Business Images Texas Forest Country 2010

BUSINESS

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What’ss Onlinee Take a video tour off the “First Town in Texas”

TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Mother Nature’s Beauty Secrets Tall trees, open water make it easy to get outdoors

Where Success Takes Root Region nurtures favorable climate for business

They Came, They Sawed, They Prospered Timber industry helps grow economy SPONSORED BY THE TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY PARTNERSHIP | 2010

936-634-1054 www.pinecrestrc.org Peace of Mind. Wonderful People.

Beautiful Surroundings.

Great Service.

Compassionate Care.

Come see for yourself …

PineCrest – a great place to call home.

The only full-service retirement community in the Texas Forest Country.

From the very moment you move in …

Life begins again!

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BUSINESS ®

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Workstyle Global Reach

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The region’s specialty manufacturers build success at home and overseas.

They Came, They Sawed, They Prospered

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Timber is a green industry in the Texas Forest Country.

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Rest Easy

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The region’s superior quality of life, low cost and ease of access offer retirees everything they need.

Mother Nature’s Beauty Secrets

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Tall trees, big skies and open water make it easy to get outside.

Table of Contents Continued

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ON THE COVER The Texas Forest Country is rich in natural assets, including the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area in the Davy Crockett National Forest. PHOTO BY J. KYLE KEENER

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Insight Overview

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Business Almanac

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Business Climate: Where Success Takes Root

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Transportation

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Energy/Technology

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Economic Profile

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Livability Downtown Upswing

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Gallery

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Health

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Education

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Special advertising section: Lufkin/Angelina County

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All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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BUSINESS ®

TEXAS FO RES T CO U NTRY 2010 EDITION , VOLUME 1 MANAGING EDITOR BILL McMEEKIN COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS ASSOCIATE EDITORS LISA BATTLES, JESSY YANCEY STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS PAMELA COYLE, MICHAELA JACKSON, JOE MORRIS DATA MANAGER CHANDRA BRADSHAW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER CHARLES FITZGIBBON INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER TRIP MILLER SALES SUPPORT MANAGER CINDY HALL SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN McCORD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, J. KYLE KEENER PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT MANAGER ANNE WHITLOW CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS MELISSA BRACEWELL, KATIE MIDDENDORF, JILL WYATT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS LEAD DESIGNER ALISON HUNTER GRAPHIC DESIGN ERICA HINES, JESSICA MANNER, JANINE MARYLAND, MARCUS SNYDER WEB IMPLEMENTATION DIRECTOR ANDY HARTLEY WEB DESIGN DIRECTOR FRANCO SCARAMUZZA WEB CONTENT MANAGER JOHN HOOD WEB PROJECT MANAGER YAMEL RUIZ WEB DESIGN LEAD LEIGH GUARIN WEB PRODUCTION JENNIFER GRAVES COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN AD TRAFFIC MARCIA MILLAR, PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER V.P./SALES HERB HARPER V.P./SALES TODD POTTER V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS V.P./CUSTOM PUBLISHING KIM NEWSOM MANAGING EDITOR/COMMUNITY KIM MADLOM MANAGING EDITOR/TRAVEL SUSAN CHAPPELL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY SIMPSON DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR YANCEY TURTURICE IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A

Business Images Texas Forest Country is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Texas Forest Country Partnership.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Texas Forest Country Partnership P.O. Box 747 • Lufkin, TX 75902 Phone: (936) 632-3552 • Fax: (936) 632-3556 www.texasforestcountry.com

VISIT BUSINESS IMAGES TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY ONLINE AT IMAGESTXFORESTCOUNTRY.COM ©Copyright 2009 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

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W What’s s Onlinee Take a video tour of the “First Town in Texas”

TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Mother Nature’s Beauty Secrets Tall trees, open water make it easy to get outdoors

Where Success Takes Root Region nurtures favorable climate for business

Lifestyle A showcase for what drives the Texas Forest Country’s high quality of life

They Came, They Sawed, They Prospered Timber industry helps grow economy SPONSORED BY THE TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY PARTNERSHIP | 2010

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NEWS AND NOTES >> Get the Inside Scoop on the latest developments in the Texas Forest Country from our editors and business insiders

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SUCCESS BREEDS SUCCESS >> Meet the people setting the pace for Texas Forest Country business DIG DEEPER >> Log into the community with links to local Web sites and resources to give you the big picture of the Texas Forest Country DATA CENTRAL >> A by-the-numbers look at doing business and living in the Texas Forest Country

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Where Texas History Began …

Visitors get more than a snapshot of the early days of the Texas Republic. San Augustine was the first town on the El Camino Real after crossing the Sabine. San Augustine was the birthplace of Protestant religion in Texas and home of three universities, including San Augustine University, chartered in 1837. Historic churches blend into the tree-lined landscape along with historic homes and buildings from Greek revival to Victorian. More than 50 historical markers tell the story of San Augustine!

The renovation of our 1927 Courthouse was made possible with a grant received from the Texas Historical Commission and plans are in place to replicate the 1717 Mission Dolores.

Antique and specialty shopping is plentiful in our historic downtown district. You will be delighted to find several businesses offering the latest in fashion and jewelry designs to antiques, gifts, Cookie Factory and the world-famous refreshing grapefruit high ball available at the old fashion soda fountain. You will find we are “Quite Naturally the friendliest downtown in Texas”.

In 2005, San Augustine was designated by the Texas Department of Agriculture as one of the 10 “Texas Yes! Hardworking Rural Communities” in Texas. San Augustine County was the 8th community in Texas to join the Texas Department of Agriculture’s elite group of Texas Communities dedicated to making our state a great place to live, visit and retire.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Mission Dolores Museum and Visitors Center and the 1839 Ezekiel Cullen House, which houses the Seymour Thomas Art Gallery. Stroll our nature trail and enjoy the great outdoors identifying the many species of birds found along the trail – a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Care & Rehab, Colonial Pines Health Care, Trinity Rehab and Retirement Center as well as El Camino House Assisted Living Center provide personal and professional care for their residents.

The City of Broaddus is the gateway to Lake Sam Rayburn, which is one of the most popular recreation areas in East Texas.

Walking trails lead from Mission Dolores Visitors Center to a 17-acre RV Park with 32 level and paved full hook-up sites. The park features clean restrooms and shower facilities, picnic area and group pavilion.

The park is owned and operated by the City of San Augustine.

For reservations call (936) 275-3815 or (936) 275-1108.

Abundant wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities will provide hours of outdoor fun and relaxation. Hunting and fishing are year round activities in San Augustine County.

Year round activities provided by the San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce, Civic Clubs and area businesses provides family entertainment. The January Chamber banquet recognizes those who have contributed to the continuing success and progress of the County.

February brings our “Night of the Stars” with live performances on stage. March brings the Junior Livestock Show and Fair Auction for our 4-H Clubs. May brings the excitement and completion of our PRCA Rodeo as well as the 200-mile El Camino Real “Sale on the Trail”.

September is busy with the Civic Auction. October is filled with the popular Sassafras Festival, which spotlights crafters and artisans, live entertainments and re-enactments. December brings the Christmas season as we celebrate our heritage at the El Camino Christmas Festival and Christmas lighting program.

San Augustine is located on the National Historic Trail El Camino Real (Hwy. 21) and US Hwy. 96, 35 miles west of Louisiana. We are equal distances between Lake Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend Reservoir as well as the Angelina National Forest and Sabine National Forest.

Come for a visit – plan to stay!

San Augustine Public Library provides the traditional library services, several computers are available for research and communication. Copy and fax services available. Programs for children and adults are coordinated throughout the year.

San Augustine has a broad range of medical facilities. Memorial Health Systems of East Texas provides care to local residents and has paved the way for quality, innovative health care in East Texas. After months of planning and waiting, San Augustine’s dialysis center is now open. The hospital not only specializes in emergency care, but it also is home to comprehensive diagnostic testing, kidney and dialysis treatments, and inpatient hospital care. Highly skilled nursing homes such as Twin Lakes

San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce (936) 275-3610

City of San Augustine (936) 275-2121

www.sanaugustinetx.com

Overview

The Texas Forest Country Is A Great Place To Live and Grow recreation opportunities. Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Toledo Bend Reservoir and Livingston Lake are a haven for boaters, anglers and water enthusiasts, and the region boasts five national forests, a draw for hikers, campers and bird watchers.

With its more relaxed pace free from the noise and congestion of big cities, but with close proximity to large urban areas and the amenities they provide, the Texas Forest Country offers unlimited opportunities for economic prosperity and an outstanding quality of life.

the region has a skilled workforce.

With their hometown feel, low cost of living, wide range of living options and amenities of larger cities, the communities of the Texas Forest Country are magnets for retirees. Several communities participate in the GO TEXAN Certified Retirement Community Program, ensuring that they offer retirees desired services and options.

The 13 counties boast revitalized and active downtowns, an impressive array of arts, cultural and historic attractions, and an abundance of

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he 13-county Texas Forest Country is a vibrant and growing area of more than 390,000 people in the heart of some of the nation’s most beautiful forests and waterways.

Low tax rates, a competitive cost structure, solid transportation access, proximity to major markets, an abundance of water, and stellar health and education providers have created an economy that is diverse, sophisticated and vibrant.

The Texas Forest Country is home to major energy operations, timber and logging concerns, and a cadre of manufacturers, including homegrown successes, such as Lufkin Industries, Temple-Inland, Texas Forest Products and Port-A-Cool.

The region has become a nucleus of high-quality health-care providers whose investment in the latest treatments and innovation in care have earned national awards and acclaim far beyond the Texas Forest Country.

Stephen F. Austin State University is a major academic and research center that contributes to the educational, cultural and economic stability of the region, and community colleges such as Angelina College and Panola College work closely with business and industry to ensure

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Almanac SAN JACINTO COUNTY

HISTORY BEHIND BARS The Old Jail Museum and Old Town complex in Coldspring in San Jacinto County includes a collection of historic buildings and memorabilia of yesteryear.

The museum is housed in a restored jail built in 1887 and used as a lockup as recently as 1980.

Museum artifacts, such as farm and forest implements, household articles and historic photos help interpret the life of early settlers.

Old Town’s center square is the site of a two-story wooden courthouse destroyed by fire in 1915 and includes numerous historic buildings, including a post office, schoolhouse and general store. For more, go to oldtowncoldspring.tripod.com.

HOUSTON COUNTY

THE CAMP WHERE LIGHTNIN’ THUNDERED The Camp Street Cafe & Store in Houston County is a Texas Forest Country fixture. Each Saturday night and some weekdays, the stage of the Crockett venue attracts performers who play everything from cowboy songs to blues to Irish music.

The tin building with a high, false front was built in 1931 and has seen its share of stars grace its stage.

Legendary blues performer Lightnin’ Hopkins performed there in the mid-1930s, and a statue commemorating his relationship with Crockett sits across the street facing the stage he once occupied. For more, go to www.campstreetcafe.com.

