Greater Waco Business - Summer 2024 - Greater Waco's Sports and Outdoor Recreation

OUTDOORS AND SPORTS IN WACO

A GREATER WACO CHAMBER PUBLICATION | SUMMER 2024

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A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

MATT MEADORS President & CEO, Greater Waco Chamber

2024 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Kary Lalani

Lalani Lodging, Inc.

This edition of Greater Waco Business explores our community’s outdoor amenities, their impact on our region’s quality of life and livability, and their activation to capitalize on the burgeoning sports tourism industry.

CHAIR-ELECT

A community’s quality of life plays a central role in attracting new business investment and helping entice existing businesses to expand their operations. Importantly, business decision makers understand the relationship between a community’s livability and their efforts to secure the talent necessary to help them achieve their mission and prosper.

VICE CHAIR

When we meet with corporate site locators and others involved in identifying a location for a new facility, we always showcase our outdoor amenities as a part of the “why Waco” story.

It’s a compelling part of our story because Greater Waco enjoys world-class natural amenities including our stunningly beautiful Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, and the Brazos River flowing through downtown Waco.

Keith Helpert

Our community celebrates and fully enjoys our natural amenities and understands the significance of capitalizing on them to further bolster the economy. Located in the heart of Texas and enjoying an average of 230 days of sunshine each year with an average daily temperature in the mid-60’s, Greater Waco is becoming a premier destination for sports tourism.

In a recent study conducted by Sports ETA, the trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, Texas is ranked number 2 in the nation in terms of economic impact generated by sports tourism in 2023. The economic impact numbers from the report are eye-popping: In 2023, sports travelers had a direct spend of $52.5 billion dollars, which generated a total economic impact of $128 billion dollars. The dollars were spent on the following: $13.5 billion on transportation $10.9 billion on lodging $9.7 billion on food and beverages Recreation, retail, and tournament operations rounded out the spending, registering $6.9 billion, $6.5 billion, and $4.7 billion, respectively.

Also, the number of sports travelers hit a high-water mark of 204.9 million, and the sports tourism sector supported 757,595 jobs and generated $20.1 billion dollars in tax revenue.

Our bountiful outdoor amenities ensure we are well positioned to capture our share of the sports tourism economy.

Now go outside and have some fun!

Thank you for your continued support of your Chamber of Commerce.

With appreciation,

Matthew T. Meadors President & CEO

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Carolyn Haferkamp Central National Bank

Todd Moore

Alliance Bank Central Texas

VICE CHAIR

K4 Construction

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR

Philip Patterson, FACHE Ascension Providence

PRESIDENT & CEO

Matt Meadors

Greater Waco Chamber

CHAMBER STAFF Olivia Aydelotte

Manager Marketing & Communications

Kacie Birkes

Director Signature Events

Kris Collins

Executive Vice President

Gabriella Colurciello

Director Marketing & Communications

Nancy Gupton

Director Resource Development

Jacob Hogan

Vice President Public Policy & Chamber Foundation

Keith Kusler Art Director

Tori Lentz

Coordinator Economic Development

Rachel Ligon

Director Leadership Development

Rachel Martinez Director Workforce & Talent

Debbie McCutchen Office Coordinator

Matt Meadors President/CEO

Seth Morris

Vice President Economic Development

Jason Powers

Senior Vice President Finance & Operations

Lexy Reil

Director Economic Development

Rebecca Sheehy Manager Signature Events

Lupe Teichelman

Manager Resource Development

Tiffany Gallegos Whitley Senior Director Workforce & Talent

Michelle Williams Assistant Finance & Operations

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SUMMER 2024

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TEXAS SPORTS & OUTDOOR RECREATION

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EXTRACO EVENTS CENTER: MORE THAN JUST THE HEART OF TEXAS FAIR & RODEO

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A YEAR OF MILESTONES

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WACO OUTDOORS

ED NEWS ECONOMY IN FOCUS

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CHAMBER NEWS

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MEMBER NEWS

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

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NEW MEMBERS

WORLD-CLASS WAVES AT WACO SURF

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EMPOWERING THE HEART OF TEXAS THROUGH SPORT

ON THE COVER

This issue focuses on Greater Waco’s outdoor and sports economy, an important component of our community’s quality of life. As the community continues to grow, ensuring citizens and visitors have safe, accessible ways to enjoy sports and the great outdoors remains a focus.

Learn more about the impacts and what’s on the horizon for Greater Waco!

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EDITORS

Gabriella Colurciello Olivia Aydelotte

Greater Waco Business is published and distributed to Chamber members and economic development prospects. Digital copies are available online at WacoChamber.com.

ART DIRECTOR

This publication is printed on FSC-certified paper.

Keith Kusler

AD SALES

Gabriella Colurciello (254) 757-5618 gcolurciello@wacochamber.com

© 2024 Greater Waco Chamber 101 S. Third St. Waco TX 76701 • (254) 757-5600 The Greater Waco Chamber reserves the right to reject editorial or advertising content in the Greater Waco Business publication, and via the organization’s full range of communications platforms, at its sole discretion.

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Te x a s S p o r t s & Outdoor Recreation

Sports and outdoor recreation contribute significantly to Texas’ prosperity and quality of life. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA) data release, outdoor recreation, including sports, account for an added value of $47.6 billion and 2% of Texas’ gross domestic product (GDP).

This vibrant industry employs nearly 400,000 individuals and generates $19.3 billion in payroll in Texas.

34%

50%

16%

Conventional Activities

(including camping, hiking, boating, and hunting): 34%

Other Activities

(including gardening and outdoor concerts): 16%

Supporting Activities

(contribute to the core activities and include such things as construction, travel and tourism, local trips, and government expenditures): 50%

RVing hing s i F / g n i t a Bo ng i p p a r T / g otin o h S / g n i t Hun Ving T A / g n i l c y Motorc Equestrian lying F l a n o i t a e Recr ping m a C t n e T / king i H / g n i b Clim Bicycling 6 | SUMMER 2024

MIS SION:

TO CREATE THE WORKFORCE AND LEADERS OF TOMORROW

Connecting Businesses and Education Fostering partnerships between businesses and educational institutions to build a career-ready workforce.

Working with K-12 schools and higher education institutions to equip students for successful technical careers.

Providing student internship, industry tours, job shadowing and teacher externship opportunities to raise awareness of technical career opportunities and pathways.

WacoChamber.com/Foundation

InWaco was created to highlight the characteristics that make our community special with the ultimate goal of recruiting and retaining our most valuable resource: our people. InWaco comprises everything Greater Waco has to offer, including jobs. With an integrated job board and place for job seekers to post their resumes, the inWaco website offers a place for employers and potential employees to connect. Talent and workforce remains vital to the work of your Greater Waco Chamber and we are committed to being part of the solution.

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by The City of Waco & Greater Waco Chamber

Waco is a city of possibilities where nature meets culture, and big opportunities are always close at hand. Greater than the sum of its parts, Waco is a city defined by and for its people – a place that feels like home, where we all belong and thrive together.

Outdoor recreation has become a booming economic force, generating tourism and jobs.

This trend, known as the outdoor economy, encompasses a wide range of land and water activities, including hiking, biking, outdoor festivals, kayaking, disc golf, and so much more.

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The City of Waco recognizes the economic impact and desire for outdoor infrastructure and recreation through the investment of diverse transportation systems, recruitment of new restaurants and businesses, conservation and land management, and activation of arts and culture. The City’s investment translates

to a significant economic boost for our community. Tourists spend money on lodging, dining, and outdoor gear, while locals frequent the growing number of restaurants, shops, and businesses that cater to the outdoor lifestyle. The economic impact ripples outward, creating jobs in transportation, hospitality, and service industries.

A Park to Rival All Others The City of Waco offers residents and visitors a wealth of opportunities to connect with nature. Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, is just steps away from our downtown, and it features a 23-hole disc golf course, stunning views of the Bosque and Brazos Rivers, and a 20-mile network of trails perfect for friendly strolls and challenging climbs.

