REACH 2021 - November / December Edition - Collaboration Can be Fun!

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y. E D U C A T I O N A D V O C A C Y C O L L A B O R A T I O N

R E A C H R E D E V E L O P M E N T

A PUBL I C ATI O N O F T HE LO N GV IE W CH A MBE R O F C O MME RC E

N OV E MBE R- D EC E MBE R 2 0 21

H E A L T H

VO L . 4 N O. 6

Collaboration

Can Be FUN!

Changing Our Behavior Champions for Collaboration Moving Our Community Forward Impacting Lives Through Leadership Retaining and Attracting Talent Alleys Can Be Fun!

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

1

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

w w w. Lo n g v i e w Re g i o n a l . c o m 903-758-1818 2901 N. Fourth Street, Longview, TX 75605

Longview Chamber of Commerce Staff

What’s Inside?

Kelly Hall President/CEO 903.237.4004 khall@longviewtx.com

Ana Suriano New Membership Sales & Retention 903.237.4009 asuriano@longviewtx.com

Champions for Collaboration will Drive Success!.............................4

Suzanne Brown Senior Vice President 903.237.4003 sbrown@longviewtx.com

Spencer Sallee Investor Support 903.237.4013 ssallee@longviewtx.com

David Jochum Business & Leadership Development Director 903.237.4023 djochum@longviewtx.com

Shawna Stewart Investor Relations 903.237.4000 sstewart@longviewtx.com

Stephanie Raudales Special Project & Event Coordinator 903.237.4000 sraudales@longviewtx.com

AWARD WINNER

2020

410 N. Center Street | 903-237-4000 | longviewchamber.com

2

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

40 Under 40................................................................................8 Talent, Talent, Talent!...................................................................9 Community Collaboration............................................................10 Alleys Can Be Fun......................................................................13 Ribbon Cuttings / Anniversaries............................................. 14-15

–––––––––––––––– CORNERSTONE INVESTORS ––––––––––––––––

Happy150thLongview 2019

Helping Move Our Community Forward..........................................7

New Members............................................................................16

2019 NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR

Why Legacy Giving is Important.....................................................6

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

2021 YEAR OF CHAMBER EVENTS November

2-4............... DC Fly-In 10................ State of the City WUL: Inline Network Integration LLC 16................ BAH: Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry 17................ TRC Victory Party 25-26........... Thanksgiving – Office Closed

Acronyms: BAH: Business After Hours WUL: Wake Up Longview BA: Business Advocacy LL: Leadership Longview ED: Education ADV: Advocacy

December

7................... Small Business Grant Seminar 8.................. HealthyVIEW Summit 8.................. Holiday Open House 15................ 40 Under 40 Executive Workshop 24-Jan 3....... Offices Closed Current Calendar of Events. [ CLICK HERE ] All dates are subject to change.

Times: BAH............................................4:45pm – 6:30pm Wake Up Longview....................... 7:45am – 9:00am

2021 Officers Dana Parr Chairman of the Board Advanta Insurance Partners Kevin Hood Chairman Elect Texas Bank and Trust Chuck King Past Chairman of the Board Chick-fil-A

Vice Chairs

STATE OF THE CITY DR. ANDY MACK City of Longview Mayor

November 10, 2021 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 pm Holiday Inn Infinity Event Center SPONSORED BY

PROOF

Jessica LaRue Chairman of Finance Harbour Smith Harris & Merritt PC Sam Neale Vice Chairman Napps Technology Corporation Gerald Rincher Vice Chairman Komatsu Mining Corporation Bo Rogers Vice Chairman Rogers Law Firm

Directors Brian Daugbjerg Longview Scrap & Metal Company Jim Gaton CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System Jim Green Eastman Chemical Company Texas Operations Dr. Roger Johnson Texas Office Leasing Rodney Overman Henry & Peters, P.C. Nishil Patel Longview Market Square, LLC Mark Robinson AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company

use last video

Travis Sisson Longview Regional Medical Center

Appointed Director Michael Clements Energy Weldfab Judge Bill Stoudt Gregg County Kristen Ishihara Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

3

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

President’s Message Leading People. Leading Prosperity.

Champions for Collaboration will Drive Success!

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is SUCCESS!” – HENRY FORD ............................................................

L

ongview has a long history of coming together to make great things happen! Yet, the past 20 months of the COVID “Crud” has taken its toll on our lives. I have heard and can relate too--I’m just “fried”. But rather than focus on the “crud” will you help us focus on the progress our community continues to make together? Let’s focus on the impact of how working together has and is keeping us strong.

Will you take a moment and reflect on what is keeping you strong?

It is the Take the Stairs mind-set that I believe has driven the resiliency and dedication of our first responders over the past 20 months. Across the board these teams have worked together and gone the extra mile. Plus, they continue to come together to face the head winds of the new COVID variants with determination and fortitude.