NEWTON COUNTY

FINE FEATHERS, FRIENDS The Texas Forest Country is a bird-watching paradise, and Newton County has a number of prime spots that, thanks to its locale and habitat, offer year-round opportunities to see a variety of species.

Bald eagles, for example, can be spotted frequently in the Toledo Bend Dam area in winter, and several other species use the forests as places to rest and look for food during spring and fall migrations.

The Newton County Chamber of Commerce maintains lists of birding sites, birding information, maps for self-guided trips and a listing of local birding guides. For more, go to www.newton-texas.com and see the Tourism tab.

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SHELBY COUNTY

PASSPORT NOT REQUIRED The only marker of an international boundary that is known to exist within the continental United States is located west of Joaquin in Shelby County.

The marker is located on the Texas-Louisiana border about 50 yards north of Texas Farm Road 31. The site was once the boundary between the United States and the Republic of Texas in 1840.

SABINE, SAN AUGUSTINE AND NACOGDOCHES COUNTIES

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HISTORY Designated as a National Historic Trail in 2004, the El Camino Real de los Tejas has existed for more than 300 years.

Marked by the Spaniards and the French, the trail was followed by such men as Moses Austin and his son, Stephen Fuller Austin (the Father of Texas), Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett, Sam Houston and early missionaries of multiple faiths.

TYLER COUNTY

PASS THE CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS

The trail, sometimes called the San Antonio Road, starts in Natchitoches, La., and winds through several Texas Forest Country counties, including Sabine, San Augustine and Nacogdoches, on its way to Mexico.

Go to www.elcaminorealdelostejas.org for more on the trail.

The pioneer spirit is alive at Heritage Village in Woodville in Tyler County, which preserves life in the region from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.

The village includes an old-time blacksmith shop, railroad depot, livery stable and replica log cabins. The Pickett House Restaurant serves boarding house-style meals, including such staples as fried chicken and chicken and dumplings.

The village also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. The Harvest Festival, held the third weekend in October, is billed as the largest fall folk-life festival in East Texas. Go to www.heritage-village.org for more.

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SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY

ACCOMPLISHED MISSION

PANOLA COUNTY

Mission Nuestra Senora de los Dolores de los Ais in San Augustine County was established in 1717 and is among the earliest Spanish missions in Texas.

LONG LIVE THE SINGING COWBOY

The mission is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a designated State Archeological Landmark.

A visitor center houses interactive and interpretive displays relating to the mission and its storied history.

The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame was formed in 1998 to celebrate the contributions Texans have made to the uniquely American musical genre.

The site includes a 17-acre RV park.

For more, go to www.missionrv. sanaugustinetx.com.

POLK COUNTY

LONG-TIME RESIDENTS

The 13,000-square-foot hall in Carthage highlights individuals recognized nationally as outstanding in their field.

The museum includes exhibits, a gift shop and a large banquet room. The complex includes an exhibit commemorating Panola County native Jim Reeves, and the Tex Ritter Museum, which showcases the life of the famed singing cowboy, who also grew up in Panola County.

Go to www.carthagetexas.com/ HallofFame/index.html for more on the museum.

In the midst of the Big Thicket National Forest in Polk County is Texas’ oldest Indian reservation, home of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas.

The tribe has lived in the region since the late 1700s.

General Sam Houston established the 4,600 acres of timberland in the heart of the Big Thicket in 1854 as a reward to the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe for its display of courage in remaining neutral during Texas’ fight for independence from Mexico.

Today, the tribe offers a number of services, ranging from health care to education to recreation, and promotes economic development opportunities for the reservation and tribal members. For more on the Alabama-Coushatta, go to www.alabama-coushatta.com.

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Business Climate

Where Success Takes Root Texas Forest Country nurtures favorable climate for business Story by Michaela Jackson • Photography by J. Kyle Keener

low cost infrastucture resources

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hough the Texas Forest Country is not home to mammoth cities, the economic development specialists and business leaders who promote the region understand that a strong business climate is vital, whether the population is 500 or 5 million.

“A number of communities have grown their business bases to the point that the amenities are here,” says Charlie Dromgoole, president of the Texas Forest Country Partnership.

“You’re able to maintain that hometown feel, but still have the services and capabilities that you would find in a lot of larger places.”

The 13-county region has parlayed its low tax rates, competitive cost structure, solid transportation infrastructure, proximity to major markets, abundance of water, major health and education providers, and superior quality of life into a diverse, sophisticated and vibrant economy.

The corporate roster includes major operations for household names such as Lockheed Martin, Georgia Pacific, Pilgrim’s Pride and Tyson.

And homegrown innovation has spawned major employers such as

Lufkin Industries is the world’s largest producer of surface mounted oil field pumping units.

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

13 Heads Are Better Than 1 Temple-Inland, a $4 billion global manufacturer of building products and corrugated packaging with roots in Diboll. The company’s Building Products Division, which produces lumber, gypsum board and fiberboard products for residential and commercial use, is based in Diboll.

Lufkin Industries Inc., based in Angelina County for more than 100 years, designs, engineers, manufactures and services oil field equipment and power transmission products sold around the world.

Its revenues top $740 million and it employs more than 3,000, including more than 1,200 in the Lufkin area.

Nacogdoches-based Elliott Electric Supply is a major player in the electrical distribution and industrial automation industries. Founded in 1972, it has grown to more than 95 locations in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and New Mexico. The company, which employs more than 800, had sales in 2008 topping $382 million.

Lufkin-based Brookshire Brothers/ Polk Oil Co. operates more than 70 grocery stores, 30 convenience stores and a fuel distribution operation.

Chance Construction in Hemphill specializes in retrofitting large retailers, and its client list includes the likes of Lowe’s and Walmart.

The region’s business climate is aided by its proximity to major markets. Houston Intercontinental Airport, for example, is about 90 minutes from Lufkin via U.S. Highway 59. The region also offers easy access to Dallas, and being between the two metros is an advantage many employers can’t ignore, Dromgoole says.

In Center, General Shelters of Texas Ltd. is one of the nation’s leading producers of portable buildings for residential, agriculture, military,

By the Numbers

390,524 Population of the 13-county region

178,790 Labor force in the 13 counties

$35,515 Median household income in the region

$653 Average weekly wage in 2008 Source: quickfacts.census.gov

construction, oil field and other applications. The company has produced more than 100,000 buildings since its founding in 1973.

David Koonce, vice president and a minority owner of General Shelters, says one of the Texas Forest Country’s notable business advantages is found in its quality of life.

Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Toledo Bend Reservoir and an abundance of national forests anchor a diverse recreational landscape. Communities have preserved and enhanced their historic downtowns, creating vibrant town centers with unique shops, galleries and restaurants, and the region boasts cultural attractions to rival any large metro.

“It’s a great place to live,” Koonce says. “I’ve heard outsiders say when they come in to visit that we’ve got a lot going on for such a small town – we’ve got a lot more going on than what’s normal for a town of our size.”

Chance Construction, which specializes in retrofitting large retail establishments around the country, has aided downtown revitalization efforts in its hometown of Hemphill.

Born from efforts in 1960 to develop recreational opportunities from the creation of Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Toledo Bend Reservoir, the group now known as the Texas Forest Country Partnership is still deeply committed to seeking and capitalizing on economic development throughout its 13-county region.

“The purpose has been to bring together industry leaders, public officials, concerned citizens and government to advance regional initiatives,” says Charlie Dromgoole, TFCP president.

In addition to tourism development, the organization has promoted transportation initiatives, targeted key industries for job growth, helped existing industries stay competitive and promoted the region’s abundant natural resources.

The TFCP is a major driver of strategic efforts to showcase the region’s attributes as a prime retirement locale through such avenues as the state’s Certified Retirement Communities program.

A business retention and expansion program is also on the books. A custom software package will allow economic developers to build and maintain a regional employer database, and surveys distributed to business owners will hone efforts to support existing industry throughout the region.

Ultimately, Dromgoole says, the TFCP is a champion for smaller communities that don’t have the resources to aggressively pursue new investment or expansion.

“When they’re going together as a region, it gives them a lot more capabilities,” he says.

The TFC Partnership can be contacted at (936) 632-3552 or at www.texasforestcountry.com.

– Michaela Jackson I M A G E S T X F O R E S T C O U N T R Y. C O M

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Global Reach Specialty manufacturers find success at home and overseas

Story by Pamela Coyle • Photography by J. Kyle Keener

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pecialty manufacturing has forged a long history in the Texas Forest Country, turning out diverse products that reach across the United States and the globe.

Fortune 1000 companies, such as building materials heavyweight Temple-Inland and oil field equipment maker Lufkin Industries, grew from its soil and are still major presences in the region.

Family-owned companies are a big part of the region’s manufacturing base, which numbers some 26,300 workers.

In 1951, two brothers started Bright Coop after local chicken haulers expressed a need for wooden coops to get their birds to market.

The company, based in Nacogdoches, changed with the times, turning to plastic and metal coops and adding trailers and forklifts tailored for the poultry industry. Charles Bright, the younger brother, still runs the business.

Texas Farm Products Co. started in 1930 in Nacogdoches and makes livestock feed and pet foods, including premium and holistic offerings, sold under labels such as Precept and Precise. A new line will debut in spring 2010.

“Pet food has evolved, and the botanical ingredients that Nacogdoches’ Bright Coop is an innovator in live-poultry-handling equipment and machines to unload poultry cages.

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Major Industry • Pilgrim’s Pride, 2,500 • Lufkin Industries, 1,218 • Georgia Pacific, 1,050 • Tyson Foods, 800 • Temple-Inland, 500 • Atkinson Candy, 200 • Cooper Power Systems, 200 • RR Donnelley, 200 • Parker Hannifin Corp., 161 • Texas Forest Products Co., 160 • Lockheed Martin, 150

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you find in a health food store for humans is what dog and cat owners want for their pets,” says CEO Bud Wright, the founder’s grandson.

The company employs about 160; the pet food ships to 30 countries; some lines, including ANF and Precept, are for the international market.

Wright estimates the business is evenly split between livestock feed and pet food, and Nacogdoches provides good access to markets for both. Regionally, small towns in East Texas and Louisiana are big destinations for Lone Star Feeds. The Port of Houston makes international shipping of pet foods convenient, though items destined for Asian markets are moved by rail from Houston to the Port of Long Beach in California.

Proximity to ports, major interstates and key markets, plus low land costs and an ample workforce, make the Texas Forest Country fertile ground for manufacturing investment.

In 1996, Vincent Vernon and his wife started Showcase Systems in Carthage in Panola County.

The company designs and builds bottling plants and has worked in the Middle East, the Caribbean, Canada and Mexico, some 20 different countries in all, Vernon says.

About 60 percent of Showcase’s business involves milk, water and juice. Detergents and

bleach account for 30 percent. The remaining 10 percent is a mix that includes fluids for the agriculture and chemical markets, plus other odds and ends.