Cameron Park is a park to rival all others, but the City of Waco understands that a vibrant outdoor scene isn’t limited to expansive parks. Scattered throughout the City are 68 neighborhood parks and six community centers, each offering a space for children to play, families to picnic, and neighbors to gather.

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In Waco, It’s All Within Reach Beyond the park systems, Waco offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences. From surfing to farmstands. From city lights to Brazos Nights. From mammoths to Magnolia. Adventures are always on tap in Waco.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument allows visitors to delve into the prehistoric past, golfers can tee off at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, and animal lovers can take a stroll through Cameron Park Zoo. The City also activates its community year-round with highly anticipated annual events, including the Brazos Nights concert series at Indian Spring Park along the riverfront, the Fourth on the Brazos Independence Day celebration at McLane Stadium, and the Waco Wonderland holiday celebration in Heritage Square in Downtown Waco.

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A Riverfront on the Rise Downtown Waco is the city’s gravitational center with the Brazos River at its heart. It reveals and celebrates Waco’s distinct identity to create an abundant future for generations to come.

The Brazos River itself serves as a central artery offering opportunities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding perfect for beginners and more competitive and high-energy events like speedboat drag racing, open water swims, and triathlons, including the renowned Ironman competitions. Collegiate rowing regattas and training sessions have also found a home on the Brazos becoming a notable rowing hub.

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The Riverway Project at Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd and Lake Shore Drive and the Brazos Promenade Riverfront Project at Interstate Highway 35 and University Parks Drive both stand as transformative initiatives poised to significantly enhance Waco’s outdoor economy.

By integrating 1,200 feet of Brazos River frontage into the Riverway master-planned community, the riverway not only preserves a significant natural asset, but also makes it a central feature of daily life for residents with walkability, connectivity, trails, parks, and greenways that encourage active living. In addition to its environmental and recreational benefits, Riverway, a development by Caldwell Companies, will support a diverse range of residential options and mixed-use commercial

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spaces with an emphasis on quality housing.

Over the 10-year buildout, Riverway anticipates it will add $617 million in new taxable value, construct $102 million in new public infrastructure and create 1,887 new residential units in the Waco housing market.

Twenty-two acres of the 521-acre site will be dedicated to mixed-use commercial development. River activation will play a significant role in the development, with a 170-ship marina connecting to Downtown Waco.

The Brazos Promenade leverages its strategic location along the Brazos River to create a vibrant, walkable district with residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, including

a riverfront promenade, parks, and urban streetscapes. The goal for the $700 million Brazos Promenade is to serve as a catalyst for further economic development supporting outdoor-focused businesses with planned retail and restaurant spaces, the farmers market park, and children’s play areas. The project further compliments other downtown developments, including the recently-opened Foster Pavillion, another driver in Waco’s vast sports economy.

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These elements align with Waco’s strategic plan to enhance outdoor amenities and promote an active, healthy lifestyle, attracting both residents and visitors while remaining committed to sustainability and quality of life.

Smaller Scale, Bigger Impact The recently unveiled Downtown Master Development Roadmap, created in partnership with Hunt Development Group, reflects a bold vision for the future with a focus on creating a vibrant and inclusive space that celebrates Waco’s unique identity. This 100-acre development mostly covers land from Waco Drive to Mary Avenue, from the Brazos River to Fourth Street, and considers areas in East Waco. The development will be organized into distinct districts with names that nod to Waco’s rich history and will prioritize walkable parks, civic spaces, and amenities that cater to a wide range of interests.

Hallmarks of the project envision a riverfront convention center, performing arts complex, consolidated administrative and public service campus for Waco ISD and City of Waco, a multi-use sports-entertainment venue, and signature parks, trails, and plazas in each district. Overall, the Downtown Master Development Roadmap is an ambitious plan to further revitalize Downtown Waco within multiple phases that could deliver more than $1.8 billion in new investment over the next 12 to 20 years.

Growing Responsibly Waco is experiencing significant development, as evidenced by the current and future major investments along the Brazos River and

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downtown. The City of Waco understands the need to grow responsibly. As the downtown area continues to urbanize, the need to intentionally connect with nature grows.

Given Waco’s location and the rapid development that is anticipated over the next 20 years, these planned developments allow Waco to invest in its downtown and outdoor economy in a controlled, sustainable, and responsible manner that avoids disjointed, small developments.

The future of Waco’s outdoor economy includes, but also extends beyond, the downtown area with our dedication to our existing neighborhood parks, community centers, small business support, outdoor events, and sustainability initiatives. By embracing the outdoor economy, our community can continue toward a healthier, more vibrant future with experiences that connect us with the natural world. Waco is a destination for growth where big opportunities can become reality.

Waco is a city to believe in. n

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Despite being hours away from the crash of ocean waves, Waco Surf has cemented its place in the global surf industry, beckoning pros and beginners alike to the Heart of Texas for the best waves found across the world, all without the large crowds or needing to pack a passport.

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Located off Interstate 35 and down Old Mexia Road, the water sports and surf facility has rapidly developed since Mike Schwaab and David Taylor took over the property operations on-site in 2021, ushering Waco into the intersection of Texas and universal surf culture and shifting the business model to create not only a surf destination but also a familyoriented environment.

Though it’s possible to run into an avid or even pro surfer any day of the week, the surf resort’s main goal is to create joy for every guest – regardless of age, background, or experience.

“We’re all about having fun, seeking adventure, and living life to the fullest,” Taylor said.

All three can be achieved through the three main attractions at the resort: the surf lagoon, cable park, and water park.

Starting with its namesake, Waco Surf

features a two-and-a-half-acre surf lagoon.

With PerfectSwell® technology recreating waves from around the globe, it’s one of the world’s premier man-made surf destinations.

Beginners, experts, and those in between will find waves suited to their skill levels, from The Coaster, a beginner wave, to The Point, Waco Surf’s professional competition waves.

Additionally, Waco Surf offers a Beginner Academy: a quick foundational class before the beginner surf session, including safety, reading the waves, and tips and tricks for getting up on the board. This past season, over 23,000 patrons shredded the waves in Waco.

When it comes to shredding in another sense, Waco Surf guests can try out the Cable Park.

Outfitted with six towers, the wakeboarding course offers exciting ramps, rails, and jumps for those looking to test their skills.

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Not there yet? Those new to the sport can join Cable Academy on the weekends to learn the basics. While you’re there, don’t forget to wave ‘hello’ to the lemurs from the cable dock, often heard trilling on their island in the middle of the water.

If fun in the sun without a board under your feet is your style, the water park is here to serve.

Drawing 31,980 guests during the 2023 season, this attraction is where you can fly down the four wedge water slides, each at differing takeoff heights for a choose-your-own adventure when it comes to airtime. If you’d rather take it slow and lounge, grab an inner tube to float down one of the world’s longest lazy rivers (allegedly!).

“One lap around is about a mile and can take you up to 45 minutes!” Schwaab said.

Since taking ownership in 2021, the Waco Surf team has added amenities to close the gap between adventure and retreat and create a well-rounded destination.

For example, guests don’t need to leave the property to grab a bite. Multiple food and drink options have popped up around the property, 18 | SUMMER 2024

serving up dishes such as mouthwatering smash burgers, tacos, or crispy chicken sandwiches.

Drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can quench any parched vacationer. A personal favorite spot for Schwaab is the Saloon, where you can kick back on the patio and watch both wakeboarders and lemurs with a beverage in hand.

And it’s not just bites that have been added to the park: three types of accommodations allow out-of-towners and staycationers to spend the night just steps away from adventure. All overnight guests can also take advantage of access to the private beach area, located at the surf lagoon.

