Businesslink Feb2018

An official publication of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

Vol. 6, Issue 9 • February 2018

BusinessLin

Ambassador program celebrates 30 years

Inside: Volunteer Spotlight: Gabie Laurentz Business Spotlight: River Trail Cottages

BusinessLin

KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

CHAMBER BOARD OFFICERS Gregg Appel Chairman of the Board, Centennial Bank Lisa Winters Chairwoman-Elect, Peterson Health Kim Clarkson Immediate Past Chair of the Board, Kerr County Abstract & Title Co. Randy Evans Treasurer, Massey Itschner & Company, P.C. Tricia Byrom Secretary, Guadalupe National Bank

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Neice Bell, The Kerrville Daily Times Pete Calderon, Alamo Hospice Brian Bowers, Centennial Bank Caitlin Hueber, Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly Mike Wittler, Kerrville Public Utility Board Terry Massey, Ken Stoepel Ford-Lincoln Inc. Sue Tiemann, Brinkman Preferred Properties Kerry Sutton, Hill Country Telephone Co-Op Michael Anglin, ARTIFEX42 Stephen Schmerbeck, Garrett Insurance Agency Allison Bueche, Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly

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

BUSINESSLINK STAFF Neice Bell, Publisher Lisa Treiber-Walter, Managing Editor Chelsea M.K. Stack & Autumn Bernhard, Special Sections Editors Tom Holden, John Sniffen & William R. Houghton, Photographers Jennifer McCullough, Advertising Director Advertising: John Doran, Jeff Herring, Luly Miller and Tom Lanza Composing: Manager Dean Heep and Johanna Rangel

A PUBLICATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Chairman’s CORNER As I write this, the holidays are behind us, college football has a new national champion, the Christmas decorations are down, the new year has begun and stock show season is in swing. The annual Cowboy Breakfast was cold, as always, local politicians flung cow chips into a bucket and area business people competed for the title of champion goat milker, which was won by the Centennial Bank team this year.

The annual Hill Country District Junior Livestock Show is one of the largest and best stock shows in the state. Although my kids never showed animals, I have always been impressed with stock show kids. They seem to have a confidence, respect for elders and value system that I wish all of our kids had. Maybe that comes from strong families, the responsibility of caring for animals or the 4-H and FFA programs. Whatever it is, we need more of it in this world.

Of course, our kids would not have this opportunity were it not for the support from all of the volunteers and sponsors. At the sale every year, I see mostly the same faces representing some of our oldest and most successful businesses in our area. Year in and year out, they come, buy and leave a legacy. Most of these sponsors are our fellow chamber members. They are setting the example for all of us about what it means to give back and create a strong community.

So here’s a shout out to the stock show community — the kids, sponsors, show volunteers and the 4-H and FFA leaders. You guys represent the best qualities of rural America and challenge all of us as business leaders to continue striving to make our community and this world a better place.

I hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BusinessLink and take note of the wonderful work our ambassadors do.

They rarely get the recognition they deserve, and they are among the hardest working volunteer groups we have at the chamber. Thank you to Janie Altgelt for her leadership in the program and all of the ambassadors for representing and serving us so well!

Have a great 2018, everyone!

Gregg Appel Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board, 2018

On the Cover Ambassdor officers from left: Secretary Teresa White, Charter Member Mike Douville, President Janie Altgelt and Vice President Linda Stilwell Photo by: Chelsea M.K. Stack

Coming in March Cover Story: 2nd Annual Hill Country Economic Summit

2 BusinessLink • February 2018

Table of CONTENTS Membership

4 New and returning chamber members 6 Ribbon cuttings: Douville, Goldman & Allen PLLC; Power House Academy; Champagne Builders LLC; and New Century Hospice—Kerrville

12 Cover Story

Get to Know People & Places

8 Business Spotlight: River Trail Cottages 10 Volunteer Spotlight: Gabriella “Gabie” Laurentz Leadership & Education

Events

18 Snapshots from the January After Hours Business

Mixer at Our Lady of the Hills Regional Catholic High School

20 EasterFest scheduled and seeking sponsorships;

16 Leadership Kerr County: Cancelled due to weather 23rd Annual Golf Classic set for April 16 22 February and March events calendar 17 CoffeeTalks booked through May

celebrating life. elevating health.

