alara Strategic and Creative • Peterson Health • Ashley HOmeSTOre • Precision Dentistry and • Brookdale Senior Living Implants of Kerrville • Calvary Temple Church • Presbyterian mo-ranch • Carlton Club Inn Conference Center • Centennial Bank • ragsdale Family Camps • Century 21 The Hills realty • randolph Brooks Federal • Comerica Bank Credit Union • Community First National Bank • Sam’s Club • Frost Bank • Schreiner University • ronnie Gesell Construction • Security State Bank & Trust • robert Glossop Jr. • SrCWireless, LLC • H.e.B. Foods-Drug Store • Tango Homes, LLC • Hill Country mHDD Centers • Texas Lions Camp • Inn of the Hills resort & • United Hunting Conference Center Heritage International • James Avery Craftsman, Inc. • UTSA Small Business • Ken Stoepel Ford - Lincoln, Inc. Development Center • Kerr County Federal Credit Union • Wal-mart Store, Inc. #508 • Kerrville Public Utility Board • Wells Fargo Bank

Half Page Chamber Diamond & Platinum 9571

The Botanical Shoppe Ribbon Cutting: Jan. 8 ceremony for their Kerrville location, now with new hours.

Business: The San Antonio-based CBD purveyor also has two locations in the Alamo city.

Contact: 1408 Sidney Baker, 830-955-5899 www.thebotanicalshoppe.com

The Parenting Resource Center Ribbon Cutting: Jan. 30 ceremony for new location Business: The Parenting Resource Center, a 501(c)(c3) nonprofit, provides pregnancy and parenting help, guidance and resources.

Contact: 718 Alpine Drive, 830-267-2166 www.thepregnancyresourcecenter.org

Platinum Investors • 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & Heating • Airtech A/C & Heating • All-Plastics • Ameriprise Financial Talarico and Associates • AT&T • Atmos energy • Broken Stone Pizza Co. • Buckhorn Lake r. V. resort • Double L Feed & Back 40 Trailers • Douville, Goldman & Associates, PLLC • Farmers Insurance - renee Smith • Goodwill Industries • Guadalupe National Bank • Heart of the Cards • Hilco Federal Credit Union • Hill Country memorial • Hill Country Youth event Center • Kerr County Abstract & Title Company • Laity Lodge Youth Camp H e Butt Family Foundation

• Lemeilleur’s rV, Truck & equipment repair Co. • Nurturing Touch massage • Pioneer Bank • Precision Dermatology, PA Kerrville Dermatologist • Prime Capital Investment Advisors • realty executives Jaylynn Perkins • San Carlos ranch • State Farm Insurance Justin Hamilton • Superior Services Tree Care • Texas Hill Country Bank - Kerrville • Tru-Skin Dermatology • Volunteer Services Council for Kerrville State Hospital • Windstream Communications • Y.O. ranch resort Hotel and Conference Center • Y.O. ranch Headquarters

Your Membership Is An Investment In Your Business The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce 1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100 • Kerrville, TX 78028 Phone 830-896-1155 / Fax 830-896-1175

www.kerrvilletx.com

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 5

Get to Know Business Spotlight

Getting Moore Moore’s Home Furnishings has deep Hill Country roots

T

Story by Nancy Foster | Photos courtesy of Moore’s Home Furnishings

he store is huge; 72,000 square feet in fact, with three floors and a sprawling 48,000 square foot retail showroom. Bright and attractively laid out, it’s the kind of place that subtly coaxes you to browse, whether your needs are for an entire home or just a touch of a new look.

“We have a strong command of what Hill Country customers want and we have something for everyone in all price points,” said Rachel Johnston, who co-owns the store with her husband, Bill.

Their vast inventory reflects that feel with transitional looks to fit most every décor.

“People love to come in to look, see and feel each piece,” she explained, adding that personal visits enable people to visualize each

piece in their home.

While some come for casual, long-lasting pieces that have a transitional look, others seek out the trendiest look, which currently includes “motion furniture” — reclining chairs and sofas with power, many which come equipped with built-in internet connections.

The Company Moore’s Home Furnishings has been

furnishing Hill Country homes for 120 years.

Started by Tom Moore as a general mercantile in Ingram in 1892, this successful business has stayed in the family and is now run by the fourth generation.