Lodging options include the Waco Surf Hotel, featuring six wave view rooms, five garden

view rooms, and two premium suites; seven cabins ranging in size from cozy two-person to 16-person bunk-style cabins; and two houses, The Lakehouse and The Roadhouse, located further from the main attractions and equipped with elevated amenities such as a private pool and dock.

These changes are largely a result of the Waco Surf team surveying their guests after each visit, whether it be local families, daytrippers, or professional surfers. Passionate about the guest experience, they have and will continue to use feedback as the guiding force towards new programming and projects, including more family-oriented fun and lodging options. Onsite lodging went from around 18% capacity in peak season during 2021 to almost 85% in peak season in 2023.

With all the added amenities and evolution of the park to a curated experience, there’s been both a dramatic increase in family passes from 2022 to 2024 and an increase in local area codes visiting the waterpark year over year. Waco

Surf will continue to attract new patrons each season, enhancing existing features and expanding onto its nearly 300 acres of undeveloped land. n

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G N I R E EMPOW EXAS T F O T R A E H THE T R O H G P U S O THR

The importance of accessible sports for a healthy community cannot be understated. The Greater Waco Sports Commission (GWSC) is dedicated to recruiting sporting events to the community, finding unique ways to utilize the assets in Waco and bringing people together to participate in sports.

In this Q&A, we visited with Mike Vogelaar, GWSC’s executive director.

In his three years leading the Commission, he’s seen its offerings and the community grow. Read on to learn more about the GWSC, its work and the importance of sports in the Greater Waco economy.

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What is the Greater Waco Sports Commission?

The Greater Waco Sports Commission exists to empower the heart of Central Texas through sport. We do this by developing healthy youth, communities and families; supporting impactful events; and advocating for first-class facilities.

The Greater Waco Sports Commission was founded in 2015. We’ve had tremendous community leaders serve on our board and we’ve had incredible support from the City of Waco, the City of Robinson, McLennan County and the Greater Waco Chamber to enable us to do the work we do.

How do you achieve your goals?

We’re committed to encouraging the community to support impactful events in Greater Waco. We’ve created events that activate not only the youth, but also adults. Ideally, we want to present opportunities for people to be able to take the first (or next) step in their health journey and help them see the benefits of an active lifestyle.

We help attract, recruit and enhance different events to the Waco community.

We want to be a liaison and a resource for local community members who have an idea for a sporting event they’d like to see here as well as organizations outside the community who think Waco would be a good fit for their events. We want to see these events succeed, so we help with anything from helping recruit volunteers for events like Ironman and the Greater Waco Chamber’s TriWaco to connecting people to the right resources for their event to be successful.

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The Greater Waco community is primed to be able to take the next steps as far as creating new sporting facilities and we want to help shape those ideas. We want to help align and facilitate conversations that lead to successful public-private partnerships for the community. In fact, McLennan County and the City of Waco have conducted studies to better understand the current utilization of sporting facilities and potential future needs. We want to help bring the right people together and continue to be a resource for consultants and the community.

Our TEAM Waco initiative is a critical part of meeting our goal to develop healthy youth, communities and families. TEAM Waco is an initiative created in hopes to knock down physical, mental, or financial barriers for eight local athletes wishing to complete an Ironman 70.3. With support from GWSC partners, each athlete is provided with equipment, training and support valued at more the $6,000.

What are the impacts of sports in communities?

There are incredible economic impacts of sporting events. Ironman, for example, brings between $6 and $8 million to the community. We’re actively trying to recruit other different signature events to the area that also highlight our natural resources.

The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) Championships are also huge for our community.

Waco is a preferred destination for championships because of its central location and top-notch facilities. We have visionary leaders in the City of Waco and Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID) who see the value in supporting events like this in the Waco community.

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events. While people may stay in a hotel, we often see athletes take a day trip into the community, which provides additional economic impact. These individuals are purchasing from local businesses and, when we create positive, memorable trips for them, they’re more likely to return to the community to further explore everything Waco has to offer.

Why is it import to utilize our outdoor assets?

I look at the events that will utilize the best facilities we have in this community.

Currently, availability of our indoor facilities is a challenge for large events. Our outdoor facilities and our natural resources, like Cameron Park, the Brazos River and the county roads, are some of our greatest, most available assets. Hosting triathlons, road races and runs are very impactful because they use these resources and we want to continue to be able to grow and endorse these opportunities. Waco is known for our mountain biking trails, for example. People travel from across the state to be able to ride Waco’s trails. There’s also a professional disc golf tournament that’s hosted annually in Waco’s Brazos Park East and that provides incredible exposure for Waco through online streaming and live broadcasting.

We want to continue to build Waco as a prime destination using these resources.

The sports community in Greater Waco is continuing to grow! If you’re interested in learning more about the GWSC, visit them online at WacoSports.org. n

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“The Waco Chamber has provided our small business an excellent opportunity to meet other local business people through the Networking Forum and Business After Hours.

This, along with the event sponsorships, has helped us keep our name in front of the Waco community!”

— DAVID WILSON, Allstate

Learn more about the benefits of membership at WacoChamber.com/activate WACOCHAMBER.COM | 25

by Melinda Adams, CMP, Senior Division Manager – Marketing and Sponsorships, Extraco Events Center

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The Extraco Events Center (EEC) is often associated with the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo, but in reality, that’s only one of hundreds of events hosted at the facility. It boasts three separate, very large and diverse event venues that allow for three or more events to be hosted simultaneously.

In 2017, McLennan County voters approved the establishment of a venue tax to fund a $34 million redevelopment and expansion of the EEC. At the time, EEC hosted approximately 125 events annually

and generated approximately $47 million in economic impact to the area. Today, it has expanded and hosts more than 300 events annually generating an estimated impact of over $60 million.

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The Extraco Coliseum has one of

the largest indoor arenas in Central Texas. This facility typically hosts rodeo, equine, and motorsport events, as well as tradeshows and concerts that draw attendees from across Central Texas. The air conditioned, multipurpose facility contains a seating capacity of over 6,000 with a 38,750 square-foot arena floor. Events have the option to utilize the dirt arena or a concrete floor. As many as 9,000 people can be accommodated when seats are placed inside the arena.

Recently, the Extraco Coliseum has served as the host venue for a variety of events, including: Cody Johnson Concert (over 6,000 Attendees) First in Texas Robotics Competition (3 days • 1,500 Attendees) Monster Truck Show (2 days • 2,400 Attendees) Circus (3 days • 4,400 Attendees) Congreso – Texas Baptists Hispanic Conference (4 days • 1,600 Attendees) Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Cheer and Dance Competition (3 days • 2,000 Attendees) 28 | SUMMER 2024

The Extraco Show Pavilion

is typically utilized for equine and livestock events, and draws contestants from all over Texas to compete in horse shows and/or other livestock events. This facility includes an indoor airconditioned 125 foot by 250 foot arena, two small warm-up arenas, and an attached 125 foot by 280 foot covered arena. The Show Pavilion contains more than 450 horse stalls, and an additional 260 stalls inside the adjacent Stall Barn.

The Extraco Show Pavilion serves as the host venue for many diverse events, including: Heart O’ Texas Invitational Career Development Livestock Contest (3,500 Attendees) Elite Barrel Race/Women’s Pro Rodeo Association World Finals (6 days • 2,000 Attendees) Golden Buckle Barrel Race (Based in Italy • 5 days • 1,000 Attendees) Texas Amateur Quarter Horse Show - Texas Festival (6 days • 1,000 Attendees) Blue Ribbon Hunter Jumper Horse Show (10 days • 800 Attendees) Waco Cutting Horse Futurity Show (10 days • 1,500 Attendees) Brangus Cattle Junior National Show (6 days • 1,000 Attendees) Paint the Future Paint Horse Show (4 days • 750 Attendees) WACOCHAMBER.COM | 29

The BASE at Extraco Events Center is a

conference-style facility that can be used as one large room with over 50,000 square feet of space, or the room can be divided into 5 smaller rooms via air walls. This facility is used for meetings, tradeshows, tournament sporting events, gala/dinner events, as well as other corporate and education events. The BASE is available for rent.

