Fall 2016 Hewitt Express Magazine

SWEET TREATS FROM HOME OLD SCHOOL TO NEW SCHOOL MIDWAY ISD ENDURES DECADE OF FUNDING CUTS HEWITT GROWS UP

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 Regina Martinez OF DIRECTORS Donna Muhlman Pat Breen Diana Crow Gregg Dungan Mary Ellison Wayne Gartman Nancy Gupton Scott Hedges Jean Ann Hoover Carlena Lesso

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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101 Third Street P.O. Box 661 Hewitt, Texas 76643 254.666.1200 254.666.3181 fax

‘‘

Life starts all over again when it gets crisp

in the fall.

F. S C O T T F I T Z G E R A L D

OCTOBER 4

6 6

Five Star Painting Ribbon-Cutting • Greater Hewitt Chamber 101 Third St. in Hewitt • 11:15 a.m.

Wesley Woods Ribbon-Cutting • 1700 Woodgate Drive • 4:45 p.m.

Wesley Woods Business After Hours • 1700 Woodgate Drive • 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

26

Home2 Suites Waco by Hilton Ribbon-Cutting • 2500 Bagby Ave. in Waco • 11:00 a.m.

Building Business Luncheon • Leadership by Andrea Barefield • DiamondBack’s

11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

29

Creekside Spooktacular presented by Regent Care Center and City of Hewitt at Warren Park • 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

20

NOVEMBER 1

Scholarship Applications Due • Must be in Greater Hewitt Chamber office

by 5:00 p.m., or postmarked by November 1

1

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Business After Hours • Richland Mall

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

3

Sip ‘N Shop with the National Association of Female Executives Carleen Bright Arboretum • 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

10

Building Business Luncheon, “Stress Management” • Holiday Inn Express Waco South

11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

11

Coffee with the President • Cafe Cappuccino in Hewitt • 8:00 a.m.

24-25 Happy Thanksgiving! Greater Hewitt Chamber office closed

DECEMBER 2

Portraits & Pancakes • SpringHill Suites • 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.

Hewitt Christmas Tree Lighting • Hewitt Public Library • 5:00 p.m.

10 23-26 Merry Christmas! Greater Hewitt Chamber office closed ©2016 Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce

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HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 3

NEW MEMBER

SP TLIGHT

When a child enters the child welfare system because his or her home is no longer safe due to abuse or neglect, a judge may appoint a committed volunteer to advocate for the best interest of the child in court and other settings—a Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA. By becoming a CASA volunteer, you can help keep abused and neglected children safe, giving them a chance at finding happiness. CASA volunteers are individuals from all walks of life who speak up for a child’s best interests in court. You are not a foster parent, you are a voice making a real difference at a critical turning point in the child’s life. Contact CASA of McLennan and Hill Counties today to start your journey in the premier volunteer opportunity our community has to offer. Call (254) 304-7982 or visit www.becmoeacasa.org.

Church Alive is a non-denominational church. We labor to provide a safe, warm, loving environment for people of all ages to come to Jesus and to get to know Him more. We care about the individual person, but we also care about the community—including other organizations and businesses that make up that community. Church Alive is focused on a person’s spiritual condition—the condition of a person’s heart—but there are other aspects that make up people, too. A person’s mental, emotional and physical conditions also have to be taken into consideration. All of it matters!

Visit us online at www.thechurchalive.com.

GogreenTX lowers your monthly home or business energy bill with solar power, radiant barrier, energy-efficient windows, attic work, roofing, HVAC and more!

Accredited with an A from the BBB, gogreenTX will beat any other quote in the state to make sure you save green while going green, and will work hard to get your energy bill down to $0! Established in 2014, gogreenTX is rapidly becoming the leading name in solar energy. Visit www.gogreentx.com, message us on Facebook/gogreenTX for your FREE home energy consultation, or call (512) 630-1842.

Be sure to visit Impact Nutrition at the new location at 847 N. Hewitt Drive!