That is why we want you to join us on January 25th at our Annual Meeting and Banquet! Yes, we are going to celebrate and recognize the amazing work of many! Our board and staff hope you will mark your calendars now and [ REGISTER ] for this time of celebration.

At the Annual Meeting and Banquet we are going to have some FUN and intentionally stage a public intervention aimed at encouraging better health.

We are borrowing this idea from the 2009 project done by Volkswagen where they initiated the Fun Theory Award. They looked at whether fun could change behavior for the better.

During the period of review, 66% more people chose the stairs over the escalator demonstrating that fun can change behavior.

.........................................

.........................................

This statement immediately took me back to a conference where I had the opportunity to hear Rory Vaden talk about his life and how it led to his book, Take the Stairs. Take the Stairs is an easy read! His message focuses on how to avoid quick-fix traps in our lives. Vaden shares, “quick-fix traps are the lies we tell ourselves that leads to short-term success mirages that are actually quagmires in the long run.” He encourages readers to stick to practical, self-disciplined traits and win in the end.

4

Leaders converted the stairs into piano keys. The point of the exercise was to see if people would take the stairs if they were seen to be more fun rather than the less healthy option of the escalator.

In Mark Batterson’s blog on October 13th he stated, “Take the Stairs! I mean that literally and figuratively.

Yes, the elevator is easier. But the path of least resistance won’t get you where you want to go.

When given the choice, don’t take the easy way out.”

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

O

n January 25, 2022, we are going to be sharing some FUN opportunities on how you and your organization can engage.

We know this next year and beyond, we will need to work together to make some intentional mind-set shifts to attract and retain talent. This is going to require your help so we will bring initiatives to reality!

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

To help build the excitement about the Annual Meeting and Banquet we are featuring (3) opportunities in this issue:

1. Longview’s NEW Community Foundation by 2. Community Collaboration is Impacting Fam- 3.

Kristen Ishihara. Kristen discusses the “why” of a community foundation on how philanthropic giving will help us create a community that will allow future generations to live their dreams. (pg. 6)

ilies through the RezilientKidz Model by Chad Patterson, Boys & Girls Club of the Big Pines and Dave Jochum, Longview Chamber. Chad and Dave discuss the partnership between the Boys & Girls Club and the Chamber that focuses on helping parents learn how to help their children be successful. (pg. 10)

Alleys Can Be FUN! by Brian Daugbjerg, co-owner of Longview Scrap & Metal Company and Shawn Hara, City of Longview. Brian and Shawn share their dreams of how together we can convert our alleys into a lively and enjoyable feature in our downtown. (pg. 13)

............................................................

W

e look forward to you being one of Longview’s champions for collaboration!

Please let us know how and where you would like to place your efforts. Together WE will be Successful!

KELLY HALL CCE, IOM, MSL President/CEO Longview Chamber of Commerce

1

Rory Vaden Take the Stairs

2

The Resilience Centre

3

Case Study from A Practical Guide to Persuasion

Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

5

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

Why Legacy Giving Is Important NEW Longview Community Foundation Since 2011 the chamber has championed taking key stakeholders from our community on InterCity Trips.

Seeds have been planted and so many have taken root in our community ranging from the Animal Shelter to a 104+million bond election to the Arts!Longview Cultural District. On each trip we hear about the important roles of charity and philanthropy. Each has its place, yet we found in each community we have visited philanthropy is a critical component KRISTEN ISHIHARA for successful and sustainable community Attorney, Ross & Shoalmire and economic development.

As we build a community for future generations, we need a community foundation in place so it can become a powerful catalytic force for change. We need a community foundation so companies and individuals can customize their giving program and know their legacy will have a positive impact. That is why a group of volunteers have come together to form the Longview Community Foundation. “We are definitely, in our infancy.” stated Kristen Ishihara, an attorney with Ross & Shoalmire, P.L.L.C.

HOW TO MAKE GIFTS TO CHARITY A PART OF YOUR LEGACY Clients often have charitable goals they want to accomplish – perhaps lifetime gifts to their church, or a gift made in their Last Will & Testament to their favorite non-profit charity. With the right professional guidance, you too can create a meaningful charitable legacy while lowering your taxable income during your life as well as estate taxes at your death. A true Win-Win.

What First? First, consider what charitable causes are important to you and your family. Second, consider what assets you would consider making charitable gifts from. And lastly, determine how to make the gift and implement a plan. Following are some plans to consider, after consulting your estate planning attorney.

