FOCUS ON BUSINESS
Leadership Temple to Honor Alumni & Graduates at Banquet
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
The Temple Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2025 Leadership Temple Alumni & Graduation Banquet, set for May 21, 2025, at the Hilton Garden Inn Temple.
MAY 2025
BUSINESS LINK LUNCH
Thursday, May 8, 2025
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Sponsored by: Young's Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center
*Registration Required
LEADERSHIP TEMPLE BANQUET
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Presented by: City of Temple and McLane Group
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Thursday, May 22, 2025
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Sponsored by:
Ludwick, Montgomery & Stapp, PC and Wings Pizza 'N Things
This annual event brings together community leaders, program alumni, and the graduating class for a celebration of leadership and service. Originally established by a Class of 2018 Action Team project, the banquet continues to enhance alumni engagement while spotlighting the ongoing impact of the Leadership Temple program.
A highlight of the 2025 banquet will be the presentation of the Leadership Temple Distinguished Alumni Award to Jon Burrows, a graduate of the Leadership Temple Class of 1989. Burrows is a distinguished public servant whose legacy spans decades of civic, legal, and military service.
The banquet will also recognize the Leadership Temple Class of 2025 as they present their class Action Team project to attendees.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Leadership Temple Tuition Assistance Scholarship, an initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity by enabling small business and nonprofit leaders to participate in the program.
Looking back on the 2024 banquet that celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2024, led by President David Shine, Shine Richardson Investment Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, and Curriculum Chair, Tanner Johnson of Central National Bank. The graduates presented their Action Team project, a collaboration with Feed My Sheep and its initiative Elizabeth Farm.
Elizabeth Farm is in East Temple and is a space focused on food access and transitional support. Their contributions included installing a greenhouse, donating fruit trees and topsoil, and a production plan to support long-term sustainability. The class also helped place a tiny home on the property, offering housing for an individual exiting homelessness.
The 2024 Banquet honored David Nix, Leadership Temple Class of 1988, as the Distinguished Alumni, recognizing his lasting contributions to Temple’s economic and civic development.
The 2025 Leadership Temple Alumni & Graduation Banquet is sponsored by: the City of Temple, McLane Group, Extraco Banks, Johnson Brothers Ford Lincoln, and KPA Engineers.
For more information about the Leadership Temple Alumni & Graduation Banquet and registration, visit www.templechamber.com.