The BASE at Extraco served as the host venue for many events including: Cen-Texas Volleyball Tournament (2 days • 2,500 Attendees) 3 Step Sports Basketball Tournament (2 days • 1,500 Attendees) MidTex Farm & Ranch Show (2 days • 1,500 Attendees) Managing Asphalt and Paving Conference and Tradeshow (3 days • 400 Attendees) Jiu Jitsu National Championship (3 days • 300 Attendees) Texas Ranger Reunion Convention (3 days • 315 Attendees) Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Dance Competition (2 days • 1,500 Attendees) Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Art Competition (2 days • 1,000 Attendees)

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Due to the wide array of events hosted at the Extraco Events Center, the facility has several existing partnerships with area hotels, local restaurants, and other various contractors and service providers. The Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo is the largest annual event at the complex and utilizes all three facilities.

Correspondingly, the HOT fair has the greatest economic impact.

The 11-day long event attracts over 500 hotel room nights and creates over 400 contract labor jobs, including parking attendants, ticket takers, ticket cashiers, ushers, t-shirt security, and uniformed security. This event also awards over $360,000 in scholarships to Central Texas youth. n

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A YEAR OF MILESTONES In 2024, the Greater Waco Chamber is celebrating 125 years of building Greater Waco! As the organization has grown, evolved and adapted, so have the programs, events and services offered. In fact, several of these programs are also celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2024!

Leadership Waco Graduates 40th Class For more than 40 years, the Greater Waco Chamber’s Leadership Waco program has provided leaders real time, in-depth information about the Greater Waco community. In its first year, the class comprised 30 members of the community and has grown, informing nearly 40 community members annually. Leadership Waco graduates have their passions ignited and go on to serve our community as members of community boards, civil servants and more.

Kick Off Luncheon Marks the Start of Football Season for 35 Years The inaugural Kick Off Luncheon was held at the Lion’s Den in August 1989. Since its start, the event has been a community-wide effort to generate excitement and passion for the upcoming football season. During the luncheon, attendees hear a preview from Baylor University coaches, take a look at the upcoming high school football season and listen to a special guest speaker. Over the

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years, speakers have included, Bill Hancock, Trey Wingo, Drew Pearson, Grant Teaff and Ed “Too Tall” Jones, among others.

Total Resource Campaign Celebrates 20 Grand Years 2024 marks the Greater Waco Chamber’s 20th Total Resource Campaign (TRC). It has significantly contributed to the Chamber’s success. This capacity building campaign enlists volunteers across industry sectors to educate the business community about the Chamber’s offerings and solicit investments in the organization. The dedicated volunteers, representing many organizations in the community, recruit new Chamber members and promote the Chamber’s programs, events and publications.

Waco Young Professionals Connecting Future Leaders for 20 Years The Waco Young Professionals were established to attract and retain a labor

force of educated professionals under the age of 40. Through the years, Waco YPs has helped establish valuable business networks for its members and exposed YPs to the broader Waco economy. Now, the Waco YPs hosts over 30 events annually and have a robust membership base of professionals across diverse industries. Over its 20 years in existence, the YPs have ushered many individuals in the Waco community from their early careers into seasoned leadership roles.

TriWaco Brings Triathletes to Waco for 15 Years

Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance Promotes Greater Waco for 20 Years

Waco Under 40 Has Recognized Young Leaders for Five Years

The Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance (GWAA) promotes business, facilitates collaboration and works to increase the competitive advantage of Greater Waco aviation & aerospace companies. The Alliance was formed in 2004, meets quarterly and participates in national trade shows and business development events annually.

Together, Alliance members highlight Greater Waco’s assets and the region’s growing aviation & aerospace industry.

TriWaco, established in 2009, was modeled after the first triathlon in Texas hosted by the Waco Striders in May 1980. TriWaco’s race utilizes Waco’s Cameron Park for athletes to compete each year. Since it started, TriWaco has grown in popularity bringing more than 700 athletes and their families to the community each year.

Launched in 2019, the Greater Waco Chamber’s Waco Under 40 program celebrates young leaders who are making tremendous impacts in the Greater Waco community. To date, the program has received more than 300 nominations and has recognized nearly 70 current and future leaders who go above and beyond by giving back to the community and making Greater Waco a better place to live.

Each year, the Greater Waco Chamber strives to bring vital information to the community and serves as a convener of business leaders. With over 20 annual events and nearly a dozen monthly programs, the Greater Waco Chamber looks forward to many more years of building Greater Waco.

Visit WacoChamber.com/125

for an interactive timeline and join in the celebration all year long with #GWC125.

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ED NEWS

POLYGLASS COMPLETES EXPANSION OF ITS WACO, TX MANUFACTURING FACILITY Polyglass U.S.A. Inc., a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing solutions has expanded its manufacturing facility in Waco, Texas. In 2017, Polyglass established its fifth manufacturing plant, landing in Waco. The Waco operation is the largest of Polyglass’ state-of-theart manufacturing facilities.

The $30 million expansion consists of three parts: a new production line, warehouse expansion and site improvements. The new product line is an owner furnished and installed system. The warehouse expansion is 100,000 square-feet and includes structural concrete foundations, concrete slab on grade, conventional structural steel framed building with bar joist, decking and insulated metal wall panels, built up modified bitumen roof system, basic mechanical systems, ESFR fire suppressions system, four new loading docks, 1,000 square-feet office expansion, and 210,000 square-feet of exterior concrete paving.

Surrounding the building is 3,800 linear feet of

concrete curb and gutter, improved site drainage, fire water utilities, fencing, outbound scales, and pavement markings. In addition to the investment, Polyglass will add 10 employees to its existing staff of 65. n

ZINKPOWER EXPANDS IN GREATER WACO Recently, ZinkPower, a European leader in hot-dip galvanizing and powder-coating services, has acquired an existing facility in Lacy Lakeview to expand its service offerings, including surface coating. In 2019, ZinkPower selected Waco for its first greenfield operation in the United States. This expansion represents 34 | SUMMER 2024

37,226 square-feet of absorbed real estate on 10 acres, $1.3 million in additional real and personal property investment, six new full-time jobs and $480,000 in additional payroll. n

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ECONOMY IN FOCUS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE JUNE 2024

140,223

4.3% 4.5% 4.3%

UNITED STATES

JUNE 2023

LABOR FORCE

TEXAS

JUNE 2024

WACO MSA

136,766

3.4% 4.2% 4.6%

UNITED STATES

TEXAS

JUNE 2023

WACO MSA

Ec n i Ou lo WACO COST OF LIVING FIRST QUARTER 2024

Source: 2024 C2ER

Waco Composite: 92.3

U.S. Average Composite: 100

PURCHASING POWER

COMPARISON CITIES

Housing:

79.5

Boise, ID:

101.1

Groceries:

94.2

Asheville, NC:

101.4

Utilities:

104.6

Albuquerque, NM:

94.4

Transportation:

94.5

Richmond, VA:

94.1

Health Care:

95.5

Colorado Springs, CO:

102.6

Misc. Goods & Services:

97.9

Raleigh, NC:

98.1

Ec n i In HOME SALES ACTIVITY

36 | SUMMER 2024

HOTEL/MOTEL SPENDING

PAYROLL PAYROLL EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

RETAIL SPENDING

MAY 2024: $104,891,025

Q1 2024: $22,682,177

MAY 2024: 134,303

MAY 2024: $518,362,708

MAY 2023: $94,540,541

Q1 2023: $18,261,796

MAY 2023: 130,362

MAY 2023: $374,542,683

% Change: +10.9%

% Change: +24.2%

% Change: +3.0%

% Change: +38.4%

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 37

CHAMBER NEWS

LEADING WACO WOMEN EMPOWERING THROUGH MENTORING WORKSHOP BRINGS WOMEN LEADERS TOGETHER In May, the Greater Waco Chamber hosted the first in the 2024 Leading Waco Women Series, the Empowering through Mentoring Workshop, which featured guest speakers, Hope Koch and Mishelle Kost.