Use Your Retirement Accounts During your Lifetime: At age 72, the IRS requires you to

take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. Consider using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to reduce your taxable income for the year and to support your favorite charity at the same time! A QCD is a direct transfer of funds from your IRA, Whatever your charitable goals, there is a payable directly to the non-profit charity. tool to meet your needs that will create a Amounts distributed as a QCD can be counted lasting legacy for you and your family. toward satisfying your RMD for the year, up to $100,000 and the QCD is excluded from your taxable income. This is not the case with a regular withdrawal from an IRA, Status of the Longview Community Foundation: Paperwork has been filed, even if you use the money to make a charitable contribution later on. teams are researching different types of foundational structures, and donors are being secured and cultivated. There is still much that needs Use Your Retirement Accounts at Death: You can benefit a charity and to be put into place for a successful public launch. It is critical that the your family by creating a Charitable Remainder Trust (“CRT”) and naming organizational structure is in place so donors are confident that funds will the Trust as the beneficiary of your retirement account. The CRT is tax be used to impact our community for generations to come. exempt during its existence and will not pay any income taxes to receive the funds. The CRT will pay taxable income during lifetime to one or more Part of the process includes helping our community understand the beneficiaries and the remainder of the funds belong to the non-profit charity. difference between charity and philanthropy.

Charity focuses on A CRT may be used for other assets, specifically appreciating assets where providing immediate relief to people and is often driven by emotions, while taxable gain or income is of concern. philanthropy is focused on helping people and solving their problemsover the long-term. Philanthropy is a more strategic process of giving Bequest in Your Will: A bequest is a specific gift written into your Last Will that seeks to identity the root causes of systemic issues. We also want & Testament, or in your Revocable Living Trust, that identifies the specific to encourage corporate philanthropy. Corporate philanthropy fosters charity and the amount you wish them to receive. employee engagement and generates business value. When businesses participate in corporate philanthropy, they are creating a positive public Private Family Foundation: For families with a desire to leave a lasting image for themselves, enhancing their relationships with consumers, and legacy, a private family foundation can last for generations supporting creative a positive work environment. qualified non-profit charities and teaching future generations the importance of being charitable. Private Foundations is managed by a board of directors The role of the chamber is to plant seeds and influence actions that leads and is required by law to distribute a minimum of 5% of their assets annually people and leads prosperity. We believe having a community foundation and have annual reporting requirements. will help Longview become more strategic and intentional to become the community of choice to Live.Work.Play.

Community Foundation/ Donor Advised Fund: Gifts to a Donor Advised Fund (“DAF”) are immediately tax deductible to the donor and grow tax free. The Donor retains the authority to direct grants to charities, subject Contact us at Ross & Shoalmire to approval from the charity, over the course of the Fund’s life. The today to discuss your options. administrative requirements are handled by the charity administering the fund, often a Community Foundation.

6

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

Helping Move Our Community Forward The Benefit of Collaborative Partnerships Over the past 20 months I have had the opportunity to serve as your Chairman of the Board for the Chamber. What a ride it has been! At the close of 2020 I thought really, this is my legacy year of giving back to the community. So, when the board asked me to serve again 2021, I was thrilled with the opportunity. Why? One of the things I enjoy the most about serving is collaborating with like-minded individuals who want to make a difference.

At the Longview Chamber of Commerce, we look forward to faithfully serving you, our members, by moving our businesses and community forward through our collaborative efforts. Join us in this collaboration movement!

What can you do to become a collaborator for success in Longview?

DANA PARR Chairman of the Chamber Board & Owner, Advanta There are many issues facing our community Insurance Partners today. Some very complex. When it comes to decision-making for strategic planning and development issues, we now live in the age of partnerships.

Collaborative partnerships are becoming the norm for our society to address and tackle these complex issues. These partnerships bring many to the table that can push you to see and understand issues from a different perspective. This in turn allows us to create answers for the challenges that organizers might not have seen or thought about otherwise. It shifts from the power of one to the limitless power of a team.

COLLABORATION - it’s a popular buzzword these days. What does that mean? What does that look like? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary it is “to work

As your Chamber, we are continually seeking community and industry input and support to ensure that our collaborative efforts are focused on what our members feel is impacting their community. We work with a variety of partner organizations to address the diverse needs and interests of our businesses and the community at large.

jointly with others or together especially in an intellectual endeavor”.