Their present location at 120 Harper Road in Kerrville was opened by third generation Virginia Johnston in 1975, and current day co-owners are Virginia’s son Bill and wife Rachel.

Their tradition of superb customer service, quality merchandise, and community involvement has never wavered.

The STORE The retail store sports a fresher and more open look since its remodeling in 2018. A Custom Design Center has been added for Will, Bill, Jackson, Rachel and Luke Johnston.

6 BusinessLink • Month 2019

Three generations of ownership stand shoulder to shoulder: From left are Jackson Johnston, Hamp Johnston, Virginia Johnston, Bill and Rachel Johnston, Will Johnston and Luke Johnston.

ease in assisting those preferring unique design.

“We can source from over 100 vendors and do custom pieces or rooms,” Rachel said, and they will do one piece or entire rooms.

Custom works make up about 25 percent of their business.

Entire departments focus on the living room, bedroom, dining room, office and kid’s rooms, plus the third-floor clearance center yields up tempting bargains. Striking accent pieces strategically placed through the store provide proof that even a striking clock, lamp, area rug or wall décor can instantly change the look of any room.

In addition, an entire portion of the showroom is now dedicated to mattresses, always a top-selling item.

Currently, there are 30 employees on staff, many who have been with the store for years.

Management knows that “Happy employees mean happy customers” and Rachel speaks with pride of their talented team.

General Manager Teri Sutterfield brought with her 27 years of experience in retail furniture when she joined the company in August 2017, and superior customer service is high on her list of staff requisites.

“We have many repeat customers because they know our sales staff provides them with

MIXER AND MORE The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce’s next Business After Hours Mixer will be hosted

by Moore’s Home Furnishings at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 21.

Moore’s Home Furnishings is located at 120 Harper Road, Kerrville. For more information, call 830-895-5311 or visit mooreshomefurnishings.com. personal guidance to ensure the perfect purchase,” she said.

Their salespeople stay savvy on new pieces provide on-site training on individual lines.

For those who prefer advance planning, their website showcases inventory, special ordering tips and interactive tools to aid in planning, placement and purchasing.

Chamber and Community Involvement Moore’s Home Furnishings has been a member of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce since 1984.

As Rachel says, “We love the chamber!

Last August when we had our grand reopening, all the Ambassadors come out in their bright red coats, wanted to know all about us and helped make our celebration very special.”

Rachel and Bill also give back to the community in many ways. Bill serves on the Peterson Health Board of Directors and Rachel

sits on the Board of the Kerrville Public School Foundation. Both are very involved with the Kerrville First United Methodist Church.

The company philosophy of giving back trickles down to the staff, who are encouraged to become involved in charitable organizations and events.

“It is important for us to be a part of the community. These are our neighbors and we value those personal relationships, many which are now multi-generational,” Teri said.

Service In the end, it’s all about providing a service, and Rachel shares the company philosophy.

“We are a large store in a small town and our intent is to have that home-town feeling without being a Mom and Pop. Ultimately we want people to purchase pieces that make them happy,” she said.

With over 120 years in business behind them, that translates to a lot of happy people.

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Photo by Tom Holden

Get to Know Intern Spotlight

Her favorite quote:

“

You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.

~

”

Wayne Gretzky

8 BusinessLink • Month 2019

Photo by Tom Holden

Q&A with Rachel Barringer Stats: Hometown: Victoria University: Schreiner University Major/minor: Marketing Anticipated graduation date: May 2019 Career/post-college plans: To pursue a career in marketing, particularly in the shooting sports or gun and ammo manufacturing.

The most rewarding part of interning at the chamber was to get to know and work with the amazing staff. They are some of the friendliest, knowledgeable and welcoming people I have ever met and I am so honored to have worked alongside and learn from them.

Q: What is the most memorable experience you’ve had during your time as an intern at the chamber?

A: One of my favorite things that I got to experience while at the

Q: Why did you choose this university?

A: To continue shooting competitively at the collegiate level on a

chamber was getting to attend the Business Expo. I got to see a lot of the small aspects and planning that went into this event and it was amazing to see it all put together and to see so many businesses and community members gathering in one place to support one another.

Q: Why did you choose this program?

