Longview Progress Report November-December 2012

progress LONGVIEW

LEADING BUSINESSES. LEADING COMMUNITIES.™

REPORT

Leadership Longview - Class of 2013 INSIDE:

• Leadership in Action - 4 • Chattanooga Inter-City Visit - 6 • East Texas Coalition Goes to Austin 2013 - 10 • TRC - Exceeds Expectations - 11 • Christmas Parade in Downtown Longview - 12

November / December 2012 Vol. 6 No. 6

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Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

www.LongviewChamber.com

From the President Let’s Talk Community Engagement

O

n a recent InterCity Visit to Chattanooga, Tennessee attendees heard The Mayor of Chattanooga state, “Successful communities never stop planning and strategizing. Leaders must understand and commit to a continuous process that allows the community to engage and help create the desired lifestyle they want for the toddlers who will always be graduating from high school in 16-17 years.”

This comment resonated with participants and quickly turned into a question—how can we effectively engage the community?

On November 19th the Chamber will be launching Mindmixer.com—a web based tool to host virtual town hall meetings. Mindmixer.com has been successfully used in the public, private, education and political sectors across the country.

The site will serve as a dynamic tool that will allow us to engage talent from people within the comfort of their business or home.

The Chamber’s goal is to engage a diverse group of people in a variety of conversations such as, what other types of businesses, entertainment venues, or recreational facilities would you like to see in your community? In terms of recruiting businesses from other areas of the state or the country, where would you suggest looking to attract businesses?

Providing citizens a platform with open discussions creates an environment that empowers people to become more involved and take ownership of the result. We are looking to people to provide solutions rather than consumer solutions.

Mindmixer.com will help us bridge technology and talent inside the private sector to challenges in the public sector.

We believe people want to contribute, but with today’s hectic lifestyles and time poverty, citizens need a platform that is convenient. Mindmixer.com will help businesses and citizens connect from wherever they are. Collectively, we can build stronger foundations and shape the future of Longview. This is achieved by creating a place where ideas, voices, and perspectives are shared to facilitate deeper and better conversations that yield actionable insights.

Stay tuned as YOUR Chamber prepares to launch Mindmixer.com the week of Thanksgiving. You can sign up at www.LongviewTexasListens.com. MindMixer will give you, your peers, your friends, and your family a powerful platform to help shape Longview’s destiny.

Contents From the President..........................3 COVER STORY Leadership in Action........................4 Leadership Longview 30th Year Kickoff Retreat................................5 Chattanooga Inter-City Visit..............6 Emerging Leaders............................7 2012 Chairmans’ Reception.............7 Ribbon Cuttings...............................8 Anniversaries and New Members.......9 East Texas Coalition Goes to Austin in 2013..........................10 TRC - A Goal Buster!......................11 Santa Claus Lane & Christmas at the Courthouse...........12 Mission POSSIBLE 2013 Annual Banquet Preview.......13 East Texas Outdoor EXPO!..............14 ParBusters Record Setting Year.......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

www.LongviewChamber.com

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Developing Community Leaders 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

Leadership in Action

W

hat is a Chamber of Commerce if it is not an organization of businesses seeking to further their collective interests while advancing their community?

Leadership Longview is coordinated by Mary Whitton, Community Development Director for the Chamber.

However, the reason for its high caliber curriculum and very efficient organization is the working committee that puts their dedication, skills and enthusiasm into maintaining excellence year to year.

To strengthen and transform the community of Longview through a program of leadership development, community study and involvement.

Chamber missions vary, but they all tend to focus to some degree on five primary goals: Building communities that attract residents, visitors and investors; Promoting those communities; Striving to ensure future prosperity through a pro-business climate; Representing the unified voice of the employer community; and Reducing transactional friction through well-functioning networks.1

The above definition of a Chamber of Commerce inherently includes the responsibility of a chamber to take a positive action to help develop the leadership core of its community. Longview Chamber of Commerce has implemented several programs and initiatives to accomplish that important responsibility. In this issue the news about Emerging Leaders is detailed. It’s a program recognizing new leaders and to encourage them to continue their progress.

Longview has truly developed into a leadership training program that is meeting its mission: To strengthen and transform the community of Longview through a program of leadership development, community study and involvement.