STATE OF THE CITY Wednesday - November 11, 2020

3:00 - 4:00 pm

DR. ANDY MACK

City of Longview Mayor

DR. ANDY MACK, City of Longview Mayor November 10, 2021 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 pm Holiday Inn Infinity Event Center

SPONSORED BY

Cost: $30 pp / $50 pp for non-members / Tables of 8 are $500 REGISTER HERE Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

7

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

2022 ANNUAL BANQUET & MEETING Our banquet will be a celebration of Longview’s first responders and healthcare workers whose resiliency and dedication have been extraordinary for the past 24 months.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Maude Cobb Convention & Activity Center 100 Grand Boulevard, Longview

Recognizing Longview’s First Responders

5:00 – 5:45 Reception | 5:45 – 6:15 Dinner | 6:15 – Program | 8:00 – Adjourn

Cost: $75 pp member | $100 pp non-members | Tables of 8 $750 For more information call 903-237-4013 or go to [ longviewchamber.com/annual-banquet-2022 ]

CORPORATE Ben Maines Air Conditioning Inc | Central Title Company | Komatsu Mining Corp. Group SPONSORS Longview Regional Medical Center | Republic Services | Spring Hill State Bank

40 UNDER 40 EXECUTIVE SERIES presents

Impacting Lives Through Intentional Leadership with Amy Pechacek Join AMY PECHACEK to learn more about how planning to win is dynamically different than planning not to lose. Planning to win means being intentional in our actions, being deliberate in our choices, being crystal clear in our purpose, and being willing to take that chance.

In this inspiring talk, we will explore how to live every day in such a way that we significantly improve our own lives and make a positive impact on the lives of those we lead. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of the following: • EXPLORING the five components of intentional leadership that will change the dynamics of your team.

• DISCOVERING the action steps, you must take to manage yourself and others effectively.

• LEARNING tools that can be implemented immediately for transformative growth that will make a significant, positive impact on your future.

Participants will also be able to visit with community peers in an Executive Roundtable format during lunch led by local Longview executives.

8

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

DECEMBER 15, 2021 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM PINECREST COUNTRY CLUB 214 Club Dr Longview $40 per person (includes workshop and lunch) Registration: 10:30 – 10:45 Amy Pechacek hosts Workshop A 10:45 – 11:30 Lunch with a CEO in Roundtables 11:45 – 12:30 Amy Pechacek host Workshop B 12:45 – 1:30

[ REGISTER ONLINE ]

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

Talent, Talent, Talent!

Three Great Products Help Businesses Recruit & Retain Talent In January 2021 the Chamber released a new Talent Tool Kit which includes a relocation website, video, and an interactive relocation magazine. These products couldn’t be timelier as companies are continually talking about the challenges of attracting talent. The talent shortage is not unique to our area it is a growing concern across the country.

The toolkit is focused on telling our why:

Why we love living in Longview?

How can I get connected?

What is it like living in Longview?

Recently, at the Chamber’s Energy Summit, Senior Economist Curtis Dubay with the U.S. Chamber shared there are currently 2 million more jobs than unemployed workers. He continued to explain the current Worker Shortage Index is 0.9 with a Quite Rate of 2.9% in August which is at an all time high.

Dubay stated, the workforce shortage crisis has had a signifcant impact on businesses across the country and proceeded to share the following bullets with the audience.

There are no easy solutions on how to get people back to work and trained for the jobs of tomorrow. What we do know is companies need first class tools to sell Longview to potential candidates.

Currently, there are three (3) pieces in the LongviewNOW! toolkit: website, video, and magazine.

• There were 10.4 million job openings as of the end of August.

• That is down 659,000 from the all-time record in July of more than 11 million.

• “Job openings decreased in several industries with the largest decreases in health care and social assistance (-224,000); accommodation and food services (-178,000); and state and local government education (-124,000). Job openings increased in federal government (+22,000). “ • Openings have increased by about 3.7 million jobs in 2021.

For more information on how your organization can be included with an interactive ad in the magazine and/or to become a GEO FENCE sponsor just reach out to the chamber! Now is the time to partner with the chamber to tell YOUR story! We want to help you attract talent and retain employees! ................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A first-class Recruiting Talent Toolkit to sell Longview and help companies be successful in recruiting and retaining employees!

[ www.nowlongview.com ]

| E-MAGAZINE |

| VIDEO |

• Two editions annually with rich, interactive platform • Virtual front door to attract talent • Feature pieces highlighting the livability and attractions of Longview

• Showcasing great outdoors and quality of life

• Easy access to relocation stats

• Candid conversations with Longview’s leaders

• Community calendar with ALL area events

• Longview, Texas “Welcome Home”

• Live, Work, and Play in Longview

Back to What’s Inside?

| WEBSITE |

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

9

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

Community Collaboration

Impacting Families Through the RezilientKidz Model

CHAD PATTERSON The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Pines

DAVID JOCHUM Director of Leadership & Business Development Longview Chamber of Commerce

Understanding the essential building blocks of what our kids need has our team working in alignment with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Pines and Thrive Longview on an important education initiative. We believe education/workforce initiatives in communities miss the mark if they do not start with our youngest learners. This is why Raising Highly Capable Kids, presented by US Title, is such a critical program as it guides parents in learning best practices to help their children succeed in school.

