Greater Waco Business - Winter 2023 - A Dynamic Downtown

WINTER 2023

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 1

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

MATT MEADORS President & CEO, Greater Waco Chamber

2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Philip Patterson, FACHE Ascension Providence

Greater Waco is in an era of dynamic growth and rapid change and downtown Waco is certainly experiencing this evolution. This issue of Greater Waco Business focuses on the importance of a dynamic urban core and exciting new changes on the horizon for downtown Waco.

It is crucial to recognize the significance of a vibrant urban core. Our downtown is the heartbeat of our community, fostering economic vitality, cultural richness, and a sense of shared identity.

A thriving urban core attracts businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators, thus generating new jobs, opportunities, and tax revenues. It becomes a hub for creativity, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, fueling our city’s economic engine. It strongly complements our regional economic development work and plays a vital role in helping retain existing companies and grow our workforce.

As more people choose to live, work, and play in Waco’s center, it strengthens our urban fabric and enhances the overall quality of life for all residents.

Further, a flourishing urban core fosters a sense of community and belonging. It is where people from all walks of life come together to share common experiences, celebrate our collective achievements, and tackle challenges as one. It is the birthplace of civic engagement, where residents actively participate in shaping the future of their city.

As we look to the future of Downtown Waco, and as your Chamber prepares to celebrate 125 years of serving Greater Waco, we reflect on the past for inspiration and a reminder of why we continue to do our important work. In this issue, you will find a timeline chronicling some of the Greater Waco Chamber’s impacts in the community since our beginning in 1899. A more in-depth, interactive timeline can be found at wacochamber.com/125. I encourage you to join us in celebrating 2024!

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

With appreciation,

Matthew T. Meadors President & CEO

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CHAIR-ELECT Kary Lalani

Lalani Lodging, Inc.

VICE CHAIR

Carolyn Haferkamp Central National Bank

VICE CHAIR

Todd Moore

Alliance Bank Central Texas

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR George Chase Insurors of Texas

PRESIDENT & CEO

Matt Meadors

Greater Waco Chamber

CHAMBER STAFF Kris Collins

Senior Vice President Economic Development

Gabriella Colurciello

Director Marketing & Communications

Alivia Gomez

Director Signature Events

Nancy Gupton

Director Resource Development

Jacob Hogan

Director Public Policy & Chamber Foundation

Keith Kusler Art Director

Rachel Martinez Director Workforce & Talent

Debbie McCutchen Office Coordinator

Sarah McDonald Manager Signature Events

Matt Meadors President/CEO

Seth Morris

Vice President Economic Development

Jason Powers

Vice President Finance & Operations

Lexy Reil

Director Economic Development

Magen Sepeda

Coordinator Resource Development

Lupe Teichelman

Manager Resource Development

Tiffany Gallegos Whitley Senior Director Workforce & Talent

Michelle Williams Assistant Finance & Operations

Bonnie Yeager

Coordinator Economic Development

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WINTER 2023

6 URBAN REVITALIZATION IN THE HEARTLAND

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CITY CENTER LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

26

2023 WACO UNDER 40 HONOREES

44

2023 TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN

48

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ED NEWS ECONOMY IN FOCUS

16

TRANSFORMING DOWNTOWN WACO

52

CHAMBER NEWS

58

MEMBER NEWS

60

RIBBON CUTTINGS

64

NEW MEMBERS

32

GREATER WACO CHAMBER: CELEBRATING 125 YEARS

ON THE COVER

This issue focuses on Waco’s growing downtown district and the importance of a dynamic urban core for our community’s growth. Read on for exciting changes on the horizon for Downtown Waco, as well as a look at the history of our community and more!

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EDITOR

Gabriella Colurciello

ART DIRECTOR

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

Keith Kusler

This publication is printed on FSC-certified paper.

AD SALES

© 2023 Greater Waco Chamber 101 S. Third St. Waco TX 76701 • (254) 757-5600

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

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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by Kris Hartley, Assistant Professor of Public Policy, City University of Hong Kong

Economic growth and population migration have driven urban sprawl in the American Sunbelt for decades. Some cities have been particularly effective in parlaying windfall growth into visibility and unique urban identities. The ‘it’ status that attracts national curiosity rests on a balance of growth, livability, and edginess – traits that cannot be engineered or purchased alone. Post-COVID economic recovery is an opportunity for cities to revitalize their urban cores in manifold ways, even amidst growing turbulence and uncertainty. This article examines these shifting dynamics and considers whether a modestly sized heartland American city – Waco, Texas – is poised to achieve transformational change in its urban core.

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SAN DIEGO’S HORTON PLAZA

DOWNTOWNS ARE BACK Downtowns are the soul of a community, but 20th century American history shows that their fate fluctuates across social and economic cycles.

From the 1960s to the early 1990s, suburbanization emptied many urban cores of their economic vitality. Low-rise office parks, shopping malls, and highway expansions promoted sprawl, as privileged urban residents chased space, greenery, cheap mortgages, and distance from the perceived ills of city life.

In turn, downtowns struggled to fill the void. For the typical suburban resident, trips to town were necessary for sports and cultural events (where these amenities had not themselves moved to the suburbs). Absent the street life enlivened by a critical mass of stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and recreational outlets, evenings at the ballpark or symphony hall would end for many in a brisk walk to the car and a rush to the interstate. Urban vitality on nights and weekends could be found only in isolated clusters of nightclubs and around universities.

Amidst rapid suburbanization, cities fought to enliven their downtowns by luring people to events in renovated or new facilities (e.g., Baltimore’s Camden Yards and Fort Worth’s Bass Hall). The goal was for visitors to not only attend events but also linger – a stroll and dinner beforehand, some shopping, and a nightcap afterwards. Fort Worth introduced free parking in city garages at nights and over weekends in an effort to address one of the many complaints that famously kept drivers from venturing downtown. Other efforts common across cities included periodic events and festivals centered on music, food, and arts and crafts. With more people and more activity, the “eyes upon the street” would also improve the feeling of safety.

BALTIMORE’S CAMDEN YARDS

FORT WORTH’S BASS HALL

HONOLULU’S ALOHA TOWER

Construction also led the way. For example, American cities experienced a wave of ‘festival marketplaces’ – cheerful outdoor malls that aimed, within the confines of a predetermined envelope, to recreate the serendipitous vitality lost in neighboring downtown streets. Examples are Jacksonville (Florida) Landing (now defunct), San Diego’s 80s-fabulous Horton Plaza, and Honolulu’s Aloha Tower. Similarly, new convention centers became a popular but often ill-fated way to boost hotel and restaurant demand. By the 2000s, a second wave of revitalization sought in some cases to repurpose sites built during the first wave.