Each year the students begin with a team building weekend which includes a ropes course and classes on the dynamics of groups and learning how to interrelate with the Continued on Page 10

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Another program has been a part of the Longview Chamber of Commerce for many years - the award winning Leadership Longview 1 Chambers of Commerce: The Basics; Chamber Basics Primer V.5 Nov. 2, 2009; Published by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives, Alexandria, Virginia. www.acce.org

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Program. Many cities have Leadership programs but each one is independent. The programs vary from city to city and so do the results of those programs. Leadership

Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

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www.LongviewChamber.com

Providing Effective Networking Opportunities Leadership Longview 30th year features team building kick-off retreat

T

he 30th Leadership Longview class kicked off the new year with an overnight retreat to Lakeview Methodist Conference Center in Palestine September 14th - 15th. Twenty-five class members along with 6 LL alumni attended the two day retreat.

trust and camaraderie among the group.

Participants had the opportunity to engage in team building exercises, personality profiles and both low and high ROPES activities which build

The October session was Business Economic Development Day. The session began with a class project discussion followed by Leadership Development Training by John Grubbs with GCI, Inc. Kate King with the Longview Chamber of Commerce presented an overview of chambers of commerce and the importance of their work in the community.

Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt spoke on the current economic status for Gregg County and the morning session was concluded with a program by Main Street volunteers.

During the lunch hour, local nonprofit, representatives from Junior Achievement of East Texas and Highway 80 Rescue Mission made presentations on their organization’s behalf. Tracy Vincent with Network Communications kicked off the afternoon session and the day ended with a tour of Joy Global.

Sponsors for the October session: Eastman Chemical Company

!

It’s only natural!

PRINT

WORKS

Texas Bank and Trust

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

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

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

East Texas’ Best Since 1959

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

www.LongviewChamber.com

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Representing the Interest of Business with Government

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Chattanooga - Take Me There Why an Inter-City Visit? The visit was designed to hear new ideas. It introduced the delegation to innovative programs and impactful projects that may be adapted and implemented in Longview. Candid speakers alerted the delegates to the challenges and pitfalls they encountered in the process. Comments from some who participated in the visit:

t’s a catchy slogan that instills a sense of mystery and anticipation. Recently a delegation of Longview business leaders and government officials travelled to Chattanooga, Tennessee on an official inter-city visit/tour.

The fourth largest city in the state, Chattanooga is located in Southeast Tennessee near the border of Georgia at the junction of four interstate highways. The Tennessee River runs through Chattanooga and because of the construction of multiple dams on the river, there are multiple lakes for recreation and commerce.

Chuck Ewings

Assistant City Manager, Longview What benefit did you realize from the Inter City Visit?

The Inter City Visit provided an opportunity to see long-term planning and community involvement in action.

It’s critical to find the priorities of the community and establish a plan of action for accomplishing those priorities.

The city has received national recognition for the renaissance of its beautiful downtown and redevelopment of its riverfront. The city boasts the most productive affordable housing program in the nation, and is notable for leveraging development funds through effective public/ private partnerships, with significant civic involvement on the part of private foundations. Chattanooga was one of the first US cities to effectively use a citizen visioning process to set specific long-range goals to enrich the lives of residents and visitors. Longview is in the process of implementing a citizen visioning process (see: From the President on page 3).

The local economy includes a diversified mix of manufacturing and service industries, four colleges, and several preparatory schools known throughout the South. “Sustainability” is a key concept for industry and government working together for enlightened development.

How do you think this will help us get to the next level as a community?

It should reinforce the fact that our future should be determined by the entire community. Finding ways to involve as many residents as possible in the planning process is very important in determining our future path and vision for Longview.

Richard Manley

The Longview delegation included Chamber of Commerce, City of Longview, Gregg and Longview business owners and executives

This trip provided our community leaders the chance to discuss challenges and opportunities our community faces. The visit also provided an occasion for interaction among city leaders and facilitated an exchange of best practices and lessons learned.

