Spring 2024 Express Magazine

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RISING TO THE TOP: WHY SEO MATTERS

GET TO KNOW YOUR HEWITT CITY COUNCIL MAYOR & MAYOR PRO TEM

CELEBRATE MIDWAY ISD'S STUDENTS OF THE YEAR

CALENDAR

For the most current event information, visit HewittChamber.com

APRIL 2024 7

Pre-Solar Eclipse Event at The Backyard • 511 S. 8th in Waco • 3:00 pm

8

Solar Eclipse Day

9

The Vault Premier Storage Ribbon Cutting • 1709 W. Spring Valley Road in Hewitt • 12:00 pm

10

GHCoC Board Meeting

16

Bulldog Auto Detailing Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting • 5900 Franklin Ave, Suite 2 • 12:00 p.m.

18

Monthly Business Networking Luncheon • Dr Pepper Museum • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Paul Allison and his 360 Solutions team present “A 360 marketing approach for any size organization”

20

Advanced Financial Strategies Ribbon Cutting • 125 Topeka Drive, Suite A • 11:30 a.m.

25

Texell Business After Hours • 1221 Hewitt Dr. A in Woodway • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

MAY 2024 7

HOT Goodwill Business After Hours • 1000 E. Waco Drive • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

11

Running for Readers • Hewitt Public Library • 8:00 am

15

GHCoC Board Meeting • Mid-year Recap

18

Nacho Daddy Car Show • Warren Park • 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

23

GHCoC Open Networking Lunch • La Fiesta • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

JUNE 2024 12

GHCoC Board Meeting

20

Springhill Suites Business After Hours • 200 Colonnade Parkway in Woodway • 5:00–7:00 p.m.

25

GHCoC’s Coffee with the President • 9:00 a.m. • Location TBD

25

Monthly Business Networking Luncheon • Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey • 6101 Bosque Blvd • 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

“Positive Preneed Transformations Post-Covid” by Abigail Boney of Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey

To advertise in the Hewitt Express, or for more information, call 254.666.1200.

Issues are published in January, April, July and October.

hewittchamber.com

Greater Hewitt Chamber Executive Director | Alissa Cady | alissa@hewittchamber.com Communications Director | Misti Smith | misti@hewittchamber.com Membership and Marketing Director | Jake Smith | jake@hewittchamber.com

Chamber ©2024 Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce • Mention of commercial products,HewittChamber.com processes, or services in theHewitt Hewitt Express cannot Express be construed as an endorsement by the Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce • Design Kim Giles, ByDesignWaco.com

| 3

Each issue of EXPRESS magazine will feature an article submitted by a member(s) of the Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Watch for more great info in future issues!

Rising to the Top: The Importance of SEO

BY CARYN BERGER BROWN AND DIANA LYNN CROW, DIGITAL MEDIA BUTTERFLY

W

hen it comes to the success of your business

Why SEO is a worthy investment for your business is

these days, a good online presence is paramount.

a pretty easy argument to make. Helping your business

But there’s so much noise and competition on the Inter-

climb to the top of search engine results increases

net—how does your business rise above it to get the

visibility, brand awareness, and creditability. Being

attention you need to attract customers?

featured more prominently in search results also

The answer is Search Engine Optimization, otherwise known as SEO. You’ve likely heard this term before,

increases website visits, because searchers tend to click on links on the first page of results.

but let us break it down and explain what it does and

SEO also promises great bang for your buck. It produces

why it matters.

data that can be used to tweak and update your web-

SEO means optimizing your website, in a multitude of ways, to make it more visible in search engine rankings.

In other words, when someone searches engines such as Google or Yahoo for ice cream shops (as an example),

site regularly to ensure the best results. At Digital Media Butterfly, we build SEO best practices into clients’ websites as we create them, and work with existing websites to increase their SEO and reach.

you want your ice cream shop to pop up on the first

Embarking on your SEO adventure can feel over-

page of results, and the closer to the top of that first

whelming, but that’s where we come in. At Digital

page, the better.

Media Butterfly, we’re passionate about crafting

SEO is about understanding what your audience is searching for online and fine-tuning your content to match these queries. It’s a harmonious blend of technical tweaks, strategic keyword usage, and content that resonates with searchers and potential customers.