“The part of the plant that makes and fills the bottles is the same whether [the product is] windshield fluid or milk,” says Vernon, adding that Showcase is working on a new project with a California company to package powdered nutritional supplements.

In Shelby County, Port-A-Cool LLC manufactures portable cooling units for garages, warehouses and other similar sites.

In 2009, the company introduced a new line of smaller, quieter units that can supplement home air conditioning systems.

All the company’s products use evaporative cooling, a technology that has made some strides since ancient Egyptians hung wet towels in the heat. Port-A-Cool is seeing growth in the residential market, says spokesman Leon Aldridge.

Customers also buy units to cool outdoor pool and patio areas. Evaporative cooling is gaining favor in the push for cleaner energy.

“The fact that it is a natural process calls attention to it,” Aldridge says.

Sugarcoating It ATKINSON CANDY TREATS SWEET TOOTH FOR THREE GENERATIONS

Port-A-Cool in Center makes portable evaporative cooling units that are shipped globally. Top: Bright Coop, started in Nacogdoches in 1930, has added trailers and forklifts tailored for the poultry industry to its product roster.

Atkinson Candy Co. in Lufkin has had only three presidents in 78 years. The recipe for Chick-o-Stick, a signature product that has nothing to do with chicken and everything to do with peanuts, has never changed.

Nor have the formulas for Mint Twists, made with true peppermint extract, or Peanut Butter Bars, a crispy, crunchy, flaky classic, or Coconut Long Boys, a chewy coconut and caramel concoction.

“Quality never goes out of style,” says Eric Atkinson, president and owner.

But Atkinson Candy is not stuck in the past.

The company makes sugar-free options for customers who need or want to control their sugar intake. In 2007, Gemstone, a new line of premium hard candies, hit the market in a move Atkinson says represented “a new effort to take the high ground in quality confections.”

Atkinson is meeting the challenges of competing with larger U.S. companies and overseas candy makers by sticking with the classics it does well, adding new products and expanding to include a factory in Guatemala.

“We are going to go where we can get business back,” Atkinson says.

The company is preparing to add 25,000 square feet to its existing 100,000-square- foot facility, an expansion that may add 30 people to a workforce of about 200.

“Our production flow is completely maxed out,” Atkinson says.

Atkinson’s roots are local, but its reach is broad. The company sells candy in every U.S. state and several foreign countries. It produces to order, and customers include most major supermarket chains and “just about every place that sells candy,” Atkinson says.

And high quality doesn’t come with a high price. “We make candy for the people,” Atkinson says.

– Pamela Coyle I M A G E S T X F O R E S T C O U N T R Y. C O M

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They Came, They Sawed,

They Prospered Timber is a green industry in the Texas Forest Country

Story by Joe Morris Photography by J. Kyle Keener

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imber is big business in the Lone Star State, no place more so than in East Texas and its 12 million forested acres.

The Timber Belt, which includes the Texas Forest Country, sprouted an industry with an economic impact calculated at $12 billion in 2007, according to a report by the Texas Forest Service. Factoring in the statewide industry, the dollar amount nearly triples to more than $33 billion.

“The employment factor – it’s major,” says Ron Hufford, executive vice president of the Texas Forestry Association.

“This industry contributes a lot to the economic development and the growth of East Texas.”

Statewide, the forest sector generated 166,071 jobs in 2007, 78,358 of which were direct employees of the industry.

Nearly 34 percent of direct jobs were in East Texas.

For every direct timber job, roughly 1.1 jobs are At Angelina Hardwood Sales, a third-generation wood drying and machining company in Lufkin, stacks of some of the world’s finest wood will be transformed into flooring for truck trailers, railroad cars and military vehicles.

1000

Delivered value of Texas forest industry harvest chart is in millions of dollars

800

600

400

200

0 2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

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created outside the industry. Businesses far beyond the edge of the forest benefit from the impact of logging operations.

“It is a major impact on our economy,” Hufford says.

“When a mill opens up, or when a mill has a presence in East Texas, that one mill affects the logging contractors, the land managers, the banks and the equipment dealers.”

That includes businesses such as Angelina Hardwood Sales in Lufkin, a third-generation family company that specializes in producing wooden floors for truck trailers, rail cars and military vehicles.

Timber is Texas’s seventh-heftiest agricultural commodity, generating more than $830 million in sales in 2007, which is significant given its concentration along the state’s eastern edge. Texas trees, which are mostly of the pine and hardwood varieties, are used to make everything from paper to utility poles.

Texas Forest Country timber owners are innovating their way to the cutting edge of the green effort. Woody biomass energy production facilities are on the horizon, and carbon sequestering is becoming a popular option among both forest owners and

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major corporations looking to offset their carbon footprint.

Trees store carbon naturally, and as companies seek to green up their images and habits, they are purchasing carbon storage (i.e. trees) to negate the carbon emissions produced by their operation. The result is a new stream of income for forest owners and carbon-neutral corporations.

“Forests have been providing a lot of benefits to society sort of for free for a long time, and landowners have been providing that for free,” says Burl Carraway, department head of sustainable forestry at the Texas Forest Service.

“So now, if we can commoditize that, and put a dollar amount on it, I think it’s a great opportunity for landowners.”

Carraway notes that he’s proud of the forest industry’s heritage, and the need for 2x4s and paper isn’t going away anytime soon. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for new applications of one of Texas’s greatest natural resources.

“I like the combination of traditional forestry with these new opportunities,” he says. “And sometimes they’re not mutually exclusive. I think it’s going to be possible to do both, and that is a very good thing.”

628.8 million

$834.5 million

78,358

1.1

Cubic feet of timber produced in Texas in 2007

Total delivered value of timber produced in 2007

Direct employment in Texas timber industry, with a third in East Texas

Jobs created outside the timber industry for every direct job in the industry

TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

The timber industry is an important component of the Texas Forest Country economy. Top: Angelina Hardwood Sales is a third-generation family business in Lufkin. Bottom Left: At Temple-Inland in Diboll, wood chips will be processed into a variety of building products.

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Rest Easy Retirees find appeal in Texas Forest Country’s lifestyle Story by Pamela Coyle • Photography by J. Kyle Keener

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inda Parker sees the evidence on the road as she makes her rounds as a rural economic specialist in East Texas for the state Department of Agriculture.

License plates from Nebraska, Indiana, Illinois and other Midwest states are everywhere, many belonging to retirees drawn to the region for its fabulous fishing. Vehicles from California often belong to transplants seeking a lower cost of living. Weary of hurricanes, Florida folks are coming, too.

Texas is making a big push to attract retirees, and the Texas Forest Country is in the thick of it. Panola, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine and Shelby counties are part of the state’s GO TEXAN Certified Retirement Community Program, as is the city of Lufkin. Nacogdoches County was one of the first three communities in Texas to be certified. The region is popular “because we have everything they are looking for even if they are looking for different things,” Parker says.

Birding, fishing, nature trails, housing options, abundant health care, volunteer opportunities, local arts and reasonable

In her back yard at the Woods at PineCrest patio homes, part of the PineCrest Retirement Community in Lufkin, transplanted retiree Marguerite Garrett takes a cutting of crepe myrtle.

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Golden Opportunities

No. 2 Rank of Texas as a retirement state

22 Percentage of Texans who will reach retirement age by 2030

$751 million Estimated annual economic impact in Texas from migrating retiree-age individuals

$36,000 Average yearly expenditure by retirees

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living and business costs make the Texas Forest Country an attractive destination.

The GO TEXAN program estimates that one retired couple has the same economic impact as 3.7 factory jobs. Retired people, as a rule, bring in twice as much revenue as the cost of the services they need.

Winning GO TEXAN certification is not easy. Counties and cities must submit a 200-page application. The rigorous review looks at employment data, volunteer opportunities, recreational amenities, medical facilities, housing options and cultural offerings.

San Augustine received certification in December 2007.

Liz Ware, executive director of the San Augustine Chamber of Commerce, cites top-notch medical care, low crime, great fishing and recreation options, education opportunities and “pride as a place with people who take care of each other.”

“This is a very peaceful community,” Ware says. “There is opportunity to have carefree living.”

Texas has at least 3.8 million people at retirement age now; projections boost that to 6.9 million by 2020.

Paul and Tassie Edwards settled on Lufkin. They moved

from Baytown in the Houston area in April 2008 to an apartment at PineCrest Retirement Community. Paul joined the Lufkin Rotary Club; they both play bingo and take advantage of entertainment that comes to PineCrest. A shuttle makes trips downtown for doctor appointments, shopping excursions and arts outings.

“We are having the time of our lives,” Tassie Edwards says. “Everyone took us in like we were long-lost friends.”

With no family in the region, the Edwards take comfort knowing that higher levels of care are offered at PineCrest if they need them.

PineCrest is a Certified Continuing Care Retirement Community. Along with apartments and patio homes, specialized facilities are tailored for residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia problems. Full skilled nursing care is available, too.

Three hundred people call PineCrest home, including 84 in apartments and 24 in assisted living, and demand is high, says Juli Cook, director of admissions and marketing.

“Lufkin has distinguished itself,” she says. “There is a lot of community involvement and volunteerism and giving back to the community.”

During senior fitness class at the Pinecrest Retirement Community in Lufkin, Dot Brookshire, center, gets in a workout. The class, held three times a week, is led by a certified exercise therapist.

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Beauty Secrets The Texas Forest Country offers tall trees, big skies, open water Story by Joe Morris Photography by J. Kyle Keener

W

hether it’s locals having fun on the weekend or visitors checking out some Texas-style scenery, outside is the place to be in the Texas Forest Country.

The region is rich in natural assets, creating an array of outdoor recreation opportunities, from hunting and fishing to boating and bird watching.

The 635-acre Lake Livingston State Park adjoins a 90,000-acre lake that touches Polk, San Jacinto and Trinity counties and attracts around 78,000 visitors a year, says Wilburn Cox, park superintendent.

“We really do get people from all over the country and the world,” Cox says of the park, which opened in 1977.

The 144,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir is known as one of the top five bass fisheries in the United States and hosts more than 300 fishing The 114,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir is just one of the many outdoor recreation draws in the Texas Forest Country.

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Branch Offices Davy Crockett National Forest • More than 160,000 acres. Includes Ratcliff Lake Recreational Area, Big Slough Wilderness Area and Piney Creek Horse Trail, with more than 50 miles of trails.

Angelina National Forest • 153,000 acres in Angelina, Nacogdoches, San Augustine and Jasper counties.

Sabine National Forest • 160,000 acres on the Texas-Louisiana border.

Sam Houston National Forest • 163,000 acres in San Jacinto County.

Includes hiking trails, camping areas and wilderness habitats.