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Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

Cash or Card operated Bike Rental Stand

City Councilman - District 5, Longview Their story was an inspiring and uplifting story of how the citizens of a city came together at a critical point in history. They created a plan which they implemented over the past thirty years to achieve the success they imagined. It was a terrific story to hear. However, the most unique thing I came away with was how private foundations had played such an important role not only in funding the original plans, but also current projects as they continue the revitalization of downtown Chattanooga. We need to find those resources in Longview, because I am sure they exist. We just need to identify them and motivate them to play a part in both the visioning and the implementation of our plans for Longview’s future.

Continued to page 13 www.LongviewChamber.com

Developing Community Leaders 2012 Chairman’s Reception

T

he Boards of Directors for the Longview Chamber of Commerce and the Longview Economic Development Corporation host the Chairman’s Reception.

The annual Chairman’s Reception is scheduled for 4:45 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at the chamber office, 410 N. Center Street in Downtown Longview.

2012 Emerging Leaders Luncheon

All chamber members are invited to attend as well as special guests of the Longview Economic Development Corporation.

Mark your calendars for this special event.

Silver Sponsor Longview Regional Medical Center.

The Longview Chamber of Commerce will recognize Excellence in Leadership at the 2012 Emerging Leaders Awards Luncheon

For additional information, contact the Longview Chamber of Commerce at 903.237.4000.

11:30 a.m.

Thursday, December 6, 2012 Pinecrest Country Club This first time event will recognize and honor three professionals in our community who have made significant accomplishments in their career and contributed to their community through both professional and personal contributions.

35 YEARS

and We Are Still Going Strong!

Les Mendicello President

Member cost to attend is $25 and nonmember cost is $50.

Reservations can be made by calling the Longview Chamber at 903.237.4000 or register on line at www.LongviewChamber.com Presented by: LeTourneau University

What is the Criteria for Emerging Leaders Recognition?

Any individual under the age of 40 (by October 1, 2012) who had made an extraordinary impact through leadership service in the Longview community. Applicants must be a member in good standing with the Longview Chamber of Commerce either as an individual member or business member.

The applicant’s acts of leadership service represent a dedication of excellence in their area of expertise beyond the scope of everyday employment. Through committment to their profession and community, the applicant serves as an inspriation to others in an effort to improve the quality of life in our community.

After an interview by a panel of judges, finalists are announced prior to the Luncheon on Dec. 6th. www.LongviewChamber.com

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

We’re celebrating! September marks our 35th birthday and we’ve just completed remodeling and expanding our main location. Our sincere thanks go out to our customers and great group of employees for their patience and support during the process. Also, thanks to Architect Joe Boucher, RLM Construction Company, and the many subcontractors who had a part in our project.

Come celebrate with us at our open house in October.

3700 Gilmer Road 202 Hollybrook Drive

903-759-0751 www.springhillbank.com

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

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www.LongviewChamber.com

Anniversaries and New Members

1

November year

Action Stainless & Alloys Inc Bank-Tec South Bizzuka, Inc Bronco Oilfield Services C Miller Drilling Chesapeake Energy Inc. Dalton Lipsey State Farm Insurance Agency eZforex.com Fish City Grill J & B Food Mart Levee Behavioral Hospital of Longview Nanny Goat’s Cafe & Feed Bin Precision Pools, Inc Prothro, Wilhelmi and Company, PLLC RES Energy Solutions

Service First Mortgage The Henry Firm, P.C. Towne Oaks & Towne Oaks North Apartments Triad Physician Resources, INC Trinity’s Grace Vista College Warfab Oilfield Services, INC World Finance Loans & Tax Service

5

years Longfellow Arms Apartments

10

15

30 35

years Computer Network Technologies

Bank Texas NA Gill Electric Maximus Operating LTD

15

years LeBus International Incg

December

1

years

years American Cancer Society Bar-K Ranch Store Boys & Girls Club of Gregg County Inc Suzanne Cook & Company - Linda L Voyles

years Capacity Of Texas Inc

40

years

Longview Christian School Open Imaging of Longview Texas Office Leasing Texas State Technical College - TSTC

5

years Hobby Lobby Stores Morrison Supply Company

year

American Red Cross, East Texas Piney Woods Cheddar’s Casual Cafe Dallas Plastics WPC Services, LLC