For example, Nashville’s Church Street Centre (a downtown mall that opened in 1989) was razed after only a decade in favor of a new public library.

Both were premature efforts to inject life into an urban core that years later rejuvenated itself for other reasons.

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SHEUNG WAN (HONG KONG)

SOHO (NEW YORK CITY)

Art districts also become popular engines of revitalization, particularly in once-industrial neighborhoods and buildings. Scholar Elizabeth Currid-Halkett coined the term ‘Warhol economy’ to describe how fashion, art, and music generate vitality through informal social settings and creative spaces. The elusive property of creative emergence cannot be engineered or planned top-down, least in the corporate-driven development that commonly anchors revitalization. Rather, it emerges from a mix of social and cultural conditions that come together in places like Soho (New York City), Sheung Wan (Hong Kong), and Fitzroy (Melbourne, Australia). According to Ireland-based geography scholar Greg Spencer, creative industries also appear in neighborhoods with other pre-existing characteristics – density, mixed use, and proximity to urban cores.

Early generation revitalization was anemic without residential demand, while mainstream retail and leisure experiences (e.g., movies) were easily found in the suburbs. Trips to town for sports and cultural events did not convince people to move there, until shifting economic and demographic forces eventually drove a residential renaissance (seemingly out of the blue in many cities). The early stages of this urban residential boom outstripped leisure and shopping capacity in many downtowns, and cities caught up 8 | WINTER 2023

at varying paces. Urban leaders had to balance two spinning plates, as commercial and residential growth were mutually dependent.

The urban vitality now enjoyed in many cities were an impossible dream as recently as the early 2000s.

Lifestyle choices explain part of this happy surprise.

In the new millennium, many young professionals have chosen not to commit to mortgages and backyards but are also put off by the isolation of suburban cookie-cutter apartments surrounded by moats of parking and highways. These newcomer residents have become early signs of gentrification – particularly in inner ring neighborhoods near urban cores, where housing capacity is easy to ramp up in redeveloped buildings and vacant land.

Many cities have finally achieved what they hoped for, but not without displacement and strain on infrastructure. The Faustian pact of urban revitalization was to trade one identity for another – a political choice, justified for supposedly economic reasons, that played out with similar results in most cities. The vitality that many cities pursued has looked at best like a simulacrum of imagined authenticity and at worst like a cynical land grab resulting in corporate sameness devoid of character. The more elusive goal is to achieve ‘it’ status.

DENVER

THE BUSINESS OF ‘ITNESS’ Sunbelt boomtowns like Denver, Phoenix, Charlotte, Raleigh, Oklahoma City, Las Vegas, and much of Florida and Texas exemplified suburbanization even into the revitalization era. While growth advantages are often circumstantial, the winning formula seems to be good weather, low taxes, modest metro population size (even with high-percentage growth), sufficient infrastructure and travel connections, and a handful of competitive industries and corporate champions within them.

PHOENIX

Despite their success, Sunbelt giants are not known for the dynamism of their urban cores. Two modest exceptions, Denver and Phoenix, have experienced significant downtown residential and commercial development in the past decade.

But even these are pedestrian stories of revitalization, predictable beneficiaries of economic and demographic trends that sloshed capital around the country and within metro areas.

Beyond such cases lurk the truly interesting ones, the ‘it’ cities. These cities have it – something indescribable that others covet: status and magnetism that becomes almost mythical. New millennium examples are Austin, Portland, and Nashville. Population growth in these cities has outpaced that of most others, but they also distinguish themselves in perceived quality-of-life and tourist attractiveness. However, ‘it’ cities also run the risk of collapsing under the weight of their own economic success, devolving into commercial caricatures of themselves. As traffic backs up and property values soar, the people and enterprises that made these cities special (see Schumpeter’s theory of creative destruction) seek more livable and affordable environments elsewhere – provided they have the means to relocate.

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AUSTIN NASHVILLE

At this stage, the next batch of emerging cities is ready to inherit the role. Currently on-deck are Charleston, Asheville, Fayetteville, Chattanooga, and Boise, among others. These urban strivers are attractive first for their affordability, livability, and job-producing economic growth. Over time, however, they may also develop unique reputations that sustain external curiosity. Whether early or late-stage, ‘it’ cities are distinguished not by their highways, shopping malls, or new stadiums, but by their soul – the atmosphere experienced not in a planned development but in a naturally evolving neighborhood with random, small-scale enterprises (see Jane Jacobs) and historic path dependencies that entrench uniqueness.

replicable elsewhere (within the surrounding metropolitan area or across the country). People also appear to be attracted to ‘human-scale’ (smaller) places – the grand and monumental are not as aesthetically pleasing as they once were. Consider the massive open-air plazas surrounding brutalist public architecture in the mid-20th century, later deeply maligned and only recently appreciated again (if ironically). Repurposing old buildings can give a feeling that something interesting (a textile factory?) came before, as can the balance between sanitization and grit – a string of tungsten lights hung across an unfinished factory wall, for example. But in the end, nobody can go wrong with beer and live music in the courtyard of a blacksmith shop-turned-brewery.

Unique identities are the anchor of ‘it’ cities. Austin and Nashville have live music, while Austin and Portland have an image of ‘weirdness.’ Charleston is a foodie city with beautiful architecture and Southern mystique. Asheville and Bend (Oregon) are brewery-laden gateways to natural beauty. The atmosphere of these and similar urban cores cannot be quantitatively measured but can indeed be felt.

Depending on personal preferences, this feeling can come from walkability, safety, ease of access, and shopping affordability. It may also come from architectural heritage, street art, independent shops, the absence of chain stores, the presence of nature, and a general sense of artistry or quirkiness.

The physical manifestation of such atmospheres comes in many forms. Are planters, park benches, gas streetlights, pedestrian bridges, and food trucks enough? These infrastructures are consequences rather than drivers of vitality – infrastructure that supplements the real reasons people come.

One such reason is the opportunity to experience something meaningful that is not available or 10 | WINTER 2023

PORTLAND

IS WACO POISED FOR ITS MOMENT? Waco has recently committed more than $1 billion to downtown revitalization, for both public and private projects. This sum is substantial for a metro population of 280,000. Is Waco at the precipice of an ‘it’ style renaissance?

