Spring 2016 Hewitt Express Magazine

Famliy First focus for Sometimes Spouse • Meet Hewitt’s new K9 Officer Midway Students of the Year • Give Me that Old Time Religion

101 Third Street P.O. Box 661 Hewitt, Texas 76643 254.666.1200 254.666.3181 fax To advertise in the Hewitt Chamber Express, call (254) 666-1200. Issues are published in January, April, July and October. chamber staff

Executive Director Alissa Cady alissa@hewittchamber.com Public Relations Coordinator Laura Beaty laura@hewittchamber.com

2016 EXECUTIVE officers President • Jeff Stubbs Vice President • Ian Dawson 2nd Vice President • Adam Price Secretary • Cassie Thomas Treasurer • Lindsey Skinner, CPA, CFE, CGMA Past President • Frank Thomas

2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Pat Breen Diana Crow Gregg Dungan Mary Ellison Wayne Gartman Nancy Gupton Scott Hedges Jean Ann Hoover Carlena Lesso

Regina Martinez Donna Muhlman Suzi Pagel Andrew Smith Jared Story Davis Thigpen Alee Walker Chris Watkins Lane Westerfield Rick Winters

2016 HONORARY MEMBERS Adam Miles

Parker Pieri

LIFETIME BOARD MEMBER John Holder

hewittchamber.com

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Spring is nature’s way of saying,

Let’s party!

APRIL

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Hampton Inn & Suites Waco South Business After Hours • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Building Business Workshop by Brian Townley Hampton Inn & Suites Waco South • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Hewitt City Hall and Library Ribbon-Cutting/Grand Opening 200 Patriot Court • 10:00 a.m.

My Toner Frog Ribbon-Cutting • 7723 Central Park Drive • Waco • 11:30 a.m.

Networking Breakfast sponsored by Circle Hardware Supply • Do It Best Warehouse 801 Hewitt Drive • 8:00–9:30 a.m.

Joint Networking Luncheon with Bellmead & Lacy Lakeview Chambers • DiamondBack’s 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

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Hewitt Public Library Business After Hours • 200 Patriot Court in Hewitt • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Greater Hewitt Chamber’s Nacho Daddy Tex-Mex Fest & Fun Run • Warren Park Run begins at 8:00 a.m. • Event from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Building Business Luncheon • “Perfect Your Elevator Pitch” • Diamondback’s 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Networking Luncheon Sponsored by New York Life, “Blueprint To Your Success”

by Loni Jones • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waco South • 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

AVID Scholarship Winners’ Reception • Educators Credit Union 501 N. Hewitt Dr. 6:00–7:00 p.m.

The National Banks of Central Texas Business After Hours • Warren Park 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Live Music presented by The National Banks of Central Texas • Warren Park • 7:00–9:00 p.m.

MAY

JUNE

2 Hewitt’s Summer Concert Series Presented by Maestros Paint Company • Full House Band opening at 7:00 p.m. • Holly Tucker headlining at 8:00 p.m. • Warren Park 9 Glass Doctor Business After Hours • Hampton Inn & Suites Waco South • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

10 Movie in the Park presented by KXXV News Channel 25 • Warren Park • 6:00 p.m.

17 - 18 Hewitt Dog Days of Summer Canine Event• More info at Hewittchamber.com 21 Building Business Workshop by Scott Carley, “Leap Of A Lifetime–Getting From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be” • Greater Waco Chamber Cooper Room 11:30 am.–1:00 p.m.

23 Italian Granite Ribbon-Cutting & Business After Hours, 1515 N. Hewitt Dr • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

28 Lead Explosion Networking Event with Women of Waco • The Barn in Hewitt • 5:00–7:30 p.m.

30 Building Business Luncheon, “How To Correctly Read Financial Statements” by Sam Cates with JRBT • HOT Goodwill Industries • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. ©2016 Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce

Calendar sponsored by

Home Equity Loans

NO CLOSING COST

Ends May 31

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 3

Growing up in a family that is both entrepreneurial and built on decades of fire and police service, it seems we were destined to start Firehouse Subs®.

People come back when they’re treated well and fed well. Turns out, people absolutely LOVE the same things we do—the best meats, cheeses, and toppings we can find. Take our Hook & Ladder® Sub for example, with Virginia honey ham, smoked turkey breast, and melted Monterey Jack. People come back again and again because, unlike other sub places, we steam our meats and cheeses, releasing a rush of flavors, then stuff a serving that’s way over code on one of our toasted private-recipe sub rolls. It’s a winning combination that satisfies ravenous appetites and the value-conscious alike. Order online & get info on catering at firehousesubs.com • 4215 Franklin Ave. (254) 732-3715

Heartis Waco is committed to providing a stimulating and nurturing environment—filled with warmth, comfort and care—that improves quality of life and allows its residents to flourish. As a national leader in assisted living and memory care, count on Heartis Waco to deliver the highest quality care for residents. You’ll appreciate the peace of mind that comes with around-theclock security, a full spectrum of personal and medical care services, as well as fresh, nutritious, chef-prepared meals. Heartis residents will enjoy a carefree, active lifestyle with endless opportunities to engage with friends, neighbors and communities in fun, energetic ways. Visit Heartis at 5317 Speegleville Rd. in Waco or online at Heartis.com, or call (254) 848-9090 for more info.

KWTX News 10 is celebrating 60 years of providing the latest news, weather, and sports, as well as the best in entertainment programming to Central Texas.