A: I chose marketing because of the endless and long-term career

Q: If you could give future chamber interns advice, what would it be?

nationally ranked shooting team.

opportunities, and because every single industry uses and needs marketing. I wanted something that will challenge me, but something that I will be able to grow with and will keep me on my toes in the future.

Q: Why did you decide to apply for an internship at the chamber?

A: I was intrigued on what our chamber does for businesses in the community and knew that it would not only be a great opportunity to learn about marketing, but also the community of Kerrville as well.

Q: What were your job duties at the chamber and for how long were you an intern there?

A: I interned at the chamber for six months. My job consisted of running the social media pages, posting about new members, ribbon cuttings and new events, updating events on our website, answering the phone, and other office tasks.

Q: How did interning at the chamber impact your career goals and how did the chamber serve as a resource for you?

A: Interning at the Chamber has given me the opportunity to work

hands-on in a professional environment where I believe I have gained factual knowledge about business but also several skills that I will find handy in marketing in the future. This job has also allowed me to reach out of my comfort zone and network with people from many different industries and backgrounds.

A: Do not be afraid to ask questions, research the company beforehand, and never say no to an opportunity to go to an event and network with people.

Q: What other jobs, internships, volunteer roles or extracurricular are you involved in and for how long have you held those roles?

A: Along with working at the Chamber, I have been a work-study for

Varsity Programs at Schreiner for 6 months as well. I am a member of the Mountaineer Leadership Academy and team captain of the Schreiner Shooting Team.

Q: What has been the most influential course you’ve taken in college so far and why?

A: Professor Clint Morris in my advertising course junior year was

amazing and kept the entire class engaged and intrigued with his experience. It was extremely fun and confirmed my decision to pursue marketing.

Q: Who is your favorite professor and why?

A: Dr. Dan Coleman is incredibly funny and will always check in on how I am doing in class and, more importantly, on the golf course.

Q: Who is your role model and why?

A: My role model is my father. He has worked his whole life and has

Q: What was the most rewarding and challenging part of interning

worked more overtime than I could even think about. He does it for me and my sister, and it’s something I love and look up to him for.

A: The most challenging part of interning at the chamber was knowing

Q: What are your hobbies and/or how do you spend your free time?

A: I have been shooting shotguns competitively for 10 years now,

at the chamber?

all the answers. I spent a lot of time at the receptionist desk and the chamber gets a lot of calls from people asking random questions about businesses in Kerrville so therefore took me a while to learn how to find the answers or to know that it is okay to ask for help from others.

I shoot Skeet, Trap, Sporting Clays, 5-Stand, International Skeet, and International Trap. I spend my free time either competing, practicing, or hanging out with my friends.

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 9

Chamber Ambassadors Donna Peterson and Gail Johnson stand with The Botanical Shoppe’s Kelli Bartell.

Ambassadors of commerce Volunteers in red work to help showcase new businesses Story by Jenna Carpenter and Chelsea M.K. Stack | Photos by Bonnie Donaldson Mike Douville has been cutting ribbons to mark new businesses setting up shop for three decades.

In fact, he is one of the original members from when the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce ambassador program started.

“A bunch of us got together, and we thought we needed to do something for the businesses,” he said.

That was 31 year ago.

When a new business joins the chamber, the ambassadors don their red blazers, bring a pair of large scissors and cut a big ribbon to mark the grand opening.

“It’s free advertisement in the paper,” Douville said.

10 BusinessLink • February 2019

But it’s not always for new businesses. Those celebrating milestones, like their 10th anniversary also get a ribbon cutting.

“It’s a good idea to keep those businesses in front of the people,” Douville said.

Douville, a certified public accountant for Douville, Goldman & Associates, said much has changed since the program got started all those years ago.

The most visible difference is the uniform ambassadors wear while performing their duties.

In the beginning, there was no specified garb.

Then, they started wearing blue blazers, which turned into white knit polo shit with the chamber emblem on it.

Two years ago, ambassadors started wearing red blazers.

“We look different from the rest of the crowd,” Douvile said.

In addition to going to ribbon cuttings, ambassadors work at chamber events like the golf tournament, business expo and the annual chamber banquet.

They are also tasked with calling members to renew their chamber contracts and making sure all the information is up to date.

“We’re the visible arm of the chamber,” Douville said.