The Series will continue in the fall with the Leading Waco Women Serving Summit and ATHENA Leadership Award.

This series was created to celebrate, empower, and develop female leaders in the Waco community. The two-part annual series provides professional development opportunities through half-day conferences, keynote speakers, panel discussions and networking. Each summit focuses on the three components of leadership: serving, empowering, and mentoring.

Nominations for the ATHENA Leadership Award are open now until Aug. 9. More details are available at wacochamber. com/leading-waco-women.

Workshop sponsorship provided by Waco Cardiology Associates. n

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WACOCHAMBER.COM | 39

CHAMBER NEWS

LEAD PROGRAM AWARDS $75,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO ELEVEN LOCAL STUDENTS

High school students in the Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) program were awarded more than $75,000 in scholarships at the year-end banquet.

2024 LEAD SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: Xiara Berry, Waco High School senior, was awarded the annual $20,000 Bradley Ray Hulse Memorial Scholarship, presented by Central National Bank and The First National Bank of Central Texas.

Nicholas Vaquera, University High School senior, was awarded the $15,000 All Star Scholarship, presented by the Magnolia Foundation.

Taniya Degrate, University High School senior, was awarded a $7,500 Distinction Scholarship, presented by the City of Waco.

Elisha Taylor, Midway High School senior, was awarded a $7,500 Distinction Scholarship, presented by the City of Waco.

Jared Gonzalez, Midway High School senior, was awarded a $6,000 Distinction Scholarship, presented

by Premier ER & Urgent Care, McLennan Community College & Atmos Energy.

Kolten Buth, Midway High School senior, was awarded the $5,000 Ambassador Scholarship, presented by the Magnolia Foundation.

Ariel Farley, Rapoport Academy senior, was awarded the $4,000 No Boundaries Scholarship, presented by Brazos Masonry.

Teraney Williams, Robinson High School senior, was awarded the $3,000 Persistence Scholarship, presented by John & Jennifer Manning.

Lauren Serrato, University High School senior, was awarded the $3,000 Alton Davis Memorial Scholarship, presented by the Davis Family.

Zuleika Martinez, Harmony Science Academy senior, was awarded the $2,000 Merit Scholarship.

Tyrone Sumpter, Waco High School senior, was awarded the $2,000 Reaching Back As You Climb Scholarship, presented by Ashley Phillips, LEAD alum and Alliance Bank Central Texas.

Presenting sponsors for LEAD are Ascension Providence, AT&T and Bank of America.

To learn more about LEAD, visit WacoChamber.com/LEAD. n 40 | SUMMER 2024

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 41

CHAMBER NEWS

LEAD PROGRAM HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD EVENT In April, high school students in the Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) program participated in the third annual Welcome to the Real World, an event designed to introduce students to the choices they will face upon graduation, including what career to pursue, what car to buy, where to live and how to pay bills based on the decisions they’ve made.

Welcome to the Real World’s goal is to help ensure that students are prepared for life after high school. The event is unique because it provides a preview of the future, so students know what to expect in their next stage of life. In addition, by connecting students to resources and businesses that they may not know about, the event showcases other facets of the Greater Waco community. New this year, students had the opportunity to obtain a professional headshot, participate in mock interviews and receive soft skills training.

The LEAD program is a business and education partnership that pairs high school students from China Spring, Connally, Harmony School of Innovation, La Vega, Lorena, McGregor, Midway, Rapoport Academy, Robinson, Methodist Children’s Home, University, Waco and West with business leaders to foster mentoring relationships that educate and expose students to various business fields.

Welcome to the Real World is sponsored

by First Central Credit Union, HEB, Kish Complete Car Care Center, Extraco Insurance, Staybridge Suites and Whataburger. To learn more about LEAD and the Welcome to the Real World event, visit WacoChamber.com/LEAD. n

SUMMER2024 2024 42 | SPRING

GREATER WACO CHAMBER CONNECTS TEACHERS TO EXTERNSHIPS The Greater Waco Chamber’s new Summer Teacher Externship program has launched! The program provides professional development opportunities for educators to explore the various aspects of a business and connect the classroom to the workplace. The Workforce and Talent team kicked off the first teacher externship cohort by pairing 15 educators from nine school districts, Bruceville-Eddy ISD, Connally ISD, Hillsboro ISD, Lorena ISD, Midway ISD, Rapoport Academy Public School, Rogers ISD, Waco ISD and West ISD, with 11 host companies for two days to learn about industry trends, career pathways, and the skills required for our emerging workforce. Through this experience, teachers had the opportunity to connect with industry peers and incorporate their insights into classroom content, culminating in externs developing a lesson plan for next year’s class.

With generous funding from the Howmet Aerospace Foundation, each teacher was awarded a stipend upon the externship completion. Connecting business to education is a key strategy of the Chamber’s Workforce and Talent initiative. This program is a critical component of our overarching efforts. n

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE HOSTS: • Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest • Cargill • Central National Bank • Encompass Health • Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network • K4 Construction • McLennan County Adult Probation • Rogue Media • Seedhouse Creative • Sturdisteel • Walker Partners

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CHAMBER NEWS

TRIWACO In June, the Greater Waco Chamber hosted its annual Olympic and Sprint distance triathlon, TriWaco. The Chamber welcomed hundreds of athletes and their families from around the country to Waco to compete. Despite the cancellation of the swim segment due to extensive rainfall, which impacted the Brazos River’s safety, participants enjoyed the biathlon and eagerly anticipate next year’s event.

TriWaco’s presenting sponsor is Electrolit. n

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GREATER WACO CHAMBER VISITS WASHINGTON, D.C. This year, the annual Washington, D.C. Fly-In returned to our nation’s capital! A delegation of more than 30 local business and community leaders experienced tailored briefings specific to our region’s business priorities. This year, the delegation visited the U.S. Department of Education, heard briefings from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and

Congressional leadership and spent time visiting our representatives’ offices and advocating for policies that will positively impact our community’s business environment. n

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CHAMBER NEWS

THE TEXAS FOOD TRUCK SHOWDOWN WAS A HIT! In April, The Texas Food Truck Showdown overtook Heritage Square in downtown Waco, hosting 35 food trucks from around the country.

This unique event brought thousands of foodies together in downtown Waco for a full day of food and fun. During the event, we presented awards to six food trucks. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed live musical performances from McLennan Community College’s Jazz Band, Country Band and Rock Band, as well as Sharp Shooter, Suede and Zamora County Line.

2024 Winners: Grand Champion: The Taco Station People’s Choice: StiX Best Dessert: Gelu Italian Ice Best International: Ranch Hand Between the Bread: Chock Full of Cheese Southern Style: Mac’s Fry House

Watch the Facebook page and website for more details about The 2025 Texas Food Truck Showdown!

Presenting sponsorship for The Texas Food Truck Showdown is provided by Texas Farm Bureau. n

SAVE THE DATE FOR NEXT YEAR: APRIL 5, 2025 46 | SUMMER 2024

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CHAMBER NEWS

GREATER WACO CHAMBER HOSTS ALLEN SAMUELS CHAMBER CLASSIC In early May, the Greater Waco Chamber hosted a great Allen Samuels Chamber Classic! Thanks to our golfers and sponsors for spending the day with us!

Congratulations to our Spirit Contest winner, Visiting Angels.

Presenting sponsorship for the Allen Samuels Chamber Classic is provided by Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat. n

48 | SUMMER 2024

REBECCA SHEEHY

GREATER WACO CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW MANAGER OF SIGNATURE EVENTS Rebecca Sheehy joined the Greater Waco Chamber in May 2024 serving as the Manager of Signature Events.