Join us for this FREE women’s health event where the experts at Peterson Health inform you on the latest news and options for your health and wellness. Hear from leading healthcare experts on topics important to women’s health. We’re sharing knowledge. We’re Elevating Health.

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MEMBERSHIP

New and returning chamber members The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome the following businesses and organizations that recently joined or renewed memberships with the chamber.

Learn more about them by visiting the chamber’s membership directory at business.kerrvilletx.com/list.

Interested in joining the chamber?

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

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

December new members Nurturing Touch Massage LLC | 830-928-2667 | Diamond Ronnie Gesell Construction | 830-329-7800 | Platinum Lone Star Inn | 800-219-8158 | Gold Crest Home Health | 830-331-2005 | Silver

December membership renewals Bronze • Ben E. Keith Co. • Benefit Solutions Kerrville • Christmas Décor of The Hill Country • Coca-Cola Bottling Co. • Cowboy Steak House • David Rittenhouse & Associates Inc. • Davis Chiropractic • Habitat for Humanity Kerr County • Herring Printing Company • Hill Country Youth Orchestras • Hoegemeyer Animal Clinic • Jesko & Steadman, Attorneys at Law • Jo Groff of Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, Realtors • Johnny Brink’s Floor Store • Kerrville Auto Body Inc. • Kerrville Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery • Kerrville Ranch & Pet Center • 94.3 REV-FM • Kiwanis Club of Kerrville • Local Dry Cleaning & Laundry • Lone Star Containers

• Optimal Wireless (Cricket Authorized Partners) • Royal Pane Window Cleaning • San Saba Cap • Three Hills Mobile Home Park • White Construction Company Silver • Chick-fil-A Kerrville • Christian Assistance Ministry • Motel 6 Kerrville • The Ultimate Gift of Life Foundation • Trinity Baptist Church Gold • The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country • Crenwelge Automotive Group • Fore Premier Properties • Guadalupe National Bank • Hill Country Pest Control Inc. • Matt Sletten of Arden Hills Realty Platinum • Airtech A/C & Heating • Hill Country Memorial

Thank You to Our Diamond & Platinum Investors

Diamond Investors

• Adapting Online, LLC • moore’s Home Furnishings • Alamo Colleges • Native Texas • Alara Strategic and Creative Properties, LLC • Ashley HOmeSTOre • Peterson Health • Bank of the Hills, • Precision Dentistry and a Division of Comerica Implants of Kerrville • Brookdale Guadalupe • Presbyterian mo-ranch river Plaza Conference Center • Calvary Temple Church • ragsdale Family Camps • Carlton Club Inn • randolph Brooks Federal • Centennial Bank Credit Union • Community First National Bank • rockoff Tree Solutions • Frost Bank • Sam’s Club • ronnie Gesell Construction • Schreiner University • H.e.B. Foods-Drug Store • Security State Bank & Trust • Hill Country mHDD Centers • Striegler’s Hoof Haven, Inc. • Inn of the Hills resort & • Texas Lions Camp Conference Center • United Hunting • James Avery Craftsman, Inc. Heritage International • Ken Stoepel Ford - Lincoln, Inc. • UTSA Small Business • Kerr County Federal Development Center Credit Union • Wal-mart Store, Inc. #508 • Kerrville Public Utility Board • Wells Fargo Bank • 103.7 The Buck • martin marietta

Half Page

KDT Diamond 01297

Platinum Investors • Airtech A/C & Heating • All-Plastics • Ameriprise Financial Talarico and Associates • Anytime Fitness • AT&T • Atmos energy • Buckhorn Lake r. V. resort • Century 21 - The Hills realty • Children’s Association for maximum Potential (CAmP) • Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper realtors – Kerrville & Fredericksburg • Double L Feed & Back 40 Trailers • Douville, Goldman & Allen, PLLC • Goodwill Industries • Guadalupe National Bank • Hilco Federal Credit Union • Hill Country memorial • Hill Country Youth event Center • rob Kelly

• Kerr County Abstract & Title Company • Kerr County Crime Stoppers • Laity Lodge Youth Camp H e Butt Family Foundation • Legal Shield • Lemeilleur’s rV, Truck & equipment repair Co. • Nurturing Touch massage • Pioneer Bank • State Farm Insurance Justin Hamilton • SWBC Insurance Services • Texas Hill Country Bank - Kerrville • Volunteer Services Council for Kerrville State Hospital • Y.O. ranch resort Hotel and Conference Center • Young People in recovery • Y.O. ranch Headquarters • 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & Heating

Your Membership Is An Investment In Your Business The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100 • Kerrville, TX 78028 Phone 830-896-1155 / Fax 830-896-1175

www.kerrvilletx.com 4 BusinessLink • February 2018

After 34 years serving the Hill Country, we’ve changed the name of our dealership from National Car Sales to Select Certified Autos. We’ll continue to provide great certified pre-owned vehicles and great value, with the same local team and local ownership you’ve come to trust.

