January Chamber Express Issue

2 | Chamber Express | January 2025

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TCLM Chamber embraces engagement as 2025 focus

T

he Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce has announced “Engagement” as the word of the year for 2025, emphasizing deeper connections within the community and fostering a thriving business environment.

This renewed focus coincides with President Tim Culp’s commencement of his three-year term, setting the stage for a period of growth and collaboration.

“Engagement is paramount to achieving our shared goals of robust economic development and a vibrant commu-nity,” Culp said.“We aim to deepen our relationships with members and business leaders to better understand their needs and effectively address their concerns.”

The Chamber’s 2025 initiatives will prioritize: • Enhanced member engagement: Implementing innovative programs and events to foster meaningful connections among Chamber members, providing valuable networking opportunities and offering exclusive benefits.

• Community development: Actively participating in community initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents, such as supporting local schools, promoting tourism and advocating for infrastructure improvements.

• Business growth: Providing resources and support to local businesses, including workshops, seminars and mentorship programs, to facilitate their success and drive economic growth within the region.

The Chamber will also focus on strengthening its partnerships with local government, educational institutions and other key stakeholders to create a more cohesive and supportive environment for businesses and residents.

“We believe that by fostering a culture of engagement and collaboration, we can create a brighter future for Texas City and La Marque,” Culp said. “Together, we can build a thriving community where businesses flourish, residents prosper, and the potential for growth is limitless.”

January 2025 | Chamber Express | 3

The Chamber launched two new community events in 2024

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n 2024, the Chamber launched two events: Bayou Bingo and WakeUp Wednesday. The goal of these events was to add value to members and engage the community.

The Chamber held three Wake-Up Wednesdays last year and collaborated with Lago Mar, Coastal Community Credit Union and Frost Bank. These events were created to gather, gab and grab a bite to eat. It gave individuals a chance to ask burning questions, network with other local businesses and meet new people.

Bayou Bingo took place Aug. 16 at

the Doyle Convention Center and more than 400 people participated, gathered with friends, community members and

local businesses. Participants enjoyed an evening full of bingo, a large raffle and live auction. They had chances to

win prizes, such as hunting excursions, fishing trips, weekend bay house rentals, special dinners for large groups, suites at sporting events, firearms, entertainer memorabilia and much more.

Local spirit vendors provided tasting booths for those that desired to sample tasty libations.

Three local nonprofit organizations were chosen to receive proportions of the proceeds which will be presented in February at the annual membership gala. The recipients include Independence Village, Higher Up Texas and TCISD Foundation for the Future.

4 | Chamber Express | January 2025

TCLM Chamber to host 2 new events this year

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eeping with “Engagement,” the word of the year, the Chamber will launch two new events that will emphasize the goal of deeper connections within the community and fostering a thriving business environment.

BTR “Cajun Throwdown” takes place March 21 & 22. This event is a collaboration between BTR Caring for Kids and the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce. It will benefit the community and the UTMB Pediatric NICU through the BTR Caring For Kids Endowment.

This family-friendly event will have plenty of things to do: all you can eat crawfish (while supplies last), kids’ zone, bloody mary contest & live bands.

Also in 2025, the Chamber will host its first “One Table Community Gathering” down on 6th Street. This purpose of this event is to meet around the dinner table and share a meal together, communally.

We will dine under the Texas sky.

There will be eats and treats crafted by local chefs and restaurants, along with

complimentary beer and wine from local vendors. And let’s not forget the music!

January 2025 | Chamber Express | 5

This is YOUR year to engage!

P

articipate in Chamber programs designed to enhance business, development and service.

CHAMBER CHAMPS Join the Texas City-La Marque Chamber’s Champs Program in 2025. This program is your gateway to enhancing business connections and personal growth within the Texas City–La Marque community.

As an ambassador, you will not only represent the Chamber at key events but also you will build a network of valuable relationships with local businesses. This program offers numerous benefits, including civic engagement, recognition for your contributions and access to vital information about community business growth.

Seize this opportunity to expand your business’s reputation and make a significant impact. For mor details, contact Bianca Jenson, Director of Membership, at 409-935-1408.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Join the TC-LM Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals in 2025 to connect with the future leaders of our business community.

This program is designed for individuals ages 21 to 45 who are eager to

develop their professional skills and expand their networks.

Participants will have the chance to learn from experienced business leaders, attend monthly luncheons featuring guest speakers and engage in after-hours social events and volunteer opportunities.

Strengthen your career while contributing to the community. Stay tuned for the 2025 calendar of events.

GOLDEN DIVISION Join the Golden Division and make an impact. The Golden Division is a dedicated group of retired residents committed to serving the community through volunteerism.

By leveraging their extensive experience and expertise, they assist the Chamber with various activities and initiatives. The group meets monthly on the first Wednesday of each month at the Chamber office, providing members with opportunities to connect, collaborate and contribute.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about the Golden Division Group, contact Angela Bernard, Director of Events, at 409-9351408.

6 | Chamber Express | January 2025

Thank you for a fantastic 2024!

It is often said it takes a village, and this cannot be truer! Our success is due to our members and their dedication to the fulfillment of their mission and visions.

January 2025 | Chamber Express | 7

8 | Chamber Express | January 2025

Two ways to market your business this year!

Member Connections Did you know as a member you have a valuable opportunity to market your business through Member Connections, which reaches more than 2,500 individuals every Thursday?

This is an excellent way to enhance your visibility and engage with the community.