Our goal is to leave you with a protein-packed, no sugar added, all-natural, very nutritious smoothie—with one gram of protein per ounce, and your choice of amino acids, glutamines or creatine. All protein sources are derived from milk and eggs to leave you feeling full longer! We pay great attention to the quality of our products and services. View many of our products online at ImpactNutritionWaco.com to find out about our best deals and discounts.

Loaded Sound, Stage & Lighting serves the local area and surrounding communities in providing successful live shows for all genres as well as sound/lighting installations in businesses and churches—started by local musician, Taylor Williams. Since 2006, they have put on hundreds of shows offering exceptional experience in event coordination. Loaded Sound, Stage & Lighting has many returning customers because of our friendly service, quality sound and efficient lighting. As a musician, Taylor easily relates to artist and performer needs and how to handle situations on a professional level.

Visit Loadedsound.com for more information.

1.26.17

Reserve your seat to our most popular event of the year

h e w i t t c h a m b e r. c o m / b a n q u e t

4 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Along with offering fire, water, and mold damage restoration services, the team at Restoration 1 also provides residential and commercial emergency services, storm damage services, sewage system cleanup, fire cleanup and more! For over a decade, we have been in the business of restoring damaged residential and commercial properties to their former glory. We understand that the people we work with are going through a stressful and emotionally difficult time. Our team will strive to provide caring and courteous support, upfront communication, and effective services to our customers. Customers choose us because we’re available 24/7, certified experts, and satisfaction is guaranteed.

Visit Restoration1.com for information.

With all the chaos you go through on a day-to-day basis, the last thing you want to have happen is to find out that your insurance will not cover your devastation. Let the local, trained and licensed professionals of the Joe Stepanski State Farm Agency give your policies a FREE, full comprehensive review to help uncover any gaps and concerns you and your family currently have with your Auto, Home, Renters, Health, and Life insurance. We also help families reach their dreams through Financial Investing (401K, Education, Mutual Funds) LOAN FINANCING and REFINANCING, and MORTGAGE FINANCING and REFINANCING. Call your licensed, local professionals right now at (254) 870-SAVE! Located conveniently in the heart of Central Texas, the Mayborn Convention Center is the perfect place for your next event. We strive to be your banquet and meeting facility of choice by excelling in customer service. Our on-site event coordinators will ensure that every detail is taken into consideration, and trained event staff will do whatever is necessary to make your event a success. The Mayborn Culinary Services team welcomes you. Whether you are planning a three course meal or need a simple break service, our team will walk you through the process of designing the perfect menu for your event. Choose from our in-house menu or take advantage of one of our many approved local caterers.

Either way, our professionally trained Culinary Services team will be with you every step of the way. Whether you are planning a business meeting or a wedding reception, our experienced staff looks forward to serving you. Visit us online at www.DiscoverTemple.com.

Vanessa’s Boutique is a family-operated and owned business since 1999— specializing in all of your special event needs including bridal, quinceñera, prom, formal wear, bridesmaids, baptism and tuxedo rentals. The boutique is also happy to match the dress and tuxedo colors to your event, and we take pride in providing exceptional customer service! Every prom dress sold by Vanessa’s Boutique is registered, and you may browse the several varieties of options available at Vanessasboutiqueonline.com.

NEW MEMBER

SP TLIGHT

While growing up, Cecy would look at photographs of her father, who passed away one month before she was born. That’s why Cecy understands the significance of photography and the memories they instill. After photographing more than 800 newborns and thousands of children, Cecy has a knack for capturing a family in its true element. She’s honored to create timeless moments her clients will cherish. Cecy’s work is more than clicking a button— it’s finding and bringing all the perfect elements together to create a lasting memory. As a mother of two boys, Cecy knows all the love and emotion you want to speak from your images. Let Cecy capture your precious memories. Contact Cecy at (254) 548-BABY (2229) or visit www.photographybycecy.com.

Photos courtesy of Charlie Turner

W

alking into the Richland Mall, visitors often comment on an enticing, rich aroma filling the air.

Almost as soon as they finish the comment, their eyes spy the source—Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory— a gourmet chocolate company that works hard daily at hand-making a variety of delectable treats.