35

years Reliable Management

45 50

years Jack’s Air Conditioning & Heating Inc

years Giglio Distributing Co Inc

New Members ~ Welcoming 52 New Members Alpine Golf Course

Paul Leslie 2385 Smelley Road Longview, TX 75605 (903) 753-4515

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar Chad Mitchell 101 W Loop 281 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 663-1267

ATKINS North America, Inc. William M. Battles, P.E. 909 ESE Loop 323 Ste 360 Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 509-1552

Barber Institute of Texas Wray Wade 2430 S High Street Longview, TX 75602 (903) 236-9695

Calie’s Acre

Calie Foreman 10589 State Hwy 300 Gilmer, TX 75645 (903) 295-2000

Cloud Commercial Cleaning Channion Burnett 11620 FM 1650 Gilmer, TX 75645

Corner Bistro & Bakery Roy Moore 122 Davis, Gilmer, TX 75644 (903) 918-3173

Daub Realty

JP Daub 420 S Central Hallsville, TX 75650 (903) 215-8380

East Texas Homes LLC

Mike Alston 2628 Bill Owens Parkway Longview, TX 75605 (903) 720-7679

Elliott Electric Supply

Jerry Camp 1500 W Cotton Street Longview, TX 75604 (903) 757-8491

Ervins Garage & Wrecker Service

Henrietta Smith 2569 Owl Road Diana, TX 75640 (903) 663-1110

Excel Utility Construction, Inc.

Dale Dodson 4158 FM 2087 Kilgore, TX 75662 (903) 720-3821

G. Christy Custom Framing and Gallery

Innovative Office Systems, LLC

Longview Too Ambucs

Gary Christy 210 N. Fredonia Longview, TX 75601 (903) 753-2231

Gregg Whittington 816 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111 (903) 331-6029

Glenn Shepard Seminars

Jason Jones Insurance Agency

Cindy Shephard 6953 Charlotte Pike Ste 303 Nashville, TN 37209 (615) 353-7125

Jason Jones 1605 Judson Road Ste A Longview, TX 75601 (903) 234-2000

Gold & Silver Buyers

Knight Janitorial Services

Linda Pady 2407 N 4th Street Ste 100 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 663-1994

Henson Builders

Larry Henson 284 N Live Oak Road Gilmer, TX 75644-3703 (903) 235-2805

Henson Property Group, LLC Richard Henson P O Box 817 Gilmer, TX 75644 (903) 918-3750

INA Field Services, Inc

Mike Nelson 1616 E Fairmont Street Longview, TX 75604 (903) 758-7111

Kara Odom 1348 Park Spencer Dr Unit E Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 372-5198

Leon’s Signs Inc

Matt Nellenback P O Box 4788 Tyler, TX 75712 (903) 597-7731

Mr. Chow

Luis Licerio 3012 W Marshall Ave, Longview, TX 75604 (903) 530-6453

MTE, Inc.

Terry W Oswald PE 1210 W Harrison Road Longview, TX 75604 (903) 759-5395

My Brewing Solutions

Ty King 2910 Gilmer Road Longview, TX 75604 (903) 576-1876

National Truck Repair

Jimmy Head 15481 FM 968 W Longview, TX 75602 (903) 234-9051

LoneStar Speedway

Lisa Hafertepe 3131 Hwy 1252 W Kilgore, TX 75662 (972) 977-7304

Longview Lawn & Garden Equipment

Carmela Davis P O Box 331 Longview, TX 75606

O.W. Heritage Holdings, LLC Landon Ogilvie 1221 Judson Road Ste 300 Longview, TX 75601

Barbara Abbolt 4507 W Marshall Avenue Longview, TX 75604 (903) 759-0874

Old Navy

Veronica Keenan 3090 N Eastman Road Longview, TX 75605 (903) 663-2893

New Members Continued on Page 15 www.LongviewChamber.com

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Representing the Interests of Business with Government

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East Texas Coalition Goes to Austin in 2013

or a second time, The Longview Chamber of Commerce will join the Kilgore and Tyler Chambers of Commerce for the East Texas Advocacy Event in Austin. On February 25 and 26, community leaders will participate in legislative briefings and elected official visits to increase awareness of the needs for East Texas.

