Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
•
2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA
71270
Chamber Connection CHAMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS September
Labor Day Sept.1 Chamber / CVB closed Sept. 5 – Business Buffet, 11:30-1 p.m., CVB/ Chamber board room Sept. 9 – Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., The OWL Center Sept. 18 – Ribbon Cutting at Chartreuse Pear, 10 a.m, 210 West Park Ave. Sept. 30 Ribbon Cutting with WMWO Chamber for Evil Visions Haunted House, 4 p.m., 501 Desiard St., Monroe October
Oct. 21 – Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., NLMC Oct. 23 – Lighten Up! Lincoln Community Wellness Expo, Library Events Center
A Publication of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
Best Pizza Johnny's Pizza House
Best Auto Dealer Jim Taylor
Best Wine Selection and Best Venue to Have an Event Landry Vineyards
Best Bank Community Trust Bank
Best Local Furniture Store Ivan Smith Furniture Best Pool Builder & Service Azure Pools
Best Car Wash RocketFast Best Local Shoe Store Beehive Best Dental Clinic Peachtree
Best Home Health Provider United Best Place to Work CenturyLink Best Golf Course Squire Creek Best Health Club/Exercise Facility Anytime Fitness
Dupree new State Farm agent Ruston has a new face Agent Kim Dupree took over the State Farm office of now retired agent Jean Washam Hollis on April 1. The office is located at 1001 N. Trenton St. A ribbon cutting was held with the Ruston Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on May 8. “I absolutely love Ruston,” Dupree said. “I’ve felt so welcome from the time I’ve been here. The people of Ruston have been very accepting of me and I’ve felt at home from the beginning!” Originally from Monroe, Kim has a versatile background in financial services and sales and has lived in several states in
support of her husband, Charles, who was called into the pastorate at a young age. She graduated with a double major of Individual and Family Development and Family Resource Management and Consumer Studies from the University of Kentucky. The degree program included insurance, family finance and retirement planning. She and Charles eventually made their way back to Louisiana. In 1996, Dupree began working as an investment consultant and in 1998, she began working as a Marketing Coordinator at CenturyLink. She received two Marketing Excellence
Nov. 13 – Business After Hours cosponsored with WMWO Chamber, hosted by Landry Vineyards
December – Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Fairfield Inn
September 2014
Congrats to the ‘Best of the Delta” Chamber members
November
December
Deliver to:
Come
Awards while at CenturyLink and eventually worked her way to Director of Partner Products. Kim decided to fulfill her dream of being a State Farm agent last year after being contacted by State Farm. She began the State Farm internship and training in July of 2013 and graduated in January of 2014. “I’ve have three of the same team from the prior office and they are truly a joy to work with,” Dupree said. “We have a warm, familyoriented environment and
with us.
www.bankruston.com
although we love our jobs and have fun, we are also serious about putting our customers first.” Kim has already been involved with the community and plans to become more and more involved over the next several months. The office participated at the Louisiana Peach Festival by sponsoring the gate and media and is participating in the Adopt-A-School program in support of Ruston High School. Kim plans to rally high school students in
See State Farm Page 5
2
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Chamber Update By Judy Copeland, President, Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
Happy Anniversary!!
Happy Anniversary to the Chamber Staff! Hard to believe it's been a year since this team joined up. We are blessed to serve this wonderful community!
Notes From The Chair Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce – By Aaron Paul, Chairman
Grow Your Business types of events. Contact me at aaron. The Ruston Lincoln Chamber of paul@btgsupport.net or 318-251-8993 and Commerce is a catalyst for business growth I will get you a list of ribbon cuttings, in our community. Every week the Chamber business after hours, business buffets and hosts business events that give you the other opportunities to connect opportunity to network with with potential customers. other business decision Thank you for your makers. These experiences continued support and give you the perfect chance involvement in OUR Chamber. to discuss your products and services in a professional Aaron Paul environment. The more Chairman, Ruston Lincoln relationships you build the Chamber of Commerce better chance you will have Co-Founder, Business Technology to increase your sales. Our Group, LLC company has been a member aaron.paul@btgsupport.net of the Chamber of Commerce 318-251-8993 for over 10 years and we have 1609 Industrial Drive, received direct and indirect Ruston, LA 71270 sales opportunities from these Aaron Paul
A Solid Board Michael R. Jones Managing Director, Investments Argent Advisors, Inc mjones@argent advisors.com 318-251-5844 What is your area of specialty? I design and implement investment portfolio strategies for individuals who are interested in outsourcing this aspect of their financial life to a trusted professional. What has been a highlight of your work? Perhaps you and your staff are proud of a certain project or accomplishment. As an
active manager there have been multiple occasions where decisions I made for my clients averted significant draw downs of capital. As I look back over the years that has been more significant to me than chasing the latest “fad” in the investment world. How has membership in the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce been of value to you and your professional development? I believe that associating with the chamber has elevated my status among business men and women. It has created unique opportunities to learn from others and apply business principles that have had direct impact on my professional success.