With over 100 cars, trucks, and SUVs in stock and great financing terms available*, Select Certified Autos will remain the Hill Country’s premier dealership for late-model certified pre-owned autos. Every vehicle we sell is backed by a full 125-point inspection and includes a limited warranty.† Visit us today at 620 Main Street in Kerrville, browse online at selectcertifiedautos.com, or give us a call at (830) 257-8266! *With approved credit. †Copy of warranty availble upon request.

John Miller, Jr. Owner

Eric Smith General Manager

Membership Ribbon cuttings

»

Douville, Goldman & Allen PLLC

Douville, Goldman and Allen PLLC, 313 Earl Garrett St. in Kerrville, celebrated its 30th anniversary with a ribbon cutting on Jan. 9.

Since 1988, Douville, Goldman and Allen PLLC has been providing the Kerrville community with full-service accounting. Mike Douville also has proudly served as a charter member of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador Program since 1988.

»

Fore more information, call 257-3112.

Power House Academy Power House Academy, 200 Sidney Baker St. in Kerrville, celebrated the grand opening of its new location inside River Hills Mall with a ribbon cutting on Jan. 18.

Power House Academy strives to get the best out of every member. Whether they’re a beginner or an advanced fighter, it has the tools and trainers that clients need. It also offers specialized classes for those fighting Parkinson’s.

»

Champagne Builders LLC

Champagne Builders LLC, 164 Camino del Reserve Lane in Comfort, celebrated its grand opening Jan. 25 with a ribbon cutting.

Champagne Builders is a Texas-based construction company offering residential, new and custom homes, remodeling, commercial, multi-family units, land clearing and construction management. From planning to framing and then completing a home, it makes sure its customers are satisfied.

For more information, call 542-9091, visit champagnebuilders.com, or email cary@champagnebuilders. com or mark@champagnebuilders.com.

6 BusinessLink • February 2018

For more information, call 377-2510, email info@powerhouseacademy.org or visit powerhouseacademy.org.

Photos courtesy of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

»

New Century Hospice— Kerrville

New Century Hospice—Kerrville, 2210 Bandera Highway, Suite B2, in Kerrville, celebrated its grand opening of its new location Jan. 26 with a ribbon cutting.

New Century Hospice is an affiliate of Curo Health Services and offers compassionate hospice care with clinical experience to special patients and families. Its goal is to enrich the quality of life as life’s journey nears its completion. Through supportive, loving and comfort care, its staff offers patients and their families comfort for body, mind and spirit.

For more information, visit newcentury. curohs.com/locations/285 or call 955-5961.

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Get to Know Business Spotlight

River Trail Cottages merges 1900s charm with 21st century amenities Story by Donna Gable Hatch | Photos by Tom Holden River Trail Cottages, which is situated along the banks of the picturesque Guadalupe River at 1709 Water St., has been part of the landscape in some form or fashion since 1928, when it was known as Kerrville Motor Courts.

“After decades of serving as private residences, our property has been completely restored and improved to create the River Trail Cottages,” said Blake Bingham, general manager, who lives on-site.

Phase one of the newly-reimagined, family-friendly locale — which retains its early 20th century aesthetics — opened in August 2017 with eight private cottages. Two months later, another six cottages were added, and Bingham hopes the charm of the community will bring guests who vacation in the area knocking on his door.

“With 500 feet of riverfront to enjoy and easy access to the Kerrville River Trail and Louise Hays Park, it is perfect

Below: Blake Bingham with his dog, Rollie, in front of a renovated 1953 M-System trailer that is available for guests to rent at River Trail Cottages.

Right: Bingham and Rollie, the boxer, outside River Trail Cottages’ event space, which is a renovated train depot from the early 1900s.

8 BusinessLink • February 2018

for families and groups looking for a comfortable departure from a typical hotel,” he said. “Whether you want to enjoy a quiet evening with s’mores on the waterfront, or enjoy our complimentary in-room Wi-Fi and HD satellite TV, River Trail Cottages are unlike anything else in Kerrville.”