With the region’s largest news team and our affiliation with CBS—the nation’s most-watched network—KWTX is the top-ranked television station in the area, most viewed and most trusted for breaking news and severe weather information. We are honored to serve Central Texas with such signature events as Food for Families—the state’s largest one-day annual food drive. KWTX is also home to the hottest network for young adults, The CW-12, and an award- winning Creative Services Department that sets the standard for local commercial production. Call us at (254) 776-1330 and like us on Facebook.

NEW MEMBER

SP TLIGHT

Baylor Club, part of the ClubCorp network of Private Clubs, is the place where present and emerging leaders build camaraderie and strengthen the Waco community in the great tradition of Baylor University. Uniquely located inside McLane Stadium, the Baylor Club features breathtaking views of the Brazos River corridor, John Eddie Williams Football Field and Baylor University campus. With a full-service dining room, business amenities and ample private event space, the Club provides everything you need to work, host, and celebrate in style with your friends, family and loved ones! Enjoy monthly networking mixers with fellow business professionals in our Anytime Lounge, or utilize your Member benefits to book events for every occasion with many versatile venue options. Baylor Club Members also enjoy access to more than 300 private Business, Sports & Country Clubs throughout the United States.

TheBaylorClub.com • 254.710.8080

4 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

My Toner Frog is a family and locally owned small business providing remanufactured laser toner cartridges and inkjet cartridges. Our mission is to provide premium quality products as an alternative to high priced OEM cartridges. You might think hmm? My Toner Frog. We chose the name to remind us as a family and business owners to Fully Rely On God in our everyday walk. The My Toner Frog technicians have been remanufacturing cartridges since 1995. As the remanufacturing industry has changed over the years, My Toner Frog has incorporated the latest remanufacturing technology available to ensure we provide the highest quality cartridges for our customers. Call us today at 254-732-2768 for a free quote!

Nerium International offers a holistic approach to anti-aging with exclusive products designed for the face, body & mind. The key to Nerium’s success is found in a core corporate philosophy: deliver best-in-class age-fighting products that offer measurable results and are easy to use. Nerium’s products are developed based on scientific research, not marketing strategies. These products meet specific consumer needs, are derived from high-quality exclusive ingredients, and are scientifically tested and clinically proven to deliver real results. If you would like to experience what thousands of satisfied preferred customers are experiencing, check out my web site at nancy1.nerium.com.

True Course Life & Leadership Development will help you be more, see more, and achieve more in your life, relationships, and career. Coaching, consulting, and customized training for personal, executive leadership, and team development are their specialties. True Course coaching helps you “press pause” to focus on what really matters to you; form habits for living without regret; capitalize on your unique personality/styles for masterful leadership; and help your organization become a more productive and better place to work. J. Michael Godfrey, DMin, PhD, PCC is the founder and president of True Course, lead coach, and author of Without Regret.

NEW MEMBER

Miadi Marketing is a full-service marketing company specializing in providing innovative, engaging, results-driven, ROI-focused and cost-effective marketing programs. From developing Interactive Websites and Web based solutions, Mobile applications, Social networking tools and augmented reality, Miadi Marketing constantly innovates to build Connections between Brands and Customers across the Digital channel spectrum. Call owner Victoria Kimuyu at (214) 493-9580 or visit www.miadimobilemarketing.com for more information.

SP TLIGHT

MCVA’s mission is to establish, maintain, raise funds, and contribute to patriotic observances, commemorative days, educational activities, and monuments dedicated to members of the Armed Services who served, and with special tribute to those who died in WW II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Cold War, Panama, Grenada, Somalia, Desert Storm, Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq. In addition, MCVA works to join together the veteran, patriotic, and support organizations in the Heart of Texas to render assistance to active military, veterans, widows, and orphans; youth organizations; veterans burial plots; and to raise funds for charitable services. For more information, please contact President Lloyd Coffman at (254) 855-3655.

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 5

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Closer to you. providence.net

6 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Sometimes Spouse co-founders (L to R) Crystal Stewart, Christy Ogle and Max Ogle

Family First

Photo courtesy of Charlie Turner

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 7

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t is a feeling familiar to many—you walk in the door after a busy day and sink into a comfy chair to relax, only to look around and see any number of chores and home projects screaming for your attention. Now imagine walking in the door to a pristine home, sparkling clean with all of the projects crossed off your To-Do list—freeing up your time to spend with loved ones. That peace of mind and the freedom it brings are exactly what inspired owners Christy and Max Ogle and Crystal Stewart to start Sometimes Spouse, a cleaning and handyman service.

“This started as a way for us to spend more time with our families,” said Ogle. “Getting time back to spend with family is also the most important thing we offer our customers.”

While Sometimes Spouse got its start with garage sales and home cleanings for Baylor students, the company now offers interior and exterior painting, carpentry (including pergolas and decks), kitchen and bathroom remodels, home repairs, handyman services, home cleaning services, petand house- sitting, organization and packing. A popular option the business offers is the Sometimes Home Plan beginning at $99, which can include home repairs, handyman services, and weekly or bi-weekly home cleaning.

Sometimes Spouse’s growth has been exciting for the owners, but they are most proud of the intangible benefits of what their business offers.

“Crystal thanked Max for fixing the battery cable on her car and asked if he’d look at her windshield wiper,” said Christy Ogle. “I laughed and said ‘Why don’t I just rent him out to you?’ ”

“We bring families together with our projects by allowing our clients to spend more time with their families, so they can enjoy their lives and not worry about honey-dos.

I’m also proud that our employees have the ability to make a great income and not have to choose between work and family,” said Ogle. “Family first is Sometimes Spouse’s mission, and it’s trickling through Texas with our franchises now. It’s so much bigger than we ever envisioned it would be.”