Did you know? “Third grade has been identified as important to reading literacy because it is the final year children are learning to read, after which students are “reading to learn.” If they are not proficient readers when they begin fourth grade, as much as half of the curriculum they will be taught will be incomprehensible.” (National Conference of State Legislatures). These children will then struggle throughout their education, which then has an impact on their employability upon graduation, if they graduate.

Have you heard the term it takes a village?

Our village is a strong coalition of like-minded leaders and stakeholders who are wrapping around families going through our program; “Raising Highly Capable Kids” (RHCK). RHCK began through the partnership the Chamber had with Ware East Texas Montessori Academy in 2017. “What we learned was our village had to grow and expand to have a greater impact and reach more families,” stated Dave Jochum. When Chad Patterson, Boys & Girls Club of the Big Pines and Clent Holmes, Thrive Longview became partners we knew it was time to dream big audacious goals about how we can help bring the program to families by training parents/guardians on the 40 Developmental Assets.

The fall ’21 program kicked off in September at the Longview location of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Pines. Volunteers from area businesses and churches are demonstrating their passion and commitment to families by helping lift up, build up, and equip parents and children to be more successful at home and school. Like John Maxwell’s “Law of the Lid” teaches, “if you lift up one part, you’re actually lifting up the whole” of a family,

10

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

team, or community. The program is a perfect fit with Boys & Girls Clubs.

Chad Patterson, CEO, writes, “Every day, in every club, with every child and family, our mission at The Boys & Girls Clubs calls us to help children reach their fullest potential. “RHCK” aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to change the trajectory of family success for generations to come.”

The fall class graduates in December and we are already working on the winter/spring class. Together we know we can build and mobilize a local coalition and our partners will help us cast the vision needed grow and sustain our work. Who can participate? We are seeking stakeholders who will rally around the program by providing volunteers to facilitate and lead small group workshops over a 13-week period. continued page 11

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

If you and your organization would like to learn more about this impactful program, come join us for a Vision Casting session on November 30th at the Longview Chamber of Commerce.

“RHCK” aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to change the trajectory of family success for generations to come.” [ FOR MORE DETAILS, PLEASE CALL 903-935-2030 ]

DIGITAL MARKETING IS WHAT WE DO

Applying for jobs and hiring employees can be difficult and time consuming. But, with Express Employment Professionals, finding the right job or filling the right position is easy.

Call, come in, or go online today to see what Express can do for you.

(903) 663-3559 101 West Hawkins Parkway, Suite 4 Longview, TX 75605 ExpressProsLongview.com

Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

11

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

STEVE GORDON

President & CEO Longview Regional Medical Center

PANIES

Summit

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2021 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

PINECREST COUNTRY CLUB Cost: $30 pp / $50 pp for non-members / Tables of 8 are $500

TODD HANCOCK

President & CEO CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System

REGISTER REGISTERHERE HERE

GOLD SILVER Starfish Ad Age, SYSCO, BOOK Texas Oncology SPONSORS: JoinSPONSORS: us for our third annual HealthyVIEWSummit. This year’s event features aSPONSOR: round table discussion with local health system Chief Executive

PROOF

Officers. Expect to leave with a better understanding of the current state of healthcare and what the future holds for our community hospitals.

GOLD SPONSORS:

Come see what a locally-owned independent bank can do for you ...

3700 Gilmer Road 202 Hollybrook Drive

903-759-0751 www.springhillbank.com

12

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

BOOK SPONSOR:

SILVER SPONSORS: Starfish Ad Age, SYSCO, Texas Oncology

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

Alleys Can Be FUN!

Generating Creative Solutions for Downtown

BRIAN DAUGHBJERG Co-owner, Longview Scrap & Metal

Many of you will recall past bond initiatives that have aided in transforming downtown Longview. Due to the intentional effort that has occurred we now can boast of a more robust, beautiful city core. The street and sidewalk enhancements has encouraged private development resulting in attracting events and activity. The question was posed, what do we focus on next? How about an Alley Project?

Most of us view alleys as small cramped, spaces tucked in behind the businesses or shop we visit. Its where trash, and utility access work is done. Yet, they can be so much more…

On a recent Chamber InterCity trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma many of us got to see a mature well-developed city. Tulsa, like so many other cities has realized their alleys can be an asset to the community. These small spaces can be park like or create spaces for weekend festivals, and community events. They can also provide small spaces to sit and relax, while others are more robust with decorative lighting, seating, and murals.