In addition to the cottages, the accommodations include two refurbished RVs on site — a yellow 1953 M-System and a turquoise 1961 HICKS. “The amenities are the same as the cottages, but the cool factor is very high, and both are situated facing the river with fantastic views,” he said. “Two additional RVs are in different stages of renovation and will be added in the coming months — an Avion and a Streamline bus, both from the 1950s.”

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To make it even more appealing, the entire site is petfriendly.

Bingham said the Kerrville Area chamber of commerce has been invaluable in spreading the word about what River Trail Cottages has to offer.

“As a new venture in Kerrville, the Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in helping us spread the word to the city and beyond,” Bingham said. “It has also allowed us to foster positive relationships with other businesses in Kerrville.”

River Trail Cottages hopes to show its support for the chamber through the upcoming After-Hours Business Mixer, which is from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, on site.

“Attendees will get to peek behind the scenes, enjoy our event space at the renovated Train Depot and see just how welcoming our cottages can be for their friends and family,” Bingham said.

OPEN Tues.-Sat. 9:30am - 6pm 215 Water St. gems4uresale@outlook.com Kerrville, TX

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Get to Know Volunteer Spotlight

Q&A with Gabriella “Gabie” Laurentz Photo by Tom Holden

Q: What is your volunteer role with the chamber

growing community as Kerrville is amazing. I’m always reminded how blessed I am and what a giving city this is.

and for how long have you served in that role?

A: I am an ambassador for the Kerrville chamber and have been there for a little more than a year.

Q: In what ways has the chamber been a resource for you as a volunteer or to get involved in community service?

Q: What is the most rewarding part of volunteering for you?

A: The most rewarding part is seeing the difference and changes you are making, along with spending time with great people.

A: The Kerrville chamber is the best fit to get out there and serve.

Q: What other organizations do you

Q: What inspired you to start volunteering?

A: The Ranch Radio Group is very committed

A: I also volunteer with everything that my daughter has going on

Q: When not volunteering, where do

volunteer with and for how long?

to serving the community.

at school. She is in the fifth grade and her schedule is crazy busy.

you work or spend your time?

Q: How has volunteering impacted or changed your life?

A: Being able to volunteer and getting out in such a vibrant,

time with my daughter, Evie, usually on the water somewhere.

I work as the marketing specialist at the Ranch Radio Group.

Her favorite quote:

“

Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible!

~

Audrey Hepburn

10 BusinessLink • February 2018

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A: When I am not working or volunteering, I enjoy spending

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Ambassador program celebrates years with the chamber

30

Ambassadors share their rewards, challenges of serving and reasons for joining Story by Chelsea M.K. Stack | Photos by John Sniffen

The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce credits its successful membership retention, as well as the degree and quality of its members to the time and energy put in by its devoted ambassadors.

The mission of the ambassador program is to significantly improve the membership long-term retention rate by building relationships with chamber members, by improving involvement and support of all chamber events and activities.

“The ambassadors are a great group of people with whom I am proud to be associated,” said Teresa White, ambassador secretary and sales manager at Brookdale Kerrville.

This year’s roster includes 26 ambassadors; but with a limit

12 BusinessLink • February 2018

of 36 ambassadors, the program is always looking to add more friendly faces.

“It is always with great pleasure that ambassadors are welcomed into the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce’s program,” Ambassador President Janie Altgelt said. “We are a very diverse and exciting group.”

Altgelt has been an ambassador for 10 years.

“I accepted this honor and responsibility with humility,” Altgelt said. “It will be a very exciting 2018, as we work together as a team to accomplish our goals!”

The ambassador program is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Michael Douville, managing owner of Douville,

The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 Ambassador Back row, from left: Ambassador President Janie Altgelt, Albert Vasquez of Brookdale Kerrville, Arthur Bell, Bethany Mikeska of Peterson Health, Dottie Johnson of Fore Premier Properties, Gail Johnson of the Kerrville Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, Ginny Garrison of HCTC, Jane Mach of Texas Business Buyers, Julie Wood of Arden Hills Realty, Kathy LeStourgeon of Advanced Insurance Group, Karin Buchanan of Fore Premier Properties, Ambassador Vice President Linda Stilwell of Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, Realtors and Mac Anderson of West Central Wireless.