Using effective keywords throughout your website is a major part of SEO strategy, but there are multiple layers of effective SEO. From the URL (web address) assigned to each page on your site to the placement of your name/address/phone number to many more technical decisions, you’d be surprised by all the ways SEO can garner more attention for your business… and the effort is worth the outcome.

DIGITAL MEDIA BUTTERFLY 200 W. STATE HWY. 6, SUITE 315 (254) 297-4400 • DIGITALMEDIABUTTERFLY.COM 4 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

marketing strategies that stand out from the noise.

Our team has a wealth of SEO knowledge and experience. With SEO as a cornerstone of your digital presence and us in your corner, you’re not just surviving the online chaos; you’re thriving in it.

5 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Visit cityofhewitt.com for all economic development stats and information

Why choose Hewitt to live, play and grow?

H

ewitt has been ranked twice by Money magazine

Supporting locals is a way of life in Hewitt. Our

as the “Top 50 Best Places to Live in the United

streets are lined with diverse businesses, each con-

States” and the “Top 10 Best City to Live in Texas”. It

tributing to the unique flavor and economic vitality of

is also recognized as one of the safest communities

our community.

in Texas, where families are afforded a high quality of life. Located just South of Waco, Hewitt gives residents the best location to access local dining, travel, and sporting events. The housing economy supports all ranges of family incomes by providing a low prop-

Get involved! Hewitt thrives on civic engagement.

Join local organizations, volunteer for meaningful causes, and become part of a community that actively works together for the greater good.

erty tax rate. Hewitt boasts a diverse demographic,

Navigating Hewitt is a breeze with well-maintained

welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds. Our

infrastructure and accessible transportation op-

community is a mosaic of cultures, fostering an envi-

tions. Our commitment to modern amenities ensures

ronment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

that residents have everything they need at their

An economic hub, Hewitt has a robust local economy.

fingertips.

From thriving businesses to innovative startups, our

Feel the warmth of Hewitt’s community spirit. Here,

city provides ample opportunities for employment

neighbors aren’t just neighbors—they’re friends who

and growth.

share in the joys of life. Our tight-knit community cel-

Education is a cornerstone of our community. Hewitt is home to Midway Independent School District, with dedicated educators, and a commitment to fostering a love for learning in every child.

Embrace the outdoors in Hewitt! Our numerous parks and recreational areas offer green spaces for relaxation, playgrounds for families, and many areas

ebrates successes, supports one another, and makes the city of Hewitt a place where everyone belongs.

Meet Hewitt’s Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem

for those who love to explore.

Mayor Steve Fortenberry

Feel the pulse of Hewitt through our lively com-

Mayor Fortenberry was born in

munity events. From festivals that celebrate our

Lubbock and then moved to Mc-

rich cultural tapestry to local gatherings that bring

Lennan County—settling in Hewitt

neighbors together, there’s always something exciting

in 2003. Before residing in Hewitt,

happening here.

he returned to Lubbock to attend

Your safety is our priority. Hewitt takes pride in its well-equipped emergency services, ensuring a secure environment for all residents. Our commitment to essential services is unwavering.

6 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Texas Tech University. Fortenberry currently owns and operates Fortenberry Insurance Agency, LLC. He previously worked for an oil and gas service company, and in the family business where he provided coverage and service for the commercial trucking Continued on page 7...

2024 HEWITT CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS Front row, L to R: Bradley Turner, Dr. Erica Bruce, Johnny Stephens Back row, L to R: Bob Potter, Johnny Price, Steve Fortenberry, Michael Bancale Hewitt City Council meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. on the first and third Mondays at Hewitt City Hall (200 Patriot Court).