For more information on utilizing this benefit in 2025, preach out to Stefanie Aldrich, at 409-935-1408..

Partner Participation Program Are you maximizing your member benefits? The TCLM Partner Participation Program is designed to empower members to achieve their marketing objectives effectively.

By participating in this program, organizations can leverage various initiatives and events tailored to enhance their visibility and engagement with clients and the community.

Over the years, numerous members have successfully utilized the PPP to expand their brand presence and mission. Join us in maximizing your impact through strategic participation.

January 2025 | Chamber Express | 9

Annual Membership Gala and nominations J

oin the Texas City-La Marque Chamber for a du bon temps as we commemorate a successful year of partnership and development.

It’s a c’est le vie (such is life) affair filled with rich decor, délicieux cuisine and syncopated rhythms.

It will be an evening to reflect and acknowledge individuals and companies in the following categories who exemplify servitude, integrity and fulfillment of their mission and visions. The categories include Large Business, Small Business, Citizen of the Year and the Jimmy Hayley Community Service Award.

Amusons-Nous un Peu! Every year citizens and businesses are nominated for the prestigious awards listed below.

These four major awards will be presented at the gala. Make your nomination today below!

• 2024 Citizen of the Year: An individual (or couple) whose volunteerism and outstanding service and dedication have made a significant contribution to our communities over the past year. Nominate for citizen of the year.

• Jimmy Hayley Community Service Award: Someone who has continually demonstrated an selfless commitment to the community over several years. Nominate for Jimmy Hayley Community Service Award.

• Small Business of the Year: A local business with less than 150 employees that has demonstrated community involvement, customer service and had special accomplishments in 2024. Nominate them for Small Business of the Year.

• Large Business of the Year: A local business with more than 150 employees that

has demonstrated community involvement, customer service and had special accomplishments during 2024.

Nominate them for Large Business.

The banquet program includes the installation of new Chamber officers and directors. The Chamber’s annual Gala will take place Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Doyle Convention Center in Texas City.

Come dressed in after-five, evening or themed attire.

10 | Chamber Express | January 2025

Leadership Mainland registration is open

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eadership Mainland is excited to announce its upcoming program aimed at fostering leadership skills within the Texas City-La Marque area.

Kicking off in February with an overnight retreat, the program will feature engaging sessions from March to November 2025, culminating in a graduation celebration.

We invite 25-30 participants from a diverse pool of applicants to take part in this transformative experience. Join us in shaping the future of our community.

Sign up by contacting Stefanie Aldrich, at stefanie@ TCLMchamber.com.

Mainland

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January 2025 | Chamber Express | 11

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dr. Helen Brewer College of the Mainland

Anita Jones TREASURER Linde Inc.

Patrick Tarpey Hugh Patrick Construction

Brandon Brooks Welby Financial

Brad Jones Mainland Tool

Becky TroutUnbehagen Tucon/Unbehagen Construction

Dr. Rebecca Brown Dickinson I.S.D Lori Carnes Carnes Funeral Home Lisa CashbaughSanchez Dow Chemical Kedge Cook Cook Ford Shane Day CMC Recycling Chris DeVries Standard Steel Supply Wesley Dossett Equipment Share Ryan Doyle Texas First Bank Bill Etheridge Etheridge Realty David Grissom DBG Services

Matthew Mahler Marathon Mandie McMillan Crowder CHAIR-ELECT RE/MAX Coastal Tommy Minder BWC Terminals Cory Moss CHAIRMAN Valero Aric Owens Frost Bank Trey Pruitt Del Papa Distributing Tracy Pryor HCA Mainland

Andrew Warren Ashland Adam Wheeless Gallant Industrial Leonard Woosley The Galveston County Daily News Peter Wuenschel Communities in School

Chamber Staff

Chamber Mission To serve members and foster economic and community development.

Tim Culp, President/CEO Stefanie Aldrich, Vice President Bianca Jenson, Director of Membership Angela Bernard, Director of Events Renee Brantley, Director of Membership Engagement

Chamber Vision To be recognized as a vital resource, providing relevant, innovative and impactful programming that produces a healthy business climate and an enhanced quality of life.

Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce 9702 E.F. Lowry Expressway Texas City, TX 77590 409-935-1408 www.TCLMchamber.com

Chamber Express Newsletter The publication of the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce is published monthly (second Sunday of the month). Some content and photos provided as a courtesy by The Galveston County Daily News.

Amy Reid SBDC Galveston County

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12 | Chamber Express | January 2025

Make this the year of financial success with

6 EASY TIPS FOR 2025

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Use a savings account like Kasasa Saver® that automatically transfers money from your checking account each month so you don’t even have to think about it!

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REGULARLY CHECK YOUR CREDIT

Use free tools like Credit Score Reporting within the TFB Mobile App to keep up with your credit health 24/7 and get personalized tips for achieving your financial goals.

OPEN A CHECKING ACCOUNT THAT PAYS YOU

Texas First Bank offers cash back and high interest checking accounts that put money back into your account every month that you qualify. It’s like getting paid to spend money!

SET YOUR BILLS UP TO BE PAID ON TIME

Use Bill Pay with your TFB account to automatically pay your utility, credit card, and phone bills every month. No more late fees or credit dings!

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE It’s never too early or too late to start saving for retirement. Open an IRA account with us to set your future self up for financial stability.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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MAKE SAVING MONEY AUTOMATIC

Stop by your local banking center today to talk with one of our banking experts about what’s right for you.

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Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Texas City, TX Permit No. 12