Trip at a Glance2

UCTION

Registration for the event is $175 and can be completed online at www.longviewchamber.com or by calling 903-2374000. Longview Economic Development Corporation will serve as the Presenting Sponsor of this event, as well as Onsite Transportation Sponsor Martin Resource Management Corporation and Gold Sponsors AAON Coil Products, U.S. Steel Tubular Products Inc.-Texas Operations Division, East Texans Against Lawsuit Abuse and the City of Longview.

CH049727B

Monday, February 25th • Morning Briefing and Speakers • Luncheon and Elected Officials Visits • Evening Reception

SALVAREZ

Tuesday, February 26th Sales Associate • TAB Breakfast • Event Briefing • House and Senate Introduction

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Continued from Page 4 broad spectrum of personalities that make up each year’s class.

“It’s never the same from one year to the next,” says Mary Whitton. “It’s always fun and rewarding to see how the class bonds and develop close friendships over the course of that first weekend which makes the sessions the rest of the year much more beneficial.”

Each session is sponsored by local businesses. The sessions include: Business/Economics; Business Tours; Health/ Social Services; Criminal Justice System; Education; and Quality of life. Each year the sessions are taught by different leaders in the community who expertise comes from those fields. Each class also takes on a Project that is planned and then executed on the Community Project Day. Graduation is in May in conjunction with the Small Business Awards Luncheon and Business EXPO. New graduates are invited to join the Leadership Longview Alumni Network. The Network is a fellowship of ingenious, aspiring leaders who have completed the Leadership Longview course. From Longview and Gregg County these leaders want to make a difference through the investment of their time, talents and resources.

Start the conversation at careers.convergys.com

North Loop Plaza, 2545 Judson Road Longview

Many alumni of the Chamber’s Leadership Longview have pursued and secured positions of leadership in Longview.

Call: 1-903-232-3112 EOE

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Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

www.LongviewChamber.com

Strengthening our Local Economy

L

Chamber rallies to exceed Total Resource Campaign Goal by 117%!

ongview Chamber of Commerce volunteers far exceeded expectations during the second annual Total Resource Campaign. “When we set the slogan of ‘ROCK ON’, I had no idea the volunteers would take it to this level!” remarks Brad Tidwell, 2012 TRC Chairman. Over 50 dedicated chamber members sold memberships and sponsorships during this year’s campaign, which raised over $434,000 to support future events, programs and initiatives. The goal for the campaign was set at $370,000.

Volunteers that earned at least one trip to the Bahamas

“The volunteer and sponsor support of this event has been incredible,” notes Tidwell, President and CEO of Citizens National Bank, “and they are to be applauded for their impact on the Longview Chamber of Commerce and the Longview community.”

From AlleyFest to Business Advocacy issues, the dollars raised in this campaign will make Longview a better place to live and do business. A full list of supporters can be found on the insert of this publication or online at www.longviewchamber.com.

Dr. Dale Lunsford, President of LeTourneau University and current Longview Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman commented, “Mr. Tidwell embodies all of the traits of a great leader. From his early-on excitement about leading the campaign to his involvement through the six-month commitment to recruit, train and support other leaders and volunteers, he has taken this organization to the next level.” Tidwell will serve as the 2013 Longview Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman.

While every volunteer successfully contributed to the campaign total, three www.LongviewChamber.com

Top Thee in individual cash sales. Keith Honey Center, Cliff Hale - Right, Kim Hicks-Graham - Left

volunteers were recognized for their extraordinary impact in cash sales. The top cash producer in the campaign was Keith Honey with AEP/SWEPCO, followed by Cliff Hale and Kim Hicks-Graham, both with Citizens National Bank. Chapin Miller with Citizens National Bank, Jon Keller with First Bank and Trust East Texas and Rolin McPhee with the City of Longview also made significant contributions to the campaign total.

Tidwell would also like to thank the Vice-Chairs that served in the campaign and supported the teams of hardworking volunteers.

Those Vice-Chairs were Dan Droege with First Bank and Trust East Texas, P. Anne Hugman with Hugman Architecture and Construction, Kirk Henderson with Gans & Smith Insurance Agency and Craig Sisk with Sisk Buick.