Industry. Fortenberry has served on the Hewitt Police

brain injuries, chronic wounds, cancer, and in far-for-

Officers’ Civil Service Commission. He joined Hewitt’s

ward combat theatre resuscitation. Dr. Bruce is is

City Council in 2016, and believes that his experience

passionate about giving back to the community

in the business world helps him understand the

though education, outreach, and service—especially

importance of fiscal responsibility. Fortenberry joined

for veterans and those in crisis. She is an immedi-

the City Council because he believes that Hewitt is

ate response advocate for the Advocacy Center for

becoming more inviting for new commercial and

Crime Victims and Children in Waco. She volunteers

residential growth, and he wants to be a part of

for various student organizations, supporting leader-

Hewitt’s continued success.

ship, mentoring, and professional growth for aspir-

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Erica Bruce Dr. Erica Bruce is a toxicologist who performs translational medical research, and teaches the next generation of scientists and doctors at Baylor University. Dr. Bruce’s background is in civil engineering and

ing doctors and scientists. Dr. Bruce believes the qualities an effective leader possesses are rooted in competent critical thinking, logical problem solving, and connected leadership that is built on a foundation of integrity. “I believe these character qualities, seen through example, moral principles that can be observed through a caring spirit, and commitment that is evident through actions, are what we need to

toxicology. She is currently working

be successful in serving Hewitt.” Dr. Bruce believes

on developing drugs for the Department of Defense

Continued on page 14...

to use in Combat Casualty Care to treat traumatic 7 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Make Your Dreams Come True

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( 2 5 4 ) 4 0 5 - 6 1 6 2 | CAMILLEJOHNSON.COM | 104 MI D WAY C T 8 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

ALL TOGETHER HEWITT

SUMMER 2024 SUMMER READING SIGN UP OPENS MAY 31

Crafts & Activities Community Storytimes Angel Paws Performances

Teen Events Big Game Days Character Visits

Visit our online calendar of events for more information.

200 Patriot Court | 254-666-2442 | library@cityofhewitt.com

The Bank for Your Business.

Am.Bank WOODWAY | DOWNTOWN | BELLMEAD | WEST WACO - AMERICAN PLAZA 10 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Your heart care, the way you want it No one knows your heart better than you.

From taking steps to prevent heart disease to caring for heart failure, our care team works with you to find the best path forward. Get started by checking in with a specialist today.

Find a specialist

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. 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 or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2023 Baylor Scott & White Health. 13-HC-894271 DT

HewittChamber.com Hewitt Chamber Express | 11

Celebrate Midway ISD’s Students of the Year Castleman Creek Elementary – Serena Park

Hewitt Elementary – Ayden Joaquin Téllez

Serena is the second daughter of Hannah and Moisés Park.

She has a special way of helping others see their worth and reach their potential. She always strives to do her best in all things and is eager to learn more about others and the world around her. Serena loves spending time with her family, playing board games and hanging out with her three sisters. She has many interests including art, history, writing, reading books and manga.

Serena also enjoys listening to many different kinds of music including classical, K-pop, Taylor Swift, Bob Dylan, and Johnny Cash. In the future, Serena wants to write books, speak many languages, play cello, run a marathon before college, and invent things as an engineer.

Ayden Téllez is the son of Isidoro and Gabriela Téllez of Waco. Ayden is a dedicated student who consistently makes the A Honor Roll every six weeks and is a recipient of positive office referrals. He is a member of the Kindness and Compassion Club at and competes on the school’s UIL Number Sense team. Ayden loves school and his favorite subject is science. He recently started playing football and soccer, and in his free time, he likes to read and draw for his friends and family.

Chapel Park Elementary – Cal Turner Cal Turner is the son of Dusty and Jill Turner of Woodway. He is a young achiever who excels both academically and in extracurricular activities. An active member of the GT Program and Math Club, Cal also showcases his analytical skills in UIL competitions for Number Sense and Maps, Charts, and Graphs. Beyond the classroom, Cal’s talents shine in diverse fields—from playing piano to excelling in baseball, basketball, track, and flag football.

Recognized for his leadership and kindness, he is always ready to lend a hand where needed. Cal’s blend of intellect, athleticism, and a heart for helping others makes him a role model for his peers.

Park Hill Elementary – Sienna Gordon Sienna Gordon is the daughter of Josh and Mariesa Gordon of Lorena. She is a fifth-grade dynamo!

Sienna is brilliant and displays unwavering kindness and infectious enthusiasm. Her genuine compassion and empathy truly set her apart. Whether she’s helping a classmate with a difficult assignment or spreading joy with her contagious laughter, she embodies a spirit of kindness and generosity every day. Her infectious energy and positive attitude light up any room. Sienna is a member of the Principal’s Cabinet at Park Hill Elementary and is also involved in dance, plays piano and cello. Sienna isn’t just a Student of the Year; she’s a shining example to her family and friends.