His fondest memories of being a chamber ambassador is going to the banquet every year.

“We have an award we give out every year,

Chamber Ambassadors Justin Hamilton, Mac Anderson, Stephen Foley, Ginny Garrison and Albert Vasquez attend a ribbon cutting event at The Botanical Shoppe.

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how long have you worked for your employer?

A: Resident Programs Director & Business Office Assistant for more than a decade with Brookdale Assisted Living.

Q: How long have you been an ambassador with the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce?

A: I’m going on my fifth year as a Chamber Ambassador.

SUPERIOR 1/8 JANITORIAL COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICE

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895-2162 Superior Janitorial

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• Albert Vasquez Q: What is your job title and

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Q: Why did you decide to become a chamber ambassador?

A: I initially became an ambassador to help our business make more contacts, but have received much more from it.

We have built relationships and stability in our community by being part of the chamber as a member and having our name face out there has put confidence in our customers that have become more like family.

The ambassador program is great for business, but greater for self-purpose. Community is life and life is community. If you want to belong to something bigger

SU

Q: How long have you been an ambassador with the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce?

A: I have been an ambassador since 2005.

than your circle, expand and be an ambassador for the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce.

I have been president before and with my board, we plan on bringing the ambassadors to new heights in our community with relevance and support to our members.

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IN THEIR OWN WORDS • Incoming Ambassador President Rose Bradshaw Q: How long have you worked

for your employer?

A: I have worked for So Fast Printing for 29 years.

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called the Jack Fournier Award, for the best ambassador,” Douville said. “We vote amongst ourselves for who was the most outstanding person.”

He himself won the award in 1991 and 1997.

Today, there are 23 actively participating ambassadors.

An ambassador must be employed by a chamber member or their own business who has been a member in good standing for at least one year.

Ambassadors may also be an individual member who has been a chamber member for at least one year.

Members will represent the broad spectrum of chamber membership. Nominations may be made by any ambassador, member, chamber staff, or self-nomination.

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12 BusinessLink • February 2019

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 13

Cover story Ambassadors

Chamber Ambassadors Mac Anderson, Stephen Foley, Ginny Garrison, Linda Stillwell, Ruth Bauer, Albert Vasquez, Rose Bradshaw and Gail Johnson during a ribbon cutting ceremony at The Botanical Shoppe.

Q: Why did you decide to become a chamber ambassador?

A: I decided to become a chamber ambassador because I wanted to get involved with other businesses in our community.

As an ambassador I have the opportunity to meet positive people that want to promote our local businesses.

I also get to share with others what our assisted living community does for Kerrville.

We get to greet new businesses, promote community projects, and strengthen local commerce.

Q: What are the challenges and rewards you’ve experienced from being an ambassador?

A: My biggest challenge as an ambassador is managing my time between work duties and ambassador roles.

The chamber is understanding and supportive of our work responsibilities. But the rewards have outweighed the challenges.

The network of friends and business owners relationships that have been established are important to me. The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce folks are a family and I am proud to be a part of it.

14 BusinessLink • February 2019

• Nell Morris Q: What is your job title and how long have you worked for your employer?

A: I am co-owner, with my husband William Morris, of Superior Janitorial and we started this business in June 2007.

Q: How long have you been an ambassador with the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce?

A: I have been an ambassador since April 2018.

Q: Why did you decide to become a chamber ambassador?

A: I decided to become an ambassador so that I could network with other businesses to improve my own business — and to help convince new business owners of the value that our chamber offers.

I love being an ambassador, it can be time consuming occasionally, but most weeks it doesn’t require a lot of my time.

I have met so many new people and learned a lot about our Chamber and about Kerrville’s businesses, both established and new.

It has been great for my business and great for me personally. I really enjoy it and love greeting all the new businesses that open in

our city.

• Stephen Foley, ambassador vice president and 2018 Ambassador of the Year.

Q: What is your job title and how long have you worked for your employer?

A: I am owner of Guadalupe Investment and Advisory Services and have been in the financial services industry since 1990.

Q: How long have you been an ambassador with the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce?

A: I have been an ambassador for about three years now.

Q: Why did you decide to become a chamber ambassador?

A: thought it would be a great opportunity to meet people and be part of the business community. Business owners are a special kind of person that believe in hard work, independence and the chance to own something and do something special. It’s something worth being a part of.