Starting with one part-time worker (Max Ogle) in 2013, Sometimes Spouse initially focused on handyman services and officed out of the Ogle’s garage, but by July 2014, the company

The “family first” focus guides the business, not only in their interaction with clients and employees, but with the community as well. Sometimes Spouse’s “Sometimes

had grown to one full-time handyman, one full-time “wife” providing cleaning services and one office employee. No job was too small at the beginning, and the owners had to be creative.

Love” is a non-profit supported by charitable donations that enable the company to offer cleaning and handyman services free-of-charge to those recently diagnosed with cancer.

“One of our first big jobs was running a garage sale for a single man who needed to clean out his house, so we hosted a garage sale,” said Christy Ogle. “We also provided lawn-mowing but didn’t own a truck. Imagine offering mowing services out of a Toyota Corolla!”

“Sometimes Spouse delivers services that are needed in the community,” said Ogle. “We attribute our success to word-of-mouth referrals and we’re proud to get positive feedback about our spouses’ attention to detail, professionalism, reliability and our affordability.”

Christy and Crystal’s positive can-do attitude—combined with Max’s handyman skills and customer service—caused the company to quickly build a reputation for exceeding customer expectations. Sometimes Spouse has now grown to over 20 employees at four locations, including the Hewitt and greater Waco area, Belton and Killeen area, northwest Austin and Georgetown. Sometimes Spouse runs background checks on all employees, and all “spouses” are insured and bonded to give clients an added level of comfort knowing that they are in good hands. Sometimes Spouse’s reputation for excellence and commitment to security, combined with the unique business model, has also enabled the company to offer franchising across the state of Texas.

With award-winning service (Sometimes Spouse has received recognition from Locals Love Us, Best of Waco and Angie’s List), a proven track record of success, and a promising future including franchises, Sometimes Spouse will be serving the Central Texas area and putting families first for years to come.

The idea for the business came naturally and was born after a lighthearted conversation between friends at a restaurant in July 2013.

focus is secret to success

For more information or to rent a spouse, call Sometimes Spouse at (254) 315-1922 or visit www.SometimesSpouse.com.

8 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

THANK YOU!

Bush’s Chicken would like to thank Hewitt, Woodway, Lorena, Waco and surrounding communities for your years of continuous support.

10 a.m. to 10 p.m. | 1301 Hewitt Dr. | (254) 666-1100

1 0 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

SP TLIGHT city

Meet Chado, Hewitt’s new K9 Officer

by Tuck Saunders, Hewitt Assistant Police Chief

T

he Hewitt Police Department recently obtained a new K9 Officer to replace Rexo, the department’s previous K9, who was retired due to an unexpected illness. Chado is a 21- month-old Belgian Malinois who was brought over from Poland in June 2015. He was hand-selected and imported to the U.S., where he was trained at Pacesetter K9 in Liberty Hill, Texas to perform his law enforcement duties.

Chado’s handler is Officer Jones. During the course of their daily duties together, they are required to patrol the streets in a specially-marked patrol unit—allowing them to perform their duties more effectively. Chado is dually-trained in both narcotics detection and patrol work. For narcotics detection, Chado can be used to search vehicles, buildings and other areas where drugs may be hidden. When on patrol, he is trained to protect his handler and assist in the apprehension of criminals. Chado’s patrol work also includes searching, tracking and locating missing persons and suspects.

Hewitt’s Police Department is fortunate to have such a good K9 unit. In previous years, officers would have to contact a K9 unit from a neighboring agency to assist on suspected narcotic stops—usually after-hours. Today, Hewitt Police officers do not have to locate an available K9 unit from an outside agency. They are now able to call Officer Jones and Chado, who respond in a timely manner to provide the assistance needed. Having Chado as a tracker has greatly increased the services that the department is able to provide.

Whenever a suspect flees on foot, or a child is missing, Officer Jones and Chado can be called to the scene to track the suspect or missing child.

Chado has been introduced to the public at a few events that have been held in recent months. He and Officer Jones have given demonstrations at a recent City Council meeting and during a Citizens Police Academy class. Since Chado is specially trained, his public appearances must be limited; however, he will still make occasional appearances at city events to give demonstrations of his skills. The Hewitt Police Department is glad to have Chado as a member of the department, and excited that he is here to help our community.

Officer Jones and Chado, Hewitt’s new K9 Officer

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 1

1 2 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Royalton Village property has 164 units in Hewitt, and we’ve been family-owned and operated for more than 20 years. Once you move to Royalton Village, you’re family, too! Our staff genuinely cares about you and we take great personal pride in how your home and surrounding areas are maintained. We strive to make this a great place to live, and we invite you to come by and see Royalton Village for yourself.

Our amenities include:

We have one-, two- and three-bedroom townhomes, apartments, duplexes and homes—ranging in size from 720 to 1,700 square feet. Visit our website at www.royaltonvillage.com to see property photos and floor plans.

• Washer/Dryer hook-ups

Royalton Village is only a two-minute drive from H-E-B Plus and Wal-Mart, both located on Hewitt Drive. We’re also less than five minutes away from Highway 6/Loop 340 and I-35, and only 10 minutes from Downtown Waco...convenient to just about everything!

• Extra storage space

Our onsite leasing office is located just off Royal Drive across from Midway Middle School on Hewitt Drive (behind AutoZone), and we’re open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Two reserved covered parking spaces • 24-hour emergency service • Fireplaces • Two car garages (houses only) • Fenced-in backyards • Large walk-in closets • Single and double patios • Solar-screened windows

Apply today for a chance to win a 0% APR1 AUTO LOAN 2 or a TRIP FOR 2 TO LAS VEGAS! 3

1APR=Annual Percentage Rate. APR subject to change without notice. Subject to credit approval, member-

ship eligibility and loan policies. Minimum loan amount of $5,000; excludes existing GENCO FCU loans, real estate, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, commercial vehicle, indirect and business loans. Offer ends May 31, 2016. Payment example: $21.70 per $1,000. financed at 1.99% for 48 months. 2Promotion limited to one (1) member randomly chosen at the end of the promotion to receive a 0% interest rate on their loan.