Big Thicket National Preserve • Straddles Jasper, Tyler and San Augustine counties. Home to 85 tree species, 1,000 flowering plants, 186 kinds of birds and 50 reptile species.

tournaments each year. Sam Rayburn, which touches Jasper, Tyler, Angelina, Nacogdoches, San Augustine and Sabine counties, includes a number of boat ramps and parks, many with full camping facilities.

A joint project of Texas and Louisiana, 185,000-acre Toledo Bend Reservoir, which touches Sabine, Shelby and Panola counties, is the largest man-made reservoir in the South, with 1,200 miles of shoreline.

As befitting its name, the Texas Forest Country includes five national forests.

Among them is Davy Crockett National Forest in Houston and Trinity counties, the largest national forest in Texas and home to Ratcliff Lake Recreational Area, which surrounds

a 45-acre lake and includes a fishing pier.

The parks, forests and waterways tie in with other sites that promote and encourage eco-tourism in the region, says Betty Russo, project coordinator of the Texas Pineywoods Experience.

The sustainable tourist program is associated with The Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit that works to protect the country’s landscapes and waterways.

Since 2006, the Pineywoods Experience (www.texaspineywoodsexperience.org) has worked to promote the region by highlighting its natural beauty and various historic sites, as well as acquiring available land, all of which help local communities flourish, Russo says.

Left: Anglers enjoy the Texas Forest Country’s abundance of well-stocked waterways. Right: The region features a wealth of top-flight golf courses, such as Crown Colony Country Club in Lufkin.

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Long Off the Tee

TODD BENNET T

QUALITY COURSES ARE A STAPLE OF THE REGION

The Conservation Fund recently purchased 6,600 acres in the Beaumont area and donated it back to the Big Thicket National Preserve.

“It’s an incredibly diverse area,” Russo says. “When we do things like that, people come to see the area, and that helps local businesses that are tourism dependent.”

The region’s bountiful recreation opportunities lend themselves to cultural and heritage tourism, Russo says, because they tend to draw the all-important family demographic.

“When you’ve always been all about conservation and recreation, it’s a new thought process to suddenly start thinking about heritage tourism,” Russo says. “But tourism and economic

development work hand in hand.”

Everything from the new Northeast Texas Winery Trail to tours through the remains of German POW camps established in East Texas during World War II are in the works, she says. And they’ll no doubt benefit from the boaters, water skiers, campers and hikers that Cox sees at Lake Livingston.

“We did a study a couple of years ago that showed us bringing in around $3 million in outside revenue to the community, because we’re one of the main draws,” she says. “But when they’re here, they like to be able to go to other places, and so we work with our surrounding counties to help promote that.”

The Texas Forest Country boasts a wealth of public and private golf courses, many of championship caliber.

Favorable weather year-round attracts not only local players but vacationing golfers as well.

In Lufkin, the signature 18-hole Crown Colony Country Club has been consistently ranked among the top 10 in all of Texas. The club, with its 6,692-yard course, offers a number of golf packages that include greens fees, meals and accommodations.

The area is also home to the 18-hole Neches Pines Golf Course in Diboll, and, the 18-hole Lufkin Country Club.

Cape Royale Golf Course in San Jacinto County is a 6,088-yard, 18-hole track set along the rolling hills on the western shores of Lake Livingston.

In Nacogdoches, the private Piney Woods Country Club features a championship 18-hole golf course, as well as tennis courts and a swimming pool.

The public Woodland Hills Golf Club in Nacogdoches features a championship 18-hole course and driving ranges.

Rayburn Country Resort in Jasper County features three distinct nine-hole courses laid out by renowned designers Jay Reviere, Robert Trent Jones and Robert von Hagge. The resort offers a number of vacation packages aimed at golfers.

Trinity County is home to Westwood Shores Golf Club, Lake Estates Golf Club and Whispering Pines Golf Club, a nationally renowned course and resort that features a unique philanthropic golf membership program.

Dogwood Hills Country Club in Tyler County is a 3,010-yard, nine-hole course. Panola County includes the Cotton Valley Country Club in Panola, a nine-hole course.

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Center

TEXAS Proud home of many nationally

“Center is exceptional in its support of its businesses and industry, striving to help whenever and wherever there is a need.�

recognized and locally owned

- Ty Price, Complex Mgr., Tyson Foods Inc.

also for the available resources,

businesses because the community is here to help and training, affordable utilities, and land necessary for business to thrive and succeed.

o l A ir p a n o i Reg

Customized Workforce Training

Center Economic Development Corporation (936) 598-4525

rt

WHERE

work & play MEET NATURALLY

Boasting national forests, beautiful lakes, local parks and recreational amenities along with an abundance of local heritage, festivals and entertainment options.

Where there’s something for everyone!

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce (936) 598-3682

Livability

Downtown Upswing Texas Forest Country communities create vibrancy in their historic town centers

Story by Kevin Litwin Photography by J. Kyle Keener

S

arah O’Brien likes downtown Nacogdoches so much that she recently moved into a loft apartment overlooking the downtown district.

“Downtown Nacogdoches is a safe and beautiful area where historic preservation is encouraged,” says O’Brien, coordinator of the Nacogdoches Main Street Program.

Texas’ oldest city, established in 1779, boasts several historic structures that have been transformed into specialty shops and antique stores as well as family-run businesses, restaurants and restored homes. A 100-year-old hardware store still sells nails by the pound.

Nacogdoches is a draw for arts and entertainment, with events such as a championship rodeo, Cajun cook-off and festivals celebrating Americana music, a bluegrass reunion and blueberries.

“There is no place in Texas like it,” O’Brien says.

Vibrant downtowns in communities such as Center, San Augustine, Hemphill, Crockett and Coldspring are a Texas Forest Country staple.

Several communities are members of the Texas Main Street Program, which has assisted more than 140 Texas cities with preservation and economic development The timeworn front door of the former General Mercantile store in historic Nacogdoches, where leaders focus on keeping vintage architecture intact. The store now houses an old-time music shop.

Right: The symbol of Texas greets visitors in Nacogdoches.

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What’s Onlinee Take a walking tour of historic Nacogdoches at imagestxforest country.com.

strategies, resulting in private reinvestment of more than $1.3 billion in Texas downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.

Livingston in Polk County joined the program in 2005.

The recent sprucing up of the Livingston downtown area includes restoration and rehabilitation projects at several buildings and more than 300 historical markers that detail the town’s rich history.

Lufkin’s downtown features an array of retailers and specialty shops, and is the site of several events including the annual Downtown Hoe Down street festival the third Saturday in April. Main Street Lufkin maintains five signature murals on downtown buildings that were painted by the renowned artist Lance Hunter.

Carthage in Panola County has been designated a National Main Street Program community because of its unceasing revitalization efforts.

“We have an excellent grant program in place

that helps building owners upgrade facades, signage and roofs, but we also initiated a specific infrastructure grant incentive in 2008,” says Debbie Pierce, Main Street Program manager for the city of Carthage.

The downtown includes eight loft apartments atop commercial buildings. Many of the city’s historic downtown buildings needed wiring, plumbing and heating-and-cooling systems upgrades, which the infrastructure grant program helped finance.

Downtown Carthage is home to such interesting attractions as the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame along with the new Sen. Margie Neal Park that opened on what had been property that was once occupied by a condemned building.

“Margie Neal lived in Carthage most of her life and in 1926 became the first-ever female member of the Texas Senate, and the park in her honor opened in 2009,” O’Brien says.

“There is no place in Texas like it.”

Nacogdoches boasts several historic structures that have been reborn as specialty shops, restaurants and lofts.

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

J. KYLE KEENER

Peacocks roam the grounds freely at the city-owned Ellen Trout Zoo and Park in Lufkin.

Getting to Know Texas Forest Country Culture THE REGION OFFERS A BEVY OF CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS Here’s just a small sample of the region’s rich cultural and educational attractions. For more, go to www.texasforestcountry.com.

ELLEN TROUT ZOO cityoflufkin.com/zoo The multi-award winning Ellen Trout Zoo in Lufkin is home to some 800 creatures. The zoo houses exotic cats, giraffes, rhinos, a variety of primates and one of the largest reptile exhibits in the country. The surrounding Ellen Trout Park includes a miniature pre-Civil War train replica that takes riders through the park.

PINEY WOODS FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION www.pwfaa.org The“arts missionary” for Houston and surrounding counties, the association operates a venue that is home to stage productions and performances from artists as varied as Willie Nelson, the Temptations,

Lyle Lovett and Marcel Marceau.

The association sponsors a number of arts-in-education programs, including summer workshops, school events and a youth talent showcase.

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS finearts.sfasu.edu The university’s multifaceted cultural offerings include concert series, a concert orchestra, art exhibitions and theater presentations at the its performing arts and gallery venues, including the Art Center @ The Opera House, a newly renovated 10,238-square-foot gallery in downtown Nacogdoches.

TEXAS FORESTRY MUSEUM www.texastree.org The Texas Forest Country celebrates and preserves its heritage at the Lufkin museum, which features indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Features include a paper mill room, sawmill town exhibit, logging locomotive and depot, replica tools and equipment, forest fire lookout tower and exhibits on modern timber management practices, and the Urban Wildscape Trail.

MILLARD’S CROSSING HISTORIC VILLAGE www.millardscrossing.com The reconstructed historic village in Nacogdoches offers a glimpse into life in early 19th century East Texas.

The village includes a sampling of early East Texas homes furnished with antiques, collectibles and gadgets of the period.

What’s Onlinee See a video of the region’s timber history at the Texas Forestry Museum at imagestxforestcountry.com.

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Transportation

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Road Ready Planned Free Trade Highway drives growth for the region Story by Joe Morris Photography by J. Kyle Keener

T

here aren’t many roads less traveled in the Texas Forest Country, and the same goes for rail and air transportation in this well-connected region.

Highways, both existing and planned, tie together roads, rail lines and other ground networks that link to local and regional airport facilities.

And with the ongoing planning of the Interstate 69 corridor, better known as the Free Trade Highway, to link Canada, the United States and Mexico, the area soon will see even more traffic coming to, and through, its communities. That’s good news for those charged with recruiting and retaining a strong industry base.

“A robust transportation network is the foundation upon which any community’s economy is based.

We’re truly blessed in that regard,” says Bill King, who is the president and CEO of the Nacogdoches Economic Development Corp.

U.S. Highway 59, a dual-lane divided route, links the region to Houston to the south. The highway has been designated as the future I-69, giving businesses ready access to air and port facilities in Houston as well as the rail and highway networks that intersect there.

The region is also served by Union Pacific rail service, allowing connections to major markets throughout the country.

The new highway will also help the region’s already increasing traffic flow. Without a vibrant new corridor,

existing thoroughfares could be overwhelmed, says Kelly Ritch Sr., director of operations for the Polk County Economic & Industrial Development Corp.