Front row, from left: Marti Ashcraft of James Avery Artisan Jewelry; Ambassador Charter Member Mike Douville of Douville, Goldman and Allen PLLC; Paula Wilson of Schreiner University; Rose Bradshaw of So Fast Printing; Stephen Foley of Guadalupe Investment & Insurance Services; Ambassador Secretary Teresa White of Brookdale Kerrville; Tito Olvera of T-N-J Engraving Company; Tom Lanza of The Kerrville Daily Times; and Toni Caldwell of Realty Executives Kerrville.

Not pictured: Gabie Laurentz of Ranch Radio Group, Jarrett Jacobs of Ashley HomeStore, Jennifer Slaughter of Peterson Health and Rene Curtis of Carter Healthcare.

Goldman and Allen PLLC has been an ambassador since its inception in 1988, as one of the founding members.

opportunities that the ambassadors experience motivation to be successful is through the monthly ambassador meetings.”

“We felt that the chamber needed a consistent group of people to welcome new businesses to Kerrville and the chamber,” he said.

The ambassadors work with the chamber’s membership committee to provide networking opportunities for members and help with Operation Thank You, according to committee vice chairwoman Caitlin Hueber. Operation Thank You entails visiting member businesses to provide chamber updates, answer questions, remind them of member benefits and encourage them to attend chamber events.

Douville is the only charter member in the current ambassador program and was recently honored by the chamber with a plaque for his 30 years of service. “[He has] gone beyond the call of duty for the chamber and the community as an ambassador,” said Rachel London, vice president of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce. “I have known Mike for many years, and I am proud to be associated with such an outstanding business man, friend and colleague!”

Responsibilities of an ambassador

Some of the networking opportunities where ambassadors serve as greeters include monthly mixers, ribbon cuttings and grand openings. They also are required to attend 50 percent of the annual chamber annual events, including the Hill Country Economic Summit, Golf Classic, 30 Gun Draw, the Business Expo and the Choice Awards Banquet.

“The ambassador position offers unique opportunities to meet with other chamber member decision makers on a professional basis,” Altgelt said, explaining that one “of the

“(The banquet) is an exciting time for the ambassadors, as the Jack Fournier Ambassador of the Year is awarded. This award is voted upon by the ambassadors, which makes it a

It’s all right here • Kerrvilletx.com 13

Cover story Ambassadors Program very special way to conclude the year,” Altgelt said.

Ambassadors weigh in on their reasons for joining, as well as the rewards and challenges involved with serving in their role at the chamber.

Rewards of the role “The opportunity to meet new businesses, those celebrating milestone anniversaries in membership in our chamber, all make such a positive impact on our goal collectively. But, for me, it’s extremely satisfying knowing I’ve used my gifts from God,” Altgelt said.

“The relationships that we develop from our group (are rewarding),” said Albert Vasquez, resident programs director at Brookdale Kerrville.

“Keeping your finger on the pulse of the community (is rewarding), and I really enjoy all the members as a group,” said Kathy LeStourgeon, partner and insurance agent at Advanced Insurance Group.

“I guess the most rewarding part is meeting the people of the community in their businesses and learning about the different types of businesses we have,” said Mac Anderson, account manager at West Central Wireless.

“I enjoy seeing all the new businesses coming to Kerrville.

I also enjoy learning about the established businesses in Kerrville and how they got started,” said Paula Wilson, career development associate at Schreiner University.

“Seeing our community flourish (is rewarding),” said Rene Curtis, professional service coordinator and LVN at Carter Healthcare.

“Learning about Kerrville and our community and what makes it ‘Kerrville’ — the people, the businesses, the community as a whole — is truly an amazing experience.

“

In every community I have lived in, the chamber has been an integral part of the fabric that binds the businesses, organizations and individuals … I wanted to play a bigger part in my community by serving the chamber and all that it does.

”

~ Julie Wood, office administrator at Arden Hills Realty and Hill Country Property Management

14 BusinessLink • February 2018

I’ve learned so much and met so many wonderful people being an ambassador. I’ve gotten out in the community to places I normally wouldn’t have been introduced to. It’s a pleasure meeting and welcoming new chamber members, learning about their businesses and goals. I can then take that information out to my clients, neighbors and friends, and the networking begins,” said Toni Caldwell, independent realtor at Realty Executives Kerrville.