For some, the smell of caramel bubbling in the store’s traditional copper kettle and the rows of alluring trays of caramel apples, divinity, and marshmallows lining the store window prove irresistible. They walk into the Chocolate Factory and are immediately greeted by friendly staff offering samples of treats in flavors like German Chocolate or Rocky Road.

“I knew I did the right thing by opening the store when a young boy came in and said ‘I love this place’, ” said co-owner Sue Leonard. “When I asked him why, he replied ‘It always smells so wonderful, the treats are always yummy, the people in here are always nice, but most of all, it is magical!’ Well, enough said, I knew then that is why I moved to Waco. If a child thinks the store is magical, who could ask for more?”

Sue was working at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory’s corporate headquarters in Durango, Colorado in the franchise development department in 2009, when the Waco location closed after only being open for 18 months. Sue was interested in owning a store and made her first trip to Waco in late November that year. In less than three weeks, she had re-opened Waco’s Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, along with her business partner, Barbara Crowder.

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HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 7

FUDGE FOR OUR TROOPS NOVEMBER 1-30, 2016

“I took a chance on Waco, and Wacoans proved me right,” said Candy Slinger Sue, “They’re great folks.” Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory’s wide variety of items has something to satisfy every sweet tooth—whether it’s a quick snack, a present for a special occasion, or a business gift to show customer appreciation. From walk-in customers to regular standing orders, Sue and her staff regularly exceed customer expectations with their product knowledge, hospitality, and prompt service.

Sweets that customers may choose from include gourmet truffles in a variety of flavors from Champagne to Café au Lait, buttery English toffee made with milk chocolate and almonds, divinity, fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate daily, fun and flavorful caramel apples, and a wide assortment of gourmet chocolates, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and sugar-free options. Unique selections like chocolate-covered Twinkies and chocolate-dipped potato chips also line the shelves. The Chocolate Factory even has hand-dipped dog bones made with a creamy, cocoa-free confection safe for pets to eat. However, among the many delicious treats the gourmet chocolate store offers, their famous handmade fudge is the star. Made fresh with the highest quality ingredients and cooked in the store’s copper kettle, flavors include Plain Ole Fashioned, Chocolate Pecan and Chocolate Peanut Butter to name a few. Even more exciting than the many flavors, though, is how the store has used the famous fudge to serve others.

“While working at the Chocolate Factory headquarters, I heard of a store owner in Illinois hosting a Fudge for Our Troops drive,” said Sue. “I knew if I ever owned my own store that I would definitely want to do the same.”

Fudge for Our Troops is an annual drive held every November, during which time Waco’s Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory donates one pound of fudge to troops for every pound of fudge sold. Since the inception of the local Fudge for Our Troops in 2010, the Chocolate Factory—along with the Hewitt VFW Post 6008—has sent over 2,200 pounds of fudge to troops overseas. The store’s goal for the 2016 drive is to mail at least 1,000 pounds to those serving in our armed forces. This year’s drive will kick off with a special event on Tuesday, November 1 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, will include delicious samples and a ceremony that is a treat in itself.

The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Richland Mall is the number one destination in the greater Waco area for chocolate lovers, and those who love chocolate lovers for good reason—from their mouthwatering treats to their heart for service to their friendly and knowledgeable staff.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit Facebook/Waco Chocolate, www.WacoChocolate.com, or call the store at (254) 776-7623.

8 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

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rior to 1946, Hewitt Independent School District served the community teaching 1st through 10th grades, after which students would transfer to South Bosque Independent School District to complete grades 11 and 12. South Bosque— another small school district—was struggling to give attending students in 1st through 12th grade the best education possible.

Both schools shared the same philosophy of education, “That every student is entitled to the best education that may be made available.” On May 26, 1947, a meeting of the two districts was held to discuss a possible merger—to provide every student of the

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HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 1

new district the opportunity for a more comprehensive education, with a minimal expenditure of school tax funds.

On May 31, with a unanimous vote of the combined school boards’ representatives in conjunction with the McLennan County School Board, the new district was created. The new name would be either “McLennan Independent School District” or “Midway Independent School District.” The McLennan County School Board objected to the use of the name McLennan Independent School District because of the conflict it could create with such a similar name, therefore the decision was made that the new district would become Midway Independent School District.