April New Chamber Members
A3 Storage Centers
(254) 236-6655
6705 TX 317 Temple, TX 76502
www.a3storage.com
Self Storage
All Cleaning Service
Brandy Randall | (254) 743-9077 1614 W. Avenue L Temple, TX 76502
www.allcleaningctx.com
House Cleaning Services
Center Well Home Health
Brandi Gutierrez | (254) 778-6334 2626 S. 37th Street, Ste. 102 Temple, TX 76504
www.centerwellhomehealth.com
Home Health Services
Cen-Tex Marketing
Matthew Wilson | (512) 707-9000 Temple, TX
www.centexmarketing.com Marketing
Christian Brothers Automotive - Temple
Abbe Woody | (254) 791-8101 58 S. Kegley Rd. Temple, TX 76502
www.cbac.com/temple
Auto Repairs and Service
Christie Minalga Realty Group, LLC –Keeping it Realty
Christie Minalga | (254) 899-5501
111 N. General Bruce Dr. Temple, TX 76504
www.keepingitrealty.com/team/christieminalga
Real Estate
County View Homes by Centex
Ashley Grigsby | (808) 853-9543
2816 McKinney Ct. Temple, TX 76501
www.centex.com
Home Builder
Cromwell Commercial Group – Will Phipps, CCIM
Will Phipps, CCIM | (806) 790-6896
510 N. Valley Mills Dr. Waco, TX 76710
www.cromewellcommercialgroup.com
Real Estate – Commercial & Industrial
Dream Vacations – Jennifer Pick
Jennifer Pick | (254) 644-2532
Mart, TX
https://jpick.dreamvacations.com
Travel Agencies
Embrace Hospice
Liz Bovard | (254) 284-0045
5100 Midway Dr. #300
Temple, TX 76502
Hospice
Happy Karma Homes
Derek Morris | (512) 855-1223
Temple, TX
www.happykarmahomes.com
Home Builder
Immanuel Luteran Church of Temple
Brenda Whitwell | (254) 773-3898
2109 W. Avenue H Temple, TX 76504
www.ilmtexas.org
Churches
La Riv Kitchen & Bar
Vira Chudasma | (254) 231-3661
7410 W. Adams Ave., #160 Temple, TX 76502
www.larivkitchen.com
Restaurants
Midway Community, LLC
Tammy Brem | (254) 727-4006
3905 Valerie Ln.
Temple, TX 76502
Manufactured Home Communities
Moss
Erica Speedon | (561) 701-6760
Temple, TX
www.moss.com
Construction Companies & General Contractors
Questco – Dean Ryan
Dean Ryan | (281) 748-9730
Temple, TX
www.questco.net
Human Resources
Scenthound Temple
Cindy Hyland | (254) 242-0404
6504 W. Adams St., Ste. 300
Temple, TX 76502
www.scenthound.com
Pet Services - Grooming
Seton Medical Center Harker Heights
Lucy Taylor | (254) 680-6201
850 W. Central TX Expwy
Harker Hts., TX 76548
www.setonharkerheights.org
Hospitals
Wake & Brew
Jonah Walker | (254) 285-8281
2329 S. 57th Street
Temple, TX 76504
Coffee Shop
Wellstone Health Partners
Lucy Taylor | (254) 680-6377
4901 S. 31st Street, Ste. 120
Temple, TX 76502
www.wellstonepartners.org
Healthcare
April Renewing Chamber Members
1st Franklin Financial Organization
1st Place Awards and Embroidery
93 Nursery and Landscape Supply, LLC
Advanced Chiropractic
Almost Home Pet Resort
Dunhill Homes
Bahama Bucks - Mar-Men 5
Bell County Court-at-Law #2
Bobcat of Temple
Capstone Mechanical
Cargill Inc.
Carothers Executive Homes
Children's Advocacy Center of Central Texas
Coley Group, Inc. / CGI Franchise
Congressman John R. Carter - Texas 31
CTWP
DuBois Furniture, Inc.
E.R. Carpenter L.P.
Equipment Depot, Ltd.
First Community Title Company
Flintrock Builders
Grand Avenue Theater
Hill Country Transit District (The HOP)
Hotworx
House of Floors
Immanuel Baptist Church
Integrity Rehab - Temple South
John Houston Custom Homes
Johnson Roofing, Inc.
Kenny Paysse Insurance Agency
Kiella Homebuilders
THREE
Kristen Distributing
Lakewood Dental Trails
Belfair Development, Inc.
Lisa's Dance Connection
Mac Haik Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep
Main Street Medical Supply
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Pack 'N' Mail
Perry
Polar Texas Bottling
Prater, Ridley & Llamas - Attorneys & Counselors at Law
Priority Janitorial Services, LLC
RE/MAX Temple-Belton Realtors
Republic Engineering and Development Services
Ronald McDonald House Charities - Temple, TX
Rural Rental Housing Assoc. of Texas
Schulte Roofing
Subway Sandwiches
SWBC Mortgage Corporation
Temple & Central Texas Railway
Temple Community Clinic
Temple Dental Trails
Temple EMS
Texas Document Solutions, Inc.
Thrifty Texan Two Steppin' Tours
Truecore Fitness
United Way of Central Texas
VeraBank
Wheels Family Skating Center
Whimsies
RIBBON CUTTING
County View Homes by Centex Grand Opening
County View Homes by Centex offers affordable, modern living with quick access to jobs, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy nearby parks, golf courses, and water recreation on Stillhouse Hollow and Belton Lakes. Built with over 70 years of Centex experience, each home reflects smart design, lasting quality, and a streamlined building process tailored to your lifestyle. With a dependable warranty and commitment to exceeding expectations, County View is where value meets vibrant living.
Ashley Grigsby 2816 McKinney Court Temple, TX 76501 (808) 853-9543
www.centex.com
Freedom Urgent Care –Temple Grand Opening
With locations in Harker Heights, Killeen, Belton and Temple Freedom Urgent Care centers are modern, state-of-the-art facilities providing walkin care for minor illnesses and injuries seven days a week, including holidays. Staffed by licensed providers, each clinic offers digital X-rays, lab services and an electronic medical records (EMR) system. Freedom Urgent Care is backed by the resources and outstanding reputation of Seton Medical Center Harker Heights. For addresses, hours and additional information on Freedom Urgent Care clinics, visit freedomurgentcare.com.