Executive Board Chairman Aaron Paul, Business Technology Group Chairman Elect Mike Jones, Argent Financial Vice Chair, Community Development Kathy Crowder, Crowder Concepts Vice Chair, Program Development Lee Denny, Bank of Ruston Vice Chair, Organizational Development Patrick Blanchard LA Methodist Children’s Home Vice Chair, Economic Development Doug Postel, LA Delta Community College Board of Directors Erica Wheelis Centric Federal Credit Union Ex-Officio Board Members Cathi Cox-Boniol Lincoln Parish School Board Kristi Lumpkin City of Ruston Heath Hattaway Law Office of Rick Gallot Courtney Hall Lincoln Parish Police Jury Rodney Manning The Ensure Agency Gregg Phillips Ruston Lincoln Convention & Richard Raue Visitor’s Bureau Hi-Tech Computers Ranaee Thomas-Walley Sharon Shrell Ruston/Lincoln Crime Stopper First National Bank Neal Carter Community Trust Bank
Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Staff
Judy Copeland, President Ivana Flowers, Communications & Special Events Melissa Carpenter, Office Manager
Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff
Travis Napper, Executive Director Amanda Quimby, Marketing Director
Deana Sherrill, Administrative Assistant
Deadline for submitting newsletter information is the 15th of the month.
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Ribbon Cuttings/Ground Breaking
Cheeks AirWorx
Heating, cooling & electrical. 24/7 emergency service. Locally owned, family business for over 60 years. They offer up-front pricing, and no overtime fees. Owned by Tommy Smith. The ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the Chamber/CVB office. • 710 Stella St., Ste. A, West Monroe • (318) 323-9424 www.theairworx.com
3
Wingstop Mobile
Owned by Alana Belton, this is the first Wingstop Mobile in the nation! Mrs. Belton also owns the Wingstop Restaurant in Ruston. Wingstop Mobile (318) 254-5117
Ruston Locker Room
Long time, Mayor Dan Hollingsworth, was the guest of honor at the celebration. There were back-to-school sales and the jambalaya, compliments of Ken, Kathy & Rusty of Brennan Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram SRT of Ruston. Mike and Yvonne Craft opened the business 9 years ago. 1913 East Kentucky Ave., Ruston (318) 255-4003 Screen Printing, Team Uniforms, Local P.E. Uniforms, School Uniforms, Tuxedo Rental
Ribbon Cuttings continued on Page 8
Anytime Fitness Anytime Fitness is doubling their size! They’ll be offering more cardio, small group exercise classes, and they have a multifunctional room that will include olympic power racks, battle ropes, pull up bar, additional free weights and heavy and speed punching bag. The groundbreaking ceremony was held July 29 at the new site on Goodwin Road off the north service road beside Huddle House. Expected completion date is mid-October. ‘ ‘Helping Ruston get and stay fit! Brent Bernard - Owner Heath Parks - Regional Manager Dani Pendarvis - General Manager Forrest Hummel – Assistant Manager David Welch - Personal Training Manger Eric Ebarb - Personal Trainer Justin McClain - Intern (318) 255-1200 www. Anytimefitness.com
•
Natural Resource Consultants We specialize in Environmental Due Diligence & Regulatory Compliance for the Energy, Public Transportation, Real Estate and Commercial Construction Sectors. Services include Wetland Delineation, Regulatory Compliance & Permitting, Customized Wetland Mitigation Solutions, Endangered Species Consultation and Mapping GIS & GPS Applications.