“Rail and road traffic will increase in Texas whether or not we build new transportation capacity,” Ritch says. “Texas has gained 36,000 new manufacturing jobs since 2004, which means an increase in manufactured goods and more freight on the highway and rail systems. The development of I-69 will also improve existing companies’ ability to compete and grow, which will retain and add jobs.”

Of course, no major project happens overnight, so communities are indulging in the luxury of time as they plan for the expected surge in new business as the transportation grid is enhanced.

That’s certainly true in San Jacinto, where the Shepherd Economic Development Council already is showing properties that one day will be adjacent to the new highway.

“We talk to a lot of people who really need highway access to either ship or receive their goods,” says Olene Reaves, the council’s economic development professional. “We are sitting on what will be I-69, and a lot of developers are waiting to see this southern extension finished so they’ll know where to buy property. We know it’s coming, and we expect to be real busy soon; it’s just a matter of time before we have people signing on the dotted line.”

U.S. Highway 59 is a major transit corridor connecting the region to major markets.

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Sabine County …

A PLACE TO PLAY, A PLACE TO STAY!

Sabine County is one of the original 23 counties created by the Republic of Texas and is rich in history and attractions.

Along the El Camino Real de los Tejas, you can see the oldest log structure in Texas; the Gaines-Oliphant House; McMahan Chapel, the oldest Protestant Church in Texas that has its original preacher still buried under the pulpit and the Pratt House. El Camino Real de los Tejas is the road of friendship and common heritage for East Texas and travels from Georgia, through the majestic pines of East Texas into the rolling hills of central Texas and into Old Mexico.

The Sabine National Forest comprises nearly 1/3 of Sabine County’s 546 square miles of majestic pines, beautiful hardwoods and abundant wildlife. Residents enjoy its moderate climate, clean air and healthy environment. Hemphill, the county seat, offers unique stores, restaurants and museums.

While the town square is growing quickly, any visitor can still experience the small-town charm that made it famous.

Toledo Bend Lake, the fifth largest manmade lake in North America, is fed by the Sabine River in easternmost Texas and straddles the Texas/Louisiana state line. Toledo Bend is 65 miles long with 1,200 miles of beautiful shoreline covering 185,000 acres and is the home to huge bass and crappie, bald eagles, egrets, herons and other abundant wildlife.

Pineland was founded at the beginning of the 1900s as a sawmill town. Pineland offers the new Arthur Temple Sr. Memorial Library and The Katherine Sage Temple Memorial Park that includes beautiful grounds, swimming pool and picnic area.

Nestled between the two largest lakes in Texas and the center of the Sabine National Forest, Sabine County offers the very best for visitors and retirees with low taxes, friendly people and beautiful scenery.

The first town Texas heroes Stephen F. Austin, Sam Houston, William Barrett Travis and Davy Crockett saw after coming into Tejas was the town of Milam. It is rich in history from its historical Causey House log cabin to its location along the busy trade route of El Camino Real de los Tejas. Nethery’s General Merchandise is the oldest continually operating business in the county and stocks a wide selection of antiques and other memorabilia.

In the early morning hours of February 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia tragically came apart upon re-entry. All of the remains of the astronauts were found in Sabine County, along with most of the shuttle debris. The county found itself in the world spotlight and stepped up to the task. Volunteers opened their homes, their kitchens and their hearts to the searchers who combed the area for two months looking for items from the crash. It was a true demonstration of the community’s spirit to unite in the time of grief to support those who needed it most. All of the astronaut’s spouses have requested that a NASA memorial to the tragedy be built in Sabine County.

Let Us Help Your Business Achieve Success. · Home to Hemphill I.S.D. — A Recognized 2A School District · Home of the Historic Pratt House, Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial, Jail Museum and Much More Statistics and Information: · City Population: 1,106 · Type A General Law City · Mayor, Robert Hamilton · City Manager, Donald P. Iles · City Secretary, Laure Ladner · Five Alderman and the Mayor sit on the City Council · Fire Protection: Hemphill Volunteer Fire Departmentt · Police Protection: Hemphill Police Department · Four Full-Time Certified Peace Officers · Incorporated: December 1939

CITY OF HEMPHILL www.hemphill.govoffice2.com

Hemphill, Texas ... a place to call home is the gateway to Toledo Bend Lake In the Heart of Deep East Texas and the Piney Woods.

For more demographics, visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemphill,_Texas

Sabine County is known for its scenic beauty, friendly atmosphere and continues to attract tourists and retirees from all parts of the USA.

The City of Hemphill, Texas Offers: · Recent Downtown Revitalization and Economic Development · Home to County Seat/Sabine County · Safe, Family-Oriented Community · Local Hospital, Health Care and Nursing Home · All Utilities Municipally Owned · Affordable Housing and Property Taxes · Year Round Hunting, Fishing and Recreation · Local Financial Institutions and Businesses that Support Our Growing Community · Many Historic and Wildlife Areas

Sabine County, Texas …

BEST OF ALL PLACES – Come visit us!

The Sabine County Chamber of Commerce 717 Hwy 87 N. Hemphill, TX 75948 Phone: (409) 787-2732 www.sabinecountytexas.com

Sabine County Hospital is a licensed 25-bed hospital providing state-ofthe-art health care to the residents of Sabine County and surrounding areas.

Sabine County Hospital 2301 State Hwy. 83 W. Hemphill, TX (409) 787-3300

Hospital Services Include: · Level IV Trauma Center · 24-hour Emergency Room Services · Medicare and Most Major Insurance Plans Accepted · Inpatient Care · Lab and Radiology · Mobile MRI

JEFF ADKINS

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Energy/Technology

Highly Energized Oil and natural gas production spark the region’s economy

Story by Michaela Jackson

BRIAN McCORD

T

he Lone Star State has long been synonymous with crude oil and natural gas production. There’s a reason, after all, that the Beverly Hillbillies called it “Texas Tea.” In East Texas, production reached nearly 4.6 million barrels in 2008.

Natural gas, a rising star in the Texas Forest Country energy portfolio, cleared 601 million cubic feet that same year.

“This is a tremendous boon to the economy of any county, and particularly a part of the state that is not a depressed economy, but one that is changing rapidly,” says Rep. Jim McReynolds, a member of the Texas Legislature and a petroleum land man who owns Chapparel Land Services.

“We’re moving from an agricultural economy.

We’re not a heavy industrial economy in this part of the world. We still have people owning land, and we’re in the oldest part of Texas.”

Wells in the 13 counties of the Texas Forest Country produced about 4.6 million barrels of oil in 2008, about two-thirds of it in Newton and Houston counties.

The impact of oil and gas production is tremendous because one incident can have a ripple effect: royalty owners receive bonus

2008 Gas Well Production (Mcf) • Angelina, 13.6 million • Houston, 13.2 million • Jasper, 10.8 million • Nacogdoches, 120.2 million • Newton, 1.8 million • Panola, 292 million • Polk, 26.6 million • San Augustine, 13.6 million • San Jacinto, 14.1 million • Shelby, 63.7 million • Trinity, 0.34 million • Tyler, 31.8 million Source: Texas Railroad Commission

Energy production fuels the economy of the Texas Forest Country, which produced more than 4.6 million barrels of oil and 601 million cubic feet of natural gas in 2008.

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2008 Oil Production (in barrels) • Angelina, 2,176 • Houston, 930,745 • Jasper, 226,163 • Nacogdoches, 7,880 • Newton, 2.03 million • Panola, 348,249 • Polk, 502,873 • Sabine, 5,015 • San Augustine, 44,499 • San Jacinto, 26,909 • Shelby, 135,618 J. KYLE KEENER

• Trinity, 72,183 • Tyler, 250,025 Source: Texas Railroad Commission

A gas well between Center and Carthage in Panola County

payments, oil companies create jobs, everyone affected suddenly has more money, which in turn buoys the regional economy.

“The truth of the matter is, when oil and gas comes in, it changes everything in a county’s economic outlook,” McReynolds says. “First of all, you get deep bonus considerations for your leasing. Then when hydrocarbons are produced, you get a monthly check based on the sales of those hydrocarbons, and those dollars really improve the lives of the people who live in that part of the state.”

While oil production in the Texas Forest Country has slowed, natural gas is catching fire.

A portion of the region sits atop the Haynesville Shale, a vast natural gas deposit some 10,000 feet below the ground.

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

The deposit area, which includes Panola and Shelby counties, has the potential to do for the region’s natural gas output what the East Texas Oil Field – a 140,000-acre patch that yielded some 30,000 wells – did for oil production.

The country’s largest known collection of natural gas is also in Texas, but the Haynesville Shale could give that old standard a run for its money, says Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones of the Texas Railroad Commission, which regulates oil and gas.

“The potential for the Haynesville Shale to be a tremendous economic driver for East Texas, that potential is huge,” she says. “It’s just one more piece of the energy pie of the state of Texas, and the contributions of the East Texas region for decades have been tremendous.”

Hometown Feel with a

Global Reach LUFKIN/ANGELINA COUNTY WELCOMES YOU

Special Advertising Section

Lufkin /Angelina County Economic Development

The Perfect Location, the Perfect Place to Live

No. 1

10

72 million

Lufkin has been named the No. 1 micropolitan area in Texas by Polycom Corp.

Number of Governor’s Community Achievement and national Keep America Beautiful awards

Gallons of water per day Lufkin owns, aquifer and surface, available for large users, raw or treated

Special Advertising Section

Hometown Feel With A Global Reach

T

he largest population center between Houston and Tyler boasts a robust and multifaceted economy populated by household names and homegrown successes whose reach stretches around the globe.

Still, Lufkin maintains the best characteristics of a close-knit, American hometown, though it’s the population hub of a 380,000-person region.

“Lufkin absolutely belies its size,” says Jim Wehmeier, director of economic development for Lufkin and president and CEO of the Lufkin/ Angelina County Economic Development Partnership. “There are so many extraordinary things about our community.”

The Lufkin area is the birthplace of building products giant Temple-Inland, oil field equipment colossus Lufkin Industries, Atkinson Candy and Brookshire Brothers grocers, and hosts major operations of household names Pilgrim’s Pride, Lockheed-Martin, Georgia Pacific and BlueBell Creameries, to name a few.

The largest water owner in its region, with more than 72 million gallons per day, Lufkin can provide both treated and raw water to industrial users in enormous quantities.

“What I am proudest of is the track record our community has of fostering small business and partnering long term with companies to grow and succeed together. Temple-Inland and Lufkin Industries were once small companies when they began here,” Wehmeier says.

The sense of philanthropy and community is overwhelming. It is a culture established long ago by East Texas pioneers and Lufkin founders.

The city is home to foundations worth more than $1 billion in assets, and its United Way has

exceeded its annual fundraising goal 60 years running. Citizens log thousands of volunteer hours each year. The Lions Club hosts an annual rodeo that nets $100,000 or more for charity.

Angelina Beautiful/Clean volunteers have made the organization a consistent beautification award winner on the state and national level.

Access is a breeze. From dining to retail, commercial centers to residential neighborhoods, most destinations are reached within a 15-minute drive.