Annmarie McKenna
4901 S. 31st Street, Ste. 110 Temple, TX 76502
(254) 300-7172
https://freedomurgentcare.com
RIBBON CUTTING
Suntex Roofing & Reconstruction Grand Opening
SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction is the premier roofing concierge serving North, Central, and Austin, Texas. Specializing in roof repair and replacement, gutters, fences, solar panels, and general contracting, SunTex serves residential, commercial, and multi-family properties with expert care. Clients benefit from comprehensive concierge services, including complimentary inspections and estimates—all delivered with professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to unrivaled customer service. SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction is dedicated to protecting what matters most with integrity and excellence.
Leanne Tolbert
2400 S. 57th Street Temple, TX 76504
(214) 766-3669
www.suntexroofs.com
RIBBON CUTTING
The Edge Barbershop Grand Opening
The Edge Barbershop provides a luxury grooming experience unlike any other. Upon arrival, guests are offered a complimentary whiskey of their choice—or beer, soda, or water for those who prefer something different. Once in the chair, clients are treated by world-class barbers skilled in both classic styles and modern transformations. Each visit includes an elite haircut and straight razor finish, leaving clients refreshed, confident, and ready to face the world as their best selves.
Tyler Rayner 6401 TX 317, Ste. C Temple, TX 76502 (254) 319-1152
www.theedgebs.com
Wellstone Health PartnersTemple Grand Opening
Wellstone Health Partners is a large multispecialty physician group affiliated with Seton Medical Center Harker Heights. Wellstone Health Partners also has Primary Care offices in Killeen, Harker Heights, Belton, and Temple. The group consists of Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Urology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, General Surgery and ENT/Audiology. Wellstone also has Nurse Practitioners that support both our Primary Care and Specialty physicians and a Registered Dietitian on staff for consultations. For addresses, hours and additional information on Wellstone Health Partners, visit wellstonepartners.org.
Lucy Taylor
4901 S. 31st Street, Ste. 120 Temple, TX 76502
(254) 680-6377
www.wellstonepartners.org
New Temple Clinic Expands Local Healthcare Access
Seton Medical Center Harker Heights
Freedom Urgent Care and Wellstone Health Partners are expanding access to quality care in Central Texas with a new 7,000-square-foot facility at 4901 S. 31st St. in South Temple. The state-of-the-art building brings urgent care and primary care under one roof, with Freedom Urgent Care in Suite 110 and Wellstone Health Partners in Suite 120.
“This investment ensures families in this area have access to the care they need, when they need it,” said Patrick Swindle, CEO of Seton Medical Center Harker Heights.
Freedom Urgent Care’s fifth location opened April 22, 2025, and welcomes patients three months and older. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.,
and weekends, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Online check-in, real-time texts, and walk-in visits are available. Most major insurance plans are accepted.
“This location makes care more convenient for many Temple residents who currently travel to our other clinics,” said owner Dr. Jay McKenna.
Wellstone Health Partners will open in May 2025, offering primary care for patients of all ages. Hours are Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments can be scheduled at wellstonepartners.org or by calling 254-457-3743.
An open house and ribbon cutting was held Tuesday, April 22.
Leadership Temple Explores the Future of Education in Temple
In April, the Leadership Temple class participated in Education Day, designed to showcase the institutions shaping Temple’s educational landscape. Through facility tours, leadership discussions, and hands-on demonstrations, participants gained an inside view of how Temple ISD and Temple College are preparing students for success in an evolving workforce.
The day began with a visit to the Temple ISD Administration Building, where Deputy Superintendent Lisa Adams introduced the district’s leadership team. Adams emphasized Temple ISD’s commitment to academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and student-centered growth, highlighting the district’s efforts to manage construction costs, balance complex budgets, and adapt to shifting funding models—all while maintaining a high standard of education for its 8,800+ students across 15 campuses.
Leaders shared insights on teacher retention, leadership development, and strategic community partnerships. A common theme throughout the morning was the district’s focus on ensuring safe, innovative, and equitable learning environments for every student.
The group then toured Temple High School, visiting both the Fine Arts Complex and the Career & Technical Education (CTE) wing. The Fine Arts Complex, renovated in 2020, now offers state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces, art classrooms, and an upgraded auditorium equipped for full-scale productions.