Justin Barnes Melodye Tanner Sr. Project Manager CEO, CFO
Tom Bourland RF, ACF, CWB Director of Operations
Biotech South LLC
Ruston, LA 71270 318-202-3709 www.biotechsouthllc.com
4
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Business After Hours hosted by Princeton Place The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours was hosted by Princeton Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on July 15 at 1405 White Street in Ruston. This special Summer Fun event was open not only to individual employees of Chamber member businesses, but to their spouses and children. Princeton Place staff created a festive atmosphere with a face-painting clown, Kona Ice sno-cones, picnic food, and a petting zoo. There was also live music by Paul Ford of Hospice of Caring Hearts and of course there were many door prizes. “Although this was not the typical style for a business after hours events, it was an excellent way to celebrate the summer with our members and their families,” Judy Copeland, chamber president said. “It was also a good chance for us to say thank you, face to face, to so many who helped with the peach festival.” "We were so excited to have the opportunity to share such a fun evening with the children, families, and chamber members in our Ruston community. Thanks to the many businesses that helped make the evening possible. Princeton Place is a proud Ruston-Lincoln Chamber member and we look forward to many more successful events and opportunities to connect with others in our community," the Princeton Place Staff said.
BAH is the premier networking event of the Chamber. In a two hour span, one can chat, exchange cards, make new connections, have a bite to eat and more, in a less hurried and strict environment than can often be done in an 8-5 work day. If you are a Chamber member and have not
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
Argent opens Atlanta office
Argent Financial Group manages more than $8 billion in assets. Story by: Phil W. Hudson Staff Writer- Atlanta Business Chronicle
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Chamber Connection, 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 712704420. All contents copyright and may not be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Printed by Ruston Newspapers, Inc.
Psalm 1:3
McCarter Financial Group, LLC
Most people don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan.
S. Greg McCarter, LUTCF 2028 E. Kentucky Ave. Ruston, LA 71270
318-255-1444 FAX 318.255.1480
gmccarter@suddenlinkmail.com mccarterfinancialgroup.com
.
• Strategic Planning • Safety • Sales • Team Building • Customer Service • Leadership & Mgmt Development •SuccessionDevelopment•Coaching • Communications
Training that makes Sense! www.traininglogic.net 318/254-7993 tevans@traininglogic.net • Exceeds all customers Expections Every time
The Chamber Connection (023/623) is published monthly for $12 a year by the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270. Application to mail at Periodicals postage rates paid at Ruston, LA and additional mailing offices.
September Business After Hours will be hosted by The OWL Center. We will tour the facilities, sample salsas and jellies, and learn about the equestrian therapy for residents of the LA Methodist Children’s Home. There’ll be plenty of prizes, and you could win a birthday party on the high ropes or a team building group adventure on the low ropes! BAH – Still to Come in 2014 October 21 – Northern Louisiana Medical Center November 13 – Landry Vineyards, in partnership with West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber December – Fairfield Inn & Suites
Hampton Inn has received the 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award. This honor is awarded to establishments that achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel site. Our staff takes great pride in consistently offering an exceptional experience to our guests.
Argent Financial Group, a wealth and financial services firm, is making a big push into the Atlanta market. The Ruston, LA based company announced June 30 the firm bought a fiduciary services line of business from Atlanta-based Reliance Trust Co. and opened an Atlanta office. Financial terms were not disclosed. The Atlanta-based team generally serves as trustee for employee stock ownership plans. The acquisition adds more than $2 billion of client assets to the group's portfolio. "An Atlanta office provides us the ability to further serve our growing client base both in the Southeast and the rest of the country," Kyle McDonald, CEO of Argent Financial Group, said in a statement. The company reported the new Atlanta team will operate under the leadership of David Williams and Steve Martin, and will work under the Argent Trust Co. banner. Over time, the company anticipates the office will add wealth management services to complement existing trust services.
been attending these events, we hope to see you there soon. BAH is a monthly event hosted by its members, for its members.