Continued on page 13...

12 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

South Bosque Elementary – Jim Nichols Jim is the son of Dr. Curt Nichols of Waco and Jill Helfrich of Granbury. He has been awarded his Yellow belt from Vertical Journey Taekwondo and won the Principal’s Award at South Bosque five times. Jim is involved with the Gifted and Talented program (GT) at school and has enjoyed being Principal of the Day twice. Additionally, he has competed on two UIL teams: Number Sense and Maps, Charts, and Graphs. Outside of school, Jim has twice attended the Triple Cross Cowboy Church’s Preteen Summer Camp. He enjoys hitting balls at Topgolf, gaming with friends at Slow Rise, and going to the beach.

Speegleville Elementary – Harper Merritt Harper Merritt is the daughter of Alex and Kevin Merritt of Speegleville. Harper is actively involved in several school activities, showcasing her leadership abilities through roles in the Library League and News Crew. She has also received the Principal’s Award at Speegleville and is a member of the UIL Oral Reading team.

Ashlynn Whitten, continued Valley, earning recognition as the Top Girl runner. Outside of school, she enjoys playing soccer and volleyball as a member of local youth teams.

Woodway Elementary – James Rylander James Rylander is the son of Jonathan and Kristyn Rylander of Woodway. In addition to Student of the Year, James has also received multiple Student of the Month and Kindness Awards. James is actively involved in his school community as a member of the Purposeful Panthers group and Safety Patrol. He also competes on the UIL Number Sense team.

Outside of school, James enjoys playing tennis, babysits, helps host many community and Baylor student gatherings, and is involved in First Woodway Baptist Church.

Midway Middle School – Aliyah Ford Spring Valley Elementary – Ashlynn Whitten Ashlynn Whitten is the daughter of Corey and Gretchen Whitten of Hewitt. Ashlynn is an excellent student who is consistently named to the A Honor Roll. She is involved in Academic UIL competitions, is a black belt on the recorder, and is a member of the Runner Club at Spring

Aliyah Ford is the daughter of Ashley and Greg Garrett of Hewitt, and Kent Ford of Gatesville. A seventh grader, Aliyah has always expressed a love for people—regardless of age, race, or background.

Aliyah loves people and life, and she is particularly sweet, loving, and a role model for her younger peers. Aliyah has a Continued on page 14...

13 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Students of the Year Continued from page 13...

Aliyah Ford, continued passion for art and also plays volleyball at Midway Middle School and club volleyball with Texas Legends.

She is a part of the AVID program and in several core honors classes. Aliyah knows how to bring a smile to everyone’s face—both at home and at school.

River Valley Middle School – Caleb Hathway Caleb Hathway is the son of Jeremy and Laura Hathway of Woodway. Caleb is a member of the A Honor Roll, National Junior Honor Society, and the Robotics Club. He also plays the cello in the school’s chamber orchestra and has earned top scores at Junior Festival and district competitions.

Caleb also plays on the tennis team, and outside of school, he is involved in Highland Baptist Church’s Student Ministry.

Jonathan Melichar, continued received a perfect Composite score of 36 on the ACT. He is an active member of the National Honor Society and the Midway Computer Science UIL teams. Jonathan is also a 2023 National Cyber Scholar with Honors. After graduating in May, he plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in computer engineering.

Mayor Pro Tem Continued from page 7... that leadership based on mutual respect, honesty, passion, listening, and respectfully considering the opinions of others, honoring the experience of our city staff, and then making decisions after careful consideration is an effective way to help guide a diverse, growing community like Hewitt.

Dr. Bruce and her family have lived in Hewitt for 10 years. She has two children and her husband has been an educator for 19 years, currently teaching and coaching for Midway ISD. Article source: cityofhewitt.com

Midway High School – Jonathan Melichar Jonathan Melichar is the son of Ken and the late Cameo Melichar of Hewitt. He is currently Valedictorian for the Midway High School graduating class of 2024. He is a National Merit Commended Student, AP Scholar with Distinction, and

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Very special thanks to our Midway teachers!