Closing of the loan will automatically enter you into the drawing, all loans must close on or before May 31, 2016 to qualify for drawing. For details, visit www.gencofcu.org. 3Trip Contest Eligibility: USA, 21+ Start Date: March 21, 2016 • End Date: All auto loan applications must close on or before May 31, 2016. Entry Frequency: One entry per application. Sweepstakes Prize: Trip for two to Las Vegas, Nevada. Trip includes coach airfare for two–not to exceed $1,200 total, a two-night hotel stay–not to exceed $250 total, spending cash $250. Taxes not included in prize money. No purchase necessary to win. For a complete list of rules contact GENCO FCU, or visit www.gencofcu.org. Both contest drawings will be held no later than June 30, 2016.

Great physicians M

A R E AT T H E H E A RT O F A G R E AT H O S P I TA L

eet Hillcrest Physician Services, providing specialty care close to home. You’ve trusted Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest for your health and wellbeing. A big part of that trust is built on the quality and expertise of the physicians on the hospital’s medical staff.

Hillcrest Physician Services brings you top-quality specialists located on the main campus of Baylor Scott & White – Hillcrest.

• General Surgery • Facial plastics • Neurosurgery • Sports medicine & orthopedics

• Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat) • Urology • Trauma and acute care

• Internal medicine • Colorectal surgery

Hillcrest Physician Services can provide quick, compassionate diagnosis and treatment for your needed specialty services. And, for extremely complex cases, our specialists have instant access to the expertise and resources of Texas’ largest not-for-profit health care system – Baylor Scott & White Health.

If your primary care physician says you need specialty care, check the growing list of expert options at Hillcrest Physician Services, a proud member of the Baylor Scott & White family. .

For more information, or to make an appointment with a Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest provider, call 254.202.DOCS (3627).

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers, Baylor Health Care System, Scott & White Healthcare or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2015 Baylor Scott & White Health BSWHILLCRST__87_2015 CE 12.15

1 4 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Midway Students of the Year for 2015-2016 Speegleville Elementary Cameron Tomlinson • 4th Grade

Woodway Elementary Amanda Baker • 4th Grade

Parents: Amy & Brandon Tomlinson Cam is an all A’s student and all-around great girl with excellent attendance, who is always looking for an opportunity to help—a friend, a service project, reading to little kids, or cleaning up for others. She always puts other first, and she painted original artwork and sold it to benefit West, Texas after the explosion.

Parents: Emily & Brent Baker Amanda has extraordinary school, community and extracurricular involvement. She helps First Baptist Woodway’s food pantry, drama group and BSF. At school, she competes in UIL oral reading, helps monitor the school on Safety Patrol, and is in the Kindness and Compassion (KC) Club where she helped design the T-shirt, staples kindness links, and is looking forward to delivering the school’s pop tops collection to the Ronald McDonald House.

Spring Valley Elementary Diana Cruz • 2nd Grade

Castleman Creek Elementary Landen Pope • 2nd Grade

Parents: Mayra & Jose Cruz of Hewitt Diana is a soccer stud, but what makes her stand out to teachers in her first year at Spring Valley Elementary is her commitment to her peers and schoolwork. She is kind to every single person—students and teachers, has a super sweet heart, and is exceptional academically. She always gives her very best and does it right the very first time.

Parents: Tish & Les Pope of Hewitt Landen has a passion for football. He plays offensive fullback and defensive linebacker for the Championship Finalist Hewitt Broncos. He is a huge fan of LSU football and likes it when the MHS Panthers visit his school to read to students. He enjoys spending time with his dad to work out. Beyond the field, Landen is a Kindness Ambassador for CCE, and enjoys weaving ryas as a GT student.

South Bosque Elementary William Lutz • 4th Grade

Hewitt Elementary Elena Torres De Jesus • 4th Grade

Parents: Lori Lutz and the late Dr. Rafer Lutz William is a talented athlete on the SBE State Archery Team as well as baseball, basketball and soccer teams. He loves playing outside with friends (but doesn’t like cold weather). This GT student won 1st place in math at the HOT Academic Rodeo, and competes in UIL Academics as well as with the Robotics Team.

He is a member of Redeemer Church and likes to help deliver Thanksgiving dinners with the Salvation Army.

Parent: Madeleine De Jesus Elena is a renaissance girl. She has her blue belt in karate, reads avidly, and enjoys helping others. She likes to help with chores at home. In school, she helps classmates write stories. She is in the Kindness and Compassion (KC) Club and is always kind and respectful to all people around her. Elena has lived in Puerto Rico, attends St. Jerome Church, and wants to be a movie actress when she grows up.

Woodgate Intermediate Preston Jones • 6th Grade

River Valley Intermediate Courtney Janecka • 6th Grade

Parents: Wendi and Kris Jones Preston does it all. He plays baseball, basketball, guitar, and participates in Cotillion. He is already an accomplished hunter and fisher. He also volunteers to set up carnivals at Spring Valley Elementary and participates in boys missions at First Baptist Woodway. However, his greatest joy is being a big brother to foster babies with his family. He helps by holding and feeding the babies.