Heritage Realty Group,
LLC
Mary Beth Walsh, Robyn Brown, Velissa Rollins, Charlette Favors, Kenneth Sutton
1231 Farmerville Hwy 318.251.8282
2000 Farmerville Hwy. Ruston, LA 71270 www.genesisenergy.com
•
Make A Move. Make A Difference.
How is Heritage Realty Group, LLC Different? 1.Professionalphotographyforalllistings 2. Give back program that invests in our community with every sale 3. Online marketing 4. Team approach 5. Automatic email program that will ensure that you are the first to know aboutapropertywhenithitsthemarket.
Robyn Brown, Broker
heritagerealtyruston.com
Ruthie Evans General Manager II Ruston/Bastrop/Jonesboro 1001 Cooktown Rd Ruston, LA 71270 F 318.251.2711 E ruthie.evans@suddenlink.com
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Announcements and Member News Business Buffet Facebook Continued... During the last Business Buffett, we discussed digital marketing as a whole as well as the importance of optimizing your Facebook platform. This month we will dive deeper into Facebook and learn ways to better manage the King of Social Media. Some of the topics we will discuss are: - Paid -vs- Organic Reach
- Creating a Content Calendar - Properly using the scheduling feature in Facebook - Introduction to Hootsuite as a possible management tool Facilitated by Jill Williams, Vice President of Uncommon Service, First National Bank
September 5., 11:30-1:00 p.m., @ the Chamber office. Reserve your seat and
bring your lunch!!
Tech Support By Nick Bracey, System Engineer at Business Technology Group
Understanding tablet PCs Tablet PCs have become a standpoint in today’s The biggest feature of the iPad is it is user friendly. You technological world. In order to understand about tablet only have a power button, volume buttons, and the home PC’s, one must ask the question: What is a button. In terms of disadvantages for iPads, tablet PC? A tablet PC, or tablet for short, is a they are limited on space. Where most mobile computer where all of the components Android-based and Windows-based tablets of a computer are housed in a smaller, portable can have additional memory added to them, unit. I am going to touch on the three major iPads can’t. Another disadvantage of the iPad types of tablets: Android-based, Apple (iOS) is the type of charger. Leave it to Apple to be based, and Windows-based. different, even with the type of charger that Let’s start with the Android-based tablets. they use for their devices. Android-based tablets come in many different Finally, I will discuss the Windowsvarieties and specifications. Some of the more based tablets. Most people will feel more well-known brands include Samsung, Amazon, at home with these tablets. They are based and Asus. Generally, most Android-based on Windows 8’s Metro interface, which is Nick Bracey tablets come with higher specifications than designed for a touch interface. Also, with the Apple-based iPad or the Windows-based tablets because most Windows-based tablets, users will be able to use the of the much lower cost to use the Android operating applications that they are more familiar with, such as the system on tablets. Most of the newer Android tablets also Microsoft Office suite of programs. With that being said, take advantage of the micro USB charging cable, which is there are disadvantages to them as well. Most Windowsalso found on most new phones. However, there are a few based tablets do not take advantage of the universal disadvantages to using an Android-based tablet. With most chargers that the Android-based tablets (micro USB) or of the tablets produced before 2014, there were issues with the iPad’s (30-pin or lightning) use. Also, the Windows major slowness after about three months of usage, but that application store has a much smaller offering of apps than has been since fixed on the newer tablets. The other main found on Android or Apple. complaint of Android-based tablets is the time it takes to If you would like further advice and/or help finding learn the tablet as Android-based tablets do have a learning the right technology for you, contact me at Business curve. Technology Group (BTG) office – 318-251-8993 or e-mail me The next type of tablet I will discuss is the Apple tablet. at support@btgsupport.net and I will be glad to assist you. Apple has done a lot of things right with the iPad. Since Nick Bracey is a Systems Engineer at Business both the hardware and software are produced by Apple, Technology Group (BTG), an IT Services company in you do not have the issues of slowness like you would Ruston. experience with Android-based tablets. You will also find that most accessories for the different iPad’s are universal.