One of the cleanest and best-run small airports in Texas, Angelina Airport is home to corporate fleets, private planes, military training hops and search-and-rescue operations alike. The airport hosts 50 to 150 private airplanes every month on the second Saturday during the “fajita fly-ins,” and its restaurant boasts the “Best Hamburger in Texas.”

Major highways connecting Houston, Tyler and Beaumont intersect in Lufkin. The planned I-69 corridor, a 1,600-mile highway serving the United States between Mexico and Canada, will come through Lufkin.

“I guess it goes without saying that Lufkiin has a lot more to offer than your average city with 32,000 people,” says Mayor Jack Gorden.

ANDY ADAMS/THE LUFKIN DAILY NEWS

Lufkin Industries is the world’s largest producer of surface-mounted oil field pumping units. Left: Lufkin is a commercial and cultural hub. Clockwise from top left: Ellen Trout Zoo, one of downtown Lufkin’s famed murals, the Museum of East Texas and the Temple Theater at Angelina College.

Favorite Son CHARLIE WILSON He had a war and a movie named after him, was played on screen by Tom Hanks, and makes his home in Lufkin. Wilson, whose tireless efforts to fund Afghan rebels fighting against the Soviet Union in the 1980s were chronicled in the book and movie Charlie Wilson’s War, served 24 years in Congress representing a Texas Forest Country district that includes Lufkin.

This special section is published for Lufkin/Angelina County Economic Development Partnership by Journal Communications Inc.

For more information, contact: Lufkin/Angelina County Economic Development Partnership • P.O. Box 130 • Lufkin, TX 75902-0130 Phone: (936) 633-0251 • Fax: (936) 634-8726 • www.lufkinedc.com ©Copyright 2009 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080.

All rights reserved. No portion of this special advertising section may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Photography by J. Kyle Keener. Stories by Claire Ratliff

www.lufkinedc.com

Lufkin /Angelina County Economic Development

The Angelina Center for the Arts includes the Temple Theater and is a showcase for a range of cultural events.

FYI • The multi-awardwinning Ellen Trout Zoo is home to some 800 creatures.

• Lufkin has 16 parks, a 1.9-mile nature trail, two community centers, two public swimming pools and a recreation center.

• The Lufkin Panthers high school football team plays its home games at sold-out Abe Martin Stadium, which seats 10,000.

The school, the only one in the 13-county region to play in the elite Class 5A division, has won 19 district titles.

In 2001, it won the Class 5A Division 1 state championship.

• Recent Lufkin High School graduates attend colleges that include Havard, Yale, Vanderbilt, University of Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Rich in Heritage, Culture Lufkin is a hub of culture and entertainment for the Texas Forest Country. A centerpiece is the 891-seat Temple Theater in the Angelina Center for the Arts at Angelina College. The center hosts Angelina College music and drama events, as well as internationally renowned touring professional music, dance and theater artists/events brought to Lufkin by the Angelina Arts Alliance.

The First Street Arts Center downtown is a showcase for the works of East Texas artists.

City Hall houses the Medford Collection of American Western Art, a collection of more than 50 paintings by contemporary artists.

The Museum of East Texas has an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures produced

by East Texas artists and American, Latin American and European masters.

Annual festivals and events draw visitors from throughout the region to the community, with its array of retail shops, art museums, hotels and restaurants.

The 50-store Lufkin mall is the largest single-level shopping center in the Texas Forest Country. For those who like their goods more vintage, Lufkin offers a variety of antique shops throughout the community.

The historic downtown is brimming with unique stores and restaurants. A cornerstone is the Kurth Memorial Library, which serves Angelina County with more than 70,000 volumes and an impressive genealogy archive.

LUFKIN KNOWS HOW TO THROW A PARTY THE NECHES RIVER RENDEZVOUS

attracts visitors from all over Texas.

Held the first Saturday in June, the family event is a 15-mile canoe trip down the scenic Neches River.

THE TEXAS STATE FOREST FESTIVAL, held the fourth week in September, features several events, including the Southern Hushpuppy Olympics and East Texas Cheerleading Championships.

PINEYWOODS PURGATORY is an annual fall cycling event through the rolling hills of East Texas. The event features rides of 25, 52, 68 and 102 miles and attracts hundreds of riders.

HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA lights up Lufkin in December. Kicking off after Thanksgiving, festivities continue through December and include a number of holiday-themed events.

Special Advertising Section

Hometown Feel With A Global Reach

A Well-Schooled Community P

roviding a quality education is a community-wide commitment in Lufkin.

The Lufkin Independent School District includes a high school, a newly renovated middle school, 10 elementary or primary schools, and one alternative campus for students in Pre-K through grade 12.

“Our goal is not to be above average in general,” says Roy Knight, superintendent of the LISD. “Our goal is to be recognized for exemplary status in every area, every subset.”

The district includes six recognized campuses and two nationally recognized reading programs. One of the district’s two magnet schools features pre-med and pre-engineering curricula.

The district boasts a Hewlett-Packard National Elementary Technology Campus, national champion career/technology classes, a state-recognized robotics team, 46 Advanced Placement and pre-AP course offerings, and performing arts, band, choral music, theater and dance programs that have garnered

“Lufkin is well known for its education system, from primary to secondary levels, as well one of the finest community colleges in the South.”

attention across the state.

The district produces more National Merit Scholars than any other school in the region, and every Lufkin high school student has the opportunity for post-secondary scholarships through the largest alumni association of its kind in the United States. Though just 20 years old, the association has a $4 million endowed fund that supports scholarships and continues to grow financially and in membership.

Higher education options include Angelina College in Lufkin and Stephen F. Austin State University, just 20 minutes away in Nacogdoches.

With a student enrollment of more than 5,000, Angelina College is one of the fastest-growing community colleges in Texas, says Dr. Larry Phillips, college president.

Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the two-year Angelina College awards associate degrees in arts, science and applied science. The college also offers a number of certificate programs and conducts customized training and technical programs for business and industry in a 12-county region at its main campus in Lufkin and extension centers in surrounding counties.

“This is a marvelous community with a real sense of family,” Knight says. “It’s the most unselfish community I’ve ever been a part of.”

School Facts

16 National Merit Scholarship finalists since 2000

25 Percentage of district’s 621 teachers with advanced degrees

2,000 Academic Letter Jacket recipients since 2000

$2M Annual scholarships available for graduating Lufkin students

Lufkin High School is expanding to meet the needs of students in the growing Lufkin Independent School District.

www.lufkinedc.com

Lufkin /Angelina County Economic Development

A Center of Innovation in Care Home to two major hospitals, a Veterans Administration outpatient clinic and specialized treatment and care facilities, Lufkin serves its community and the surrounding 13 counties with superior care.

A new era in veterans’ health care was launched in August 2009 with the dedication of the Charles Wilson VA Outpatient Clinic, named for the famed Lufkin congressman featured in the film Charlie Wilson’s War. Located on approximately 7 acres, the 37,000-square-foot facility replaces both a VA outpatient clinic and mental health annex. The new clinic includes eight provider offices, 24 examination rooms, a pulmonary function lab, 15 rooms for mental-health staff and three group therapy rooms. Laboratory, radiology and pharmacy space has more than doubled. The clinic treated more than 43,000 patients in 2008.

Woodland Heights Medical Center

“Lufkin has good schools, an expanding restaurant selection, medical community, retirement, better access to services and a community that supports good causes.” and Memorial Health System of East Texas consistently invest in technology to offer better treatments and services, and each boasts an impressive list of accreditations and awards.

The largest health-care system in the region, Memorial Health provides care to nearly 250,000 patients each year. Memorial Health is comprised of the 283-bed flagship Memorial Medical Center in Lufkin, hospitals in Livingston and San Augustine, and Memorial Specialty Hospital, the region’s only long-term

Memorial Medical Center

acute-care facility.

Memorial’s array of services include the newly renovated and nationally recognized Arthur Temple Sr. Regional Cancer Center, the Horace C. Polk Regional Diabetes Center and the Temple Imaging Center, which offers some of the most advanced procedures in the area, including 64-slice CT scanning, 4D ultrasound, digital mammography, Open Bore MRI and PET/CT scanning for cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

In 2009, the system opened the 106,000-square-foot, $46 million Cardiovascular & Stroke Center, the region’s first center dedicated for that specific purpose.

In another nod to its technological advancement, Memorial has made a significant investment in digital charting and medical records. The system has launched a strategic continued on next page

Woodland Heights Medical Center

TOPS IN TREATMENT LUFKIN HOSPITALS HAVE BUILT A REPUTATION FOR ADVANCED CARE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM OF EAST TEXAS www.memorialhealth.org

WOODLAND HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTER www.woodlandheights.net

• Named a Compass Award winner by Press Ganey for Outstanding Patient Satisfaction • First Texas hospital to use da Vinci HD Robotic System for heart, lung, kidney, prostate and gynecological procedures • Henderson Women’s and Children’s Center • Occupational health center • Dedicated orthopedic program, sleep center • New 32-bed ER with three dedicated pediatric rooms • American Heart Association Silver Award recipient

• First in cardiac catheterization in region • First open-heart surgery in region • First beating-heart surgery in region • Texas’ first GE Innova 2121 digital biplane imaging system • First digitally equipped surgical facilities in region • First transmyocardial laser revascularization surgery in region • First anterior hip replacement in region • First Hana™ hip and knee arthroplasty table in region

Special Advertising Section

Hometown Feel With A Global Reach

Nature Calls Lake Sam Rayburn www.swf-wc.usace. army.mil/samray/

Angelina National Forest www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/ recreation/angelina

Davy Crockett National Forest www.fs.fed.us/r8/ texas/recreation/davy_ crockett/davycrockett_ gen_info.shtml

Lufkin City Parks cityoflufkin.com/parks

Crown Colony Country Club in Lufkin has been named by Golf Digest as one of the best courses in the state and has been named the best course in Texas four times by the Dallas Morning News.

From Your Front Door to Outdoors L

ufkin is nestled in the heart of Angelina County, the only one of Texas’ 254 counties named for a woman, which is appropriate for the region’s beauty and many attributes.

In close proximity to two stunning national forests and the largest reservoir completely in the state of Texas, Lufkin offers an outstanding quality of life for residents and retiree transplants, and an abundance of activities for visitors.

City parks include gems like Kit McConnico Park, a sports complex with seven softball fields and 11 youth soccer fields.

The Ellen Trout Zoo is home to exotic cats, giraffes, rhinos, a variety of primates and one of the largest reptile exhibits in the country. The zoo’s new education facility was built entirely with charitable funds and zoo admission fees.

Lufkin is situated between Davy Crockett National Forest and Angelina National Forest, and is close to two other national forests. With 570 miles of spectacular shoreline, the 114,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir is minutes from Lufkin and provides waterskiing, boating and some of the world’s best bass fishing.