L to R - Brad Tidwell - Chair, Vice-Chairs, Craig Sisk, Dan Droege, Anne Hugman, Kirk Henderson

Based on the 2012 results, plans are already underway for the 2013 campaign and volunteers are already committing to participate. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting process, please contact Leska Parker at bmanager@longviewtx.com or by phone at 903-237-4010.

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Promoting the Community

I

Going Down Santa Claus Lane!

f you hear a lot of hammering in the next month or two, don’t worry. It’s Santa’s East Texas elves completing their work on floats for the Longview Christmas Parade! The time of year is here for Santa to make his appearance on Santa Claus Lane in Downtown Longview.

We invite you to celebrate this year as we feature the theme “Santa Claus Lane”. Prepare to see amazing floats, local celebrities, live performances, marching bands, equestrians, animated characters, giant balloons, and Santa at the Longview Christmas Parade. The Chamber of Commerce and the Longview AMBUCS are preparing for the parade scheduled for Thursday, December 6, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.

Presented

by Trinity Rail, the parade will begin at the intersection of Green and Whaley, travel west on Whaley to Horaney, south on Horaney, turn to go east on Methvin past the beautifully lit Gregg County Courthouse and past the reviewing stand at Heritage Plaza.

The

Longview

Christmas

Parade

is

Christmas at the Courthouse Gregg County has big plans for Christmas at the Courthouse family activities. Two giant snow hills, wagon rides, train rides, Christmas movies, arts and crafts, some new surprises, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus! This event is free to the public and will be held Friday and Saturday, December 7th and 8th and 14th and 15th. Enjoy these holiday activities from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and make this a holiday ritual that you don’t want to miss!

Downtown Longview Holiday Activities!

December 6, 2012 6:30 pm Parade begins December 7, 2012 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm ArtWalk Longview & Holiday Downtown Market December 7 & 8, 2012 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Family and Children’s activities December 14 & 15, 2012 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Family and Children’s activities

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Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

a great event for the entire family. It’s an enjoyable experience to see the faces of children light up as they see all of the lights, floats, cars, and entertainers stroll down the street. Make memories that will last a lifetime! “It is always exciting to see everyone’s interpretations of the theme selected each year. We anticipate another successful parade and holiday celebration this winter,” says Kayla Cantey, Longview Main Street Manager. For parade float ideas or materials you can start by visiting http://www.valleydecorating. com/howto.html or www.crs-enterprises.com/ Categories for judging include best business/commercial, best lighting display, most creative, best presentation of theme, most appealing to children, and best non-profit float.

Entry forms are available at The Longview Chamber of Commerce and will be mailed to previous participants. Please turn in entry forms at The Longview Chamber by November 20, 2012 or contact downtown@longviewtx.com for more Christmas Parade information.

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.

ChamberChoice Health Care

© 2012 United HealthCare Services, Inc. Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates.

UHCTX543659-002

www.LongviewChamber.com

Providing Effective Networking Opportunities Continued from Page 6

Kevin Cummings

Director of Development Service, Longview

F

rom impactful meetings on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. to an outstanding Total Resource Campaign, the Longview Chamber of Commerce has had quite a year!

Celebrate all of its accomplishments and see what’s in store for the future at the 2013 Annual Banquet, presented by Citizens National Bank.

The evening will begin at 5:30 pm on Thursday, January 17 at Maude Cobb Convention Center. Members who joined in 2012 will have the opportunity to meet all members by displaying their business during the PRIMETIME reception, sponsored by Kylex Mortgage. Existing members may purchase a space in this reception for $100.

After the PRIMETIME reception, Patrick Henry will deliver an entertaining, funny and thought-provoking keynote address during dinner. He draws from his years as a Nashville songwriter and musician to turn each speech he delivers into one filled with music, laughter and a message that prompts immediate action. In addition to Henry’s address, awards will be presented to the Large Business, Manufacturer and Ambassador of the Year, and the Chairman’s Award will be presented.

I liked how they had built a sense of place, and in doing so, they worked towards doing things that would be good for the community, not just as a means of attracting a new business.