State Farm
Business After Hours at The OWL! Sept. 9 from 5-7 p.m. September Business After Hours will be hosted by The Outdoor Wilderness Learning Center home of Leadership Lincoln's Teambuilding Classes! In addition to sampling Screamin' OWL Salsa & Jelly, we will tour the Bunkhouse, Ropes Course, Conference Center and Covered Riding Arena and learn about the fun recreational therapies including the powerful Equine Assisted Therapy. There will be plenty of prizes! You could win a Birthday Party Package on the High Ropes or a Team Building adventure on the Low Ropes or even $100 Visa gift card! www.owlcenter.com
www.theuncommonbank.com
Member FDIC
Public Tag Agent
1406 Farmerville Hwy Suite 3 Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: 318-202-5861 Fax: 318-651-7689 M-F 8:30-4:30
LICENSE PLATES • RENEWALS • TITLE WORK
From Page 1
October to join a “Celebrate My Drive” event sponsored by State Farm in order to promote safe driving habits among teens and put an end to the fad of texting while driving. Kim and her team members Lynne Davis, Sunny Castine, Stephanie Knight, Sonja Provost and Ben Carlisle want to accommodate current and new customers and believe the public should be aware of the many services their company has to offer. “A lot of people don’t realize we are more than an insurance company — we’re a bank as well,” Kim said. In addition to offering vehicle, home, and life and health insurance, Kim’s State Farm office offers many banking options such as vehicle loans, home mortgage financing, retirement planning, credit cards, savings and checking accounts and much more. Kim has two children that are now married and has 2 small grandchildren. To learn more about the services offered by Kim, her staff and the State Farm Agency call 255-6301, visit www.kimdupree.net or email kim@kimdupree.net.
5
ALL ACCESS ADVANTAGE CHECKING
Earn 4.25 DIVIDEND ON UP TO $5,000 EACH MONTH
800.522.2748 / lacapfcu.org
Federally Insured by NCUA
* APY = Annual Percentage Yield. La Cap Checking (Share draft) Accounts are variable rate accounts. La Cap may change the dividend rate for your account as determined by the credit union Board of Directors. Dividends are posted and compounded monthly. No minimum balance required to maintain the account. Applicable fees and conditions could reduce the earnings on your account. Qualification to earn dividends: - 25 or more posted non-ATM debit card transactions per month: - 4.25% APY on balances up to but not exceeding $5,000 - .15% APY on balances exceeding $5,000. If qualification stated is not met: - .15% APY on entire balance. Must meet criteria for opening a checking account. MJD0714
2 5 5 – 1111 R U S T O N
CVB/Chamber News! Congratulations to Deana! She welcomed Kenlyn Joy into the world August 21. Ms. Erica Clark will be with us at the front desk until Deana returns from maternity leave. Erica is majoring in Music Education at LA Tech.
L I N C O L N
CRIME
STOPPERS •
Rewards up to $2,000
6
CHAMBER CONNECTION
A Pause at the Podium By Cathi Cox-Boniol, Lincoln Achieve Coordinator
On the job education there was one thing that I didn’t love. Being It seems that every day this past week, confined behind the pharmacy counter was I’ve encountered someone who remembered almost claustrophobic to me and feeling like I me from my days at Marbury Rexall Drugs. couldn’t get out and about could literally kill It was fun reminiscing about those days my passion for the science. when we were all much younger and life This “on the job education” was a gamereally was simpler. However, there was changer for me. Realizing my passion for nothing simple about how those day-to-day science but also my aversion for a confined interactions helped to shape my life’s path work environment enabled me to make more and who I would become. informed decisions as I prepared for my life’s I was seventeen when I began my eightwork. I was better prepared to determine year tenure with the drugstore. Carroll what paths to take based Biggs hired me right out on the experiences I of high school as a sales had during my years at clerk, but I quickly found the drugstore. This not myself moving from only saved me time and the cash register into money but also years the pharmacy where I wasted in a job that worked side-by-side with would ultimately be an array of pharmacists unsatisfying. I became over the years. When a science teacher I think about that instead of a pharmacist. experience now, it’s And to say that I have amazing to me the level been satisfied is an of work I was challenged understatement and a with and allowed to half. do while working at One of the most Marbury Drugs. And it’s satisfying experiences staggering to think of I had as a science just how young and green teacher came through I was while immersed a School-to-Work in such significantly Grant I received while complex tasks. at Choudrant High That job was Cathi Cox-Boniol School. The innovative invaluable to me. grant