Avid bird watchers flock to the area to enjoy some of the more than 600 species found in Texas, more than any other

state, and some not found anywhere else in the state.

Lufkin is also known for some premier links. Lufkin Country Club opened in 1935 and the Neches Pines Golf Course was established in 1970.

The crown jewel among the area’s courses is Crown Colony Country Club, designed by Robert von Hagge and pro golfer Bruce Devlin.

The 18-hole, 6,692-yard course, which opened in 1979, is consistently ranked among the best in Texas.

Not only a first-class course, Crown Colony has a club with all of the amenities: tennis, swimming and dining. There is also a well-established residential community with sites that remain available for development.

Visitors can enjoy the links and stay in the adjacent villas.

Crown Colony has hosted college events, Texas Golf Association tournaments and national tournament qualifiers.

“When companies or conventions come into the area, this is a wonderful asset they can offer employees,” says Ross Elder, general manager of Crown Colony. “We have all of the best attributes of a small town but also offer a highly ranked golf course, pools, and food and beverage services.”

A Center of Innovation in Care continued from previous page

initiative to transition to a paperless system, something that fewer than 12 percent of hospitals in the United States can claim, says Bryant Krenek, Memorial Health president and CEO. “Never before have we had so many opportunities, tools and technology,” Krenek says.

Woodland Heights recently opened an obstetrics facility for high-risk mothers, recognizing a need in that specialty.

The 149-bed Woodland Heights was the first in Texas and eighth in the nation to offer a versatile new digital imaging system, giving physicians enhanced capabilities in the treatment of heart disease.

“Physicians want to be associated with facilities that have a demonstrated commitment to quality and to investing in technology,” says Dan Jacobs of Woodland Heights Medical Center.

The Heart Center at Woodland Heights is consistently ranked among www.lufkinedc.com

the nation’s best for cardiac services.

Its firsts include the region’s first cardiac catheterization, first openheart surgery, first beating-heart surgery, first digitally equipped surgical facilities and first anterior hip replacement.

“We have a great and caring physician community,” Jacobs says.

“Our continued physician recruitment is successful because of that commitment to technology, better treatments and services.”

Lufkin /Angelina County Economic Development

It’s Easy To Live, Work, Retire In Lufkin Outstanding Quality of Life: With a population of 83,000, Lufkin/Angelina County is the hub of a 13-county region, offering the amenities of a larger city, without the hassles of big-city living.

A Growing and Diverse Economy: Major global companies, such as Lufkin Industries, Temple-Inland, Lockheed Martin and Pilgrim’s Pride, have a Lufkin address, fostering innovation and investment.

Superior Schools: The Lufkin Independent School District consistently exceeds state performances in all test areas and produces graduates who earn a higher-than-average number of National Merit Scholarships.

day, critical for business and residential growth.

Incentives: Lufkin offers a number of incentives and programs to encourage new business investment and assist existing businesses in growing.

Community: Lufkin residents volunteer thousands of hours for community projects each year, and the local United Way has never failed to meet its annual giving goal in more than 60 years.

Culture: Lufkin is the cultural center of the region, with a vibrant downtown, museums, galleries and a jewel of a performing arts center in the Temple Theater.

Skilled Workforce: Higher-education institutions such as Angelina College provide training and career-ready skills to keep the labor pool stocked with qualified workers.

Higher Education: Excellent opportunities for lifelong learning are available at Angelina College in Lufkin; Stephen F. Austin University is just 20 minutes away.

Housing: Affordable and attractive housing options suit any lifestyle, and at prices below the Texas average.

Weather: An agreeable climate allows participation in outdoor activities year-round.

Proximity: Lufkin is just a two- to three-hour drive from Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Shreveport and Austin, and several major highways, including U.S. 59 and 69, intersect in the city.

Health Care: Two nationally recognized medical centers and a newly built Veterans Administration health clinic make Lufkin a leader in treatment innovation.

Recreation: Lufkin has 16 city parks, walking trails, an award-winning zoo and plenty of family fun.

Nature: It’s right outside your door in Lufkin, with easy access to four national forests and the 114,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir.

Water: Lufkin has access to 72 million gallons of water a

Senior Tax Freeze: In addition to the Texas homestead exemptions, the city of Lufkin and Angelina County have joined with the Lufkin Independent School District to freeze senior and disabled citizens’ property taxes.

The Hub of Central East Texas: A comfortable small-town feel with all of the amenities of a big city due to Lufkin’s regional service area.

For more on the advantages of living and working in Lufkin, contact: Jim Wehmeier Director of Economic Development, City of Lufkin President/CEO Lufkin/Angelina County Economic Development Partnership (936) 633-0251 jwehmeier@cityoflufkin.com www.lufkinedp.com City of Lufkin www.cityoflufkin.com Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce www.lufkintexas.org Lufkin Independent School District www.lufkin.schoolfusion.us Lufkin Convention & Visitors Bureau www.visitlufkin.com Angelina College www.angelina.edu Memorial Health System of East Texas www.memorialhealth.org

Jeanelle McCall © 2007

Special Advertising Section

Woodland Heights Medical Center www.woodlandheights.net

Gallery

One of a series of murals in downtown Lufkin by artist Lance Hunter depicts a vintage parade scene and a woman sipping a Coca-Cola.

Photo by J. Kyle Keener

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A symbol of the Texas Forest Country’s timber industry heritage, a statue of a lumberjack is positioned in front of the offices of Temple-Inland in Diboll.

Temple-Inland is a $4 billion global manufacturer of building products and corrugated packaging.

Photo by J. Kyle Keener

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The 114,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir provides an ideal fishing spot, this one near Cassells-Boykin County Park. Photo by J. Kyle Keener

I M A G E S T X F O R E S T C O U N T R Y. C O M

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Best Small Town in Texas!

Photo courtesy of Devon Energy

Photo courtesy of Allison Deer Ranch

Cultural:

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'VUVSF *OUFSTUBUF $PSSJEPS

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Health

Commitment to Care Region’s health providers offer top-shelf services, treatment

Story by Joe Morris Photography by J. Kyle Keener

F

rom cardiac catheterization to childhood immunization, the health-care community in the Texas Forest Country has it covered – and then some.

The region is home to some of the nation’s top medical facilities, each of which can point to a wall full of awards for quality care, innovative programs and patient satisfaction. And each has been successful in recruiting top-level medical expertise and investing in the latest technologies and treatments.

At Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin, improvements are always being made to services, programs and facilities, says Dan Jacobs, marketing and physician relations director.

“Less than two years ago, we rolled out a new, advanced cardiac catheterization lab with a lot of new equipment,” Jacobs says.

Those additions included the Innova 2121 IQ-All-Digital Cardiovascular

New birthing suites at Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin. Left: Memorial Medical Center in Lufkin.

I M A G E S T X F O R E S T C O U N T R Y. C O M

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Small Cities, Big Players RURAL LOCALES DON’T TAKE A BACKSEAT IN HEALTH CARE Bi-plane and Interventional Imaging System, the first of its kind in Texas.

“Woodland Heights has been known for its heart center for more than 20 years, and this allows us to continue to have the entire continuum of cardiac care here,” Jacobs says.

At Lufkin-based Memorial Health System of East Texas, quality care is spread out over facilities in three counties, says Bryant Krenek, chief executive officer.

In addition to its 283-bed flagship in Lufkin, Memorial operates critical access hospitals in San Augustine County and Livingston in Polk County.

The Livingston hospital is on a 42-acre campus, where a $30 million expansion plan includes a new six-story tower for additional beds, emergency room services and medical offices.

“It’s an area where the population is mushrooming, and our future is going to be tremendous,” Krenek says.

Technical upgrades and other ongoing improvements are the order of the day at the county-owned

Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital, which offers services that include cardiac catheterization, a women’s wing, medical imaging, intensive care, emergency and physical therapy services.

And at Nacogdoches Medical Center, services include Brain Lab technology, a system for neurosurgery and sinus surgery, the Loma Laird Imaging and Cancer Center and a multispecialty outpatient center.

“We’re honored to be a major employer that offers quality of life and a sense of community,” says Gary Stokes, chief executive officer. “Our motto of ‘service, care, quality’ resonates in all we do, from patient care to volunteerism and the opportunity to provide big-city medicine right here at home.”

Memorial’s Krenek echoes that sentiment, adding “When you have great facilities, good clinicians and good technology, it allows people to stay closer to home and get as good medical care as in any large city. That’s what we’re bringing to East Texas, in a very comprehensive and extensive way.”

MORE INSIGHT A QUARTET OF QUALITY CARE PROVIDERS NACOGDOCHES MEDICAL CENTER

MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM OF EAST TEXAS

www.nacmedicalcenter.com • Beds: 153 • Employees: 412

www.memorialhealth.org • Beds: 283 • Employees: 1,400

NACOGDOCHES MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

WOODLAND HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTER

www.nacmem.org • Beds: 142 • Employees: 747

www.woodlandheights.net • Beds: 149 • Employees: 614

The Texas Forest Country is blanketed by a network of highquality hospitals.

The 55-bed Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital, for example, has won awards for its customer service and level of care. Also in Jasper County is 27-bed Dickerson Memorial Hospital, which offers a range of inpatient and outpatient services and 24-hour ER. The East Texas Regional Healthcare System has a full-service hospital including Level III emergency care in Crockett in Houston County.

Its 49-bed hospital in Panola County, ETMC Carthage, includes a Level IV trauma center, surgical suites, a six-bed special care unit, obstetrics unit and a staff of 15 physicians representing a range of specialties from cardiology to pediatrics to surgery to endocrinology.

ETMC also operates a 30-bed hospital in Trinity County that includes a Level IV trauma center and a staff of six doctors.

Shelby Regional Medical Center in Center is a 54-bed, acute-care hospital that includes an emergency room, trauma center and a host of inpatient and outpatient services.

The 49-bed Tyler County Hospital in Woodville is owned and operated by the Tyler County Hospital District and offers a slew of services including 24-hour emergency care.

The 36-bed Sabine County Hospital in Hemphill, a Level IV trauma center, celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2010.

– Joe Morris I M A G E S T X F O R E S T C O U N T R Y. C O M

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Education

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TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Bricks and Mortar Boards Stephen F. Austin State University is growing in facilities, research, programs

Story by Joe Morris Photography by J. Kyle Keener

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ith upwards of 12,000 students and dozens of undergraduate and graduate study programs, Stephen F. Austin State University is a major hub of learning. And with more than 1,500 people on staff, it’s also the biggest employer in Nacogdoches.

All that, plus a near-constant stream of major new facility construction and multiple research activities, means that the university is a major economic development force in the region, says Bob Wright, executive director of marketing and public affairs.

The academic research taking place at the university is addressing pressing needs of not only East Texans, but society as a whole, Wright says. Active research projects total more than $40 million.