The first year of operation for the newly created district was in 1947, with 1st through 4th grade children from the Hewitt School District, as well as students from 5th through 8th grade of both districts at the Hewitt School building. The children of the first four grades in the South Bosque District, as well as all students attending 9th grade through 12th grade were located at the South Bosque School building The passing of a 1950 bond election paved the way for students to celebrate a Thanksgiving first day of school in the new building located on FM1695 to relieve the everincreasing population of the served areas. New classrooms, homemaking department, cafeteria, gymnasium dually serving with a stage and dressing rooms, a combination study hall/library/ book room, restrooms and school offices adorned the new construction.

New School

The original Hewitt and South Bosque School buildings were sold to raise money, because a 1953 fire destroyed the recently-built gymnasium, requiring its immediate replacement. In 1954, the suburb of Speegleville petitioned to allow their high school students to attend Midway ISD. In 1956, another bond passed to build an elementary school and land was purchased at

the current Woodway Elementary site to erect a building consisting of classrooms, cafeteria, offices and restrooms.

On a side note, the wooden building was constructed from repur-posed materials of buildings purchased from Fort Hood at a fraction of their original cost. The lumber is still there today at the Woodway site.

Between 1959 and 1962 , more bond request elections arose to fund the additions of elementary and high school renovations, as well as a new high school building complete with a gymnasium, dressing rooms, cafeteria, band hall, vocational rooms and additional classroom space. Another bond election in 1968 funded air conditioning to the buildings, including key additions to the junior high school.

A bond election in 1971 funded the work on the new senior/junior high school site, adding needed additional space to accommodate the continuous growth of the community. In 1979, Midway Independent School District again received a petition—which was accepted—to allow Speegleville School District to become a part of Midway ISD. From 1980-2000, Hewitt Elementary, Spring Valley Elementary, South Bosque Elementary and Castleman Creek Elementary joined Midway Independent School District. Today, Hewitt supports three elementary schools, a middle school, a performing arts building and Panther Stadium for Midway ISD. The original location of the old Hewitt High School building is marked by the centerstone with the name engraved on the front, and ‘1921’ engraved on the back at the corner of First and Wall Streets (see photo below).

The land now supports a new Vietnamese Baptist church.

Research to request a historical marker is being considered as a future project. Next time you have a chance to visit Warren Park, take note of the restroom facility at the entrance gate which displays the original “Girls” and “Boys” stones to the outdoor privvies. Old school or new school, time teaches everyone the “three Rs”—remembering, repeating and reaching to the future.

1 2 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

November 1

Scholarship Applications must be in Greater Hewitt Chamber office by 5:00 p.m. on November 1, or postmarked by November 1 if submitting by mail

$40,000

The Greater Hewitt Chamber has awarded over $40,000 to local students through the Greater Hewitt Chamber Scholarship Fund since its inception in 2008

ELIGIBILITY TEST: Is my son/daughter a senior at Midway? If you answered yes, your student can apply. OR Is my employer a current Greater Hewitt Chamber member? Is my son/daughter a senior?

If you answered yes to both questions, your student can apply.

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 3

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1 4 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Hewitt grows up

by Jim Barton, Retired Hewitt Assistant City Manager and former Hewitt Police Chief

11:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. Of course, Hewitt was still a sleepy bedroom community with almost no traffic after 9:00 p.m.!

Hewitt looked more like open country or farmland rather than an actual city. Other than the trailer park near Old Temple and Sun Valley Roads, there were only open fields in that area. Further down Old Temple Road, south of Spring Valley, there were December and April streets that were new. Across the street to the east was the Barnes Dairy Farm, and farther down Old Temple Road, there were a few houses with a farm on the right. The Rolling Hills Addition was there and included the new streets: Rolling Hills, Merrifield, Rosedale and Glenleigh. The south end of Old Temple Road came out on I-35 near the 325 exit.