Midway Middle School Ivy Koh • 8th Grade

Parents: Judy & Yunsuk Koh Ivy is a Duke TIP scholar, a state VFW essay contest writer, National Junior Honor Society President, student council member, and is on the advanced tennis team. She won UIL number sense, math and listening competitions, and she is a talented violinist. She is Concert Master of the Chamber Orchestra, AllRegion 3rd Chair, and plays in the WYSO and CTSA Orchestras.

She is involved in Korean United Methodist Church and plans to go pre-med after her all Pre-AP coursework.

Parents: Cindy & Darrell Janecka Courtney was named one of the nation’s youth volunteers for the Prudential Spirit of Community awards program. Courtney raised more than $10,000 by selling handmade bracelets and uses the funds raised to provide cancer patients with a book written by her mom about her own cancer journey. Courtney began her project at 10 years old, was a state finalist at age 12, and is the Texas State Honoree this year competing to be one 10 national youth volunteers of the year.

Midway High School Matthew Parsons • 12th Grade

Parents: Heidi Hornik-Parsons & Mikeal C. Parsons Matthew is an AP Scholar, Hewitt Chamber Scholar, Wacoan Star Student, Gold Medalist in national French and Spanish exams, and Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition Nominee as a threeyear member of the MHS State Mock Trial Team. As a clarinetist, Matthew is a Texas All-State Soloist and All-State Woodwind Quartet, Outstanding Soloist in Dallas Meyerson, and Tanglewood Music Institute Alumnus, and he plays clarinet for Songs for Seniors Club for Musical Charity, Baylor Youth Wind Ensemble, Baylor Professor Dr. Qian, and St. Jerome’s Choir. In the fall, Matthew will attend Harvard to study Biology, Linguistics, and Music.

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 5

Familiar Faces…

Making Local Decisions

Barbara Engel

Assistant Vice President

Russell Jones

Assistant Vice President

Link Harris

Senior Vice President

Jamie Collier

Lending Assistant

Joe Barrow

EVP/ Banking Center President

Brenda Lightfoot New Accounts

John Minor

Senior Vice President

Carmen Chavez Lending Assistant

Corner of Texas Central Pkwy. & Hwy. 84

ʹͷͶǤ͹͹ʹǤͻ͵͵Ͳ ȁ Ǥ Ǥ

Ginger Tindell Banking Officer

Dan Ingham Vice President

16 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

2016 FORD F-150

SAY STANLEY AND SAVE StanleyMcGregor.com

254-840-2868

1280 E. McGregor Drive

Check Yourself Before Your Credit Wrecks Itself B Y

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here are a lot of things we should do that most of us simply don’t do.

When the dentist asks if you’ve been flossing, do they honestly expect you to answer yes? Or, how often do you check your tire pressure? You’re supposed to check it fairly often, but realistically, do we?

The same goes with regularly testing your smoke detectors. I have a smoke detector in my apartment, but off the top of my head, I probably couldn’t tell you where it’s located.

Those are simple responsibilities that unfortunately go neglected all too often. And, by not addressing them for a long period of time, we can sometimes put ourselves in a bad spot.

You Should Absolutely Check Your Credit Report I think we often view our credit report in the same vein as our tire pressure or smoke detectors. We think it’s not that important to check, when in reality, having good credit is critical to buying a home, as well as many other big-ticket purchases.

In today’s world, a credit report isn’t just used for getting a loan.

Insurance companies use them to calculate the rates they’ll charge customers.

And, employers use them to help determine if an employee is responsible.

A lot rides on your credit history. For this reason, it’s a good idea to review your credit report annually.

What to Look for When Reviewing Your Report As it turns out, reviewing your credit report doesn’t involve glancing at your credit score. In fact, your credit score isn’t even on the actual report. On the report, you’ll see an itemized list of your loans, credit cards, etc., along with your payment history. If everything is accurate, it should confirm

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 17 that no fraud, identity theft or unexpected activity has taken place.

Your report also shows which companies have recently pulled your credit. Carefully review this list and check for any companies that you can’t easily explain a connection. For instance, some companies will pre-qualify you for special offers, and if they already have access to your information, they may pull your credit report prior to sending you a “special offer” in the mail—never all that special, are they?

By looking over the list, you can spot potential instances of identity theft. For example, if Herbie’s Cars recently pulled your credit report and you’ve never been to Herbie’s, then you could possibly have an identity theft problem.

When looking at your payment history, keep in mind that companies can make mistakes. Even if you have a loan and pay it perfectly on time, companies can sometimes make an error on a payment posting date, which could incorrectly show an over 30-day late payment. If never corrected, it could continue to show a string of +30 day late payments, eventually resulting in an adverse impact to your credit score.

If you think something is incorrect, you can file a dispute.

Where to Obtain a Free Credit Report Under federal law, you have the right to obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies once each year. You can get all three at one time, or you can space them out throughout the year. It’s your call.

To get your free credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com and select “Request Yours Now” from the navigation menu. You will need to enter information to verify your identity, like address, date of birth, and Social Security number.

If you’d prefer to have your report mailed to you, call a toll-free number (1.877.322.8228) or mail a completed Annual Credit Report Request Form to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

Oh, and while you’re at it, you may want to check your tire pressure, too.

Travis Rollins is a credit analyst at Central National Bank in Waco, Texas.

www.cnbwaco.com

Give me that

Old Time

eligion

Greater Hewitt promotes a diversity of spiritual practices. Religious institutions and not-for-profit organizations alike foster interfaith participation, charity and nondiscriminatory acceptance.