Untapped potential flows past downtown on a daily basis.

Riverfronts offer a place-based uniqueness that can be a focal point for revitalization. According to a report by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, “Through strategic planning, multisector collaboration, and long-term visions, cities can lead the transformation of neglected waterways into mixed-used assets that address a number of local priorities and play a role in solving major global challenges.”

Savannah’s historic River Street pedestrian promenade is one example of how a unique natural environment intersects a historic sense of place. The very identity of San Antonio is centered on its world-famous River Walk.

Tempe (Arizona) is using its waterfront (at the artificially made Town Lake ) as a catalyst for developing recreational, sports, and cultural facilities near the Arizona State University campus. Fort Worth has massive plans on the books for enhancing the attractiveness and livability of areas around the Trinity River, including the creation of an island.

Waco’s ambitious Brazos Riverfront project reflects the transformational and integrated (mixed-use) thinking that can, when done right, ensure long-term durability in urban core revitalization. Several anchor projects, independently planned but collectively linked, help push this vision forward. With completion of the Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion (basketball arena), Baylor University will be the only Power-5 school with waterfront facilities for all three major sports – a unique advantage in developing the waterfront beyond the immediate urban core and in helping burst the ‘Baylor bubble’ by integrating the campus into its urban surroundings. Additionally, projects like the eventual return of the Downtown Farmer’s Market to the waterfront extends the list of reasons people come to town and ensures more even continuity in patronage.

A well-known catalyst for Waco’s recent popularity is, of course, the HGTV show ‘Fixer Upper!’ and 2023 marks a decade since it premiered. The show has brought attention to Waco and, specifically, the now-thriving Magnolia Silos area. An image windfall of this sort – again, seemingly out of left field – is the dream of urban planners almost anywhere. The district also features the type of unique architectural atmosphere and mix of boutique vendors that presents visitors with a vision of distinction – an experience they may not have elsewhere.

SAVANNAH’S RIVER STREET

SAN ANTONIO‘S RIVER WALK

MAGNOLIA MARKET AT THE SILOS

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Waco’s future looks bright, but the challenge is to avoid turning downtown into a mere amusement park – something people drive in to enjoy and vacate during off hours. Previous generation revitalization projects around the country often focused on amenities and attractions, missing a crucial piece to the revitalization puzzle: housing. Vibrant downtowns have around-the-clock buzz generated not by events alone but by residents going about their daily lives (a masterplan published in 2010 explored one scenario in which downtown Waco is home to an additional 60,000 residents). Who will come? A younger generation of prospective residents may not desire the ample living space of suburbs but instead seek convenient housing in walkable neighborhoods near urban amenities.

Urban scholars like Richard Florida have studied the preferences and behavior patterns of young, educated professionals (what he labels the ‘creative class’ and what today we might consider millennials). Florida promotes ‘three T’s’ for generating revitalization: talent, tolerance, and technology.

While his concept is almost two decades old, it remains relevant if a bit controversial given the perception that it promotes gentrification-induced displacement. Notwithstanding such debates, recent research suggests that developers are better considering the preferences of young urban residents, who seek diversity of activities and uniqueness of place. The core driver, however, is an economy that provides jobs for these young professionals. Accordingly, Waco’s building and infrastructure projects should go hand-in-hand with economic development and branding efforts.

‘It’ status cannot be designed or engineered any more than it can be simply wished into existence.

Sleek new live-work-play projects often come with a heavy whiff of corporatist planning and can fail to substitute for independent vendors and popup enterprises in creating authentic experiences.

For free-market proponents, this point should be obvious; the wisdom of individuals and markets creates more interesting places than an out-of-town team of design experts and financiers. Floods of

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MCLANE STADIUM

bachelorettes do not descend on Nashville to behold the marvels of corporate redevelopment. They do so to feel alive and connected in an atmosphere that often teeters on the ecstatic. Nashville’s Lower Broadway on any given Saturday night is among the liveliest places I have seen, including Shanghai’s Bund, London’s West End, Hong Kong’s street markets, and Sydney Harbor. Not every city should necessarily aspire to this level of energy, but aiming in that direction means coming up short still produces a good outcome.

Waco has two existing pillars – national visibility through HGTV and Baylor sports. Bricks-and-mortar can get revitalization moving, but locking-in the durability of urban core transformation requires altering the very DNA of a city. Waco may not seek to be an ‘it’ city in the mold of Austin, Portland, or Nashville (and likely wants none of their traffic and high living costs), but it can endear itself as a mid-sized but feisty community where the best of the Texas spirit shines in urban spaces and, most importantly, in people.

DOWNTOWNS OF THE FUTURE In closing, it is appropriate to consider where cities are going in a rapidly changing world. It is prudent for urban leaders and planners to respect and retain aspects of a city’s old DNA. Factors giving ‘it’ cities their spark are partly the product of existing identities and advantages. Nashville did not miraculously turn a corner only in the 2000s, as the city had a successful and dynamic music scene

for decades prior. What changed was something that catalyzed growth based on a variety of newly emergent factors, with the city’s music reputation adding a bonus flair that few other cities could match.

Nashville and similarly successful cities respected the past while remaining open to new opportunities, industries, and communities. One folly of urban revitalization is that it can be retrospective, drawing on successful models elsewhere and on what communities used to be. Future-building requires a dive into the unknown and the seemingly impossible, relying on existing identities for strength while reaching for novelty.

Much of what draws people to urban cores will probably never change. People love to be out and about, strolling, dining, and generally vibing in places where they can watch others doing the same.

There is indeed a market for the lone traveler, the peace-seeker, and even the misanthrope – we can all sometimes understand the allure of the isolated mountain cabin. But humans are social creatures and cities run on this energy. As such, the prospects for urban growth and revitalization are bright in any place gaining population.

At the same time, we live in an unsettled age and the world is not always a jolly and carefree place. We struggle in the U.S. with political divisions, higher living and housing costs that worsen inequality, and the prospect of increasingly disruptive natural disasters in coastal and other weather-vulnerable areas. We must also consider societal shifts that are less visible but no less consequential. For example, there is increasing discussion about the surprise emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, and their impact on work, livelihoods, and online interactions. How these trends will affect cities is not well understood, but for the moment a sunset beer on the waterfront is better in person than through virtual reality goggles.