‘‘

‘‘

I

started working as a Police patrol officer for the City of Hewitt in October 1984. At that time, Doug Henderson was the City Manager and Jack Caswell was the Chief of Police. Approximately 7,000 people lived in Hewitt. Our department was small. As I recall, we had around 12 officers.

We were located at 204 Chama. This small building had been used as a doctor’s office and even a real estate office prior to being used by the Police Department.

We shared this building with City Hall, Municipal Court, and Building Inspections. Then, about a year or so after I started, the City acquired the water company from the McLemore family. The Utility Billing Department was then moved into our building as well.

Hewitt was served by a Volunteer Fire Department, which was located on Johnson Street. Our Police and Volunteer fire departments had no emergency call dispatch, so for several years, Hewitt public safety officers were dispatched by the Woodway Police Department.

On January 1, 1985, Hewitt opened its own emergency call dispatch with five dispatchers (also housed in the Chama building). Emergency call dispatch was quite a bit different than what we have today. First, we didn’t have 9-1-1; it didn’t exist in our area. Residents simply called the regular Police Department phone number for service. At that time, there was no computer dispatch console like we have today. In fact, I do not recall there being any computer for the entire city. And we didn’t even have mobile phones! Dispatch equipment was just a microphone stand connected to a radio and a land line telephone.

We were minimally staffed.

On the midnight shift, there was only one officer on duty, and he was alone from

In my 32 years here, I watched Hewitt grow street by street, home by home and business by business.

In other areas of Hewitt, Bagby was just a two-lane road into Waco. Going west on Warren street from Hewitt Drive, Crockett was the last street on the right with Choctaw the last street on the left. Hewitt Drive did not continue past Spring Valley Road. Just outside our city limits, Imperial Drive was a dead- end street into Hewitt Drive. Chapel Road (which now connects to Imperial) was not a through street.

It ran from Ritchie Road and stopped just 50 feet or so from Hewitt Drive.

We had one 7-11 store at Hewitt Drive and Chama (now Nutone Cleaners) and another one at Hewitt Drive and Highway 84. The truck stop and restaurant at Exit 325 on I-35 was open 24 hours, and that’s all that was open on the south end of the county after 10 p.m.

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HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 5

(Left) Hewitt celebrated the grand opening of the Hewitt Public Safety facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 7, 2014.

(Below left) Mayor Ed Passalugo and Police Chief Jim Devlin commemorate the new building with a service badge shadow box.

When I think back “bedroom community” has now turned into a healthy, to those early days with prosperous and thriving city that is recognized as one of the City, we had some fun the best and safest cities to live in the nation.

and interesting times. We By the time this article is published, I will be retired. also had our share of trials, I have had a wonderful career here, and I am thankful for tribulations and difficulty. the opportunity to have served Hewitt. I feel fortunate that It was always good working for the City. Hewitt has I was able to be here during this time. I am so glad I was changed dramatically while I have been here. When around to live and see these changes firsthand.

I drive through Hewitt today, I can remember what it once was and how it looked. I remember people and places, and every street has a tale to tell.

I worked my way up through the Police Department.

I was appointed to Police Chief by City Manager Dennis Woodard in May 2000. I served as Chief until I was named Assistant City Manager in 2012 by City Manager, Adam Miles. The past few years have been the most fun of my career.

Hewitt residents should be proud of how far we have come over the past few years. We now have approximately 15,000 residents, with a city staff of 100 employees. Our (Above) New City Hall &Library • (Below) New Police & Fire Department Police department has doubled in size and is now recognized as one of the best in Texas for its size. We now have the second most-utilized Public Library in McLennan County. Our Fire Department has grown into a fulltime, 24-hour, career Fire Department. And our parks are seeing thousands of visitors each year. We have new state-of-the-art buildings and facilities that will serve Hewitt residents well into the future.

The Hewitt we see today is remarkable. I can say confidently that through the leadership of our City Council and our City Manager, this once sleepy little

Share in the holiday spirit at Hewitt’s Tree Lighting!

Sat., Dec. 10 | 5:00 p.m. | Hewitt Public Library 200 Patriot Court More info at HewittChamber.com/Christmas

1 6 • 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!