Hewitt First Baptist Church

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n October 1895, a group of Hewitt townsfolk met to purchase land and construct Hewitt Baptist Church at the corner of 1st and Graham Streets. All were in agreement that a one-room building— complete with hitching posts for horse-drawn carriages—would suffice for the church’s needs. In the beginning, Whitehall Baptist Church sent a delegation to help with the organization of Hewitt’s new Church, and issued a joint letter to its members who wished to join this new Hewitt congregation. Twenty original members assumed the tasks of writing the adopted articles of faith and organizing the required weekly meetings to address the church’s financial needs, while soliciting contributions toward its construction.

The initial pastors served a one-year term, until a vote in 1954 abandoned term lengths. The congregation and church changed immensely between 1895 and 1988. In 1920, the original building was blown off its foundation by a windstorm, but by 1941, the church had completed a new structure with many additional rooms and a baptistry. In 1953, now First Baptist Church of Hewitt expanded 1941’s educational building, and then dedicated a new sanctuary along with a new parsonage in 1959. Finally, 1988 was a year of construction for the current sanctuary, which was renovated in the late 1990s with the inclusion of a new Friendship Hall.

The church has experienced continued growth from its original 20 members to present-day membership of approximately 1,600 worshippers.

Membership growth promoted the need for a Women’s Auxiliary, Senior Adult Ministry, and new youth programs. Visit the church and read the Texas Historical Commission’s plaque that faces 1st Street, and/or join the congregation any Sunday for worship service.

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 9

Hewitt First United Methodist Church

Hewitt Houses of Worship

n late-1900, the North West Texas Conference created the “Hewitt Circuit,” which consisted of Stanford Chapel, Spring Valley, and the newly-organized (43-member) Hewitt Church. Before the creation of the Hewitt Circuit, services were conducted in the Hewitt Baptist Church building.

A local family donated land at 1st and Wall Streets to serve as the site for the original building—a long rectangular frame structure containing both a sanctuary and Sunday School classrooms. In 1941, the congregation completed the last major renovations to the original building. October 31, 1965 marked the dedication of a new church building at its present location on 1st Street. In 1987, the growing congregation voted unanimously to construct a kitchen, dual Fellowship Hall/ Sunday School classrooms and to enlarge the sanctuary. For over a century, the church has provided many activities and organizations, such as the Woman’s Missionary Society, Women’s Society of Christian Service, Wesleyan Service Guild, United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men’s Club (chartered in 1959), and the Rebecca Circle, in addition to multiple youth activities, a community garden and the Hallelujah Food Pantry. Visit the Texas Historical Commission’s plaque out front this Sunday and then stay to worship.

Brazos Meadows Baptist Church 625 S Hewitt Drive 254-666-7314

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Peace Lutheran Church

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he Texas District of the Lutheran Church met during the spring of 1978 to discuss and organize a Lutheran church in the greater Hewitt area. Several months later, the group commissioned 4.1 acres of land on the corner of Panther Way and Ruidoso Street where construction soon began on the new mission church. On September 17, 1978, the first worship service was held in the back room of Lewis Pharmacy in the Hewitt Plaza, which continued until the new building’s dedication.

Membership has since grown from its original 117 members to 362 today. Each Sunday, the church hosts two services, as well as Sunday School training; complemented by a Wednesday evening service to meet the needs of the community. Peace Lutheran offers outreach and congregational ministries for all ages. Visit Peace Lutheran and meet each of the people ready to share worship with families in our community.

Meadowbrook Baptist Church

F

or nearly 60 years, Meadowbrook Baptist Church has been known as a friendly family church.

Located at I-35 and Loop 340 at the corner of Old Robinson Road and Darden Drive, Meadowbrook offers weekly Bible study for all ages, three worship services every Sunday, as well as ministry opportunities for everyone on Wednesday evenings (including a home-cooked meal).

Dr. Cary Killough has served as Senior Pastor of Meadowbrook since 2007. During that time, the church has seen growth, and is in the process of planning for a new multi-use facility. Meadowbrook strives to help every member get connected with others through opportunities to worship, study and serve, and is involved in a number of local ministries, as well as national and global partnerships. A weekday preschool ministry for children ages 18 months to Pre-K is also available.

Learn more at www.meadowbrookbc.org. SAVE THE DATE: Vacation Bible School will be June 5-9 this summer.

Hewitt Community Church

H

ewitt Community Church is a grace-oriented church. Its members all acknowledge that they are sinners, that they are messed up, that they are struggling in one or more areas of their lives, and that they depend upon Christ daily to make life work.

When a grace-oriented church comes together, they accept one another and celebrate God’s grace toward each other. They rejoice that they are all children of God through the work of Christ, and they remind one other of the truths they need in order to keep going and to change.

We meet on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. and the dress code is casual. For more information about Hewitt Community Church, visit our website at www.hewittcc.org.

Christ the King Vietnamese Baptist Church 124 E. Wall Street 254-722-8678 Church of Christ Sun Valley 340 E. Warren Street 254-666-1020 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 300 Ritchie Road 254-722-6576 First Baptist Church of Hewitt 301 S. 1st Street 254-666-2741 First United Methodist Church 600 S 1st Street 254-666-2500 Grace Family Church 1616 W Spring Valley Road 254-235-2559 Hewitt Church of Christ 816 First Street 254-666-2497 Hewitt Community Church 212 Kiowa Trail 254-235-6827 Islamic Center of Hewitt 317 South Hewitt Drive 254-300-6205

United Bible Fellowship Ministries 110 Jim Drive 254-752-4501 Unity of Waco 400 1st Street 254-666-9102

20 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

SATURDAY, MAY 7, 2016

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Gain exposure, increase your web traffic and get sales by advertising with Wacoboard.com! Email Owner Tim Webb at tim@wacoboard.com or visit Wacoboard.com for more information.