How can we anticipate characteristics that will make urban cores thrive in a turbulent 21st century? Much depends on what people feel is important, a politically determined factor. The ‘smart cities’ perspective suggests that urban quality-of-life is improved by better public sector technologies. The sustainability perspective suggests that a continuation of how we produce, consume, and dispose will accelerate climate change and catastrophically degrade the natural environment. The social justice perspective suggests, among many other things, that efforts to improve livability in cities benefit only the few at great cost, inconvenience, and threat to marginalized individuals and communities.

Regardless of one’s political inclinations, the third decade of the 21st century is a time of grave consternation. Getting urban revitalization right seems almost trivial in the face of impossibly complex problems. However, one should not underestimate the power of place to generate pride, identity, and community in positive ways. These factors are not guaranteed to solve all of society’s problems, but with the right motivations and policies, they can make cities enjoyable, productive, and meaningful settings where people come together to address the bigger issues. I am a strong believer in the power of quality environments to elevate human ideas and motivations; people shape space, and space shapes people.

As a graduate of Baylor University, I hold the same hopes for Waco. My urban planning research and personal curiosities have taken me to hundreds of towns and cities in the U.S. and around the world.

I have seen revitalization work and fail. Waco’s downtown transformation looks great on paper and will undoubtedly be a physical marvel that dazzles longtime residents. But at the end of the day, it is the people – their creativity, openness, and sense of spirit and adventure – that will make Waco’s urban core everything it can be. n

Kris Hartley is Assistant Professor of Public Policy and Leader of the Masters program in Development Studies at the Department of Public and International Affairs, City University of Hong Kong. He researches global-to-local policy transfer in the application of technology to sustainability transitions, and has published books with Cambridge University Press and Routledge Press. He has previously been a Fulbright U.S. Scholar (2020) and has held faculty appointments at Cornell University and University of Melbourne. He holds an MBA from Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business (2006). He can be found online at: krishartley.com

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by Tom Balk, PLA Director of Strategic Initiatives City of Waco

The City of Waco’s visionary Downtown Development Project is poised to revitalize a prime area of the city center, delivering on a billion-dollar vision that commits itself to authentically celebrating the art, culture, and history of Waco through public and commercial development that work together to activate the urban core and Waco’s Front Lawn. The 20-year development vision encompasses residential, commercial, retail, office, entertainment, hospitality, and public spaces – it builds upon land and ingredients that have been carefully assembled by Waco’s leaders over many years. The project aims to create a dynamic, fully functioning urban center that serves to support Waco’s continued growth. Development will reflect the unique character of Waco, while also incorporating sustainable design principles, promoting walkability, and fostering connectivity with existing amenities and infrastructure. This article provides a window into this transformative process, exploring its comprehensive phases, focus, and the vital role it plays in the city’s future.

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Current State of Downtown Waco: A Hub of Growth Over the past six years, the city has made economic growth in Downtown a key priority, resulting in more than 57 transformative projects and a staggering $462,000,000 in capital investment. These projects have become key contributors to Waco’s broader economic growth and job creation. One of the standout projects underway is the Riverfront development, centered on the Foster Pavilion, Riverwalk, and Brazos Commons Park. This transformative development, strategically located at the intersection of I-35 and the Brazos River, promises to fuel continued growth adding residential, dining, shopping and entertainment.

Downtown Waco has continued to benefit greatly from a steady wave of tourism with more than 2.2 million visitors over the past 12 months. This steady influx of visitors has prompted significant growth in the local hotel industry, with eight new hotels underway downtown, including the AC Marriott, the Hyatt, Hotel Herringbone, and 1928 Hotel by Magnolia, set to add 710 rooms—a remarkable 76% increase. Notably, the Waco Convention Center has also served as a steady driver of the economic success of Downtown Waco, with an economic impact of nearly $10M, contributing significantly to the city’s prosperity and visitation.

Waco’s public spaces are replete with iconic landmarks, each contributing to the unique character of Downtown Waco. From the historic Waco Suspension Bridge to the awe-inspiring Doris Miller Memorial, Downtown Waco is a blend of historical significance and contemporary vibrancy. The Brazos Riverwalk, Bridge Street Plaza, and the enchanting Sculpture Zoo are just a few of the treasures that make this urban center so captivating.

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But Downtown Waco isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to work and thrive. Nearly 12,000 people are employed in Downtown, and both employment and population have surged by more than 10% in the past five years. With an eclectic range of over 530 downtown businesses generating more than $2 million in sales tax, this growth is indicative of Downtown’s expanding role as a vibrant urban center.

This context of steady local and regional economic growth makes now a great time for Waco to amplify the development of Downtown Waco in a big way.

This is a generational opportunity to develop a multiphase project between two of the fastest growing regions in America in Austin and Dallas/Fort Worth.

Strategic Planning Process: A Roadmap to Success As a key initiative leading up to the transformative Downtown Development Project effort, city leaders engaged planning consultant TIP Strategies in early 2022 to prepare an economic development strategic plan. This comprehensive plan emerged from robust stakeholder conversations and established priorities like business development, small business support,

SITE DISTRICTS

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downtown development, placemaking strategies, and resource alignment. Finalized and presented to Waco City Council in May 2023, it outlines three goals: creating a shared vision for business growth, aligning workforce development with employer needs, and supporting investments in place-making and real estate. While these goals provide an essential 10-year framework for city-wide economic development efforts, they also helpfully set the stage for guiding a signature reinvestment effort in Downtown Waco.

Downtown Visioning and Key Components In April 2022, global architecture firm Gensler was engaged by the City of Waco to study the project potential and initiate the necessary visioning process for a new municipal campus in the vicinity of the current City Hall. The project scope was expanded in October 2022 to include more than 50 additional acres surrounding the City Hall area to capture their potential for a wider range of coordinated public and private developments. Gensler’s services focused on working with City leaders and stakeholders to distill Waco’s vision and needs, to generate explanatory visual tools that better convey the shape and scale of the project opportunity.

GREAT LAWN The resulting vision was presented to Waco City Council in April 2023. The assembled elements aim to activate Downtown Waco both day and night, making it a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly destination for people of all ages. This involves embracing Waco’s unique character and its connection to the Brazos River. Vibrant street life and year-round entertainment are essential elements, ensuring that Downtown is equally inviting to residents and visitors alike.

At its core, the vision revolves around creating a diverse and inclusive mixed-use environment.

This environment is designed to foster economic growth, enhance community livability, and promote cultural enrichment. It encompasses a wide range of uses, including residential, commercial, retail, office, entertainment, hospitality, and public spaces.