Upon returning from Tulsa, I was asked to champion putting together a group to brainstorm about alley opportunities. More than a few of the InterCity trip attendees had also keyed in on the utilization of alley ways and was glad we were going to begin conversations with the city, county, utility providers and business owners. Mark Robinson, AEP’s External Affairs Managers stated –

Over the last 20 years, the City of Longview has invested a lot to improve Downtown through construction project to enhance the streets, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, infrastructure, as well as through matching facade grants. Additionally, private investment has spurred formerly vacant buildings to be filled with restaurants, shops, and other businesses as we’ve seen a resurgence of activity within our downtown core. Artists SHAWN HARA have added beautiful murals throughout the City of Longview area. Any given weekend you’ll find an event drawing people downtown to enjoy music, food, art, or to support a worthy cause. Following all the improvements we’ve seen downtown, there is an opportunity to enhance the look and usability of bank alley as well.

Like any project, there are certainly some logistical challenges to be considered. While business occurs on the beautified storefronts on Tyler Street, the alley is the home of some critical but less sightly functions.

Take a stroll down the alley and you’ll find trash carts, dumpsters, utility wires, and service entrances to many buildings. These are the realities of operation, so the question becomes “how can we maintain these necessary functions while also improving the aesthetic of the alley to compliment the improvements seen throughout the rest of downtown?” Maybe that’s art, maybe that’s lighting, maybe it’s another idea. The answers are not yet fully developed, but it is great that a collaborative conversation is taking place involving several stakeholders to generate creative solutions.

“The ability to reimagine our neglected and underutilized spaces indicates a growth of art and prosperity in our community. Our downtown alleys are the perfect canvas for new innovation and design.”

The first meeting was hosted by the Longview Museum of Fine Arts in their new building. The response was very positive! Many seeds were planted, and meetings have continued. It was determined the most logical alley to focus on sits between Methvin and Tyler Streets going east and west and from Green St. to Center St. going north and south. The group believes by having the alley improvement as a marquee project will keep downtown cool and exciting! So, keep your eyes peeled for what we hope will be an improved alley for us to enjoy in a variety of ways.

Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

13

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

RIBBON CUTTINGS AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 CLICK ON business names to link to Chamber directory information or link directly to their business website.

Oak Street Health 1207 A East Marshall Ave, Longview TX 75601 (903) 619-2584 www.oakstreethealth.com

Landmark Social 210 E Methvin St Longview TX 75601 (903) 231-3530 thelandmarksocial.com

iBeauty Academy 317 N High Street Longview TX 75601 (469) 418-5474

ECU Pine Tree Branch 2002 W Loop 281 Longview TX 75604 (903) 803-2800 www.ecu.org

Longview Family Dental 2901 Bill Owens Pkwy Longview TX 75605 (903) 759-0765 www.longviewfamilydental.com

Rejuvenating Massage & Beauty Spa 501 N Spur 63 Suite C1, Longview TX 75601 (903) 746-6019 www.facebook.com/Rejuvenating-Massage-Beauty-Spa-1571498549826774/

3 Girls Nutrition 174 Beechwood Dr Longview TX 75605 (903) 431-9971 www.facebook.com/3GirlsNutrition

Austin Finance Company 1300 Reel Rd Longview TX 75605 (903) 686-9963 www.austinfinancecompany.com/

IT Anywhere 2627 South Broadway Ave Ste 7434 Tyler TX 75711 (903) 400-1495 https://itanywhere.us

www.facebook.com/SheLuvLashesiBeautyAcademy

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021 5 Years

35 Years

Spring Hill Storage & RV Rental Slim Chickens The J.W. Green Contractors, Inc Allstate Insurance - Melissa Azzam

Pegues-Hurst Motor Company Texas Bank and Trust Company - Pine Tree

10 Years American Red Cross, East Texas Piney Woods Vista College Prothro, Wilhelmi and Company, PLLC

14

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

40 Years Summit Club Walmart Supercenter #399

90 Years CenterPoint Energy

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

RIBBON CUTTINGS AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 CLICK ON business names to link to Chamber directory information or link directly to their business website.

! u o Y k Than 2021 Chamber Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

HTeaO 2000 Toler Road, Longview TX 75605 (430) 201-4334 www.hteao.com

Quality Forensic Toxicology 4726 Shavano Oak Suite 105 San Antonio TX 78249 (903) 931-1843 http://qftox.com

Special Health Resources 2020 Bill Owens Pkwy Ste 220, Longview TX 75604 (903) 234-0776 www.specialhealth.org

Bold Real Estate Group – Suzanne Smith 2002 Judson Road Ste 108, Longview TX 75605 (903) 291-1811 https://suzannesmith.boldtosold.com/

ÿ

SCEND

ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ

P H YS I CA L T H E RA PY + W E L L N E S S

Welcome to

Conservative Grassroots Standing Strong & United for Texas

Locally owned by East Texas natives, Ascend is here to help our community move better, play better and live better.