Challenges of serving “Fulfilling various support opportunities required of an ambassador (is challenging),” said Gail Johnson, a member of the Kerrville Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association.

“The time (commitment is a challenge). If time wasn’t a factor, I would be involved with other worthy organizations, (too),” said Ginny Garrison, account manager and business solutions specialist at HCTC. “At times, managing my time between work, family and volunteering can be challenging,” said Jennifer Slaughter, Physician Liaison at Peterson Health.

“Finding the balance when you are with a customer and need to get to a ribbon cutting or event that requires our presence (is challenging),” said Rose Bradshaw, office manager at So Fast Printing.

“The most difficult part of being an ambassador is not being able to devote as much time in continued communication with each business,” said Dottie Johnson, realtor associate at Fore Premier Properties.

Reasons they joined “(I joined) to see how many different people make a living operating their own businesses,” said Arthur Bell, retired business owner of Scientific Climate Systems.

Rachel London and the chamber presents one of two plaques to Michael Douville at a recent ambassador meeting. One plaque was for his 30 years of service as an ambassador for the chamber and the other was for Douville, Goldman and Allen PLLC’s 30th anniversary.

“In every community I have lived in, the chamber has been an integral part of the fabric that binds the businesses, organizations and individuals.

Kerrville is no different, and our chamber stands out as one of the best I have seen. I wanted to play a bigger part in my community by serving the chamber and all that it does,” said Julie Wood, office administrator at Arden Hills Realty and Hill Country Property Management. “(I joined to) give back to the community where my family and I live to make it a great place for all families,” said Karin Buchanan, real estate agent at Fore Premier Properties.

“I love being involved in welcoming businesses into the Kerrville chamber, and being an ambassador gives me the opportunity to be more involved in the Kerrville community,” White said.

“My interest in the ambassador program is twofold,” said Marti Ashcraft, recruiter at James Avery Artisan Jewelry. “First, I want to assist in the growth and promotion of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce. …

Being an ambassador has not only helped to keep connected relationships strong, but also to continue to build a professional network. Second, my participation ensures there’s a positive representation of the company for which I work at the chamber events I attend.”

How to join them Those interested in becoming an ambassador must be willing to make time to attend ambassador functions and be employed at or own a business that has been in the chamber for at least one year.

Interested candidates who meet the requirements can call the chamber office at 895-1155 for an application. The ambassadors discuss applications at their monthly meetings, and those selected for the program will be assigned an existing member as a mentor.

“

Learning about Kerrville and our community and what makes it ‘Kerrville’ — the people, the businesses, the community as a whole — is truly an amazing experience.

I’ve learned so much and met so many wonderful people being an ambassador.

”

~ Toni Caldwell, independent realtor at Realty Executives Kerrville

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Leadership & EDUCATION Leadership Kerr County

Q: Where in the world was LKC in January?

A: Cancelled due to inclement weather

By Lisa G. Winters For the first time in decades, the January class for Leadership Kerr County was cancelled due to icy conditions.

Slated for Jan. 16, the class of 33 had plans for Environmental Services Day. Ironically, the environment was too frigid and icy for both the presenters and the class members.

While the morning held presentations indoors at the Riverside Nature Center, the afternoon plans called for travel to the waste water treatment plant and water reclamation facility, ending with a trip to the Kerrville landfill.

Following the cancellation of area schools, steering committee chair Tracy Soldan made the smart and safe decision to cancel leadership class, as well. The class will not be rescheduled, but it does have plans to meet separately this month to continue planning for EasterFest, their class project. Look for event details in the chamber events section on page 20.

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About LKC The Leadership Kerr County program is offered through the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce. LKC class members grow as leaders and learn what Kerr County is really all about during their monthly classes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every third Tuesday.

For more information, visit kerrvilletx.com or call chamber membership director Angela North at 896-1155.

16 BusinessLink • February 2018

The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

Call 830-896-1155 for more information

Leadership & EDUCATION

CoffeeTalks & Seminar Series

CoffeeTalks booked through May

By Chelsea M.K. Stack Although the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce did not host a CoffeeTalk in January, speakers have been booked through May.

What’s Brewing Join the chamber for its next CoffeeTalk on March 6 with Jane Lehman of LegalShield who will present on cyber security.

On April 3, the Welcome Lady, Kristin Mudry, will give a CoffeeTalk on demographic trends in Kerrville.

happening at the university.