Sustainability, walkability, and connectivity with existing amenities and infrastructure are integral to this concept.

Gensler’s concept approach involves organizing Downtown Waco into five distinct districts, each designed with a “Live-Work-Play” ethos: a Residential District, an Entertainment District, the City Hall District, the Historic District, and a Performing Arts District. These districts strategically engage surrounding public spaces and walkable streets, with an emphasis on connectivity and the utilization

of the riverfront as Downtown Waco’s front lawn. This approach amplifies a sense of community and offers a wide range of activities and people-watching opportunities, from public concerts, festivals, and community celebrations to rowing and paddling on the river.

Public space activation is a central theme, and it’s achieved through the coordinated development of key public and public-private partnership facilities, including:

• A new Convention Center and HQ Hotel • An activated, central Great Lawn for festivals and events • A versatile Baseball Stadium wrapped in mixed-use • A landmark Performing Arts Center with maximum versatility • A new City Hall and Public Services Campus

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These exciting facilities ensure that Downtown Waco becomes a hub of activity, offering space for sports events, cultural performances, festivals, and community gatherings.

To make this vision uniquely Waco, it draws cues from remnant historic structures and districts, local cultural influences, as well as the city’s geography and geology. It thoughtfully uncovers and establishes a sophisticated vernacular that reflects Waco’s identity.

Key to implementing this 20-year vision is the leveraging of public-private partnerships. A Master Developer will be engaged to orchestrate the cohesive and unified comprehensive planning and multi-phase development. This

IT’S ABOUT CREATING A PLACE THAT EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF WACO, WHERE HISTORY MEETS INNOVATION, WHERE COMMUNITY TRANSCENDS DIVIDES, AND WHERE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IS A REALITY FOR ALL.

CITY HALL collaborative effort will ensure that the Downtown Development Project is carefully master planned and strategically sequenced through its many phases to assure steady progress to successful project delivery, shaping the city’s future for generations to come.

New City Hall within the Downtown Vision Among the key components of this vision is the integration of a new City Hall and Public Services Campus—a civic heart at the core of Downtown.

The inclusion of a New City Hall and Public Services Campus within Downtown Waco is not just a strategic opportunity—it serves a dual purpose: to resolve the office space limitations of the existing Waco City Hall and to consolidate a sizable 20 | WINTER 2023

municipal workforce, maximizing the benefits for the community.

Waco’s current City Hall was constructed in 1930 and stands as a testament to a bygone era. Its art deco stylings and limited space across four floors, totaling nearly 39,000 square feet, no longer meet the needs of the modern municipal workforce. Over the past century, the city’s administrative workforce and public-facing services have significantly grown and dispersed, leading to challenges in customer service and management. The new City Hall and Public Services Campus represent an opportunity to bring together more than 22 departments under one roof, streamlining public access to essential services.

This consolidation of services will offer the public streamlined access to a wide range of services,

SITE CONNECTIONS

including permitting, planning, economic development, housing, water utilities, public works, purchasing, parks and recreation, the public health district, municipal court, as well as the official venue for City Council Meetings. This consolidation represents a workforce of more than 500 staff, all working to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of municipal services.

In addition to municipal services, the vision includes the possibility of collaboration with Waco Independent School District. Strategies for shared facilities and office spaces provide opportunity for improved administrative operations for the district through improved training accommodations and enhanced public access. This collaboration is rooted in the pursuit of efficiency and improved services for the community.

Planning not only for present workforce needs but for the future is also a crucial consideration.

Additional floors in each office building will create capacity beyond current municipal and district needs, ensuring that space is available for future growth. Until then, these spaces can be leveraged as quality lease spaces, contributing to the vibrancy of Downtown Waco.

Beyond its functional role, this concentration of staffing and public services stands to generate

substantial visitation and foot traffic. This influx of people can catalyze the growth of Downtown dining, shopping, recreation, and lodging/ residential offerings. It’s part of a broader development recipe that will incrementally propel the success of the overall vision forward.

Heritage Square: A Blank Canvas for Ambitious Development Development of Heritage Square is another notable (and longstanding) priority, perched on the doorstep of City Hall. Bounded by 3rd and 4th Streets, Washington Avenue, and Austin Avenue, this high-visibility nearly 3-acre property features a half-acre decorative plaza at the corner nearest City Hall, a small granite monument commemorating the 1953 tornado that once devastated the burgeoning Downtown Waco, and 2.3 acres of parking lot has been primarily utilized as a space for numerous public events and festivals, including the annual Waco Wonderland.

For decades, Heritage Square has essentially remained vacant, a testament to the urban renewal efforts that cleared the tornado-damaged town square 70 years ago.

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WATER FEATURE

However, the potential of this wide-open, developable land in a strategic downtown location cannot be overstated. Heritage Square presents a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Downtown Vision’s cultural, live, work, and play ambitions. As Downtown Waco undergoes a renaissance, with infill development invigorating and revitalizing the area, Heritage Square stands as an enticing blank canvas—a canvas that holds the promise of cultural enrichment, economic growth, and community vibrancy.

New Tools on The Road to Transformation In recognition of past challenges, the City of Waco has gone to great lengths to incorporate lessons learned from prior efforts. Notably, over the past decade, there have been smaller attempts at redevelopment within this project area that suffered from a lack of critical mass of assembled acreage and stakeholder engagement needed to offer developers the necessary tools for success. For example, in 2015 and 2017, multiple Request for Proposal (RFP) efforts were launched to seek developers for the Heritage Square site.

However, since the RFP format places the visioning responsibility on developers, these efforts faced challenges in anticipating what would truly resonate with the community, and ultimately did not move forward.

This time, the approach is different. The City of Waco committed to leading the effort and 22 | WINTER 2023

responding to these needs with robust stakeholder engagement, working closely with the Gensler team to unearth the values, desires, and vision of the community, and significantly assembling a very enticing assemblage of property. This process has yielded an exceptionally valuable tool to developers, offering a clear direction and insight into what the community envisions. It also serves as an announcement of the caliber of project the City recognizes it has and the importance it places on selecting the right team.

Subsequently, a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process was initiated October 13, 2023, to attract top-tier teams from throughout the country by putting this tool in their hands along with a dynamic interactive story map that proactively and efficiently introduces developers to the project sites, vision, context of surrounding attractions, and a wide range of relevant economic data. Overall, the RFQ process affords a more measured approach to master developer selection, based primarily on qualifications, which allows Waco to select a team that not only possesses the greatest capability but also aligns with the community’s values.