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) • Extra storage space • Fenced-in backyards • Large walk-in closets • Single and double patios • Solar-screened windows

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 7

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Midway High School • 761-5650 8200 Mars Dr • Waco 76712 Interim Principal: Dr. Brent Merritt Grades 9-12 Midway Middle School • 761-5680 800 Hewitt Dr • Hewitt 76643 Principal: Dr. Herb Cox Grades 7-8

Clip and save this page for handy reference!

Woodgate Intermediate • 761-5690 9400 Chapel Rd • Waco 76712 Principal: Kurt Hulett Grades 5-6 River Valley Intermediate • 761-5699 4750 Speegleville Rd • McGregor 76657 Principal: Sarah Holland Grades 5-6 Castleman Creek Elementary • 761-5755 755 South Hewitt Drive • Hewitt 76643 Principal: Mandy Vasek Grades K-4, Employee Pre-K Hewitt Elementary • 761-5750 900 Panther Way • Hewitt 76643 Principal: Christy Watley Grades PK-4 South Bosque Elementary • 761-5720 #1 Wickson Rd • Waco 76712 Principal: Dr. David Everett Grades PK-4 Speegleville Elementary • 761-5730 101 Maywood • Waco 76712 Principal: Christopher Eberlein Grades PK-4 Spring Valley Elementary • 761-5710 610 Spring Valley Rd • Hewitt 76643 Principal: Jay Fischer Grades PK-4 Woodway Elementary • 761-5740 325 Estates Drive • Woodway 76712 Principal: Aaron Peña Grades PK-4 Alternative Education Center •761-5678 901 Old Hewitt Rd • Waco 76712 Administrator: Tammey Harlan DAEP: Age 6 – Grade 12 (Separate Facilities) Success Lab & Pep Program located at MHS

Saturday, October 29 • 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Warren Park 450 S Old Temple Rd. Hewitt, TX 76643 Free admission | Trick or Treating | Costume Contest Bounce Houses | Games | Storytelling Sponsored by Central National Bank • Direct Auto & Life Insurance HEB Woodway • Incommons Bank • POINTWEST Bank

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 1 9

Midway ISD ENDURES endures Aa DECADE decade OF of STATE stateFUNDING funding cuts MIDWAY CUTS Midway ISD, along with 175 other Texas school districts, is preparing to lose all funding from the Additional State Aid for Tax Reduction (ASATR), a funding provision established in 2006 that was later set to expire in 2017.

to provide districts with payments of ASATR funding. The intent of ASATR was to give districts the ability to maintain at least the same level of per-student funding as they received for the 2005-06 school year.

ASATR funds account for approximately one million dollars of Midway ISD’s operating budget.

Between 2006 and 2007 school years, MISD’s maintenance and operations (M&O) tax rate reduced from $1.26 to $1.04 per $100 of property valuation. To make up for the loss in revenue, the district received more than $6 million in ASATR funding for the 2006-07 school year. In the 2008 school year, MISD received its highest ASATR payment of more than $12 million.

Throughout the past six years, Midway ISD’s state funding has been dwindling through a series of multi-million dollar revenue cuts.

By the end of this school year, the district will have lost a projected total of more than $16 million in revenue since the state began reducing funding in 2011.

The loss of state aid In 2006, the Texas Legislature approved a plan to lower school property tax rates in the entire state by one-third but guaranteed that school districts would not receive any less funding on a per-student basis as a result.

To ensure no district would see a loss of revenue caused by lowering the tax rate, a new section of the Texas Education Code was enacted

In 2011, the state significantly reduced funding for public education. MISD lost $4.5 million over two years, including a substantial reduction in ASATR funding of approximately $3.9 million.

The Legislature also enacted a repeal of ASATR effective Sept. 1, 2017.

MISD is projected to receive $1,369,861 of ASATR in 2017 before the proposed sunset date of September 1, 2017.

Loss of funds affects staff and students So how can Midway afford yet another million

dollar revenue cut? Will the students and staff feel it?

Although the district has been losing funding in the past decade, the administration was able to identify cost-cutting solutions to affect students as little as possible.