Q: What is your role as an officer and how long have you served in that role?

A: I was just elected as vice president of the

Half Page Emerald Cottages 0042 Chamber Ambassadors (front row) Rose Bradshaw, Gail Johnson, Marti Ashcraft and (back row) Nell Morris, Lisa Pena and Donna Peterson watch the festivities during a ribbon cutting event. ambassador group for the 2019 year.

Q: Why would you recommend other people become ambassadors?

A: It’s an opportunity to meet

people and be part of the growing business community. We are all in the people business and being an ambassador gives us the chance to help one another grow and develop successful careers and business ownership.

Quarter Page Community First 0191

HOME SWEET HOME

• Quick Turn Around • Buyer Education • Local Market Knowledge • Competitive Rates Jeff Harris

Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS ID 1678994

1101 JUNCTION HIGHWAY • KERRVILLE, TEXAS 78028 (830) 315-2362 • WWW.CFNBTEXAS.COM

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 15

Leadership & education Leadership Kerr County

Q: Where in the world was LKC in January?

A: A fantastic learning environment

The second half of Environmental Services Day began at the water treatment plant with Grant Terry, Tuesday, Jan. 15, was Environmental Services water production superintendent, for a very enterDay for Leadership Kerr County Class 34. The group taining tour of the plant with questions, answers, Photos by Michael had a full day learning about the people and faciliand of course, rain. The Water Reclamation Plant was Anglin/ARTIFEX42 ties in Kerrville that maintain and provide our clean next on the list. Donovan Banta, Water Reclamation land, water, and power. The first half of the tour was at Superintendent, walked the class through the facility to see the Riverside Nature Center, with Executive Director Becky the incredible process of transforming wastewater into a very Etzler, to talk about the great things the RNC has to offer, and the clean and clear resource. substantial amount of resources they have for the community.

The last stop of the day was at the new, two-megawatt Solar Fields with Upper Guadalupe River Authority Natural Resources Coordinator Tara Mike Wittler, General Manager and CEO of Kerrville Public Utility Board.

Bushnoe was the next speaker, with information about UGRA programs A great way to end a very informative tour. and services, and to highlight the new EduScape Walking Path around their building.

About LKC Kerr County Commissioner Jonathan Letz gave his presentation on the The Leadership Kerr County program is offered through the Kerrville importance of Water Conservation & Kerr County Environmental Services. Area Chamber of Commerce. LKC class members grow as leaders and Anne Brown informed the class on Master Gardeners, followed by Susan learn what Kerr County is really all about during their monthly classes Sander, Riverside Nature Center Naturalist, demonstrating the outstand- every third Tuesday. ing Guadalupe River Basin Model and Water Flow Simulation. And, to For more information, visit kerrvilletx.com or call chamber memberfinish out the first half of the day, was a tasty lunch provided by KPUB. ship director Angela North at 896-1155.

By Michael Anglin

16 BusinessLink • February 2019

Leadership & education

CoffeeTalks & Seminar Series

January CoffeeTalk in review

By Allison Bueché, Chamber Communications Chair

kerredc.com or visit kerredc.com.

What’s Brewing

Gil Salinas, Chief Operating Officer of the Kerr Economic Development Corporation, presented The March 5 Chamber Coffee Talk “The Basics the January Coffee Talk “No marketing budget?

No worries” to a full house on Tuesday, January of Buying and Selling Small Businesses” will be presented by Clint Fiore, founder and 8, sharing his knowledge and personal president of Texas Business Buyers. The experiences on cost-effective marketing morning’s presentation will be benstrategies for success. eficial for both business owners who “Guerrilla marketing is all about crewould like knowledge about selling ativity over budget,” said Gil. “Nobody their business down the road and also knows your business as good as you for future prospective business buyers. do. When you’re passionate about your If you’ve ever considered getting business and tell your story to others, into business by purchasing an estabyou give them the opportunity and realished business instead of creating a son to tell your story to others for you.” risky startup, or if you’re contemplatGil’s marketing presentation kept the Salinas ing growing your business by acquisiattendees engaged during the one-hour tions, Clint will take the mystery out of discussion which included talking points on identifying who your audience is, social media tools, finding businesses for sale, valuing them, making lead generation, plan execution and performance offers and getting financing. Come learn more about what today’s buyers are looking for and indicators.