Upon selection of a master developer, anticipated in January 2024, design coordination will take shape within the framework of guiding agreements, supporting a better end result. This rigorous selection process ensures that the chosen team is dedicated to serving the project over the years, leading it to successful completion and ultimately contributing to a brighter future for Waco.

AUSTIN AVE.

A Dynamic Urban Center for a Growing Community As we look ahead to the exciting transformation of Downtown Waco, it becomes evident that this vision is more than just a development project; it’s a testament to the City of Waco’s commitment to its residents and its future – to serve as the heartbeat of a regional economy.

That brighter, more prosperous future belongs to all Wacoans and invites them to be a part of energizing the vibrant urban core that is essential for the sustained growth and vitality of Waco.

It’s about creating a place that embodies the spirit of Waco, where history meets innovation, where community transcends divides, and where economic prosperity is a reality for all.

By activating the area day and night, fostering inclusivity, this vision seeks to redefine Downtown Waco as a dynamic urban center.

Waco’s thriving urban center will serve as an economic hub, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation while providing a central gathering space for residents and visitors alike. It will celebrate cultural enrichment, educational opportunities, and accessibility while also promoting civic engagement and adaptability, ensuring that Waco remains relevant and resilient in a constantly evolving world. With its eye on the future, great partners at the table, and publicprivate partnerships at its core, this vision is not just an aspiration—it’s a roadmap to transform Downtown Waco into a thriving, vibrant, and sustainable community where residents and visitors alike can experience the best of what the city has to offer. n

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CITY CENTER

LOOKS TO THE FUTURE City Center Waco is one of the Greater Waco Chamber’s strategic community partners. Recently, City Center Waco announced Africa Tarver as its new Executive Director. Tarver joins the Waco community after living in Hammond, Indiana for her whole life. With years of experience in development and a strong belief that small businesses are the lifeblood of a stable city, Tarver plans to implement ideas for the betterment of Waco. As part of this issue of Greater Waco Business focusing on Waco’s urban core, we invited Tarver to participate in a Q&A and share her vision for the future of Downtown Waco.

What is City Center Waco?

City Center Waco is an economic and community development non-profit organization focused on the development of a clean and safe Downtown Corridor, contract administration for the Public Improvement District (PID) 1 Board and activation of public spaces.

What does the future of Downtown Waco look like?

In one word…wonderful! Waco’s downtown corridor touts a dynamic mix of business that continues to thrive and grow. Waco’s Downtown offers something for everyone. Downtown Waco has a unique character that offers a sincere sense of place. As the future unfolds, you will see additional commercial development designed to welcome visitors while also accommodating Waco’s residents.

Our downtown is home to business incubators that offer an attractive option to entrepreneurs and small businesses. The recent shift in desired workspace has demonstrated that businesses are looking for functional smaller spaces that support a quality work/life balance.

An increase in commercial businesses will also foster an increased demand for additional food options. Increased foot traffic from business will encourage additional lunch and dinner options. Our diverse population creates an opportunity for diverse 24 | WINTER 2023

dining options. Also, the addition of multiple hotels within the Downtown area will bring a wide range of tourists who are looking for everything from a quickcasual to a fine dining experience.

What are your Vision & Goals?

I will move City Center Waco forward by a continued dedication to the goals of the organization which are: a clean and safe Downtown, working with the Cen-Tex African American and Cen-Tex Hispanic Chambers for district-based approach to commercial revitalization and activation of public spaces.

Why is a Dynamic Downtown Important?

Dynamic downtowns have one thing in common.

They all provide a sense of place where everyone feels welcome. Our downtown is no different.

There is something for everyone, and the increased activation of public spaces creates meeting places that further the sense of community. A communitybased downtown creates a shared sense of ownership that allows it to flourish and grow. When people are committed to an area, they keep it clean, support its businesses and work together so everyone feels safe. n

CLASS 40

Melinda Adams Extraco Events Center

Tracy Adcock Pattillo, Brown & Hill, L.L.P.

Lauren Dickson Beard Kultgen Brophy Bostwick & Dickson, PLLC

Terri Doss Cooper Dukette Riley DuPuy Baylor Scott and White Milestone Community DuPuy Oxygen Health - Hillcrest Builders

Mark Benning Central National Bank

Karen Boyd Community Bank & Trust

Christopher Cady Felix Chiota George’s Restaurant Chiota Aviation & Catering

Kristen Ford Saenz Texas Dynasty Cheer & Gymnastics

Khristian Howard Alleigh Kazanas Baylor University Disciplined Investors, LLC

Iyan Laylor Texas Farm Bureau

Stephanie Michael Ruiz Pegasus Flight School Rhodes TFNB Your Bank for Life

Rachel Sarmiento Amanda Simpson Hunter Slocum Greater Waco Sports Haley & Olson, P.C. Dunnam & Dunnam, Commission LLP

Cameron Curry Extraco Banks

Carlie Gause Gillen Graves Pakis, Giotes, Burleson City Tire and Battery & Deaconson, P.C.

Marlayna Massey Jennifer McCaslin Rafael Medina Waco Foundation Kelly, Realtors Leal’s Snacks

Andrea Smedshammer The Bentley TeamGreater Waco Realty

Sunny Deeds Ascension Providence

Nancy Gupton Greater Waco Chamber

Ethan Moore Moore & Company PLLC

Yamel Perera Capstone Mechanical

Scott Snyder American Bank

Africa Tarver City Center Waco

Leadership Waco is sponsored by Pattillo, Brown & Hill, L.L.P. Timothy Urbanek Chief Sheryl The First National Bank Victorian City of Waco Police of Central Texas Department

Stacey Voigt Baylor University

Heather Wheeler ESC Region 12

The program offers structured learning opportunities in an atmosphere that stimulates creative thinking and encourages participants to work together to utilize both new and proven tools to meet the challenges of today and to prepare for tomorrow.

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 25

James Beard JRBT

James Beard, a shareholder with JRBT, is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Central Texas Chapter of the Texas Society of CPAs and the Texas Society of CPAs. By being part of these organizations, he remains up to date with the latest industry 1 trends, regulations and practices, enhancing his ability to serve clients better.

James has served as the board president for the the Humane Society of Central Texas, is a graduate of Leadership Waco, and has served as the JRBT Total Resource Campaign Leader, raising funds to support the work of the Greater Waco Chamber.