Rebecca is a Waco native and a 2018 graduate of Texas Tech University.

During college, Rebecca spent a summer as an intern at the Greater Waco Chamber under our Sports and Special Events team and is now thrilled to be back working alongside old and new friends.

Rebecca enjoys traveling, personal styling, walking outdoors, especially in Cameron Park, and trying out lively Waco hotspots. She is a co-founder of the Art Center Waco Contemporaries; a young adults group encouraging involvement in the arts. Rebecca is passionate about our local community and is eager to continue to make our Greater Waco Chamber events seamless and superb from start to finish. n

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CHAMBER NEWS

GREATER WACO CHAMBER HOSTS BUSINESS AFTER HOURS EVENTS In April, your Chamber partnered with WCTractor to host Business After Hours. Attendees played cornhole, networked, and enjoyed some drinks while looking at tractors and ag equipment.

In May, Unite Private Networks partnered with your Chamber to host Business After Hours. The event kicked off with a Chamber ribbon cutting to commemorate their new location in downtown Waco.

In June, your Chamber partnered with AC Mariott. With great food and beverages, attendees had a wonderful time building and strengthening their connections with other community members. n

Watch our calendar at WacoChamber.com/Calendar for details about upcoming Business After Hours events.

50 | SUMMER 2024

TORI LENTZ

GREATER WACO CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR In June, the Greater Waco Chamber welcomed its new Economic Development Coordinator, Tori Lentz.

Tori grew up in Waco and returned in 2020 after living and working in Dallas, Texas early in her career. Her background includes customer service roles, restaurant management and construction. In her new role as coordinator, she supports your Chamber’s dynamic economic development team.

Tori is an avid reader and enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, especially fishing, with her family and fiancé, Austin. n

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 51

MEMBER NEWS

DEDICATION OF LIFE-SIZE MAMMOTH SCULPTURES HIGHLIGHTS MAYBORN MUSEUM’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY Marking 20 years of sparking curiosity and inspiring lifelong learning, the Mayborn Museum at Baylor University celebrated its milestone anniversary by officially unveiling and dedicating a life-size landmark for the community – stunning bronze Mammoth sculptures that stand as timeless symbols of the Mayborn Museum’s commitment to inspire and educate generations.

Created with meticulous detail by renowned artist Tom Tischler, in collaboration with Pyrology Foundry & Studio and Howard Designs of Bastrop, the sculptures of a bull, a mother and a calf are based on real-life measurements from Columbian mammoth specimens found at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, a unit of the National Park System located along the Bosque River in Waco. The Mayborn Museum serves as the official repository for the park, storing and making accessible to researchers all the paleontological and archaeological objects that have been removed from the site, as well as their associated documentation.

The sculptures’ scientific accuracy – the bull itself stands nearly 14 feet at the shoulder with a head, trunk and tusks adding another 8 feet of height – is expected to spark curiosity in the natural history of Central Texas, said Charlie Walter, executive director of the Mayborn Museum.

“We are excited to share these magnificent bronze mammoth sculptures with our community,” Walter said.

“The sculptures represent years of collaboration and craftsmanship, and their installation symbolizes the Mayborn Museum’s unwavering commitment to inspire wonder and learning for generations to come. It’s not just a milestone; it’s a promise – to keep sparking wonder and learning for generations ahead.”

On a beautiful evening ahead of the museum’s 20th anniversary gala, museum supporters gathered for the dedication ceremony that featured remarks from Walter, Tischler and Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D. The official ribbon-cutting followed, with Walter and President Livingstone sharing the honors, surrounded by Mayborn staff, Baylor administrators, Waco elected officials and a local park ranger from the Waco Mammoth National Monument.

52 | SUMMER 2024

Over 20 years, the Mayborn Museum has served as a shining hub of natural science and cultural history in Central Texas.

The bronze sculptures are part of the ongoing transformation of its Natural History Hall through Reigniting Curiosity, a visionary $16 million campaign. Entering Phase 2 after the successful completion of Phase 1 fundraising, which garnered substantial support from the Cooper Foundation, Waco Foundation and numerous individuals, the museum is poised to embark on the next stage of its ambitious renovation journey. n

MCC AWARDED TITLE V GRANT FUNDING McLennan Community College (MCC) has been awarded grant funding from the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Program of the U.S. Department of Education for the College’s Title V project. MCC has established the RISE (Resilience Inspiring Student Excellence) Program, which will be funded by this second Title V grant awarded to the College. The project will place innovative support structures designed to create enriching academic opportunities that foster resilience and a sense of belongingness for MCC’s diverse student population.

The three components of the grant are: 1) building academic cohorts among adult students aged 25+ to improve course completion, credit accumulation, and graduation and transfer rates; 2) enhancing faculty support systems by providing best practices training for online and on campus pedagogy to better engage Hispanic, first generation, and low-income students; 3) building faculty and staff student mentoring relationships among adult students to help improve course completion, credit accumulation, career preparation, graduation and/or successful transfer to another college program, and employability post-graduation.

The percentage of funding for the Title V grant, “Cultivating Student Success and Persistence with Growth Mindset Intervention,” is 100% from the federal government. The dollar amount of funding for the grant given by the Federal Government is $2,660,977. n

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MEMBER NEWS

TSTC DIESEL EQUIPMENT STUDENT RECEIVES NATIONWIDE SCHOLARSHIP The work that Joseph Briseno is doing in the Diesel Equipment Technology program at Texas State Technical College’s Waco campus is getting him national recognition.

Briseno, of Lingleville, recently was one of three college students nationwide to receive a $5,000 scholarship from the Independent Equipment Dealers Association.

Briseno is in his third semester in the Diesel Equipment Technology program. He is pursuing associate degrees in the program’s Heavy Truck and Off-Highway specializations. He is scheduled to graduate in spring 2025.

“Being from a farming community, I was always around farm equipment and got into the performance side of diesel vehicles in high school,” he said. “It led me here (to TSTC).”

Briseno said his favorite classes so far have focused on electrical systems and hydraulics.

“What motivates me is getting through it and thinking of the future once I get in the field (after graduation),” he said.

Jerod Brock, an instructor in TSTC’s Diesel Equipment Technology program, said Briseno is a class leader in keeping his classmates focused.

54 | SUMMER 2024

“He is always on time,” Brock said. “He pays attention and does his work and asks good questions.”

Briseno is a graduate of Lingleville High School, where he earned a welding certificate through dual credit with an area two-year college.

He said he is glad to have welding skills because when a part needs to be fabricated for heavy equipment, he knows he is up to the task.

JOSEPH BRISENO

Briseno is getting hands-on experience outside of class by working as a paid intern at the Texas Department of Transportation in Waco. He recently helped technicians there prepare snow plows for winter. Briseno is interested in pursuing a career troubleshooting and maintaining offhighway equipment, including bulldozers, excavators and road graders. n

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

uBreakiFix by Asurion

Recently, uBreakiFix by Asurion celebrated a milestone by opening their location in Waco, a move that garnered trust from industry giants like Verizon, AT&T, and Samsung. With more than a decade of experience diagnosing and fixing everything from Samsung issues to iPad screen replacements, they believe technology should work for everyone. That’s why they offer a full range of tech care solutions to keep customers connected.

Heather Gray, Store Manager 2812 W Loop 340, Ste H8, Waco, Tx 76711 (254) 732-2549 asurion.com

FloorCo. Premium Flooring & More

FloorCo. Premium Flooring & More, with locations in Waco & Temple, offers premium floors at incredible prices. With options including luxury vinyl, hardwood, tile, carpet and more, FloorCo. has the product and prices to meet any budget.

FloorCo. invites builders, contractors, and the general public to shop with them and SAVE! Shop like a pro at FloorCo. Trent Stafford, General Manager 16000 Woodway Dr, Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 870-3400 floorcopremium.com

56 | SUMMER 2024

StretchLab Waco

StretchLab celebrated its highly anticipated grand opening.