Due to the 2011 state reductions to school funding, Midway ISD permanently cut out about $4.5 million from the operating budget. $2.5 million of the savings was achieved through staffing attrition. In other words, when someone left the district due to retirement or personal reasons, no one was hired to replace them.

Midway ISD ended the 2015-16 school year operating at staffing levels below the 2010-11 school year due to the 2011 funding cuts, despite district growth of almost 700 students since that time.

From 2011-2013, Midway ISD also made cuts to teaching stipends, electrical usage, athletic budgets, maintenance projects, supply budgets, and bus purchases. MISD also accepted a limited number of transfer students, which brings in roughly $6,000 per student in state funds.

20 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 21

Why join the Hewitt Chamber?

It’s a great fit for business.

Puzzled about joining the Chamber? If customers know that a small business is a member of its local Chamber, that business enjoys: • a 49% increase in its consumer favorability rating • a 73% increase in consumer awareness • a 68% increase in its local reputation • an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will use your business in the future* Experience the benefits firsthand by joining our active group of local business leaders that are passionate about serving the greater Hewitt community.

Call 254.666.1200 or visit HewittChamber.com/Join for more information.

*From national survey conducted by The Schapiro Group

22 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

WIN WITH WACOBOARD

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH WACOBOARD

Wacoboard.com works like a giant lottery for the greater Waco community. And it’s easy to play!

1. Go to Wacoboard.com & click “Connect with Facebook” 2. Load the Board 3. Win free items from the best places in Waco!

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.

facebook.com/wacoboard

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 23

ACT YOUR AGE THEN AGAIN, MAYBE NOT Getting older in America carries its own set of stereotypes and discrimination, which is called “Ageism.” Insults and generalizations about aging run deep in our culture, leaving many elders feeling disrespected and undervalued.

Here are ways you can combat ageism and help seniors live less encumbered by stereotypes: • Pay attention to your own aging perceptions. Learn to look beyond the labels placed on older individuals.

Be mindful that no specific age is considered “old” in today’s society. Learn to identify ageism language and unfair treatment of seniors.

• Celebrate older role models. Highlight elders’ contributions to society and how they positively influence all generations.

Recognize a senior’s strengths and positive qualities.

• Foster a friendship with a senior.

Build a genuine friendship with an older person over a shared interest.

• Be an aging advocate in your community.

Help employers rectify age biases in the workplace. Attend local meetings that represent the interests of the elderly.

Write a letter to the media. Volunteer at a senior center.

Right at Home Central Texas, a leading provider of in-home care and assistance, understands the prevalence of ageism across the country and works to help counter age discrimination in our community. For more information, call 254-399-0788.

4 TIPS FOR BRANDING YOUR BUSINESS

HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?

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.

Your life continues to change—is your insurance keeping up? It’s a good time to make sure your coverage is up-to-date. Review your insurance annually or during key life changes such as these: Marital status changes: Whether you’re marrying soon, or divorcing/dividing possessions, a change in your marital status can affect your need for life, auto and homeowners coverage. Be sure to verify or change your beneficiary designations.

Family makeup changes: If you’re expecting or adopting a child, protect your growing family with adequate life insurance and disability income insurance. Losing a family member through death or divorce is another life event that may prompt a policy review. Revisit the beneficiary designations on your existing policies whenever the makeup of your family changes, too.

Make a major purchase: If you buy a home, vacation property, or take on a significant renovation, it’s time to review your homeowner’s policy. When you buy, inherit or acquire items of value, a baby grand piano or jewelry, check whether these possessions are fully covered by your current homeowners or personal property policies.

Employment status changes: If you recently received a sizeable promotion, have been downsized or entered retirement, your income will often be affected. Depending on your circumstances, your agent might recommend increasing your coverage or suggesting more affordable options. If you no longer have a daily commute to an office, the terms of your auto insurance might also change.

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.

Whether you have an impending life event or it’s just been awhile since you’ve reviewed your coverage, contact Joe Stepanski State Farm for assistance at 254-870-SAVE.

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.

24 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

Join us for a bite!