Paige Beasley

Community Bank & Trust Paige Beasley currently serves as the Assistant Vice President of Marketing for Community Bank & Trust. She is a graduate of the Leadership Plenty Institute and proud member of the Junior League of Waco.

Through her service with the Junior League of Waco, she has been recognized with the Golden Wing Award for outstanding service, above and beyond what is expected. Paige is also a partner Liaison with the Waco ISD Adopt-A-School program and serves on the board of directors for the Animal Birth Control Clinic.

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Jaja Chen Cha Community

Jaja Chen, entrepreneur and owner of Cha Community, is a graduate of Baylor University’s School of Social Work. Jaja followed her passion and began to work with local organizations like the Family Abuse Center and Unbound providing translation services to Asian survivors and trauma-informed counseling to adult and child survivors. Upon discovering that there were few counseling services available for the Asian community, she opened her own private practice in 2017, offering therapy services to all minorities.

Jaja has also contributed to the economic development of Waco through her small business, Cha Community, since 2018. Cha Community specializes in Taiwanese inspired Boba tea and various dishes; it started off as a pop-up tent in the Downtown Waco Farmers Market, eventually expanded into a food truck and finally became a brick-and-mortar restaurant on Franklin Avenue.

Cari Detlefsen

Mountainview Elementary School, Waco ISD Cari Detlefsen serves as the Principal at Mountainview Elementary School in Waco ISD and has engaged the staff by leading both from the heart and for results. Prior to the start of school, Cari put in additional hours over the summer to make the campus the best that it could be for the return of the staff and the students. She worked in flowerbeds, painted the teacher’s lounge, and cleaned out years of old materials and equipment. Her passion to improve her campus was evident to all from the first day she was hired. Cari has actively worked to improve the quality of life for others in the community. Her service includes involvement in the Mountainview PTA, Mentoring Alliance, and the Masonic Lodge.

Cameron Curry

Cory Dickman

Extraco Banks

Rogue Media Network & T riple Win Waco

Cameron Curry is a Waco native and serves as a Marketing Data Analyst at Extraco Banks.

Professionally, Cameron is a vital part of the Extraco Leadership, Innovation, Networking & Community (LINC) program, which brings together various resources to help businesses thrive and grow. Cameron has also been an integral part of the Extraco Extrapreneur Award Program since 2021. This program is a “shark tank” competition for local small businesses with an opportunity to win up to $26,000. In the community, Cameron has been involved in several civic and service organizations throughout the years including HOT Fair & Rodeo, YMCA Junior Board, Greater Waco Chamber and the Greater Hewitt Chamber.

Cory Dickman is an entrepreneur who owns many recognizable businesses including Waco Escape Rooms, Luna Juice Bar, Cultivate712 and Rogue Media Network.

Each of these businesses has uniquely enhanced the Waco community. Cory is also the Program Coordinator for Triple Win Waco; as coordinator, he collaborates with local businesses and non-profits in the Greater Waco area to engage students, entrepreneurs, and the education community. In addition to his commitment to his businesses and Triple Win Waco, Cory is a mentor with the Greater Waco Chamber’s Leadership, Education, and Development (LEAD) program, which pairs high school students from participating schools with business professionals to educate students about the various career and training opportunities available in Greater Waco.

Cameron Gomez Agents of Texas

Cameron Gomez is owner and broker of Agents of Texas.

In his profession, Cameron understands that every client is unique, and he takes the time to listen to their needs and goals before developing a customized strategy for buying or selling a home. In the community, Cameron has been an active part of the La Vega Little League Association for several years, serving on the board and coaching.

This year, Cameron donated $4,000 to have new batting cages built for kids. For the past two years, Cameron has personally reached out to teachers at La Vega ISD before school begins to donate supplies and items for the teachers. This school year, he sponsored a Pre-K class and donated art supplies for the whole class.

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Jonathan Olvera RE/MAX Centex, REALTORS

Jonathan Olvera is a real estate agent with RE/MAX Centex, REALTORS. Jonathan’s passion for the Hispanic community is evident when educating clients to help them find their dream homes. His faith is a cornerstone of his life and considers it a privilege to have served his congregation as a worship leader for more than 15 years. Jonathan is involved with Keep Waco Beautiful, the Animal Welfare Board, Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where he serves as board chair and the Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo.

Christopher Qualls McLennan Community College Foundation

Christopher Qualls serves as the Director of Donor Giving at McLennan Community College Foundation. In his role, in addition to fundraising for the MCC Foundation, Chris is tasked with helping fund scholarships for students who are looking to improve their quality of life. He has served in many non-profit organizations such as Life Church, Creative Waco and Wild Imaginings, among others. He has also completed Leadership Waco and The Leadership Plenty Institute.

Daniela Rodriguez

Dani Sells Texas with Turner Brothers Real Estate Daniela Rodriguez is on the team at Turner Brothers Real Estate, but her real passion lies in working as a community advocate. When she moved to Waco two and a half years ago, she found a thriving community with which to get involved. She was recently elected to join the Creative Waco Board and The Dr Pepper Museum Board. She works with many non-profits like Talitha Koum Institute, Hispanic Leaders Network, Boys and Girls Club and City House on a variety of projects throughout the year. Most recently she was the co-chair for the first ever Latino Night at the Arboretum Pavilion where they raised over $50,000 for the Hispanic Leaders Network. She also volunteered with Dream Couture to give 16 young women from University High the prom of their dreams free of any costs.

Clay Springer

Sturdisteel & Triple Win Waco Clay Springer has been an integral part of Triple Win Waco, an industrial/entrepreneurial school affiliated with Rapoport Academy Public School. In this role, Clay wrote grants to fund Triple Win Waco and ensure this resource remained for entrepreneurially minded students in Greater Waco. Triple Win Waco allows students the opportunity for hands-on training and serves as a thinktank for helping them start their own small businesses. He serves as treasurer for the Cen-Tex African American Chamber and is active in his church, Highland Baptist. Clay plans to attend the University of Dallas later this year to pursue a doctorate degree in finance.