CoffeeTalk will take a break from June through August, but will reconvene in September. As the committee continues to book speakers for the remaining months of the year, details will be in future issues of BusinessLink.

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

Lehman

Then on May 8, Charlie McCormick, president of Schreiner University will give an update of what’s

Mudry

McCormick

angie@kerrvilletx.com.

Are you a chamber member with a topic to share? Contact Angela North at 896-1155 or

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Events

Mixer snapshots

January After Hours Business Mixer Story by Rachel London | Photos by William R. Houghton The January After Hours Business Mixer, sponsored by Our Lady of the Hills Regional Catholic High School and Schreiner University, had a great turn out of business owners and chamber members in the beautiful gym of Our Lady of the Hills.

From left: Rene Curtis of Carter Healthcare with Audra Moore and Jenna Moebes of OLH

Trace Schwartz of Our Lady of the Hills and Mark Tuschak of Schreiner University spoke about the importance of education, and the dedication of both institutions to the guidance of students.

The Jackpot at the February mixer will be $1,000, since there wasn’t a winner this time. Thank you to all the jackpot sponsors, including MG Building Materials; Jeff Talarico and Associates of Ameriprise Financial; Precision Dermatology; TNJ Engraving Company; Kerr County Abstract and Title Co.; Douville, Goldman and Allen PLLC; The Medicine Stop Inc.; LeMeilleur’s RV-Truck and Equipment Repair Co.; and 103.7 The Buck.

If you would like to be a Jackpot Sponsor, which is a great advertising opportunity for only $100, contact Angela North at 896-1155.

Jeff Talarico of Ameriprise Financial and Margie Jetton of Advanced Insurance Group

Next mixer The next After Hours Mixer will be from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, at River Trail Cottages, 1709 Water St. For more information, contact Rachel London at 896-1155 or rachel@kerrvilletx.com.

Thank you to the January mixer hosts, as well as food and beverage sponsors!

From left: Adrien Wingard and Mark Tuschak of Schreiner University with Morris Tenery of Tenery Equipment at the mixer.

From left: James Wright of Cowboys and Angels, Blake Bingham of River Trail Cottages and Tammi Clanton of Schreiner University

Chelsea Cheney and Bella Shearheart of Hill Country Charity Ball Association at the mixer.

18 BusinessLink • February 2018

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Events

Chamber events

EasterFest scheduled, seeking sponsorships

By Jacob Karre and Chelsea M.K. Stack Even though the 2018 EasterFest is still months away, the Leadership Kerr County Class No. 33 is already planning out the festival to prepare for another successful year.

LKC is looking for sponsorships for the event. There are five levels: $250 or $500 for Bronze; $1,500 for Silver; $2,000 for Gold; $3,000 for Platinum and $5,000 for Diamond.

The event is set from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 31 at Flat Rock Park, 3840 Riverside Drive.

EasterFest has been a Kerrville tradition for more than four decades and has become a staple event for Kerr County families, said Jake Williamson, this year’s festival cochairman. The schedule will include:

Williamson said sponsorships with local businesses help make the event free to the community, as well as offer a way for businesses to show their support and places in the community.

Proceeds raised from beer, wine and other activities go to a local nonprofit of the diamond sponsorship’s choice.

To secure a sponsorship, call Edie Moore at 257-5151.

• 10 a.m. The colors presented

by Hill Country Honor Guard, vendors and games open with a car show on display.

• 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Car show • noon–1 p.m. Showmanship competition • 1:30 p.m. Easter egg hunt • 2–4 p.m. Chili and barbecue judging • 5 p.m. Cook-off awards presentation “We’re hoping to keep the event growing,” Williamson said.

Michele Hozman putting with, from left, Sue Steele, Mindy Wendele and Sue Tiemann cheering at last year’s Chamber Golf Classic.

Photo by Brandy McCoy

20 BusinessLink • February 2018

Deadline to enter as a commercial vendor is March 12 and the application can be found on the chamber’s website under “chamber events” and “EasterFestival.”

The car show entry fee is $25 and sign-in is from 7 to 9 a.m. on the day of the show.

For more information about EasterFest, call Williamson at 896-9044.

Children set off on the egg hunt at last year’s EasterFest.

Photo by Michael Anglin of ARTIFEX42

23rd Annual Golf Classic set for April 16

By Chelsea M.K. Stack Save the date for the 23rd Annual Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic, which will take place Monday, April 16 at Riverhill Country Club, 100 Riverhill Club Lane in Kerrville.