14 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

DEAR MIDWAY COMMUNITY, As I reflect on the journey we've shared over the past year, I am continually humbled by the many moments of encouragement and support you have shown Midway ISD. It is an honor to serve as your superintendent, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, passionate parents, and extraordinary students.

First and foremost, I am committed to fostering a culture that values each and every student in Midway ISD and their educational path. Key experiences and interactions are what enrich a student's educational journey. Every aspect of Midway ISD—from academics and activities to our staff, facilities, and beyond—should enhance the moments that matter for our students.

To that end, I am excited to share with you my goals and aspirations for our district. These goals are rooted in our collective vision of providing the best education for every Midway student. In the coming months and years, I look forward to working hand in hand with you. Together, we can make every moment matter for every Midway student.

With Gratitude and Optimism,

Superintendent of Schools, Midway ISD

HewittChamber.com Hewitt Chamber Express | 15

SPORTS Fueling the Fun, igniting the passion where summer and sports unite!

Baseball

girls soccer

cross country

Boys Basketball

tennis

Boys Soccer

Girls Basketball

volleyball

Football

Softball

track

INCOMING K-9TH GRADE

$100 PER SESSION

Check the camp registration website for specific times, dates, and age groups.

Follow us for photos and updates! @Midway Athletics

@MidwayAthletics

@MidwayPanthers

Midway Panthers

16 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

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Hewitt Area Developments Prestige Plaza is Hewitt’s newest retail center on the east end of South Hewitt Drive near the Hewitt Post Office, and a short distance from I-35.

Prestige Plaza serves a large need in the Hewitt and greater Waco communities alike. J-Petal & Poke is located in the Plaza, along with Billy Bob's Burgers Bar & Grill and Generational Family Chiropractic.

Topgolf is located at 2301 Creekview Drive, near the Central Texas Marketplace. The venue utilizes Top Golf’s open-air concept, offering 30 climate-controlled hitting bays complete with ball-tracing technology. In addition, Topgolf offers a miniature golf course and backyard-style lawn

Waco Surf is the brainchild of a group of six rag-tag

spaces—and has become a premier entertainment

dudes and dudettes, each with their own 9-5 jobs and

destination. The facility also offers birthday parties,

full-time family life. Its vibe is heavily inspired by the

corporate training outings and more.

classic summer camps of the 1970s, showcased through

Cinemark Waco, XD and Main Event are now

a collection of vintage furniture and quirky artwork.

open, conveniently located net to Top Golf on I-35,

Featuring the internet-famous Wedge Water Slides, one

offering birthday parties, family-friendly fun, sports

of the longest lazy rivers in Texas, a huge cable park

watching, virtual reality, laser tag and bowling to

circuit with everchanging features, the world-famous

name a few.

surf lagoon (shown above) powered by PerfectSwell

Basin Climbing and Fitness is opening in the Spring of 2024. It will offer an indoor rock-climbing gym aimed at educating and inspiring individuals, friends and family to grow in mind, body and soul.

To stay on top of the

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cabins, several

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RV spots with

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and several bars and food outlets on-site. There’s some-

Photos courtesy of Bradley Turner

18 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

thing for everyone to make it a trip at Waco Surf!

HewittChamber.com Hewitt Chamber Express | 19

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Hewitt Happenings

Special thanks to Raising Cane’s on Hewitt Drive for sponsoring Greater Hewitt Chamber’s 2024 ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

1

3

2

4

It’s always fun with the Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce!

5 22 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

6

1 GHCoC annual Membership Banquet, sponsored by Clint Allen State Farm 2 GHCoC’s Jake Smith and President Shawna Bradfute promoting Hewitt with Shooter FM 3 GHCoC Ambassador Kick-off held at Black Rifle Coffee Company

7

4 New members of GHCoC enjoy an orientation held at the City of Hewitt offices 5 GHCoC President Shawna Bradfute, The Backyard’s Brian Brown, and GHCoC’s Misti Smith and Jake Smith meet to plan a pre-eclipse event coming to The Backyard on April 7 6 Celebrating with Kish’s Complete Car Care Center on their 25th anniversary are members of both GHCoC and the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce

8

7 Allen Samuels House of Travel recently celebrated 50 years in business with a ribbon cutting 8 The Skin Cafe celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon cutting event 9 GHCoC members enjoy a business luncheon at Sleep Inn of Hewitt, with a special presentation by Brett Cox of The Grandson

9 23 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

R E G I S T E R . VO T E . L OV E .