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HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 21 21

Tips for finding and working with a reputable graphic designer Identify what is it you need them to do.

Do you need a new logo designed? Already have one, but just need it used for new marketing materials? Need help with updating an old logo or marketing piece? Once you know what you need, you’re then ready to find a designer.

Ask colleagues and/or friends who they would recommend, or contact a local printing company or Chamber of Commerce.

Once you have a name(s), contact the designer(s), let them know what you need, ask how they charge for their work, and decide if you like their communication style (very important). Also ask if they have a website. Seeing their style of design on a website will let you know if their style and what you need is a possible match.

What to bring to your first meeting.

Most graphic designers will meet with you the first time at no charge. If possible, bring samples of colors/fonts/layout styles you like for the designer to get a feel of what it is you’re looking for. A good designer will ask a lot of questions to determine exactly what your preferences are before they begin—both to meet your design goal on the first or second try, and to save you money on their time/ design fee. Ask as many questions as you’d like, too.

Be honest with your likes/dislikes.

If you’re not 100% happy with something in the drafts you receive from a designer, kindly let them know! It won’t hurt their feelings (if they’re a professional). Their goal is to create something you will like and can use for a long time to come. If you like their work, you’ll hopefully refer others to them!

Call By Design at (254) 420-1880 today with any questions you may have, or to discuss your design needs.

KEEP YOUR BRAIN HEALTHY The more you challenge your brain, the more brain cells and nerve connection pathways you form. Instead of gray matter simply dying as you age, new cells can be activated to grow at any age.

These brain workout routines are recommended to help curb mental slowing: • Learn a new skill (like playing an instrument) • Complete crossword puzzles and Sudoku • Participate in regular brain games (color match, word find) • Play cards, dominos, or board and computer games • Sharpen your vocabulary through a daily words calendar or by reading • Continue to socialize and verbalize by talking with others about world events and issues important to you and your community Right at Home In-Home Care and Assistance is a licensed home care agency that provides services to assist individuals with activities of daily living. We can help with everything from housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, medication reminders, as well as personal care needs such as bathing, dressing, and toileting assistance. Right at Home Central Texas is familyowned and operated, making them the choice for family caregivers, respite services and care for individuals with dementia.

Whether you or your family member needs one visit a week for a couple of hours or 24/7 care, Right at Home’s trained caregivers are ready to serve. Call us at (254) 399-0788 today for a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your special care needs.

4 Tips for Branding Your Business Define your ideal customer Before you start marketing, you need to identify who you are targeting. Who is your ideal customer?

Be specific. Try writing a one-page “Day in the Life of My Customer” to get into the right mindset. You can also reach out to the creative folks you know for outside-the-box thinking to identify customers you may be missing.

Craft a professional image Contact the Chamber or a local printing company for recommended graphic designers. When searching for a designer, ask to see their portfolios and make sure their style and personality is a good fit for you. Having a good designer is key to projecting a professional image and attracting loyal customers.

Stand out Look at your competitors’ advertising–take note of the colors, fonts, style and wording they use.

Keeping your ideal customer in mind, work with your designer to create art that differentiates you from others in your industry. Customers are attracted to professional, clean design, but communication is key. Use fonts that are easy to read, and make sure your messaging makes sense to the audience (for example, avoid using industry jargon in an ad meant for the general public).

Be consistent Once you find a voice and style that reflects your company and attracts your ideal customer, be consistent in your marketing efforts across all platforms (print ads, social media, radio, TV, billboards, etc.). Smart branding means creating a good and lasting impression with consumers.

Changing your look and feel too often will hurt your ability to establish that impression.

Call Northern & Nye at (254) 662-2292 today to discuss your design and printing needs.

Have a question for an expert? Get it answered! Call 254.666.1200 or email laura@hewittchamber.com and your question may be featured in the next issue.

22 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 23

1.6+ million members worldwide...making a difference every day in their local communities.

Visit www.LionsClubs.org to learn more.

Have a heart for helping others? Join us.

HEWITT LIONS MEET ON THE 2ND & 4TH MONDAY AT ROSATI’S PIZZA • 6:30 P.M.

Angela Jones & Midge Norris

angela.jones@welcomewagon.com • midge.norris@welcomewagon.com

800-779-3526

24 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

invites you to the hottest doggone event of the Summer!

June 17 • 7: 30 to 10 p.m.

Head to Warren Park to enjoy the sounds of The Morticians, and feast on fun food truck offerings!

June 18 • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Head to Hewitt Park for a Weenie Dog Race, KidZone, Disc Dogs of Houston, sheepherding demos, food trucks, vendors, pet rescue & adoption and more!

Admission is free!

For more info, call 254.666.2442 or visit cityofhewitt.com.

VFW POST 6008 WELCOMES YOU TO HEWITT Serving Friday night meals for a minimal donation (call 254-666-6008 for meal specials) Hall rentals • Annual/Life memberships available Get on our email list for notification of special events VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES

HERE TO SERVE VETERANS OF THE GREATER HEWITT AREA

725 Sun Valley Blvd. (next to DQ) • I-35 @ Exit 328

254-666-6008

HELLO my name is

YOU’RE INVITED TO ATTEND THE 6TH ANNUAL

L E A D E X P LO S I O N ,

THE NETWORKING EVENT OF THE YEAR!

TUES., JUNE 28 THE BARN COCKTAILS DINNER REFERRALS 1900 SPRING VALLEY RD HEWITT, TX 5:00 - 7:30 P.M. 1 ATTENDEE PER COMPANY 3 ATTENDEES PER INDUSTRY SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE $30 MEMBER REGISTRATION

REGISTER AT HEWITTCHAMBER.COM DON’T WAIT SPACE GOES FAST! • MEN WELCOME •

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 25

Live green, save green

by Laura Beaty, Public Relations Coordinator, Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce

W

e will celebrate Earth Day on April 22, and in honor of the occasion, we have a handful of tips for eco-friendly living (that will save you cash in the process)!