“Whether it’s seeking a cure for cancer in local pharmaceutical plants, learning which elementary classroom teaching methods result in higher student achievement or gaining a better understanding of the region’s changing ecology by studying the life cycles of insects, SFA students and faculty are actively working on solutions to some of our nation’s most critical problems,” he says.

The university’s most recent major undertakings include the $30.8 million Early Childhood Research

More Insight Stephen F. Austin State University www.sfasu.edu • Enrollment: 11,990 • Faculty and staff: 1,500 • Student-faculty ratio: 20-1 • Colleges: Six (Fine Arts; Liberal and Applied Arts; Forestry and Agriculture; Business; Education; Sciences and Mathematics) • Undergrad majors: 84 • Areas of study: 120 • Master’s programs: 46 • Doctoral programs: 3

The new $30 million Early Childhood Research Center at Stephen F. Austin State University houses several of the university’s renowned elementary education programs.

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A statue of Stephen F. Austin, who is known as the Father of Texas, stands on the campus Nacogdoches that bears his name.

Right: The Nelson Rusch College of Business building at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches

Center, which opened in July 2009. The 120,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art complex combines the university’s Early Childhood Laboratory, University Charter School and Department of Elementary Education. SFA is the only university in the state to operate an early-childhood lab and charter school in conjunction with educator-preparation programs.

The research center, Wright says, “will allow us to build on our long history of teacher preparation and expand our capacity for research, positively impacting Texas schoolchildren for generations to come.”

The $13 million Richard and Lucille DeWitt School of Nursing will open in winter 2010, helping to meet the critical need for more qualified nurses throughout the state, Wright says.

A new freshmen residence hall and parking garage are also on the drawing board.

Stephen F. Austin works to be proactive in the community

through several initiatives, including energy conservation.

University regents have authorized a campus-wide energy audit by Siemens, which will develop a program to include infrastructure renovation and replacement, and increased use of alternative energy.

The impetus for the study, and its resulting changes, came from the fact that a “green” campus, or one with significant energy-savings programs, is high on the list of desirable qualities that incoming freshmen look for when they’re choosing a university, according to SFA officials.

The college also contributes to the region’s cultural landscape through concert series, a concert orchestra, art exhibitions and theater presentations at the campus’ performing arts and gallery venues.

“This is a very exciting time to be a Lumberjack,” Wright says.

MORE INSIGHT INSPIRATION IN PREPARATION THE COLUMBIA REGIONAL GEOSPATIAL SERVICE CENTER at Stephen F. Austin State University was the model for a network of regional disaster response, planning and research centers now in place at several Texas universities.

The center provides a range of services, such as geospatial mapping, database development and off-site backup and recovery of geospatial data for government agencies, businesses, economic development organizations and educators.

In 2003, the center played a crucial role in providing maps and imagery to aid first

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responders in recovery efforts for the space shuttle Columbia disaster.

The center has received more than $8 million in federal funds to assist the Texas National Guard, state authorities and other government agencies prepare for and respond to emergencies.

When hurricanes struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, the center provided government agencies and community groups with more than 1,300 preprinted maps and documents for use by first responders and those fleeing coastal communities. For more, go to www.crgsc.org.

Workforce Helpers TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY COMMUNITY COLLEGES PLAY KEY ROLE IN DEVELOPING SKILLS EMPLOYERS NEED Workforce development efforts in the Texas Forest Country are bolstered by the presence of higher education institutions that offer a range of degree and certificate programs.

Those courses of study prepare students for four-year college, and provide career-ready skills and training for those entering the work world and those already in it.

The institutions are key components of the region’s economic development efforts, working with business and government to provide programs, courses and specialized training that meet the needs of new and existing employers.

With an enrollment of 1,800, Panola College in Carthage serves a four-county area that includes

Panola and Shelby counties.

The college, founded in 1949, offers courses and programs in disciplines ranging from math, science and physical education to allied health fields, such as nursing and emergency medical response, information technology, teaching, industrial technology, petroleum technology and welding.

The college’s Workforce and Economic Development Department offers a number of continuing education courses that let workplace professionals keep their skills and certifications current.

Angelina College, with an enrollment of nearly 5,000, serves a 12-county region at its 200-acre

main campus in Lufkin and at offcampus teaching centers at high schools and other facilities throughout the region.

The college has certificate and degree programs in six main divisions, including business, health care, and technology and workforce, that offer course tracks ranging from accounting to machine tool technology to nursing to welding.

Angelina’s Community Services Division offers individuals, businesses, industries and nonprofits job and contract training, retraining, upgrading, licensing and certification services.

A Small Business Development Center based at the college provides consulting and technical services to aid entrepreneurs.

Bring Balance to Your Life … in Nacogdoches Nacogdoches, Texas is the kind of community where you can grow a business, pursue a meaningful career and raise a family … all at the same time. The home of Stephen F. Austin State University, with its world-class faculty and 12,000 students, our thriving business community ranges from Fortune 500 companies to one-person start-ups, while our growing medical community includes two major hospitals and the SFASU School of Nursing.

Escape the high costs of living and operating a business in the big city, and experience how life and work intersect in Nacogdoches, Texas … just two hours north of Houston on US-59.

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ECONOMIC PROFILE BUSINESS SNAPSHOT

MAJOR POPULATION CENTERS Lufkin, 33,863 Nacogdoches, 31,135

POPULATION (2008) Region, 390,524 Angelina County, 83,038 Houston County, 22,698 Jasper County, 34,374 Nacogdoches County, 62,768

The Texas Forest Country is a 13-county region that boasts low tax rates, low cost structure, and superior health-care and education providers.

Major U.S. highways such as U.S. 59, 69 and 96 provide easy access to Interstates 10 and 20. The region is also in the heart of the planned I-69 corridor, the “free trade highway” that will link Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Memorial Health System of East Texas, 1,400

Construction, 4.5%

Brookshire Brothers/Polk Oil, 1,396

Natural Resources & Mining, 2.9%

Lufkin ISD, 1,350

Other Services, 2.1 %

Lufkin Industries, 1,218

All Other, 1.2%

Financial Activities, 3.4%

Georgia Pacific, 1,050

Newton County, 13,752

Lufkin State School, 1,046

Panola County, 23,084

Texas Department of Criminal Justice, 900

Polk County, 46,144

Etech Inc., 900

Sabine County, 10,062

NONAGRICULTURAL EMPLOYMENT (2009)

Tyson Foods, 800

San Augustine County, 8,576

LABOR FORCE STATISTICS

Region, 178,790

MAJOR INDUSTRY SECTORS

San Jacinto County, 24,882 Shelby County, 26,529

Angelina County, 40,990 Houston County, 8,272 Jasper County, 15,999

Trinity County, 14,147 Tyler County, 20,470

Government, 23.7%

Texas, 24,326,974

Trade, Transportation & Utilities, 18%

MAJOR EMPLOYERS

Manufacturing, 14.8%

Panola County, 14,192

Healthcare & Education, 14.2%

Polk County, 17,231

Pilgrim’s Pride, 2,500

Leisure & Hospitality, 8.5%

Sabine County, 3,143

Stephen F. Austin State University, 1,500

Professional & Business Services, 6.8%

San Augustine County, 3,609

Nacogdoches County, 31,404 Newton County, 6,181

San Jacinto County, 10,324

What’s Onlinee

Shelby County, 12,864

For more in-depth demographic, statistical and community information on Texas Forest Country, go to imagestxforestcountry.com and click on Economic Profile.

Trinity County, 5,989 Tyler County, 8,682

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advertisers Brookshire Brothers www.brookshirebrothers.com Card-Miles Enterprises LLC www.cardmilesenterprises.com Carthage Economic Development Corporation www.carthagetexas.com

What’s Online

Center Economic Development Corporation www.shelbycountychamber.com

Crockett Economic Development Corporation www.crockett.org

Newton Economic Development Corporation www.newtontexas.org

Hotel Fredonia www.hotelfredonia.com

Panola College www.panola.edu

Lufkin Economic Development Corporation www.lufkinedc.com

Pinecrest Retirement Community www.pinecrestrc.org

Memorial Health System www.memorialhealth.org

Polk County Chamber of Commerce www.livingston.net

Sabine County Chamber of Commerce www.sabinecountytexas.com Woodland Heights Medical Center www.woodlandheights.net Workforce Solutions of Deep East Texas www.detwork.org

For more in-depth demographic,Nacogdoches statisticalEconomic and community information on Development Corporation to imagescommunity.com and click on EconomicQuality ProfiInn le. & Suites Lufkin

Citycommunity, of San Augustine go www.sanaugustine.com

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?fljkfe :flekp “Let’s Make it Happen” Educate

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Houston County, is earning a reputation of insightful progress and strong economic growth. Houston County’s ability to educate, communicate, collaborate, and facilitate are helping businesses grow and prosper in an area that offers the best in modern Texas living along with traditional hometown values and work ethic.

As the Gateway to the Texas Forest Country there is a rich cultural tradition in Houston County. From quality performing arts provided by the Piney Woods Fine arts association to local festivals throughout the year like the Salmon Lake Bluegrass Festival and Peanut Festival in Grapeland, Lovelady Lovefest in Lovelady, Christmas in Crockett Arts and Craft Show, and The World’s Championship Fiddlers Festival in Crockett along with many other music venues and entertainment. Residents are allowed an opportunity to experience entertainment in a region filled with cultural venues that offer a lifetime of rewarding experiences.

Working with federal, state and local agencies has allowed Houston County to take an aggressive approach in creating a competitive business environment, resulting in average operating costs lower than other markets. Business development receives full support from the Crockett Economic and Industrial Development Corporation, which strives to collaborate with the Grapeland Economic Development, Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce and the Grapeland Chamber of Commerce.

The attraction of Alloy Polymers, a market leader in specialty, high-value added compounding services and solutions in the thermoplastic industry, has proven Houston County’s ability to communicate with industry leaders in order to show their “Outside the Box,” “Let’s Make It Happen,” thinking attitude.

Vulcraft, a division of Nucor Steel located in Grapeland, has found Houston County to be an exceptional place for a quality workforce.

Currently Vulcraft is working with community leaders in the construction of a state-of-the-art Vocational/Technical and Higher Education facility to be operated by Angelina College in order to provide a more educated and skilled workforce.

Crockett Economic and Industrial Development Corporation’s ability to facilitate the consolidation of three out-of-county sites into one site in Crockett has allowed Elastotech Southwest to expand and hire additional employees over the last eight years. As a leader in the rubber molding and now the rubber extrusion business, Elastotech is poised to succeed even in volatile economic times.

Houston County at the junction of US Hwy. 287 and State Highways 7, 19, and 21 is an integral part of the network of well maintained highways and paved roads in the Texas Forest Country. Houston County separates Hwy. 69 and Interstate 45 and is easily accessible to Dallas, Houston and Austin.

Crockett Economic and Industrial Development Corporation Tim Culp, Executive Director – (936) 546-5636 Grapeland Economic Development Corporation Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce