Longview Progress Report July-August 2012

progress LONGVIEW

LEADING BUSINESSES. LEADING COMMUNITIES.™

REPORT

July/August 2012 Vol. 6 No. 4

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Join Us In Celebrating Our

Fourth Anniversary With Keynote Speaker, Abby Rike

Working it out Former Biggest Loser contestant Abby Rike lost her beloved husband, daughter and infant son in a car crash. She learned that even in your darkest hour, there is always hope. Abby will share how health and wellness can promote spiritual, emotional and physical healing.

Thursday, August 9 Maude Cobb Activity Center 100 Grand Blvd.

4:30 – 6 p.m.

FREE Women’s Health Expo Health information and demonstrations, partner exhibits, giveaways and more!

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Dinner Program & Speaker $15 per person or $100 for a reserved table of 8.

Seating is limited for the dinner program, so reserve your space early.

RSVP by Thursday, August 2 by visiting LongviewRegional.com/HealthyWoman. ____________________________________ To learn more about our Healthy Woman program, please visit LongviewRegional.com/HealthyWoman.

Membership is free and the benefits last a lifetime!

Abby Rike Contestant on The Biggest Loser, Season 9

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6/6/12 1:38 PM

From the President Why is it important to advance Entrepreneurism in Longview?

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs

W

hat is the Chamber’s role in job creation?

That is an ongoing question the board addresses on a regular basis. Over the past several years the board has worked towards strengthening their visioning process by concentrating on key customer focus areas:

Contents From the President .........................3 Promotion Builds Connections..........4 Get Connected Through TRC ............5 COVER STORY CNG! Is it a Dream or a Vision for Longview .....................6 Ribbon Cuttings ..............................8 Anniversaries and New Members......9

• Asking our members - What are the 5-10 top issues their business is faced with?

Gregg County Historical Museum’s Everett Building Gets a Boost.........10

• Developing Customer Insight – How can we, “the chamber” gain a better understanding and identify the ‘unarticulated needs’ members don’t express?

Kayla Cantey Joins the Chamber Team........................10

• Focusing on the Customer - Put the customer at the heart of our organization. Involve them in the design of our offerings and service activities.

Retail Development Finding What Fits .........................11

• Adapting to changing lifestyles – How do we encourage start up businesses and foster entrepreneurism?

As the board moves deeper into visioning while focusing on the key customer areas they challenged themselves to explore opportunities that will enhance current employers’ ability to create new jobs and attract new businesses to Longview.

LEDCO does an excellent job of selling Longview as the premier destination for manufacturers, distribution companies, etc.

How can the Chamber support these efforts by focusing on the other industry clusters? Currently, our board is advancing the development of a framework to ensure all businesses consider Longview as the premier destination to start or grow their businesses. It is critical we continue to strengthen our strategies on how to increase and enhance capacity and resources to boost Longview’s competitive position in today’s economic development landscape.

It is important for us to remember Longview has fared the recession better than many U.S. communities, but many challenges remain which, if not addressed, will hinder Longview’s long-term competitiveness. In 2009-2010 LEDCO and the Chamber contracted with Market St. Strategies to review both organizations and provide constructive feedback on how we can better create Longview’s future. Part of the feedback dealt with the fact the Chamber did not have specific programs dedicated to the creation, development, and assistance of entrepreneurs.

Leading Leadership Longview into 2012-2013 Program Year .......12 Chamber Launches New Website ...13 Leadership in Action .....................14 Ambassadors of the Month April & May 2012 .........................14 Chamber Events Calendar .............15

Longview Progress Report is published bi-monthly by:

410 North Center Street / Longview, Texas 75601 903-237-4000 / www.LongviewTX.com The Business View Blog www.BusinessInLongview.com www.facebook.com/LongviewChamber @LongviewChamber

Continued on page 7 www.LongviewChamber.com

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Promoting the Community 2012 Officers Dr. Dale Lunsford

LeTourneau University

P. Anne Hugman

Hugman Architecture & Constructions, Inc.

David McWhorter

Gans & Smith Insurance Company

Dianne Swank

Suzanne Cook & Company

Brad Tidwell

Citizens National Bank

Tim Vaughn

TVaughn Builders LLC

Kelly Hall

Longview Chamber of Commerce

2012 Directors Jill Berney

Longview Regional Medical Center

Pat Britton

Eastman Chemical Company

Cathy Cace

Johnny Cace’s Seafood and Steak House

Jeremy DuMond

U.S. Steel Tubular Products

John Ray

Lively Cadillac GMC

Shelby Snell

Oleum Operating Company

Dave Spurrier

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC

Darwin Winfield Atmos Energy

2012 Appointed Directors Suzanne Cook

Suzanne Cook & Company

Keith Honey

Voting Member - LEDCO

Brett Lindig

SYSCO Food Services, LLC

Mayor Jay Dean City of Longview

Judge Bill Stoudt Gregg County

4

I

Promotion Builds Connections

magine if you will, you have plans to move your residence due to a change of employment, to somewhere you have never been. Who do you call when

pancake breakfasts and beauty pageants. Today, those have been replaced with economic and retail development, training of leaders, speaking on behalf of membership before

ship. Members value the core competency to strengthen the local economy as number one in importance.

Promoting the community is a very close second.

Chambers of Commerce have always been the one organization that have their fingers on the pulse of the community. you want information on that city, town or community?

Typically it has been the Chamber of Commerce in your new community that receives your call. Chambers of Commerce have always been the one organization that has their fingers on the pulse of the community.

But newcomers or visitors are not the only ones that turn to the Chamber of Commerce for information.

Calls from the community requesting a business phone number, a referral, or information about a special event or festival are frequent. This connectivity creates a great amount of community pride.

It is therefore natural that the core competencies of your Chamber of Commerce include promoting the community.

For us, that means the promotion of Longview, Texas.

While our fast paced world is transforming the method and means of our communication and the manner in which people receive information and even do business, the Chamber needs flexible strategies to promote the community.

Perhaps once, the Chamber was perceived as the organization that did a lot of parades,

Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

government and providing opportunities for businesses to network with each other.

According to a survey by the Western Association of Chamber Executives the trend is for corporate headquarters and larger companies to want the community connection over other aspects of member-

Incorporating elements of promoting the community are a critical component in the Chamber’s work plan, they should be both balanced and integrated with the other core areas.

!

It’s only natural!

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East Texas’ Best Since 1959

903-758-1773 • 800-530-4888 • www.hudsonprint.com

www.LongviewChamber.com

Strengthening our Local Economy

G

Get Connected through TRC ET CONNECTED through the Total Resource Campaign!

Are you looking for a fun way to get involved with the chamber at no cost? Do you want to increase your networking base with some WE’RE GROWING

of Longview’s community leaders? Do you want to grow your company’s business and brand awareness? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then this is for you! The chamber is currently recruiting volunteers to join in the second annual Total Resource Campaign.

Join your colleagues and support the chamber by promoting the 2013 programs and services.

“Taking Care of Business” is exactly what Brad Tidwell with Citizens National Bank plans to do with this year’s campaign. As Chairman of the Campaign,

BIGGER TO SERVE YOU BETTER! Les Mendicello President

Architect’s Rendering South Facade at 3700 Gilmer Road after Remodeling

Sometimes, the only way left to grow is up.

We’re adding a new second story to our building at Gilmer Road. It’s scheduled for completion this spring.

Come see what it’s like to deal with a locally owned and operated independent bank.

3700 Gilmer Road 202 Hollybrook Drive

903-759-0751 www.springhillbank.com

www.LongviewChamber.com

Staff Kelly Hall

President 903-237-4004 president@longviewtx.com

Paul Anderson

Senior Vice President Communications Director 903-237-4041 lcvb@longviewtx.com

Elaine Reynolds

VP of Special Event Operations 903-237-4040 downtown@longviewtx.com

Leska Parker

Chief Operating Officer 903-237-4010 bmanager@longviewtx.com 2012 TRC Chairman Brad Tidwell Citizens National Bank

he will lead Vice-Chairs and Team Captains that will form teams to create a friendly competition over an eightweek period. “The appeal of this kind of campaign is that it allows you to work at your own pace. If you have to be out of town on business for a week, that’s okay because you’ll have the next week to catch up and surge ahead,” remarks Tidwell.

Last year’s campaign, led by Dr. Dale Lunsford with LeTourneau University, raised over $276,000.

As current chairman of the chamber board, Lunsford states, “The outstanding results of the first TRC has helped advance the chamber’s strategic plan, and I look forward to the success of this year’s campaign.”

If you would like to take advantage of this great opportunity to get involved, contact chamber staff liaison Leska Parker at 903-237-4010 or bmanager@longviewtx.com.

Mary Whitton

Community Development Director 903-237-4003 programs@longviewtx.com

Diana Northcutt

Retail Development Coordinator 903-237-4029 development@longviewtx.com

Missy Saunders

Business Development & Special Events Director 903-237-4023 promotions@longviewtx.com

Kayla Cantey

Convention Meetings and Main Street Manager 903-753-3281 meetings@longviewtx.com

Margie Harris

Tourism Services Manager 903-753-3281 x216 info@longviewtx.com

Lisa Null

Membership Services Clerk 903-237-4013 membership@longviewtx.com

Katie Reynolds

Special Events Assistant 903-237-3281 x215 assistant@longviewtx.com

Carrie Fisher

Director of First Impressions 903-237-4000 info1@longviewtx.com

Kim Droege

Executive Director Keep Longview Beautiful 903-212-4552 klb@longviewtx.com

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Representing the Interest of Business with Government CNG A Part of Longview’s Future?

E

nergy Independence for America, is it a practical goal?

Some say it will require adopting a new commitment and see commercial and industrial businesses leading

the way.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is on the rise in popularity as a practical and economical alternative to gasoline. CNG is not a new fuel to the automotive world by any means. In fact, the first vehicle to run on a natural gas engine was built in 1860, before the development of the gasoline engine. However, as most of us already know, today there are millions more gasoline-powered vehicles than CNG-powered vehicles. With CNG prices being so much lower than gasoline, it will be exciting to witness the growth and development of CNG vehicles in the future.

Jeremy DuMond, Manager of Environmental Control for U.S. Steel Tubular Products Inc. Texas Operations Division, shared his companies support of moving to natural gas. “As both an energy customer and a tubular goods provider, U. S. Steel is supportive of responsible natural gas development throughout our country. Reducing our dependence on foreign sources of energy and creating energy independence for Americans can only make our communities stronger.”

Natural gas represents a clean energy option of adequate scale that exists today. By starting now, the expanded use of

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Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

CNG can make meaningful improvements to air quality during the next 10 years.

• CNG burns cleaner than other fuel sources, with fewer pollutants like carbon monoxide and no mercury.

• CNG is an essential partner in the development of renewables, providing clean, reliable power when the sun sets or wind dies down.

• CNG does not contain any lead or benzene. This means that vehicles have a longer life and can run efficiently.

• When CNG is used in vehicles, there is no danger of any leakage or spills because CNG fuel systems are always sealed.

• All things considered, CNG is a good choice as an alternative fuel to foreign crude and a volatile market. CNG will help America reduce its dependence on imported oil.

Laura Rectenwald, Environment Specialist with Titanium Environmental Services in Longview, underscores the benefit and the incentives to switch to natural gas. “These abundant, clean fuels are produced by companies that are integral to our local economy.

The TCEQ recently announced opportunities for grant money to pay for up to 80% of the purchase price for replacement vehicles in qualified large fleets in our area. The environmental benefits of CNG/ LNG fuels include lower emissions and improved vehicle life. Storage and transportation of CNG is in some respects safer than traditional fuel because in the event of a spill, CNG is naturally released upward instead of pooling on soil or water.”

A recent trip to Mansfield, Louisiana by several Chamber and Community leaders was made to visit a Lott Oil Company’s CNG fueling station.

The group from Longview were able to see the operation of compression and distribution of CNG. In the US, the use of commercial CNG vehicles is increasing.

The City of Milwaukee has passed a resolution that would allow the City to work with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation on a program that involves the retrofit of refuse trucks with CNG fuel systems. In Dallas, DART gave the City Council members a sneak peek at the new compressed natural gas bus that will roll out in October. DART is changing its entire fleet to natural gas and has 459 of the 40-foot-long buses on order.

There is broad scientific consensus that our nation has enough natural gas right here at home to power America for generations to come.

Continued to page 13 www.LongviewChamber.com

Strengthening our Local Economy “Entrepreneurism” Continued from Page 3

Stephen Warnock is a Longview business owner who strategizes with other like businesses.

The board took this feedback and in the fall of 2011 adopted four key initiatives, two of which address programs dedicated to entrepreneurs; explore the formation of an Innovation Center to aid in strengthening the local economy and develop a Business Accreditation Model.

“I think people thought it was cool that you (the Chamber) were trying to provide a place for startups and small businesses to work to help their business grow.

They liked the idea of open office and the idea we spoke about with an actual building where you rent spaces.”

As of today, steering Committees for each of the four areas have been formed. Richard Andrews (former STEMCO President) leads a task force of local business and community leaders who have developed the framework for Longview’s FIRST Business Accreditation Model and Keith Honey, AEP/ Stephen Warnock SWEPCO, is working with a group of area entrepreneurs to work ux design | partner sparq creative on the advancement of our entrepreneurial strategies including the formation of our Entrepreneurial Center (formerly called the Creating an environment that is attractive for innovation center). entrepreneurial development is crucial to moving Longview When considering the formation of an entrepreneurial forward. We know entrepreneurs play a vital role in economic center a tremendous amount of R & D must be done. We have development as key contributors to technological innovation and and will continue to look at models from across the country to new job growth. Further, entrepreneurs help build communities glean best practices. One of the best programs we have seen is in ways such as providing jobs, conducting business locally, The Stampede Center in Raleigh/Durham, http://durhamchamber. creating and participating in entrepreneurial networks, investing org/thrive/entrepreneurs-startups. They have also started another in community projects, and giving to local charities. Realizing initiative called “The Smoffice” which is marketed as one of the both the economic and social impact of entrepreneurship, it world’s smallest offices, http://thesmoffice.com/. These innovative is important we implement aggressive strategies aimed at approaches are definitely the type of direction we want to take in cultivating and nurturing entrepreneurs.

Longview. Recently, Keith Honey stated, “Bottom line, the timing is right. We need to seize the opportunity and build on the momentum that is being projected for our trade area. The Chamber needs to supplement Longview’s entrepreneurship infrastructure by creating a physical environment - or incubator - for start-up office businesses.

Office incubator models have advanced in recent years, and there are a number of effective Chamber-initiated entrepreneur focused incubators that we are examining as part of our planning process.”

What else have we done to move forward with the entrepreneurial center?

Diana Northcutt, Retail Development Coordinator with the Chamber, explained, “As a first step to get this project rolling, we have started the ‘Open Office’ concept at the Chamber with a small group of home based businesses. Before we launch an offsite location we want to have a better understanding of what the needs are. This test group will also help us create the framework to market the program to other home based entrepreneurs.”

How can you help?

We are looking for individuals who are exploring starting a business or have a home based business. They need to contact Diana Northcutt at development@longviewtx.com.

We are seeking a NO or very low cost office building for startup purposes. Again, contact Diana Northcutt at development@longviewtx.com.

www.LongviewChamber.com

The Power of Three Your Business • The Chamber • UnitedHealthcare The Longview Chamber of Commerce’s ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan offers access to several different UnitedHealthcare health plan options, including standard PPO and consumer-driven health plans – at prices that fit most budgets. In addition, businesses that enroll with UnitedHealthcare through this partnership will receive up to a 7 percent discount on select medical plans and have an option for an administrative savings of up to 5 percent on their bundled dental and vision plans.

Businesses and employees who enroll in the ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan will also have access to UnitedHealthcare’s nationwide health care provider network of more than 650,000 physicians and care professionals, and 5,100 hospitals.

GET ANSWERS. REQUEST A QUOTE . GROW HEALTHY. CALL US TODAY.

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July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

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www.LongviewChamber.com

Anniversaries and New Members

July

1

Audubon Behaviorial Healthcare of Longview Balance Diet Color Me Happy GNC-Towne Crossing Lili & Dolce Style District McProperties Scott & White Senior Care Health Plan Suzanne Cook & Company – Dianne Swank Junior League of Longview

YEARS

Copeland Group East Texas Tourism

10

YEARS

YEARS

East Texas Careteam Inc

Jennings Scrap & Salvage Company

5

YEARS Sloan Bagley Hatcher & Perry Law Firm

NCIC Operator Services

YEAR

5

Anniversaries 15 45 Special Health Resources for Texas Inc

20

YEARS

East Texas Neurological Associates

Longview Economic Development Corporation Want Ads of Longview/ American Classisfieds

40

YEARS Tom M Smith DDS Inc

15 20

YEARS

August

1

Electrical Expertise

YEARS

YEAR Best Western Regency Inn & Suites Charles N. Richardson Enterprise Inc Fleur Décor Genghis Grill – The Mongolian Sir Fry

Community Bank Daiquiri Express Kelly Services Inc

40

YEARS

Robert W Little & Company PC

Stream Flo USA Texas Spine & Joint The Reserve at Towne Crossing

YEARS

Real Jobs for Youth Inc

New Members 1st Choice Personnel

Patti Brady 6560 Youree Drive, Ste 1008 Shreveport, LA 71105 (903) 297-0883

Gallery of Lights

Shannon Lents 2900 Gilmer Road Longview, TX 75604 (903) 295-9516

Konica Minolta Business Systems Dan Cummins 920 Piermont Road Ste 111 Shreveport, LA 71106 (903) 939-0869

Eddie Napps P O Box 2546 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 758-6482

All American Safety & Training

Gregg County AgriLife Extension

Kyle’s Kwik Stop

The Community Partners for Children/Rainbow Room

Michael Henigan P O Box 8024 Longview, TX 75603 (903) 643-7304

Jason Baker

P O Box 291 Flint, TX 75762 (469) 600-6114

East Texas Rifle & Pistol Club Doug Hall P O Box 2664 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 212-7468

www.LongviewChamber.com

Alex Shook 405 E Marshall Av. Ste.101 Longview, TX 75601 (903) 236-8428

J. T. Products Inc

Tommy Konozak P O Box 1932 Kilgore, TX 75663

Jersey Mike’s

Michael Reeves 15488 FM 2493 Longview, TX 75603 (903) 297-4962

Kyle Adams P O Box 10268 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 212-3191

Napps Heating & AC

Kellie Bankston 2130 Alpine Road Longview, TX 75601

LegalShield

Trade Resources Inc

Lynnette McKinley 3113 Fairway Oaks Ln Longview, TX 75605 (903) 240-2092

Christine Adair 814 Gilmer Road Ste 6 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 758-7575

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Brad O’Leary 6751 Old Jacksonvillle Hwy Tyler, TX 75703 (903) 535-4703

World Pay

Linda Weir 1816 Riverstone Longview, TX 75605 (903) 746-0748

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Promoting the Community

Historic Everett Building Gets a Boost

O

ne Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street has approved its twelfth Façade Improvement Grant since the program began in 2009. The grant was awarded to the Gregg County Historical Foundation which owns and operates the Gregg County Historical Museum, located in the Everett Building. After 25 years of exposure to the elements, the Gregg County Historical Museum’s 36 windows are all in need of repair or replacement.

One window has already blown in!

Everett Building I would like to state the obvious; this building is one of the few significant structures in Longview and must be maintained so that future generations will have the opportunity to observe the beautiful architecture and enjoy the fine programs and exhibits which are mounted in the museum.”

Mike Hawkins, the Facilities Chairman explained, “When I moved to Longview in 1978 to take my first architectural job, I can remember driving downtown and seeing the Everett Building and being impressed. As it is often said by the board of directors, the building is our biggest asset and our biggest liability, and we applaud the support of the people of Gregg County and the funding received from the façade grant.”

The museum was restored in 1984 and is again in need of restoration. Improving the façade will benefit the future of the 100 year old Gregg County Historical Museum into the next century. “The One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Facade Improvement Program has made not only a significant visible difference in the curb appeal of the Applicants for FIGP may receive matching funds for downtown storefronts, it has also helped to revitalize and rejuvenate the downtown businesses,” said Neina Kennedy, Execu- approved projects. Projects must be for façade improvement on the exterior of buildings within Longview’s Main Street tive Director of the Gregg County Historical Museum.

District and must be completed by October 1, 2012. Interested Phyllis Taunton is a member of the Ark La Tex Packard applicants are urged to contact Elaine Reynolds, 903 237-4040 or Club and comments, “As a longtime admirer of the beautiful downtown@longviewtx.com

Kayla Cantey Joins the Chamber Team The Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of Kayla Cantey as the Convention Meetings and Main Street Manager.

Cantey will work closely with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Main Street divisions of the organization.

Cantey brings a wealth of event and volunteer management to the organization.

In her most recent role as the Member Services Coordinator at The Institute for Healthy Living, she interacted with members, volunteers and staff on a daily basis to create a positive experience for all utilizing the facility. Cantey’s degree in marketing from Louisiana Tech University will be an asset as she works to promote Longview as a Convention Meeting Destination and create a better awareness of Downtown Longview. “We are excited to welcome Kayla to our team,” remarks Chamber President and CEO, Kelly Hall, “and we are certain that her skills will help elevate the level of service we provide to our customers, both locally and those visiting.”

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Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

www.LongviewChamber.com

Strengthening our Local Economy Are you interested in starting your own business?

Need new marketing ideas?

Check out our Tools For Business link on our home page! www.longviewchamber.com

Retail - Finding What Fits

L

ongview is the center of economic activity for a significant part of Northeast Texas. It has a reputation as a thriving community offering an outstanding amount of commercial/retail establishments.

Longview is the largest city and the major retail hub for our 13 county region. Questions that arise are, why can’t we get a Chico’s? Or why can’t we have a Salt Grass Restaurant?

The answer is simple. Retailers have specific requirements that a community must meet in order to qualify for a location.

f.

g.

h.

i.

We must also take into consideration that communities thrive on a healthy retail community.

We must support our retail community. Below are sales taxes for Longview and for the Longview MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area).

Follow us on:

facebook.com/longviewchamber

@LongviewChamber

Longview Chamber of Commerce Group The Business View Blog businessinlongview.com

Diana Northcutt

Retail Development Coordinator

Longview Chamber of Commerce 410 N. Center Street Longview, TX 75601

903-237-4029 development@longviewtx.com

www.LongviewChamber.com

easy, ample, and clearly-marked entranceexits from both directions of traffic.

Traffic Counts: retailers look closely at the number of vehicles passing in front of a location during a 24-hour period. The higher the traffic count – the more sales potential the retailer will have from that location.

Adequate Parking: adequate parking is a priority for all retailers since most locations’ consumers will arrive by car. A bad parking experience will cloud consumers’ views of a retailer’s location and store.

Demographics: retailers look for locations in communities with high population density and high disposable income. These two measures directly correlate to retailers sales volumes.

Competition: retailers pay close attention to their competitors and their locations, not wanting to be out-positioned. They do not want a secondary site to their competitors.

In order to attract the right retailer/ restaurant into the area, we must consider what retailers look for: a. Market Conditions: retailers look for stable and improving communities. b. Community Development: a clean, attractive community makes a difference to retailers. c. Downtowns: retailers still recognize downtowns as the “pulse” of the community. A healthy, vibrant downtown usually equates to a healthy, vibrant community. d. Visibility: retailers have got to be seen. As a result, they look for sites that consumers can view from as far away as possible. This is the reason why Loop 281 locations are preferred by most retailers. e. Accessibility: retailers look for

As a whole region, we look very attractive for potential retail development. We hope to see new developments in the coming years. If you would like to inquire about establishing a new business or would like more information, please visit our website at LongviewChamber.com.

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Developing Community Leaders

Leading Leadership Longview into 2012-13

S

ince 1982 Leadership Longview, a program of the Longview Chamber of Commerce, has provided opportunities for people to improve their professional skills, learn about Longview area needs and serve as community leaders.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

AFTER GRADUATION….ALUMNI NETWORK The Leadership Longview Alumni was created to be a continuation of the Leadership Longview program experience and provide opportunity for graduates to continue their leadership development through education, networking and community involvement.

The programs offer a variety of activities including The Leadership Longview curriculum is a tool used to leadership development, volunteer opportunities and educate class members about the critical issues affecting our networking opportunities. We encourage the Alumni member community and provide volunteer and leadership opportunities to bring their skills and expertise to help better the community available.

The program they live in. What better sessions provide the necessary place to build and develop information to help motivate your skills as a leader than the class members to become in the community you work involved! and live?

- John Buchan The sessions begin with The benefits of Alumni a ROPES course overnight retreat that brings a group of people, membership are as varied as the membership - opportunities that do not know each other, together and places all the different to continue the relationships built during the program and personalities together to become one cohesive group. By the end developing new relationships, leadership and professional of the retreat the class knows each other very well and is on their development, opportunities to continue to learn about the way to making a difference for Longview. community that we live in, exposure to organizations and events to volunteer your time, skills and service to make a difference Each year begins with an overnight retreat. There are 7 sessions that cover Community and Economic Development Day; Tour Day to include tours of Longview; Health and Social Services Day; Education Day to tour schools in the City; Criminal Justice Day to include a tour of the Gregg County Court System and Quality of Life Day. The year wraps up with a class Community Service Project and Graduation Day.

“The task of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.”

Planning Committee members attending the June meeting were, (left to right) Pamela Camp, Paula Loden, Chris Terry, Tammy Gibbons, Donna Koerner, Adam Graves, Linda Martin, Mary Whitton

in your community. Alumni members continue to develop as leaders, community servants and active members of Longview.

The alumni dues are $75 per year. Membership benefits includes leadership development opportunities three times a year as well as volunteer opportunities to get plugged in through our chamber and community.

Donna Koerner with REMAX First Choice currently serves as the alumni chair. The first event of the year will be in October with a ½ day workshop featuring John Grubbs with GCI, Inc. presenting “Standout”, an action-oriented strengths assessment by author Marcus Cunningham.

Leadership Class of 2011-2012 solving a team-building challenge on the ropes course. Each Leadership Longview class begin with an overnight retreat.

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Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

To learn more about applying for this year’s class, contact Mary Whitton, Community Development Director, at 903.237.4003 or www.longviewchamber.com/leadership_ longview to learn about program sessions, tuition, scholarship opportunities and alumni events and experiences. www.LongviewChamber.com

Representing the Interest of Business with Government “CNG” Continued from page 6 In fact, the Potential Gas Committee now reports that the U.S. has more than 1,800 trillion cubic feet of available gas.

That’s a 35% leap from its 2009 forecast.

Nearly any vehicle can be converted to run on CNG, and automakers are now offering more options than ever before.

Best of all, CNG is available today, and new stations are opening all the time. CNG isn’t a dream for tomorrow. It’s here today for those that have the vision.

CNG is stored on board vehicles in (3,000-3,600 psi) tubeshaped cylinders that are installed in the trunk, roof, bed or undercarriage of the vehicle. The cylinders meet very rigorous safety standards.

They are made of high-strength materials designed to withstand impact, puncture and, in the case of fire, their pressure relief devices (PRD’s) provide a controlled venting of the gas rather than letting the pressure build up in the tank.

Chamber Launches New Website

T

he First of July is the target date for launching of a new website to communicate what’s happening at the Chamber. Until now, each division maintained their own website with little interaction between them. The new site will have all programs in one integrated website. Paul Anderson, Director of Communication for the Chamber, says that the difference will be significant from the sites that have served the Chamber for the past seven years. “We will have one home page or portal for all of our divisions. Each division Chamber, CVB and Main Street will have a path that will lead the user to pages focused on that division specialities,” The web address will be LongviewChamber.com but all the current website addresses will continue to be active and point to the portal because of the investment in branding through advertising and networking across the country. “Our brands have been out there since the begining in 1995, it just makes sense to keep those channels open,” Anderson said.

This has not been a simple transition due to the vast amount of information held on the Chamber’s websites but the staff is excited about the change. According to Anderson, “We are looking to have a good clean launch and hope to hit our target date but we won’t launch it until we know we have it ready.”

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Jeff Holiday, Manager of Public Affairs for Chesapeake Energy, Inc. arranged the trip to Mansfield for Longview’s delegation.

Chesapeake Energy is setting itself up to take advantage and benefit from a large scale conversion to natural gas, especially as a commercial fuel source in the future.

(903) 663-3559 101 W. Hawkins Pkwy.

Longview, TX 75605

Solutions include: • Office Services • Professional Search • Industrial

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www.expresspros.com

www.LongviewChamber.com

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Representing the Interest of Business with Government Leadership in Action

Richard Manley with R Manley Enterprises has recently been invited to participate on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Council on Small Business. The Council consists of some of the most well-known and passionate small business advocates across the nation. Members of the Council routinely help shape and advance the Chamber’s message and strong pro-business agenda.

Manley, a former executive committee member and board member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, will be a strong advocate for small business and will have a vital role in shaping policy for small businesses through a dedicated commitment and involvement in the political process.

Manley is a member of the Longview City Council representing District 5.

Tim Vaughn, a local Real Estate Developer, home builder and licensed realtor, has been appointed to serve on the Texas Association of Business Board of Directors and their Transportation Committee.

Vaughn served six terms as Mayor of White Oak from 1996-2008 and has served 18 years on the Longview MPO Executive Board. He also is appointed to the State Rail Planning Task Force for TXDOT. Serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Longview Regional Medical Center, and as Chairman of the Board for Gregg and Harrison County Children’s Advocacy Center. Vaughn is Chairman of the Chamber’s Transportation Committee and Vice-Chairman on the Longview Chamber of Commerce Executive Board of Directors.

Developing Community Leaders Ambassador of the Month

Ambassador of the Month

April 2012

May 2012

Cindi Marie Lewis

Troy Neuman

Employer: ARS Restoration Professionals Position: Marketing Director

Employer: Eastman Credit Union Position: Branch Manager What made you decide to become an Ambassador?

What do you enjoy most about being an Ambassador?

“At a Chamber event, my friend Cynde Bell was recognized for being an Ambassador. I asked her what it was and how does one get involved. It sounded like a fun way to be more active with the Chamber so I signed up and have had a great time since.

“I enjoy getting to meet new people and represent our community through the Chamber’s Ambassador program!”

How have you contributed to the community as an Ambassador?

How has being an Ambassador helped your business?

“I have had the opportunity to volunteer at great events such as the KLB Death

by Chocolate Fund Raiser, AlleyFest and coming up, the Great Texas Balloon Race. Giving my time for these events is my small way of giving back to the Longview community”

Years of Service as Ambassador: 2 Years

“Being an Ambassador has allowed me to promote ARS with so many other businesses and it has provided me with great opportunities to educate and inform others about our company! ARS provides immediate disaster clean up.”

What do you say to someone considering the Ambassadors?

“Being an Ambassador is a win/win. It’s good for your business and its good for the Longview community.”

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Longview Progress Report | July - August 2012

www.LongviewChamber.com

Calendar of Chamber Events JULY 2012

Events are at the Chamber Offices 410 N. Center Street unless otherwise noted.

4

u

Chamber Office Closed for July 4

h

Longview Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Meeting

3:30 p.m.

w Leadership Longview Committee Meeting

11:30 a.m.

Chamber Offices in the Citizen’s National Bank Board Room

Chamber Offices in the Citizen’s National Bank Board Room

g Business After Hours

e

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Board

12:00 p.m.

Chamber Offices in the Citizen’s National Bank Board Room

j 4:45 p.m.

Network Communications

Member2Member

11:30 a.m.

Chamber Offices in the Citizen’s National Bank Board Room

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Executive Meeting

4:00 p.m.

AUGUST 2012

Events are at the Chamber Offices 410 N. Center Street unless otherwise noted.

7

9

TRC Volunteer Training

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

CNB Board Room

8

g

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Executive Meeting

4:00 p.m.

a

TRC Volunteer Training 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

CNB Board Room

8 Leadership Longview Committee Meeting

Longview Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Meeting

3:30 p.m.

d Member2Member

11:30 a.m.

Corporate Etiquette Training Luncheon

9:00 a.m.

l Business After Hours

4:45 p.m.

Longview Regional Medical Center

; Business Development Series: Window 8 Live

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

www.LongviewChamber.com

July - August 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 82 LONGVIEW, TX

410 N. Center Street Longview, TX 75601 903-237-4000 www.longviewtx.com

LONGVIEW’S ONLY NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

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CERTIFIED PRIMARY STROKE CENTER

SOON TO BE EAST TEXAS’ LARGEST ACADEMIC MEDICAL CENTER

LONGVIEW’S ONLY BREAST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE

OVER 100 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN THE LAST DECADE

CHOICE NO MATTER WHO YOUR DOCTOR IS, YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR HOSPITAL. CHOOSE QUALITY. CHOOSE GOOD SHEPHERD.