At the CTE facility, Director Sarah Bartlett showcased programs spanning welding, automotive repair, health sciences, culinary arts, and cosmetology. Last year, over 90% of Temple High students participated in CTE courses, with more than 250 earning industry certifications, setting students on a strong path toward both college and career.
Discussions then shifted to facilities planning and growth management. District leaders outlined the results of a 2023 demographic study forecasting continued growth in Temple’s southern corridor. In response, Temple ISD has proposed a $115 million bond to fund classroom additions, security enhancements, and expanded learning spaces, all without increasing the tax rate. Collaboration with community leaders ensures these plans are built for long-term success.
In the afternoon, attention turned to Temple College, where Vice President DeDe Griffith provided an overview of the college’s workforce development
initiatives. Touring the new Workforce and Visual Arts Building, the group saw firsthand how the college supports high-demand industries with programs in electrical systems, woodworking, ESL, and advanced manufacturing.
The college’s innovative approach combines hands-on technical training with academic instruction to prepare students for immediate employment or career advancement. In addition to offering technical certifications, Temple College plays a vital role in strengthening the local economy by creating pipelines for skilled workers. Significant partnerships with the Texas Workforce Commission and local employers, alongside major grants, ensure that education remains accessible and responsive to industry needs.
Education Day closed with a strong sense of appreciation for the deep collaboration happening across Temple’s educational institutions. From early learning to workforce readiness, Temple’s commitment to education remains a powerful investment in the city's future.
Trae Liller, Materials Transportation Company; BJ Little, Turley & Associates; Sabrina Young, Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center - LT Class of 2025
LT Class of 2025 at the new Temple College Workforce and Visual Arts Building.
Honoring Veterans and Building Community
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
Rucks On Main, a nonprofit organization based in Temple, TX, was founded in 2020 by Wes Albanese. The mission behind Rucks On Main is advocating, mentoring, and educating the community on the reintegration process for Veterans and their families. This mission extends beyond just providing support; it is about fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
The driving force behind Rucks On Main is a personal one. “My why to start the organization was to keep the memories and legacy of our military community alive,” said Wes Albanese, founder of Rucks On Main. “Everybody has probably lost a family member in the military or has known somebody who has passed away in the military. It is very important to honor them, and remember them for the sacrifices they made to keep this country free.”
The key initiative of Rucks On Main is their biannual military-themed ruck marches, one on Memorial Day which honors fallen military members, and the other on Veterans Day which supports the military community.
The Memorial Day 10K Ruck March is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, in Downtown Temple. The march begins at the Santa Fe Plaza, with a route traversing through downtown north through the historic district and looping back to conclude at the Santa Fe Plaza.
For the Memorial Day event, event organizers ask that participants carry pictures of fallen Military Service Members or First Responders on their rucksacks/backpacks. This symbolic act not only pays homage to the brave souls who have been lost but also serves as a powerful reminder of their service and sacrifice.
Participants carry up to 40 pounds of non-perishable food items in their rucksacks/backpacks that are donated to Operation Feeding Temple.
Over the years, Rucks On Main has achieved remarkable milestones. “To date, we have collected over 40,000 pounds of food that our participants have donated after the ruck marches,” continued Albanese. “We have also donated proceeds of over $5,000 to local nonprofits.”
As Rucks On Main continues to grow and evolve, their commitment to honoring Veterans, supporting their reintegration journey, and fostering community connections remains strong. Through their biannual ruck marches, donations, and volunteer efforts they make positive impacts on the lives of Veterans and their families, ensuring that their contributions are never forgotten.
Reflecting on the impact the organization and its initiatives have had since its founding in 2020, Albanese said, “Not only do we have incredible support and participation locally and regionally, but we also have participants that come from all over the United States for this event. We are truly thankful for the community’s involvement!”
Those interested in participating in the Memorial Day 10K Ruck March should visit https://rucksonmain.org.
Celebrating 2025 National Small Business Week May 4–10
Temple Chamber of Commerce Staff
For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has recognized the vital role of America’s small businesses during National Small Business Week—and the Temple Chamber of Commerce is proud to join in honoring the ingenuity, hard work, and resilience of our local entrepreneurs.
Small businesses make up over 99% of all businesses in Texas and form the backbone of our local economy. Their impact reaches beyond job creation— they boost city revenues, drive civic engagement, and donate generously to community causes. Simply put, small businesses make Temple a better place to live, work, and grow.
Join us in celebrating their lasting contributions this week and every week!