ÿ ÿ ÿ klmnopÿrnsÿtÿusnvnlrmnwxÿspylsprmpzÿtswlpzzpzÿvwux{ÿ wum{wwszÿmÿwÿsp{ulpÿw{wszÿlruzp{ÿ|}ÿ|rlmpsnr~ÿ w {ÿ rx{ÿ wsp ÿ sr{nmnwxr ÿvn mpszÿzul ÿrzÿ kÿwsÿ ps nln{r ÿÿ ~ÿsp unspÿrnsÿtrzzÿm swu ÿm p ÿmwÿ|pÿ l prxp{~ÿrÿx{ÿ r}ÿxwmÿpvvplmnop }ÿmsrtÿz r psÿ |rlmpsnrÿrxÿ{ÿonsuzpz ÿÿ ÿ ajg `ÿ g cjÿi j e hghÿ -ÿi7 -ÿ.7-8&(,-?ÿ6 1ÿ(&C)'.5. ?ÿ/@&@ÿ&'&- ?ÿ ÿ 1/ (.ÿ,C(8I,(&ÿ,ÿC,(,5?@(Fÿ(/-'8' ÿJ.8@(/-&ÿ8'(.ÿ ÿ 7-.A/C(@ÿ(),(ÿC.'(8'/./@5?ÿC5&,'ÿ?./-ÿ@7,C&<ÿÿ ÿ jg j` ÿ[ f`cÿÿ ÿ a ;C(8ÿI,(&Aÿ.B? &'ÿ,((,C)&@ÿ8(@&50ÿ(.ÿC.'(,J8','(@ÿ ,(ÿ()&ÿJ.5&C/5,-ÿ5&I&5FÿA&@(-.?8' ÿ()&J<ÿ )8@ÿ 7-.C&@@ÿ&58J8',(&@ÿ()&ÿC.'(,J8','(ÿ2)85&ÿ -&I&-(8' ÿ()&ÿ,C(8I,(&Aÿ.B? &'ÿE,C ÿ8'(.ÿ.B? &'<ÿ

dcg jgdcÿÿ

Ascend Physical Therapy is here to raise your performance to help you be at your best.

From athletic performance to post-surgical rehabilitation and much more, we have the expertise and range of services to help you reach the top of your game.

-&,(8' ÿ,ÿ75,@J,ÿ.0ÿ&5&C(-8C,5ÿC),- &@Fÿ 8.'8 ,(8.'ÿ-&J.I&@ÿ,55&- &'@ÿ58 &ÿA/@(Fÿ7&(ÿ A,'A&-FÿA/@(ÿJ8(&ÿJ,((&-Fÿ,'Aÿ.()&-ÿ8--8(,(8' ÿ 7,-(8C/5,(&@ÿ0-.Jÿ()&ÿE-&,()8' ÿ@7,C&Fÿ7/@)8' ÿ ()&Jÿ,2,?ÿ.-ÿC,/@8' ÿ()&Jÿ(.ÿC5/J7ÿ(. &()&-ÿ ,'Aÿ0,55ÿ(.ÿ()&ÿ05..-<ÿ

ASCENDPTTEXAS.COM

5848 Judson Road, Suite 201 Longview, TX 75605

ÿ ÿ

[\]ÿ_`abcdedfg̀hÿÿ

ET4L PAC is an Upshur County-based organization established to advance conservative solutions in our community, state, and nation. We welcome like-minded Texans to join us as we work together for the cause of liberty.

903.653.4548

Classic Stitch 2165 Gilmer Rd Longview TX 75604 903-844-0969 www.yourclassicstitch.com

(903) 500-2292 contact@et4l.org

Meet 2nd Monday 7:00 PM Barbwire Halo Cowboy Church 6761 State Highway 154 W Gilmer, TX 75644

For a list of events: et4l.org/events

12345678ÿ9 4ÿ 9ÿ 4 ÿ 54 ÿ 47749 ÿ 52 ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ 47749

5ÿ2 2 922!"#2$ÿ 99K LMM67!"4N84K629"#2$M MO 44 ##MPQORO3 S9T ÿ UV #WV 3X 8Y Z 99KLMMRRR" 2!!4N 65"#2$Mÿ

[\]ÿieg̀cjhÿ

¡¢¢£¤¢¥¦ÿ̈£©ª¡«£¬¢£­®°̄±ÿ²¡«²¡ª¢­®¡³ÿ mpl xw w npzÿtswon{pÿlwxmnxuwuzÿtusnvnlrmnwx~ÿ lsprmnx ÿrÿ pr m npsÿnx{wwsÿpxonswx pxmÿ|}ÿ ª¬²¡«©ª£´ÿª£µ««¡ÿ®ª¡ÿ¶·®ª̄­³¹̧ÿ

[ ga`hÿ iÿb\]ab`hÿ dh gj egj ÿÿ ie hh]dd hÿ `hj \] cjhÿÿ ºº»&ÿ.00&-ÿ7/-&;8-ÿ1J'8Fÿ7/-&;8-ÿ¼½>Fÿ,'Aÿ 7/-&;8-ÿ6 ; <ÿG.-ÿJ.-&ÿ8'0.-J,(8.'Fÿ75&,@&ÿ C.'(,C(ÿ%&''&()ÿ+,-./00ÿ

R.E.A.C.H. Inserts

Are you a new member?