There’s a lot to be excited about at the Hewitt Lions Club. We have a new meeting place at IHOP on New Road, new service projects to give back to the community, exciting fundraisers and plenty of chances to meet new faces.

We’d love to see you soon! Our dinner meetings are every 2nd and 4th Monday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Learn more at HewittLionsClub.org

#65 Healthiest Bank in the Nation!

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 It doesn’t take a big bank to be the best bank. We are proud to be of service to the greater Hewitt area and invite you to come by if you haven’t yet opened a More Than Free Account. Come see what we have to offer.

Regina Martinez, VP/Branch Mgr.

You Have Our Word !

254-420-1007

www.IncommonsBank.com 5400 Crosslake Pkwy. #100, Waco, Texas Next to Chuy’s Restaurant

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

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 25 It’s time to transfer your high-interest credit card balance to a

First Central VISA Premium / Reward Credit Card

3.9

%

APR*

for 12 Months

$0 BALANCE TRANSFER & NO ANNUAL FEES ACT NOW… CHANCE TO WIN CRUISE!

FirstCentralCu

www. .com Lobby: M-F 9A-5:30P | Drive-Thru M-F 7:30A-6P

9101 Chapel Road | 254-776-9333 | Federally Insured by NCUA

Midge Norris

midge.norris@welcomewagon.com

800-737-4859 ext 1103

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Membership & application restrictions apply. Offer good through 2/23/2017. No purchase necessary for cruise promotion good through 12/7/2016.

• Interior/Exterior • Light Commercial • FREE Estimates

Visit HewittChamber.com

5-STAR SPECIAL! WACO, TX

254.206.3699 fivestarpainting.com

$125 OFF any paint project of $1,000 or more* *Details apply. Call us for more information.

#hewittishome

Peter Thyen (254) 495-0412 | Sarah Jamar (336) 413-6590 Jacob Baker (254) 721-0936 | 100 Santa Fe Ste. 3 Woodway, TX

26 • HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS

GREATER HEWITT CHAMBER • BUSINESS MEMBER APPLICATION Joining is easy! Simply register and pay online at HewittChamber.com/Join If you’d prefer, simply mail this application and your dues to Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 661, Hewitt, TX 76643.

Business Name: Primary Contact Name/Title: Email: 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:

Non-business–$77 14-50 Employees–$247

0 Employees – $200 51-299 Employees–$283

1-13 Employees–$215 300+ Employees–$324

$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:

254.666.1200 alissa@hewittchamber.com

laura@hewittchamber.com

HEWITT CHAMBER EXPRESS • 27

Hewitt Happenings 1

2

3

1 Concertgoers enjoyed the music of Holly Tucker at the Warren Park Amphitheater in early August.

2 Holly Tucker performs 3 Hewitt City Manager Adam Miles addresses a crowd at the annual State of the City luncheon.

4 Hewitt Police and Fire department staff celebrated another successful National Night Out event on July 28.

5 Hewitt Chamber members

4

5

Nancy Gupton and Natalie Morphew have a ball at the Chamber’s 31st Annual Hewitt Express Classic golf tournament.

6

6 Senior Care of Hewitt staff enjoy hosting a GHC Business After Hours event on August 4.

7 GHC members celebrate Church Alive’s ribbon-cutting event on September 9 in the former Hewitt Library.

7

8 Hewitt City Councilman James Vidrine and wife Jackie enjoy Dog Days on June 18 with their four-legged friend.

8

9 Italian Granite owner Jose Neira presents GHC Ambassador Thanh Le with a door prize as big as Texas.

10 Italian Granite staff enjoys their GHC Business After Hours event on June 23.

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11

10

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11 Maria Sanchez (center) cuts the ribbon to Vanessa’s Boutique (Vanessa is pictured in the blue shirt at left), now a member of the Greater Hewitt Chamber.

12 Hewitt Lions Club members (l to r) Jim Swanson, Robert Tidwell, Jim Schampers and Steve Wilcox man a booth at Dog Days in June.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID

P.O. Box 661 Hewitt, Texas 76643

Permit #65 Hewitt TX