He can be reached by email at gsalinas@ take proactive steps to maximize your company’s

value before you go blindly into selling it.

Kick off your morning the right way and join us for coffee, networking and an informational and educational hour while Clint shares his expertise with us all. This is a free event that is open to chamber memFiore bers as well as non-members and will be hosted at the chamber in its conference room.

About CoffeeTalks CoffeeTalks are generally on the first Tuesday of every month, excluding the summer, from 8 to 9 a.m. at the chamber office.

Are you a chamber member with a topic to share? Contact Angela North at 896-1155 or angie@kerrvilletx.com.

This Valentines Day, Remember...

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It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 17

Events

Mixer snapshots Story by Angela North | Photos courtesy of STUFF Safe Secure Storage Lisa Winters, the new chairman of the KACoC board, has coined the phrase “Resolve to be Involved” and our first mixer of 2019 couldn’t have been more representative of that, with approximately 225 guests in attendance. Our host, STUFF Safe Secure Storage provided a vibrant atmosphere and phenomenal food.

STUFF Safe Secure Storage are here to serve you full-time. Their goal is to continuously grow and improve their facility to meet the actual needs of the Hill Country customers.

Hugh & Cindy Vaughn, owners and managers, are on-site and available to serve you.

Their facility includes 236 non-climate-controlled units and 75 climate-controlled units in sizes ranging from 25 square feet to 600 square feet, some with electricity. If you are looking for a place to store your belongings, contact them today.

Thank you to the members who donated door prizes: • Especially Yours • Grape & Grain • So Fast Printing • Kathy LeStourgen • Stuff Safe storage • Angels Massage • Linda Stillwell • The Buck • West Central Wireless • Brookdale Kerrville on Leslie Drive • Wahoo’s Seafood • Pitch Black Window Tint • Brookdale on Plaza Drive • Hester Windows & MR Automation • The Apothecary Shoppe • JCC Graphix The jackpot of $1,200 was not won, so it

OUR HOSTS • The January After-Hours Business Mixer was sponsored by STUFF Safe Secure Storage, 2933 Junction Highway, Kerrville 830-367-2900 STUFFSafeSecureStorage.com

will increase to $1,300 for the next mixer.

Thank you to the jackpot sponsors: • LeMeilleur’s RV, Truck & Equipment Repair Corp.

• Ameriprise Financial — Talarico and Associates • Peterson Health • Arden Hills Realty — Joseph Hennigan • Moore’s Home Furnishings • Crenwelge Motors • Douville, Goldman & Associates, PLLC • Broadway National Bank • Precision Dermatology, PA — Dr. Matthew Lambiase • Kerry Sutton with HCTC • Crenwelge Motors (2nd sponsorship) • Kerr County Abstract & Title Co.

Next mixer The Feb. 21 mixer will be sponsored by Moore’s Home Furnishings 120 Harper Road, Kerrville.

If you would like to donate a door prize or be a jack pot sponsor please contact Angela North at the Kerrville Chamber 830.896.1155 or angela@kerrvilletx.com

Thank you to our hosts and drink sponsors Culligan Water Conditioning & Ben E. Keith Beers

18 BusinessLink • February 2019

2019 GUIDE TO THE KERRVILLE AND KERR COUNTY AREA

Quarter Page LeMeilleur’s #

LO O K F O R

IT IN MARC

H!

Outreach & Education Programs Half Page Community Projects Presentations UGRA 0043

Classroom Activities

(830) 896-5445 • www.ugra.org Located Just off Sidney Baker South, at 125 Lehmann Drive, Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028 It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 19

Events

Chamber events

Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic slated for April 1

By Ariel Lutnesky The Kerrville Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 24th Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic on April 1. The golf-filled day will be an opportunity to meet with friends and potential clients, according the Chamber of Commerce website.

Rachel London, the vice president of the Chamber, said many of the people participating in the golf tournament come every year, such as Chamber members, but some people come because of the location. This year, it will take place at Commanche Trace.

London said her favorite part of the tournament is seeing all of the teams who stay after golfing to see the awards party and the scores.