provided the Certainly being able to opportunity for work around my schedule my 24 Biology II students to be placed at of classes at Louisiana Tech University was Lincoln General Hospital for a week-long critical—Mr. Biggs offered me the chance to “internship.” The students worked in work whenever I wasn’t in class or engaged small teams, rotating through five different in other university responsibilities and for departments throughout the week— that I will be forever grateful. However, radiology, physical therapy, laboratory, ER, beyond that is the fact that within that little and medical records. During the mornings drugstore is where I truly discovered how to they shadowed the professionals as they spread my wings and fly. worked in whatever authentic situation I think of the incredible networking arose; they also took breaks and dined I was open to with professionals from all in the cafeteria with them, along with walks of life as I served them through a myriad of opportunities. Relationships were whatever the day-to-day schedule provided. established that I still value to this day, many Then in the afternoon the student teams worked together to reflect on the morning’s that have extended into my own professional experiences through debriefing, journaling, life. I was challenged to stretch farther and farther, something that equipped me to prove and development of a professional portfolio. myself again and again as I was assigned greater responsibilities through the years. This in turn allowed me to learn more and more about myself. And that’s probably the greatest gift that experience gave me. I’ve always been a “people person” so it was no surprise that the daily interaction with the customers was something I loved. Yet I discovered that I truly loved serving Broker them. I felt incredibly happy and fulfilled when I was able to help them solve whatever 2406 Kavanaugh Road Office: (318) 255-7480 problem they came through the doors with. Ruston, LA 71270 Mobile: (318) 243-6253 dicky.lri@gmail.com Fax: (318) 254-8077 To feel like I had a hand in making their day better meant the world to me. Beyond that, I unearthed something else that would be a life-changing realization. You see, I absolutely loved the science I found myself engrossed with. Helping customers analyze their symptoms and then determine the best over-the-counter remedy, compounding medicines for the pharmacists, listening to the drug reps as Hunt, Guillot & Associates they talked about new treatments, assisting with any and every thing at the pharmacy Ruston, Louisiana • counter—I could go on and on. However,
Dicky Nealy
It was a powerful experience then and for me, even more powerful now. Why? Because as I think of those different students, I am aware of the impact that experience had on them. The majority of those students went on to become physical therapists, radiology technicians, dental hygienists, nurses, lab technicians, EMTs, and other health-related professionals. But even better, one student who was planning to be a doctor discovered during that week that perhaps dealing with patients wasn’t the best environment for her—her constant fainting was a pretty good indicator. Initially she felt like a failure because she loved health care and knew now she would never be a doctor. But I encouraged her to complete the week, sharing my own experience from the drugstore where my passion collided with reality and I knew I had to find another path. And she did just that. By the end of the week she had discovered medical records and knew she would love that. It would satisfy her passion for health care yet provide her with an environment that was a better fit. She had found her path. That’s what it’s all about—helping young people find the path that fulfills their passion through a satisfying career. I know I’m grateful for the experiences at Marbury Rexall Drugs that helped me do just that. And I’m even more grateful that I can have even a small part in continuing opening (or closing) the doors that can be game-changers for our students. We all have the opportunity to be a part of that game-changing process in different forms of “on the job education.” Consider how you can open the doors of your business to a young person in need of a job-shadowing or internship experience. I’m thrilled that in recent days two new community leaders have contacted me about becoming involved. I anticipate what it will be like for students to be placed with these outstanding professionals. And I smile thinking about the impact it will have. Who knows, decades from now they could be the ones reminiscing about the day-to-day interactions through their education on the job that helped shape their life’s path and who they would become. And who better to entrust the future.
Find Where You Fit! Lincoln ACHIEVE . . . building partnerships to benefit education, enhance the business environment, and contribute to a quality life in Lincoln Parish.