Check-in will be from 10 to 10:30 a.m. with a putting contest at 10:30 a.m. and the shotgun starting at 11 a.m.

There also will be a social and awards ceremony immediately following play.

The major sponsor is Ken Stoepel Ford-Lincoln and other sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, contact Rachel London at 896-1155 or rachel@kerrvilletx.com.

Hurry...March Issue Deadlines on February 9, 2018.

BusinessLin

An official publication of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

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

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• Car Show • Easter Egg Hunt • Chili & BBQ Cookoff • Games & Rides for All Ages • Live Music • Vendors & Much More

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Events

February EVENTS

Weekly EVENTS

Calendar

Fridays

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Prayer Chaplain Tour Guides

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Kerrville Morning Rotary

The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden, 520 Benson Drive | 928-7774 or office@thecomingkingfoundation.org | thecomingkingfoundation.org

Inn of the Hills, 1001 Junction Highway | 512-787-7964 or kerrvillerotary@gmail.com | kerrvillerotary.org

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | 370-0034 or jmhunter@hot.rr.com | kerrvillemorningrotary.org

Friends of the Library Book Sale

Kiwanis Club of Kerrville

Kerrville Host Lions Club

Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library, 505 Water St. | 895-0592 or friendskerrville@ gmail.com

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | 343-7327 or kiwanisclubofkerrville@gmail.com

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive | 844-253-4539 | e-clubhouse.org/sites/kerrvillehosttx

Kerr County Farmers Market

2–4:30 p.m.

Tuesdays Noon–1 p.m.

6:45–8 a.m.

1–3 p.m.

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Want to add an event?

3–7 p.m.

River Star Arts & Event Park, 4000 Riverside Drive | 456-5942 | kerrcofm.org

15 17-18

Thursday

22

24

River Trail Cottages, 1709 Water St. | 896-1155 or info@kerrvilletx.com

Thursday

Saturday

Saturday & Sunday

Brown bag lunch meeting with local military veterans

Family Free Day

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

HCYR Healing Hearts Gala

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

6 p.m.

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

Inn of the Hills, 1001 Junction Highway | development@youth-ranch.org | youthranch.org

2

March EVENTS

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Friday 1st Friday Wine Share

6

6–7:30 p.m.

Century 21 The Hills Realty, 1726 Sidney Baker St. | info@firstfridaywineshare.com | firstfridaywineshare.com

9-11

3–7 p.m.

805 Water St. | 928-4261 or kerrvillefm@gmail.com | kerrvillefarmersmarket.com

Saturday Swap Meet & Market Days 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 E. Texas 27 | 895-7524, 370-3614 or 459-6198 | kerrmarketdays.org

22 BusinessLink • February 2018

CoffeeTalk with Jane Lehman

15

Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce, 1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100, Kerrville, 830-896-1155

Friday–Sunday

29

San Antonio Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Shows 6 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. Saturday & Sunday

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway | 896-2553 or gsimon@mowatx.com | museumofwesternart.com

Thursday Networking Luncheon 11:15 a.m.–1 p.m.

Sponsored by Rotary Club of Kerrville | Location TBD | 896-1155 or info@kerrvilletx.com

8–9 a.m.

Kerrville Farmers Market

3

Tuesday

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

31

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Texas 27 | Tresa Bellmon at 210-215-9758 or tbellmon@satx.rr.com, or Jan Gallagher at 210-289-4783 or janstoreylnd@att.net

Thursday Brown bag lunch meeting with local military veterans 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

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

Saturday EasterFest

10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Flat Rock Park, 3840 Riverside Drive | elantz@hctc.coop or 896-9044

Family Free Day 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway | 896-2553 or gsimon@mowatx. com | museumofwesternart.com

Please join us in extending a word of “Thanks!” to these businesses for sponsoring the major events held in 2018 by the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce.

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

Half Page

2ND ANNUAL HILL COUNTRY ECONOMIC SUMMIT Thursday, February 1, 2018

Chamber Major Events

HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER

23RD ANNUAL CHAMBER gOLF CLASSIC Monday, April 16, 2018 00170 RIVERHILL COUNTRY CLUB

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APACHE RIFLEWORKS

BUSINESS EXPO WITH FRIDAY NIgHT WINE SHARE August 3-4, 2018

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