“It’s just the animosity and the competitiveness between the teams to see who won,” she said. “There are gentlemen who do these every year and they’re very competitive. It’s your bankers and your insurance people.”

Another new part of the tournament this year will be the addition of a 500 golf ball drop,

Courtesy photo Amputee Tom Brady takes part in the 21st Annual Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic. where golf balls will rain down from a helicopter and land in areas that could lead to some

surprises for those playing.

“It’s a cute little addition, like a raffle-type thing,” London said.

One of the main reasons for holding this event every year is to raise funds for the general needs of the Chamber, London said. This year, however, the Chamber has added a new program, and some of the proceeds will go to that, as well.

“What we’re going to do is choose five different recipients this year to receive (a scholarship fund) and (it’s) going to be for technical or trade schools,” London said.

Although the Chamber hasn’t finished planning the details for the scholarship, London said that they would most likely give the funds to an organization or school and the school would decide who to give the fund to.

Those interested in the tournament can check KerrvilleTX.com, where the Chamber will add more information as the day approaches, or contact 830-896-1155.

Leadership Kerr County Easter Fest returns April 20

By Donna Provencher It’s the most wonderful time of the year — no, not that one, the other one: Easter.

With its vagrant (but friendly) bunnies, Easter egg hunts and other holiday festivities, Eastertide brings with it a number of opportunities for families to spend time with one another and with the larger community — and Leadership Kerr County, an offshoot of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce, will once again unite the community by hosting its annual EasterFest on April 20.

The free event, which takes place at Flat Rock Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is put on by the Leadership Kerr County class and takes months to plan, according to Chamber of Commerce vice president and COO Rachel London.

The event includes live music performers, food vendors, a car and motorcycle show, a chili and barbecue cook-off, special visit from the Easter Bunny on a fire truck, an Easter egg hunt and games and rides for all ages.

One of the best parts of the event is that it not only brings the community together and helps grow friendships, but also benefits local charities and projects of Leadership Kerr County, London said.

The event was extraordinarily well attended last year, she added.

“There were no parking spaces last year,” London said.

She noted that her favorite part, personally, is the egg hunt.

“Watching the different age groups hunt the eggs, the excitement of the kids … is so nice,” she said. “There are great food vendors and great music, too.”

20 BusinessLink • February 2019

Courtesy photo Cairnia Lalla, center, helps children search for the bicycle ticket within their plastic Easter eggs gathered up during a mad dash in the 2017 EasterFest egg hunt.

Sponsorships for EasterFest are still available. Those interested in sponsoring the event can contact Chris Braaten at 214-507-0212 or Susan Roig at 830-890-8332.

“Everyone’s extremely excited about EasterFest,” London said. “It should be bigger than last year, which was hard to beat.”

Hurry...March Issue Deadlines on February 15, 2019

BusinessLin

An official publication of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

As a Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce member, we invite you to promote your business in our monthly magazine. It’s an effective way to inform our community about what’s happening at your organization when our community is looking for Chamber news!

Half Page Chamber Easterfest 9570

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APPLAUSE Ad Program Have something to celebrate? $325/Full $100 Quarter $175/Half $55 Eighth Anniversary/Employee of the Month/Retirement

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(830) 896-1155 *One time discount. taken from 12x pricing on size of your choice.

Call your Advertising Representative at the Kerrville Daily Times to Reserve Your Spot!

Brandon Baldwin - 257-0310 brandon.baldwin@dailytimes.com

Jeff Herring - 257-0309 jeff.herring@dailytimes.com

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It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 21

Events

March EVENTS

February EVENTS

Weekly EVENTS

Calendar

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Fridays

Kerrville Noon Rotary

Kerrville Morning Rotary

Kerrville Farmers Market

Inn of the Hills Hotel & Conference Center, 1001 Junction Highway | kerrvillerotary.org | kerrvillerotary@gmail.com

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | 830-895-7650 | kerrvillemorningrotary.org

A.C. Schreiner Home, 529 Water St. | 830-928-4261 or kerrvillefm@gmail.com | kerrvillefarmersmarket.com

Kiwanis Club of Kerrville

Tuesdays

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

25¢ Warehouse Sale Noon–1:30 p.m.

Finds, 516 Quinlan St. | 830-315-3463 or chris@findsresale.org | findsresale.org

6:45–8 a.m.