One-on-one assisted stretching is about identifying tightness and imbalances in your body and customizing a routine fit for you. Clients may come in with pain, tightness, or specific focus areas, but they keep coming back and commit to their flexibility journey once they experience the freedom that comes with having a wider range of motion, flexibility, and stress relief. StretchLab also welcomes business partnerships for complimentary pop-up events.

Matt Garcia, Managing Partner 13701 Woodway Dr, Unit 618, Waco, TX 76712 (254) 732-2814 stretchlab.com/location/waco

Aloft Waco Downtown

Aloft Waco Downtown offers a modern and enchanting stay, with a spa to rejuvenate the body and soul and the WXYZ Bar for adventurous guests to enjoy tantalizing drinks. The hotel welcomes all travelers to indulge in joy and delight, where travel transcends the ordinary.

Julianne Rodriguez, Operations Manager 900 S 11th St, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 870-4644 marriott.com/wcoal

SPONSORED BY

Big Wave Energy

Big Wave Energy believes in transparency about how energy is supplied to its customers, how much it costs and that every customer deserves to work with an ethical broker that operates with fair business practices. All businesses, large and small, deserve white glove service and quality customer care. All customers deserve to have advocates who will fight on their behalf in all energy-related matters. Give a big wave goodbye to high energy costs.

Dave McHam, President 3615 Franklin Ave, #279, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 722-5233 bigwaveenergy.com

Texas First Insurance Plus

Texas First Insurance Plus held a ribbon cutting celebrating its new office location. They are an independent insurance agency helping individuals and businesses throughout the state. As independent agents, they work for the insured, not the insurance companies. Because of this, they offer benefits that other agencies cannot: more options, one-stop shopping and licensed, experienced agents who are an advocate for you. Insurance can be complicated, Texas First Insurance Plus makes it simpler.

Rodney Kroll, President & Paige Mann, Lead Agent and Office Manager 4800 Lakewood Dr, Ste 4, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 399-5109 texasfirstagency.com

NYT Events

NYT Events’ DJ and emcee services blend more than 15 years of music industry expertise with meticulous attention to detail. With Sarah’s diverse background and cultural understanding, customers are guaranteed the playlists for their events are as unique as the occasion itself. Elevate your event with NYT Events’ unwavering commitment to excellence.

Sarah Sheodial, Owner (347) 650-1666 booknytevents@gmail.com

Heart of Texas Goodwill Community Connect

Heart of Texas Goodwill is excited to open the Community Connect off East Waco Drive, attached to the renovated Outlet Store. With free office space, classrooms, and space for large and small meetings, the Community Connect is equipped to help non-profits connect and serve the community.

Austin Buchs, Mission Services Director 1000 East Waco Dr, Waco, TX (254) 753-7337 hotgoodwill.org

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 57

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Northwestern Mutual Waco

The Northwestern Mutual Waco advisors build long term relationships with their clients, tailoring financial plans to their clients’ needs so they can live confidently knowing their financial lives are on track. They help their clients grow and protect their wealth to and through retirement. They help craft plans to bring clarity, order, and efficiency to their customers’ financial lives.

Jeff Whitacre CDP CLUD, Wealth Management Advisor 510 N Valley Mills Dr, Ste 503, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 227-5610 northwesternmutual.com

Ultra-Clean Janitorial Services

Celebrating 35 years of service, Ultra-Clean Janitorial Services marked the opening of their new Waco office with a ribboncutting ceremony and open house. Ultra-Clean Services has been a leader in the janitorial industry, providing exceptional services to commercial clients throughout Central Texas.

The team at Ultra-Clean believes that their services make a difference by creating clean and healthy spaces that allow your business or non-profit to thrive.

Kris Griffin, Owner 6815 Broad Ave, Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 857-4626 ultracleanjanitorialservices.com 58 | SUMMER 2024

Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux – Waco

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux – Waco announced new ownership with a ribbon cutting. Franchisees Cory and Jenny Davis bring experience, care, and community commitment to Waco and hope you see and taste the changes in leadership. Walk-On’s merges quality ingredients and scratch-made dishes with a familyfriendly, fun environment. The menu ranges from American Casual to Louisiana specialties/seafood and offers guests more than 80 TVs, a pet-friendly outdoor patio, private meeting room, catering, bar with signature cocktails and over 40 beers on tap.

5601 Crosslake Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712 (254) 732-9200 walk-ons.com

Waco Concrete Services

Waco Concrete Services is a local, veteran-owned business that specializes in providing high-quality concrete pouring services for residential and commercial projects. With their expertise and attention to detail, they ensure durable and long-lasting results that exceed customer expectations. From driveways to parking lots, sidewalks to foundations, Waco Concrete Services is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction for projects of all sizes. To schedule a consultation or request a quote, please call 254-A-POUR-4U (254-276-8748).

Dannie Combs, Managing Partner 2012 Lake Air Dr, Ste E, Waco, TX 76710 (254) A-POUR-4U WacoConcreteServices.com

SPONSORED BY

Logan Capital Real Estate

Logan Capital Real Estate operates as a locally owned, fullservice real estate brokerage under the leadership of Camie Cross. Known for their unparalleled client service, the team at Logan Capital Real Estate boasts over a decade of collective expertise. Camie, along with her agents, Michelle and Madison, provide a deep commitment to personalized service when helping clients buy or sell homes. Their dedication has enabled over 400 families and individuals to reach their real estate goals, setting a new standard for excellence and client satisfaction.

Camie Cross – Broker/Owner (254) 522-5353 LCRETX.com

Canales Furniture

Bomgaars

Excited to become a part of the Waco community, Bomgaars commemorates its 80th anniversary & expansion to 180 stores across 14 states. As a trusted family-owned business, they offer supplies for gardening, clothing, farming, pet & livestock, automotive, and more. Farmers, gardeners and DIY enthusiasts are encouraged to visit their new location for all the essentials – they’re there to provide What You Need . . . When you need It. Roger & Jane Bomgaars, Owners 2701 S Jack Kultgen Expy, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 752-1941 Bomgaars.com

Capital Farm Credit

Canales Furniture, a family-owned business with 20 years of expertise, prioritizes customers with warm, familial service and guaranteed low prices. Committed to the community, Canales Furniture gives back generously. With 20 locations across Texas, it offers a wide variety of furniture, mattresses, appliances, and home décor, serving as the ultimate home destination. With convenient financing and a rewarding referral program, Canales Furniture ensures every customer’s satisfaction and loyalty.

For more than 100 years, Capital Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services. Capital Farm Credit is a proud member of the Farm Credit system and serves more than 23,000 members, with outstanding loans totaling more than $12 billion. Headquartered in Bryan, Texas, Capital Farm Credit has offices serving 192 of Texas’ 254 counties. For more information about its financial services, patronage dividend program and office locations, visit CapitalFarmCredit.com.

Geny Lopez, Owner 300 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 313-1101 CanalesFurniture.com

Shawna Ranly, Marketing 337 Enterprise Blvd, Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 776-7506 CapitalFarmCredit.com WACOCHAMBER.COM | 59

RIBBON CUTTINGS

MetalMax

Hotel Herringbone

MetalMax was formed in 2012 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and rapidly grew to nine locations nationwide. The Waco location opened in February 2023, featuring a state-of-the-art, 35,000 square-foot facility located off I-35 between Hewitt and Lorena.

With the capability to produce over 50,000 linear feet of metal per shift and two in-house trim folders, they are crafting excellence! At MetalMax, they are committed to providing quality customer service and satisfaction.

Hotel Herringbone, an upscale boutique hotel with multiple restaurants, bars, event spaces, live music venues and curated retail shops, is now open in the heart of downtown Waco, Texas. San Diego-based RAD LAB partnered with FreeForm Development, Lucky Find Hospitality and local chef and restaurateur, Corey McEntyre, to acquire and reimagine what was once a vacant shipping container development occupying a full city block.