FINANCIAL SPONSORSHIP Schools of Academic Excellence Initiatives Student and Teacher of the Year Adopt-A-School
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Leadership And Achievement Initiatives Student Internships Job Shadowing
Contact Cathi Cox-Boniol, Lincoln ACHIEVE Coordinator ccox@lincolnschools.org, 318-255-1430
Touring Lincoln Parish
CHAMBER CONNECTION
7
Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau – By Travis Napper and Amanda Quimby
Plenty to enjoy this fall There is no need to stay inside this fall with so many exciting events to enjoy in Lincoln Parish! The fall offers visitors and residents alike a chance to enjoy football, theatre, live music, festivals, and so much more! Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University will play a combined eight home games this fall with only one occurring on the
Member Anniversaries 15+ Years Louisiana Tech University College of Business McKinney Outdoor Superstore Ivan Smith Furniture
10+ Years Mickey Mays Xerox Pearce Lumber & Hardware Bethel Christian School Ruston Credit Plan, Inc. Woodard & Clement
same weekend. Bulldog and Tiger fans don’t want The Louisiana Chicken Festival will take to miss any of this football action! Louisiana Tech place September 26-27 in Downtown Dubach, LA. will have their first home game on September 20 Come out and celebrate the festival’s 26th year! against Northwestern State University. GSU will Activities include a parade, carnival rides, cooking play their first home game on October 11 against contests, craft booths, live music and much more! Alcorn State University. The festival is planned by the Dubach During the 2014 season, the Restoration & Beautification Restoration Bulldogs will play at Joe Alliet Organization (DRABO). Check them out on Stadium five times. Opponents include Facebook! UTEP, UTSA, Western Kentucky for Lincoln Parish Library is also hosting their Homecoming game and Rice several events that are free and open to the University. The Tigers will host three public. October 21 the library is celebrating games at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium Motown artists, and their music and in Grambling, LA. Their Homecoming lifestyles with a performance from the challenger will be University of Masters of Soul! You won’t want to miss Arkansas at Pine Bluff followed by the stylish costumes, choreographed Alabama State University November tributes and of course, the dynamic vocals 15. of these incredible musicians. If a Western Amanda Quimby Fall is also an exciting time for the shindig is more your speed, put on your Dixie Center for the Arts! Mark your faded blue jeans and dust off your cowboy calendars for the Chinese Acrobats on September boots for their Country Western Boot Skoot Boogie 27 and Jason Coleman and the Piano Magic of Night on October 25! Floyd Cramer on November 15. You also don’t “Ruston and Lincoln Parish are fortunate to want to miss Troupe Dixie’s Annual Spooktacular have such wonderful events for the community to Night at the Dixie featuring Tom Hanks’s 1989 enjoy,” says CVB President & CEO Travis Napper. comedy and suspense film The ‘Burbs. “We also encourage everyone to reach out to your It’s never too early to think about Christmas out of town friends and family and invite them to gifts. Downtown Ruston will be alive with the experience everything our community has to offer.” holiday spirit November 20-22 for the Holiday For more information on these events and more, Arts Tour. Join us for a weekend of art, music and visit www.experienceruston.com and follow us on shopping as downtown shops display the works of Facebook and Twitter. local artists.
Ambassador Spotlight
D.A.R.T. Commander Communications Malone Polaris Scriber Insurance Services Training Logic, Inc.
5+ Years Travel Inn J. Roman Farrar, D.D.S. Community Trust Bank Choudrant Office Wingstop Restaurant Lincoln Flooring & Acoustical Northwood Medical Center, APMC
Brandon Sutherland Director of Sales Hampton Inn Ruston, LA Office: 318-251-3090 Cell: 318-278-9207 Fax: 318-251-3315
What initially sparked your interest in working in your field? I’ve always loved being around people, and being able to help them if they were ever in need. I found that being in the hospitality business you get all of that in one setting. It’s such a blessing to hear someone say “thank you for making our weekend”, or call us their “home away from home”. What has been a highlight of your work? Our hotel recently received the Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor, which is a huge compliment in the hospitality field. We were also named in the top 20 out of all 1,964 Hampton Inns for over all service, and earlier this year I received the Spirit of Hampton award.