24 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

1.

RE GISTE R YO UR BUSIN E SS

2.

VO TE FO R YO UR FAVO RITE S

3.

SE E WH O TH E LO CA LS LO VE

Business & Industry H

ewitt is a vibrant community for business with a commerce park, an engaged consumer base and easy access to Interstate 35. Located

adjacent to Waco—and in the heart of the Texas Triangle halfway between Austin and Dallas—Hewitt offers the best of living and working. Hewitt is convenient to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center–Hillcrest, Providence Health Center, Baylor University, McLennan Community College and Texas State Technical College Waco.

The I-35 extension of Hewitt Drive is poised for continued positive growth.

Hewitt is known as “The City Where Business Grows.” The Hewitt business climate continues to support a positive economic impact due to the city’s convenient location, travel access, safety and affordability. As a majority of Hewitt’s businesses operate with 5 employees or less, the Greater Hewitt Chamber and City of Hewitt diligently provide opportunity and resources as they continue to thrive.

A new Amazon distribution facility near Hewitt is now up and running,

City of Hewitt Property Tax $ 0.546736 per $100 valuation Owners 73.70% Renters 26.3% Population consists of 47.32% male and 52.69% female. The median age of Hewitt residents is 38. The majority of the population in Hewitt has completed at least some college with 25.78% obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

There are eight colleges and four universities within 50 miles of Hewitt.

Popular programs include Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Business, Management and Marketing.

Hewitt's labor force is 9,063 people, with 62% white collar and 37% blue collar jobs. Leading industries in Hewitt are construction, health care, transportation, education and retail. The majority (68%) of Hewitt businesses have five employees or less.

and our neighbor cities strengthen one another by attracting new residents, visitors and job creation.

A diverse regional economy and housing, nationally-recognized affordable cost of living, favorable property tax rates and competitive incentive packages make Hewitt an attractive location for businesses to grow. Rail service from the Santa Fe railway also connects Hewitt to major distribution centers.

The 900-acre McGregor Municipal Airport—less than 15 minutes from Hewitt—provides air service for single- and multi-engine aircraft as well as helicopters. Waco Regional Airport is served by American Airlines.

McLennan County offers an educated, young labor force with a solid work ethic and a variety of skills. An attractive tax abatement policy is available, and is a positive stop in the city’s continuing efforts to increase Hewitt’s commercial and industrial growth.

Hewitt is the fourth largest city in McLennan County, located eight miles south of Waco. Retail centers have been moving in at a rapid pace, and Hewitt continues to be poised for positive growth.

Centrally located in McLennan County, Hewitt’s convenient location adds convenience when traveling to work (avg. 20 min. commute), to the airport and along Interstate 35. Rail may also be easily accessed. The majority of families bring dual income, are busy and have children living at home.

Hello Bello diaper plant opened with one simple goal: to eliminate the choice many parents have to make— deciding between what’s best for their kids and best for their budget. Hello Bello believes in premium for all, because every baby deserves the best.

Sources for information above: cityofhewitt.com; deptofnumbers.com; datausa.io; wacoprospector.com

25 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

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Codi Horacek

cbtwaco.bank 26 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

27 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Black Rifle Coffee Company serves coffee and culture to people who love America. Founded in 2014 by former U.S. Army Green Beret Evan Hafer, Black Rifle Coffee Company was built upon the mission to serve coffee and culture to people who love America.

Black Rifle stands for more than high-quality coffee. We are a Veteran-founded business operated by principled men and women who honor those who protect, defend, and support our country.

We are proud to continue our father’s legacy as we serve Kerrville and Waco with his same strong work ethic and servitude. We offer not only quality, efficient products and services, but honesty, dependability and affordability. We’re not the cheapest option, but the least expensive one, guaranteed. Call D&D Mechanical for all of your heating/cooling/refrigeration needs at 254-848-8085.

Discover the credit union difference at Heart O’ Texas Federal Credit Union! No matter what stage you’re in on your financial journey, we’re here to assist in achieving your financial goals. We have proudly served Central Texas since 1956, and we take pride in being a member-owned institution—offering higher yields on CDs, checking and savings accounts. We also provide rates on home, auto and personal loans. We are a not-for-profit financial institution. Visit us today or apply online at HOTFCU.org.