Greg Feimster, Branch Manager & Robert Murphy, Production Manager 10231 S I-35, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 230-4141 MetalMax.com

Rachel Tate, Director of Sales & Marketing 319 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76701 (254) 342-2220 HotelHerringbone.com

Black Bear Diner

Black Bear Diner invites you to Feed Your Inner Bear and enjoy good old-fashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The extensive newsprint menu promises something for everyone, and the bear-themed setting is perfect for families, celebrations, business meetings, and more. The kids’ menu offers 12 items under $6.50 and breakfast is served all day every day. Founded in California in 1995 and now in 13 states, the Waco location marks the brand’s 159th diner.

Kassen Almadhoun, General Manager 2424 Creekview Dr, Ste 150, Waco, TX 76711 (254) 327-3997 facebook.com/BlackBearDinerWaco 60 | SUMMER 2024

Woodland Springs Nursing Center

Woodland Springs Nursing Center is the oldest running nursing facility in Waco, Texas, it was built in 1956 by McLennan County to help low income and indigent elderly people. Now, owned and operated by Charleston Healthcare Group, Woodland Springs Nursing Center provides short term rehab, long term care, wound care, and hospice care.

At Woodland Springs, their goal is to meet the needs of the individual by treating everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion, while providing the best care possible.

Tiffany Lawton, Administrator 1010 Dallas St, Waco, TX 76704 (254) 752-9774 charlestonhcgroup.com/locations/woodland-springsnursing-center

SPONSORED BY

Patient First DPC

Patient First DPC is a full-service family medicine practice seeking to restore the relational aspect of primary care. Patient First uses the direct primary care (DPC) model. This means direct access to primary care providers when patients need them. They believe everyone deserves healthcare that puts the patient first.

Crawford Allison, M.D. & Mark Roberts, PA-C 15190 Badger Ranch Blvd, Ste 102, Waco, TX 76712 (254) 863-8741 PatientFirstDirect.com

Tom Albers – Edward Jones

Tom Albers is celebrating the second anniversary of his office relocation to a modernized Edward Jones branch. Tom and his team offer a welcoming client service experience in a fresh, comfortable atmosphere. His focus is helping clients define their wealth and manage their money in a way that improves their lives. Everyone views wealth differently and it is his job to help his clients live the best life possible with the money they have.

Tom Albers, AAMS 5016 Lakeland Circle, Ste A, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 776-7605 EdwardJones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/Tom-Albers

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NEW MEMBERS 1st FP Waco,LLC 4621 Hodde Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 327-3744 1stFPServices.com AJ Nonwovens 501 Tirey Rd Waco, TX 76705 (254) 253-4670 AJNW.com Black Rifle Coffee Company 2436 Creekview Dr Waco, TX 76711 (254) 859-0930 BlackRifleCoffee.com Cajun Crabs & Shrimp Bar & Grill 901 N Loop 340 Ste 4 Bellmead, TX 76705 (254) 300-5720 CajunCrabAndShrimpWaco.com Canales Furniture 300 N Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 313-1101 CanalesFurniture.com Capital Title of Texas, LLC 7401 Woodway Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 300-6750 CTOT.com Central Texas Youth Services 1200 Bagby Ave #1 Waco, TX 76701 (254) 939-3466 CentralTexasYouthServices.com Cloven Heart Farm Sanctuary 11225 Yankie Rd China Spring, TX 76633 (254) 733-6907 ClovenHeartFarmSanctuary.org Cold Stone Creamery 1428 Wooded Acres Dr Ste 208 Waco, TX 76710 (972) 504-7734 ColdStoneCreamery.com Consulting Refined (254) 366-6298 ConsultingRefined.com Crystal Clear Pools 419 N Robinson Dr Robinson, TX 76706 (254) 881-1998 CrystalClearPoolsAndSpas.com

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Dillon’s Plumbing Service 275 Kirkland Hill Rd Axtell, TX 76624 (254) 644-4412 Ellie Mental Health of Waco 5002 Lakeland Cir Ste B Waco, TX 76710 (254) 342-3870 EllieMentalHealth.com/locations/waco-tx Enviro-Serv 5505 N State Hwy 6 Waco, TX 76712 (254) 776-1877 EnviroServRestoration.com Faulkenbery Construction 813 Lake Air Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 759-1147 RemodelingWaco.com Foundation Benefits 801 Wooded Acres Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 826-7700 FoundationBenefits.com Fuzz Lab Waco 930 Austin Ave Ste A Waco, TX 76701 (254) 294-8496 FuzzLabWaco.com Hormones by Design 1201 Hewitt Dr Ste 105 B Waco, TX 76712 (254) 230-4225 HormonesByDesign.com Hotel Herringbone 319 S 4th St Waco, TX 76701 (254) 342-2220 HotelHerringbone.com Ice and Easy 7613 Atlas Dr Unit 16 Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 300-6432 IceAndEasy.org Kids R Kids of China Spring 10033 Parker Springs Dr Waco, TX 76708 (254) 677-6993 KidsRKids.com/ChinaSpring Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse 4713 Bellmead Dr Waco, TX 76705 (254) 799-0027 LoneStarSteakhouseWaco.com

Mobilize Waco (773) 403-7505 MobilizeWaco.org Mr. Gatti’s 5201 Bosque Blvd Ste 280 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 339-1143 MrGattisPizza.com Rhea Lana’s of Waco (254) 214-3484 Waco.RheaLana.com Roni’s Mac Bar 720 Franklin Ave Waco, TX 76701 (254) 224-6314 RonisMacBar.com Schmiedbauer Investment Partners 8301 E 21st St Ste 320 Wichita, KS 67206 (254) 405-1153 Schmiedbauer-IP.com Scinary Cybersecurity, LLC 215 S 2nd St #302 Waco, TX 76701 (254) 523-6590 Scinary.com Shaanti Design (512) 962-6529 Shaanti.design Silos Tuscan Market 401 S 3rd St Ste B Waco, TX 76701 (254) 262-8266 SilosTuscanMarket.com Spray Foam Genie Waco 1716 S Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76711 (254) 343-0392 SprayFoamGenie.com/waco Tailgate USA (254) 405-1206 TailgateUSA.net Teresa Schiller Law PLLC (254) 652-4527 TeresaSchillerLaw.com The Deaton Agency 8304 Old McGregor Rd Ste B Waco, TX 76712 (254) 741-1299 TheDeatonAgency.com Thomas P Finley Jr Attorney (254) 537-3345 ThomasFinley.com

Tom Albers: Edward Jones Financial Advisor 5016 Lakeland Cir Ste A Waco, TX 76710 (254) 776-7605 EdwardJones.com/us-en/financialadvisor/tom-albers Tradinghouse Sports Bar & Grill 4553 Lake Felton Pkwy Waco, TX 76705 (254) 863-5251 facebook.com/p/TradinghouseSports-Bar-Grill-100028021016507/ Triple 7 Movers 1900 W Loop 340 Woodway, TX 76712 (512) 316-3202 Triple7Movers.com Urban Air Adventure Park 5701 W Waco Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 544-1620 UrbanAir.com/texas-waco US Storage Centers 1301 La Salle Ave Waco, TX 76706 (254) 356-2611 USStorageCenters.com/storageunits/tx/waco/1301-la-salle-ave Waco Signature Land Co, LLC (254) 715-1418 Washington Gallery 715 Washington Ave Waco, TX 76701 (254) 717-6398 WGWaco.com Willow Park Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center 1000 FM 3220 Clifton, TX 76634 (254) 675-2828 Nexion-health.com/WillowPark Woodland Springs Nursing Center 1010 Dallas St Waco, TX 76704 (254) 752-9774 CharlestonHCGroup.com/locations/ woodland-springs-nursing-center Yusen Logistics Americas 700B W Loop 340 Waco, TX 76712 (254) 751-9167 Yusen-Logistics.com

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