Switch to Bar Soap Many have switched to liquid soap and body wash, believing that bars of soap allow germs to spread easier, but studies show that’s just not the case. By switching to bar soap, you’ll cut down on the packaging sent to landfills, you’ll use less water (bars create less suds than washes) and best of all, you’ll save money! AOL Finance found that the cost per wash using a bar of soap is $0.012 per wash versus $0.17 per wash using body wash.

Ditch Bottled Water You have probably heard that we drink a staggering amount of bottled water (50 billion bottles in America each year!), but you may not know that it takes triple the water that’s in the bottle to manufacture it. By purchasing a water filter pitcher (you can purchase a Brita for $20) and a reusable bottle (Nalgene bottles are around $10 each), you will get good, clean water that tastes great and you’ll be getting it for much less than it costs to buy the same amount in bottled water.

Cut Down Shower Time The average shower lasts eight minutes, which equals about 18 gallons of water. According to the EPA, “If each person reduced his or her shower time by one minute, we could save a combined 165 billion gallons each year.” Try shortening your shower time by setting a timer on your smart phone before you step in.

Cook Meals at Home By planning out your menu before heading to the grocery store, you’ll cut down on throwing away unused food. You can also choose a day to cook your meals for the week, which helps you avoid going through a drive-through on nights when you may get home a bit later.

Less trips for take-out means less containers sent to landfills and more money in your pocket.

Visit Your Local Library Most of us are guilty of buying books to read and letting them sit on the shelf. Instead of spending that money (and taking up shelf space), why not make a trip to your local library? Many have programs that allow them to borrow books from other libraries if they don’t have a specific title available. Hewitt Public Library has a wide selection, and you don’t have to be a resident to be a member. Call (254) 666-2442 for more information.

Upcycle From furniture to home décor, Waco has a variety of great antique and vintage shops with unique restored pieces looking for a good home. Spend an afternoon shopping the stores along LaSalle Avenue or take a trip to Laverty’s on 18th Street. If you have a home project you’re working on, also stop by Habitat for Humanity’s “ReStore” on Franklin. ReStore has everything from tile to doors to cabinets. Like their Facebook page for updates and deals!

For more tips on green living that will save you money, visit HewittChamber.com/Headlines. Happy Earth Day!

26 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

GREATER HEWITT CHAMBER • BUSINESS MEMBER APPLICATION Business Name: Primary Contact Name/Title: Email: DOB: Physical Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Mailing Address: City: State: Zip: Website: Facebook Page: Twitter Account: Business Category Listing: Business Profile (please give us a brief description of your business and the services you offer):

The Chamber will work hard to refer business to you. Please describe your ideal customer client/patient:

I heard about the Hewitt Chamber from: BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP:

0 Employees – $195 51-299 Employees–$275

1-13 Employees–$210 300+ Employees–$315

14-50 Employees–$240

$50 for each additional listing Payment Method:

Online

Call with credit card

An enclosed check

I understand that I will begin receiving full business member benefits good for one year after my dues have been received and the board approves my application.

Signature: Date: PLEASE MAIL this application to Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 661 Hewitt, TX 76643 along with membership dues, or join and pay online at HewittChamber.com/Join.

254.666.1200 alissa@hewittchamber.com

laura@hewittchamber.com

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 27

Hewitt Happenings

1 GHC members Kacie Harlan (left) and Ellen Gradel visit at the Joint Networking Luncheon in January at the Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber.

2 GHC members Dave Ulman and Pat Breen enjoyed the HOT Goodwill Business After Hours in January.

3 GHC members Erin Ayala and Gregg Stubbs enjoyed the Building Business Luncheon on Organization presented by Jennifer Snyder, owner of Neat As a Pin Organizing Experts.

4 Neal Jeffrey wowed attendees at the 2016 GHC Banquet with his inspirational message. With Neal are Chamber staff and banquet committee: (l to r) Natalie Morphew, Neal, Mary Ellison, Nancy Gupton, Laura Beaty, Alissa Cady, Cassie Thomas.

5 (L to R) Mary Ellison and Diana Crow, GHC directors with GHC Ambassador Jennifer Snyder at the Chamber’s 2016 Banquet.

6 Andrew Smith (center) shares a laugh with Mike and Donna Muhlman, owners of Mr. Electric, at their Business After Hours in February at SpringHill Suites.

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7 Greater Hewitt Chamber members and visitors had a great time at the Locals Love Us annual Business After Hours held in January at The Phoneix Ballroom.

8 GHC Scholarship winners (l to r) McKinley Dockall, Michelle Olvera, Matthew Parsons, Taylor Romig, Tooba Ikram and Parker Anderson at the GHC Banquet in January.

Everyone is Flocking to Incommons Bank!

What are you waiting for? Come see Regina today and find out how to feather your nest this spring!

Open a Personal or Business Account for only $50 and get a Free Gift!

5400 Crosslake Parkway, Suite 100, Waco, TX 76712 (next to Chuy’s Restaurant) 254-420-1007 www.incommonsbank.com Free gift may be reported on 1099-INT or 1099 MISC. Free gift provided at the time of account opening.

G R E A T E R

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit #65 Hewitt TX P.O. GBox 661 R E AT E R ( C o d e b o l d ) F O L I OTexas Cond Bo ld (Hewitt) Hewitt, 76643