Kapturing 360 Moments is a small 360º photo booth offering unlimited digital 360º videos, instant sharing and downloads, custom layout, props, and song choices for your next event.

Book with us to create unforgettable moments. Party packages available. Call 254-730-3637, or visit us on Facebook or Instagram.

28 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

NEW MEMBER

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia—by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®.

Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

SP TLIGHT

Alpha Lit Waco offers custom marquee letters, light up your celebration, light up your life! We rent high-quality, beautifully lit marquee letters for your special events in Waco and surrounding areas.

Customize any occasion with light-up letters, numbers, and symbols to highlight and celebrate life’s greatest moments! We love helping others celebrate key events, milestones, and memories in their lives! Contact us now at info@alphalitwaco.com.

Shorty’s is home-grown, family-owned and operated with two locations—near Baylor University and in Woodway. With one of the largest covered patios in town, a high-quality unfussy menu, and servers who remember your name, it’s a local favorite. We specialize in New York-style pizza—ordered by-the-slice, or get your own whole 14” or 18” pie to share. Try a pizza pillow or enjoy a locally brewed craft beer. Check out our menu online at shortyspizzashack.com.

NEW MEMBER

From business technology support to strategic consulting, we have the solutions for your organization, Not all businesses has their own fully-staffed IT department. Lean On Me IT serves as your dedicated technology partner bringing years of experience and best-in-class vendors to ensure business efficiency and security. We deliver a full range of IT solutions to fit your needs, no matter your company size. We strive to eliminate downtime and minimize your need for IT support and will get you back to work as quickly and painlessly as possible. Call us at 254-300-6213.

SP TLIGHT

From the family who brought you Italian fine dining through Di Campli’s, welcome to La Bottega—a restaurant and more. It’s a taste of Italy and the best Italian cheeses, wines, sandwiches and pizza you’ve ever had! Don’t forget the gelato! La Bottega is also an event venue, ideal for large groups—from family celebrations to business functions. The restaurant is also a market, offering imported cheeses and other high-quality charcuterie items. Visit us in Woodway, online at labottegawaco.com, or call 254-294-8509.

Waco Axe Company is proud to be locally-owned and operated.

We started in 2019 with a mobile axe-throwing trailer axe-cited to bring a new form of entertainment to Waco! Our retail location doors at 1526 Washington Avenue opened in 2020. Owners Thomas Ellis and Cody Beeler are dedicated to continuing to offer Waco the best axe-throwing experience! Visit us online at wacoaxeco.com or give us a call at 254-300-6697.

WeCoat is Central Texas’ source for durable and stylish concrete floor coatings for residential and commercial properties. Easy to clean and skid-resistant, it’s perfect for garages, basements, patios, pool decks, showrooms and more. With fast turnaround, quality workmanship and friendly service, our team delivers a superior product that will last for years, backed by an outstanding warranty.

Give us a call at 254-300-1148 or visit wecoatflooring.com.

Established in 1925, Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home is now a fifth-generation family-owned and operated establishment. We offer a range of services tailored to fit your needs and budget— whether for a traditional funeral, graveside service, memorial, or cremation. We’re there even after the funeral, our concierge estate specialist will help settle the estate with anything that does not require an attorney. We even help contact Social Security. Call us at 254-753-3691 or visit whbfamily.com for more information.

29 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

Life insurance can be lifechanging

Richard Kruger, Agent 7213 New Sanger Ave. Waco, TX 76712 Bus: 254-776-4593 www.rkruger.com

Life won’t always go as planned. That’s why there’s life insurance. It can help you protect your family’s future, no matter what happens.

Call me today.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 2001574

A valuable resource for you that’s available 24/7/365

HewittChamber.com Helpful networking tips Complete member list Calendar of upcoming events and more!

30 | Hewitt Chamber Express | Spring 2024

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PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID AMA GRAPHICS, LLC

P.O. Box 661 Hewitt, Texas 76643

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Working together for your financial future

John M Maddux Financial Advisor 400 Sapphire Hewitt, TX 76643 254-666-9009