Chattanooga was chosen as a destination by the Board of Directors for the Longview Chamber of Commerce because their citizens are dealing with similar issues. Participants experienced peer-to-peer learning, networking and relationship building through shared experiences. The delegates became a more cohesive team working to solve problems on behalf of our community.

RMJ Tatical, LLC started within Chattagnooga’s small business incubator. They build specialized high quality tomahawks for military and personnal use.

Limited seating is still available by contacting the Chamber at 903-237-4000 or by registering with payment online at www. longviewchamber.com. Tables of 8 are available for $600 or $500, as well as individual tickets for $50 for members.

Save the Date: 5:30 pm on Thursday, January 17, 2013 Maude Cobb Convention Center

www.LongviewChamber.com

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

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Strengthening the Local Economy ParBusters Sets a New Record

18

th Annual ParBusters Golf Tournament returned to Wood Hollow Golf Club on September 10, 2012 after several years at The Challenge at Oak Forest. It was a record year with over 150 players in attendance.

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Nichols Marine presents the East Texas Outdoor EXPO January 25, 26 and 27, 2013

EW THIS YEAR! All EXPO activities will be centrally located at Maude Cobb Activity Center. There will be a special performance stage and Kids Outdoor Adventure Camp. Exhibitors will include RV dealers, boat dealers and other outdoor related exhibitors.

The Hayes RV Kids Outdoor Adventure Camp will give children a place to experience hands-on outdoor activities, education demonstrations and learn basic outdoor skills. The camp will be organized in conjunction with the Gregg County Agriculture Extension Office.

The H&W Marine Outdoor Pavilion will be a 12,800 sq ft enclosed heated pavilion that will be used in place of the Exhibit Hall. The focus will be on exhibitors that relate to outdoors including outfitters, tackle

dealers, ammunition, guided hunting trips, ATV’s, and much more!

The Plano Marine Special Performance Stage will be filled with other outdoor activities, and performances.

Demonstrations will be in the H&W Marine Outdoor Pavilion.

Our Spotlight performer will be Frank Addington Jr., The Aspirin Buster. Frank is an instinctive archer and is on the pro staff for Hoyt.

For more information visit our website: EastTexasOutdoorEXPO.com or contact: Missy Saunders at promotions@longviewtx.com or 903-237-4023.

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ParBusters golf tournament is a great cross-section of people coming from all over to enjoy golf, great food, and good company.

The tournament raises money for the strategic initiatives of the Chamber.

Longview Progress Report | November - December 2012

Special thanks to our 2012 sponsors without them, this event would not be possible.

Platinum Sponsor Hudson Printing & Graphic Design Beverage & Snack Cart Sponsors Safe-T-Box Spring Hill State Bank R&K Distributors Driving Range Sponsor Action Stainless & Alloys, Inc. Putting Green Sponsor AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company Food was provided by: Chik-Fil-A, Cotton Patch, McAlister’s, Papacita’s and Cheeburger Cheeburger

www.LongviewChamber.com

Calendar of Chamber Events November 2012

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

2 Leadership Launch at LeTourneau University

t t

9:00 a.m.

8

11:30 a.m.

d-f

11:30 a.m.

4:00 p.m.

e

y

Chamber Offices Closed for Thanksgiving

l

Longview Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting

Longview Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Meeting 3:30 p.m.

Business After Hours at Heaton Eye Associates

4:45 p.m.

Business Development Series: How to Deal with Difficult Behavior

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Executive Meeting

December 2012

i

Leadership Longview Committee Meeting

4:00 p.m.

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Board Meeting

12:00 noon

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

6 Emerging Leaders Luncheon at Pinecrest Country Club

11:30 a.m.

6 Longview Christmas Parade – Downtown Longview 6:30 p.m.

e r

p

Leadership Longview Committee Meeting

11:30 a..m.

One Hundred Acres of Heritage Main Street Executive Meeting

4:00 p.m.

i

Chairman’s Reception @ Longview Chamber of Commerce

g-h&x

4:45 p.m.

Chamber Offices Closed for Christmas Holiday & New Years Eve

Chamber Executive Board Meeting

3:30 p.m.