How has membership in the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce been of value to you and your professional development? Networking with other businesses in our community is vital to our everyday work at Hampton Inn. As host to guests from literally around the world, I see our hotel as being an ambassador for the community. Being able to welcome new businesses at ribbon cuttings or meeting other business leaders at the Business Buffets gives us an excellent opportunity to put a face to a name for businesses that we are constantly referring our customers to. Who is your favorite role model—and why? This may sound corny or a little played out, but it would have to definitely be my parents Dennis and Becky Sutherland. They are the perfect example of what a parent should be. They are both loving, kind, merciful (needed that more than anything on occasion), and more caring than anyone than I know. They instilled in me the love for people, and an honest hard work ethic.
Roseburg Forest Products OfficeLinx Greater Choudrant Association Dual State Fire Protection
Other Walgreens - North
emerson centre
“Helping put the pieces back together...”
(318) 251-91003
•
LaSalle Management Co. Humanitarian Enterprises of Lincoln Parish Boys and Girls Clubs of NCL Hertz Montessori School of Ruston Little Helpers Pediatric Day Health Center
• 3 Meeting Rooms • Free Breakfast Bar • Fre WiFi Internet Holiday Inn Express & Suites® Ruston 1825 Roberta Ave Ruston, LA 71270 318-513-9777 holidayInnexpress.com/
•
8
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Ribbon Cutting • Business IT Support • Ruston Owned & Operated • Technical Support Plans • Ruston Fiber Internet • APP/SQL/Web Development
318.251.8993
• visit us online
• Cloud Services • IT Consulting & Outsourcing
www.btgsupport.net
Heartland
PAY M E N T S Y S T E M S ®
TheHighestStandards|TheMostTrustedTransactions
Linda Jordan Linda.jordan@e-hps.com 318-614-6871
HPY
LISTED
NYSE LINDA.JORDAN@E-HPS.COM PHONE 318.614.6871 SERVICE 24/7 866.976.7109
North Louisiana HeartlandPaymentSystems.com • E3secure.com Card Processing • Gift Marketing • Check Management • Payroll Services
Lincoln Parish Safety Complex The ribbon cutting and dedication of the new law enforcement facility was celebrated by many. In attendance were Sen. Landrieu, Rick Gallot, Bob Kostelka, Vance McAllister and many others. The new facility will house Sheriff Stone and his staff, homeland security, and fire personnel. 161 Road Camp Rd.
Sears Hometown Store
•
Adam & Kelli Harris bought the Ruston Sears Hometown Store in January 2014. The couple has been in the entertainment business in Springhill for 9 years, owning and operating theatres and bowling alleys. They celebrated the opening of Sears with a grand opening sale August 15-16, with 10% off almost everything in the store. Adam and Kelli Harris: Owners Savannah Dwairi: Store Manager Jared King: Interim Store Manager Paul Cagle: Assistant Manager Jennifer Shultz: Sales Consultant Jody D'Angelo: Sales Consultant Vanessa Gray: Accounting Seth Melancon: Delivery Driver 1701 Commerce St. (318) 255-2194
RUSTON
(OFF 1-20 BEHIND RAISING CANE’S)
(318) 254-5117 | OPEN 11AM MIDNIGHT | 7 DAYS A WEEK
New Members Elisha Ministries, Inc. 608 South Trenton St., Ruston (318) 251-1233 www.elishaministriesnela.org EM offers permanent supportive housing options for individuals in need of home placement. Each home offers individualized or shared bedroom accommodations that promote privacy and security. EM case managers daily individualize care to assist in achieving goals of self determination.
•
Store your stuff at
Evil Visions Haunted House 501 Desiard St., Monroe (318) 680-4494 www.evilvisionsmonroe.com *Ribbon cutting with WMWO Chamber, 4 p.m., Sept. 30) Evil Visions is an intense haunted house located on the corner of 5th st and DeSiard st downtown Monroe, LA.
Serving Ruston over 30 years! Conveniently located near Tech Campus 821 W. California • (318) 255-8750
WPI South, LLC 2312 McDonald Ave., Ruston (318) 232-1307 www.westernp.com Western Pneumatics, Inc. (WPI) and WPI-South designs, manufactures and installs wood and fiber material handling systems. Four groups working together focus their expertise for the biomass, renewable energy and clean air markets.
www.ensureagency.com