3 p.m.–dark

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Kerrville Host Lions Club

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | kiwanisclubofkerrville@gmail.com

Noon–1 p.m.

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | 830-370-3156 | e-clubhouse.org/sites/kerrvillehosttx

Friends of the Library Book Sale 1–3 p.m. and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. the second Saturday of each month

Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library, 505 Water St. | 830-257-8422 | kerrvilletx.gov/92/library

15

Friday Republican Women of Kerr County Luncheon

21

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

16

with local military veterans 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Moore’s Home Furnishings, 120 Harper Road | 830-896-1155 or info@kerrvilletx.com | kerrvilletx.com

Saturday

Saturday

Daddy/Daughter Dance

23

Friday First Friday Wine Share 6–7:30 p.m.

15

1726 Sidney Baker St. | info@firstfridaywineshare.com | firstfridaywineshare.com

Kerrville ISD Job Fair 8–11 a.m.

Chamber members can post an event in BusLink by emailing angie@ kerrvilletx.com.

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway | 830-8962553 or sturnham@mowatx.com | museumofwesternart.com

Republican Women of Kerr County Luncheon Inn of the Hills Hotel and Conference Center, 1001 Junction Highway | 830-955-5433 | rwkreservations@ gmail.com

21

Tuesday CoffeeTalk: Clint Fiore

8-9 a.m.

KACOC, 1700 Sidney Baker | 830-896-1155 | info@kerrvilletx.com

22 BusinessLink • February 2019

Family Free Day

Friday

Thursday

21

Location: TBD, I Contact: KACOC 830.896.1155 info@kerrvilletx.com website: www.kerrvilletx.com

Thursday After Hours Business Mixer 5:15–6:30 p.m.

Moore’s Home Furnishings, 120 Harper Road | 830-896-1155 or info@kerrvilletx.com | kerrvilletx.com

Saturday

30 Family Free Day

Membership/Netoworking Luncheon Rotary Club of Kerrville 11:15 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Union Church, 101 Travis St. | 830-792-2203 or mkbaker@co.kerr.tx.us

Want to add an event?

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Saturday Tivy High School. 3250 Loop 534 Kerrville, I Contact info Call Charli Stehling 830.257.2200 ext 1018

5

28 Brown bag lunch meeting

Inn of the Hills Hotel and Conference Center, 1001 Junction Highway | 830-792-5151 or rw@rwkctx.org | rwkctx.org

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Texas 27 | 830-257-7300 or rosa. ledesma@kerrvilletx.gov | kerrvilletx.gov

2

After Hours Business Mixer

Thursday

5:15–6:30 p.m.

6–8 p.m.

1

Thursday

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway | 830-8962553 or sturnham@mowatx.com | museumofwesternart.com

Please join us in extending a word of “Thanks!” to these businesses for sponsoring the major events being held in 2019 by the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Because of their generosity and support, we will be able to continue to educate and serve our membership and community about shared opportunities, issues and challenges.

Half PagehILL COUNTRY 3RD ANNUAL ECONOMIC SUMMIT Chamber Major thursday, February 14, 2019 Events 9546

hILL coUntrY YoUth eVent center

24 ANNUAL ChAMBER GOLF CLASSIC Th

monday, april 1, 2019

comanche trace

2019 SUMMERTIME BBQ FUNDRAISER & RAFFLE saturday, may 25, 2019

hILL coUntrY shootIng sports

BUSINESS EXPO WITh FRIDAY NIGhT WINE ShARE

24TH ANNUAL KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GOLF CLASSIC

2019

Half Page Chamber Golf Classic 9551 Monday, April 1st

SAVE THE DATE Comanche Trace

Check In • 10-11 AM Putting Contest • 10:30 AM Lunch Provided • 11 AM Shotgun Start • 12 Noon Social and Awards Ceremony Immediately Following Play

Major Sponsor

august 2-3, 2019

hILL coUntrY YoUth eVent center

97Th ANNUAL ChAMBER ChOICE AWARDS BANQUET thursday, october 24, 2019

OTHER SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

schreIner UnIVersItY

The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce 1700 Sidney Baker St.,Suite 100 • Kerrville (830) 896-1155 • www.kerrvilletx.com

Call 830-896-1155 for more information It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 23

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