New Members Continued from Page 9 Pither Plumbing

Patrick Pither 310 N. Methvin Street Longview, TX 75601 (903) 753-3974

Donna Koerner P O Box 6714 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 291-0478

Keith Cormier 2901 N 4th Street Longview, TX 75601 (903) 232-3710

Texas Flood LLP

Brittany Powell P O Box 5513 Longview, TX 75608 (903) 758-3098

Tool & Hoist Specialties

Platinum Properties Real Estate

RE/MAX First Choice

Staybridge Suites

The Four Seasons Landscape Maintenance and Design

Wellborn Mechanical Services

Kim Murray 3604 Gilmer Road Longview, TX 75604 (903) 759-7900

Premiere Management

Scott Zhorne P O Box 305 White Oak, TX 75693 (903) 759-1271

Presser Safety Consultants

Jody Presser 12605 W IH 20 Service Rd Hallsville, TX 79029 (903) 660-2069

Quadra Enterprises

Richard Graham NF 02 Lake Cherokee Longview, TX 75603 www.LongviewChamber.com

RE/MAX First Choice

Sodexo

Melinda Randall 11736 Dent Rd Diana, TX 75640 (903) 261-1650

CJ Clayton 2904 Tuttle Blvd Longview, TX 75605

RE/MAX First Choice

Bud Summers 2002 Judson Road ste 108 Longview, TX 75608 (903) 757-8686

Shane Miller 913 W Loop 281 Ste 118 Longview, TX 75604 (903) 331-1120

Sign Pro, Inc.

Jason Jameson 2701 Gilmer Road Longview, TX 75604 (903) 295-2020

Smallwood and Company Josh Smallwood 5914 Old Hwy 80 Longview, TX 75604 (903) 920-4565

Summers Real Estate

Sweets By Bradley

Eric Bradley P O Box 484 Kilgore, TX 75662 (903) 808-1499

Texas Elite Track Club

Sheneika Wilson 902 Lincoln Drive Longview, TX 75604

Becky Miller P O Box 150069 Longview, TX 75615 (903) 759-2334

David Wilson P O Box 3082 Longview, TX 75606 (903) 387-0175

Gary Wellborn P O Box 8935 Longview, TX 75605 (903) 238-8908

Tiny Turtles

Wood Engineering Company, Inc

Mandy Cohorst 2002 Judson Road Ste 203A Longview, TX 75605 (903) 238-8433

David Wood 1615 Judson Road Ste 6-L Longview, TX 75601 (903) 234-1118

Tomlinson Properties

Clyde Tomlinson Jr P O Box 6260 Longview, TX 75607 (903) 295-2561

November - December 2012 | Longview Progress Report

15

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

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

Surgery.Redefined. da Vinci Si

MAKOplasty

Curve

ROBOTIC SURGICAL SYSTEM

ROBOT ASSISTED JOINT REPLACEMENT

SURGICAL NAVIGATION

Currently used for gynecological and general surgery procedures at Good Shepherd, the da Vinci Si System allows specially trained surgeons to perform the surgeries previously performed in an open fashion with better results using the advanced imaging and robotic technology. Small incisions are used to introduce miniaturized, wristed instruments and a high-definition 3D camera. During the procedure, the surgeon is seated at a console beside the operating room table while viewing a magnified, high-resolution 3D image of the surgical site.

Good Shepherd is the only hospital with MAKO robot-assisted knee and hip surgery in Northeast Texas.

For those living with early to mid-stage osteoarthritis in their knee, there is a new innovative treatment option now available in Northeast Texas.

The MAKOplasty速 Partial Knee Replacement procedure spares bone, treats the specific compartments of the knee and is available exclusively at Good Shepherd Medical Center.

The Curve Surgical-Navigation System is changing the way doctors navigate intra-operative information and technology. Curve is the ultimate command and control center for information-guided surgery. By using advanced image-guided navigation technology, Good Shepherd is able to better apply brain, spine and sinus mapping technique on patients. This system enables surgeons to more accurately target the surgical site down to the smallest degree by providing HD screens and precise navigation.

CHOOSE PRECISION. CHOOSE VISION. CHOOSE GOOD SHEPHERD.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE HEALTHY HOTLINE AT (903) 315-GSHS (4747).