For more information about [ R.E.A.C.H. INSERT ] advertising contact Kelly Hall khall@longviewtx.com

%&''&()ÿ+,-./00ÿ12'&-34.5&ÿ6-.7-8&(.-ÿ.0ÿ 4+1%%9:ÿ;8-<ÿ=>ÿ?&,-@ÿ.0ÿ08&5Aÿ&B7&-8&'C&ÿ8'ÿ()&ÿ ,8-ÿD/,58(?ÿ8'A/@(-?<ÿ;ÿ+/@E,'AFÿG,()&-ÿ.0ÿHÿ,'Aÿ ,C(8I&ÿJ&JE&-ÿ.0ÿ()&ÿC.JJ/'8(?<ÿÿ ÿ

FIND THE “BUG”

Be the first Chamber member to find the hidden logo ‘bug’ in this issue of R.E.A.C.H. and your company will get a 1/4 page ad in the next issue! When you find it email

- SOCIAL MEDIA - PROGRAMMATIC - CONSULTING - WEB DEVELOPMENT - BRANDING

[ khall@longviewtx.com ]

- SEO / SEM - BRAND MARKETING

DIGITAL MARKETING IS WHAT WE DO

consulting.starfishadage.agency/starfish-marketing

You must identify the page # and exact location of the ‘bug’. The first person to correctly find it and email Suzanne will be notified. You must be a member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce to get a free 1/4 page ad.

Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

15

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

NEW MEMBERS CLICK ON business names to link to Chamber directory information or link directly to their business website.

Cisco - Eagle, Inc 2120 Valley View Lane Dallas TX 75234 (972) 331-3046 www.cisco-eagle.com East Texans for Liberty PO Box 195 Gilmer TX 75644 (903) 500-2292 www.et4l.org Hibu Digital Marketing Solutions 1138 Larkspur Rd Gilmer TX 75645 (903) 353-4087 www.hibu.com Hope’s Closet 1011 Wal Street Suite 100 Longview TX 75605 (903) 295-2585 https://hopescloset.ecwid.com/

Rejuvenating Massage & Beauty Spa 501 N Spur 63 Ste C1 Longview TX 75601 (903) 746 6019 www.facebook.com/Rejuvenating-MassageBeauty-Spa-1571498549826774/

TO GO MEMBER DIRECTORY

SKB Exterior Cleaning Solutions LLC 6 Acorn Trail White Oak TX 75693 (903) 522-9996 www.skbexteriorcleaningsolutions.com/ Young Life Longview 5498 Judson Rd Longview TX 75605 (903) 567-2228 www.facebook.com/LongviewYoung-Life-115892335183917/

Quality Forensic Toxicology 4726 Shavano Oak Ste 105 San Antonio TX 78249 (903) 931-1843 http://qftox.com

DELIVERING THE FASTEST AND MOST EFFICIENT FIBER TECHNOLOGY TO BUSINESSES IN LONGVIEW, KILGORE, AND MARSHALL FOR OVER 25 YEARS INTERNET, PRIVATE NETWORKS, UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONS, AND BUSINESS CONTINUITY CALL OUR LOCAL SOLUTION SPECIALISTS AT 903-503-7100 OR VISIT WWW.CONTERRA.COM 16

W W W. L O N G V I E W C H A M B E R . C O M

L EADI NG P E O P L E . L E A D I N G P R O S P E R I T Y.

SPARKLIGHT BUSINESS FIBER INTERNET

PEAK PRODUCTIVITY IS HERE Instantly, with speed up to 5 Gigs. That’s how fast you can connect with ferociously fast Piranha Fiber internet from Sparklight Business.

That’s 200x faster than DSL. 5x faster than even the fastest cable connections.

All with 99.9% uptime and unlimited data included.

Even better, we made our game-changing fiber connections affordable.

Because when your business thrives, so does Longview.

60

$

Plans Start at Just

/mo.*

WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH SPEEDS UP TO 5 GIGS?

CALL 833-904-2470 Or visit sparklightfiber.com/longview *Taxes and fees not included in above rates. Call for additional details, levels of service and restrictions. Offer limited to Sparklight Business serviceable areas only. All services not available in all areas. Excessive data usage may be subject to reasonable network management. Visit https://business.sparklight.com/legal/acceptable-use for details. ©2021 Sparklight Business, All Rights Reserved.

Back to What’s Inside?

R.E.A.C.H. REPORT 2021

17