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Jackie Villarreal

Dr. Valerie Willis

Josh Wucher

Jackie Villarreal, Assistant Principal at Spring Valley Elementary School in Midway ISD, has taken the initiative to develop creative programs that meet the specific needs of her students. In a previous role at Midway Middle School, she saw a need to help special education students learn transferable skills from school to the workplace. In partnership with these students, she developed a small business experience for students: a coffee and treats cart run by the students, allowing them to apply their educational skills in a transferable and meaningful way. Jackie’s commitment to excellence is evident in her work, as she ensures that each of her ideas is grounded in best practices and research. In addition to her professional involvement, Jackie is deeply committed to public service and volunteers her time and skills with Meals on Wheels Waco, Special Olympics of Texas, and Royal Manor Nursing Home, among other organizations.

Dr. Valerie Willis, Education & Prevention Specialist at Baylor University, has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others through her involvement in several civic and service organizations and initiatives.

She has served as a volunteer and board member for several nonprofit organizations, including the Klaras Center for Families, Waco Family Medicine, Unbound Now Waco, Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network, and The Cove Waco.

Her volunteer work with these organizations has allowed her to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families in our community, providing them with access to vital resources and services.

Josh Wucher is Transformation Waco’s Chief Communications Officer with a passion for effecting change. In addition to championing the programs and events operated by Transformation Waco, Josh is actively involved in the community and helping spread the word about the good things happening in Waco. He has served on the Greater Waco YMCA board, a committee with the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District, Prosper Waco, Waco Family Medicine, and other community organizations to create the first-ever Henrietta Napier Health Expo in July 2022. This community outreach clinic event at G.W. Carver Indian Spring Middle School honored Henrietta Napier, the first African American public healthcare nurse in McLennan County. He coordinated a Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Café y Pan Dulce networking event at Alta Vista Elementary and a Hispanic Leader’s Network speaker series at Brook Avenue Elementary. Josh is a graduate from the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Waco Class 39 and served as a co-project manager for the group’s community-based project benefiting an outdoor learning space at Brook Avenue Elementary School, a Transformation Waco campus.

Spring Valley Elementary, Midway ISD

Baylor University

Transformation Waco

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 29

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WACOCHAMBER.COM | 31

Since its founding in 1899, the Greater Waco Chamber has worked to build Greater Waco!

In 2024, we will celebrate 125 years of helping grow our economy and improve our community. This timeline chronicles the history of the Chamber, many of the important features in Greater Waco that your Chamber has supported and some of the organization’s impacts, beginning with its predecessor, the Waco Business Men’s Club.

1889 The Waco Business Men’s Club was founded in 1899. The Club’s goal was to bring together local business leaders to impact the quality of life and economic vitality of Waco.

1911

Isidore Friedlander, president of the Waco Business Men’s Club, hosted the “Waco Prosperity Banquet” to celebrate the growth of Waco, the opening of the 22-story Amicable Life Insurance Company (ALICO) building, the completion of the Santa Fe Train Connection and the boom of other industrial businesses.

32 | WINTER 2023

The event spanned three city blocks. With 2,000 guests in attendance and spectators pressed along both sides of the sidewalks, the event showcased the optimism and festive spirit Waco was experiencing in the early 1900s.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIGITAL BALLPARKS

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

1916

1925 The Chamber helped return the Texas League, a group of minor league baseball teams, to Waco after its departure in 1918. The Waco Cubs played minor league ball at Katy Park from 1925-1930.

The Texas Secretary of State approved a charter amendment changing the name of the Waco Business Men’s Club to the Waco Chamber of Commerce.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

1917 The Chamber was instrumental in securing Camp MacArthur, a U.S. military training base, and Rich Field, a military air field in Waco.

1938 Louis Lipsitz opened M. Lipsitz & Co, his small recycling operation in 1895 on Bridge Street, near the banks of the Brazos River in Waco. Similar to the company today, M. Lipsitz & Co. began buying and selling scrap copper, iron and brass. They joined the Waco Chamber of Commerce in 1938, making them one of the the oldest current Chamber members.

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 33

1944 Through the efforts of the Chamber, the General Tire and Rubber Co. opened its second U.S. location, a $5.5 million tire manufacturing plant, in Waco creating 1,500 jobs. It was hailed “one of the most important industrial developments in recent Texas history.” The Waco plant initially produced truck tires for the U.S. Army and Navy and other rubber-based equipment for wartime use in World War II. After the war ended, General Tire took nearly full control of the plant and began producing more consumer- and industrial-based products. After just 10 years of production, the Waco plant had doubled in size and was producing 6,000 passenger car, truck, tractor and farm-service tires daily. After additional expansion in the 1950s, it continued to experience growth and success over the next 30 years.

1948 PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Chamber committees worked to reactivate the Waco Army Air Field, later known as the James Connally Air Force Base, for primary and basic flight training.

1953 The inaugural Heart O’ Texas (H.O.T.) Fair and Rodeo took place at the newly constructed Heart O’ Texas Coliseum in 1953, after a group of business and agricultural leaders, including Othel Neely, the Waco Chamber’s Agricultural Program Leader, sought permission from community leaders to build an agricultural and entertainment venue. After receiving approval from the city and county and developing a plan, board, bylaws and charter, voters in McLennan County approved the $1.2 million construction bond. The fairgrounds were the largest of its kind, west of the Mississippi River, totaling 253 acres. The first fair was an event to remember, with renowned rodeo producer Tommy Steiner overseeing popular rodeo events, a Texas wildlife display, fireworks, and a performance by Elvis Presley.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

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PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

1953 During the aftermath of the devastating 1953 tornado, the Chamber served as the contact between the city, federal relief agencies and downtown property owners. The tornado changed the landscape of downtown.

1958 The Waco Industrial Foundation was born out of a meeting of the Waco Industrial Districts. The purpose of this chartered nonprofit, which was managed and promoted by the Chamber, was to provide industrial land at reasonable costs and secure financing for development within Waco’s industrial districts.

Chamber leaders Jack Kultgen and Harlon Fentress met with key military and congressional leaders a total of 35 times in Washington to push for an addition to the Lake Waco dam, originally built in 1929. With the help of Texas native and then Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, Kultgen and Fentress testified before a U.S. House Flood Control Committee on the need of better flood control for Lake Waco. The men warned that if the federal government did not act quickly, Waco would be forced to build a second lake upstream from Lake Waco for additional water supply, which would cause problems with the corps’ flood control efforts.

That same year, Congress authorized $100,000 for planning the dam. In July of 1958, Lyndon B. Johnson arrived in Waco to break ground on the Lake Waco project, which was completed in June of 1965.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

1955

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 35

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCLENNAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

1962 The Chamber’s Education Committee obtained signatures to back the formation of a new junior college. Under the leadership of Chamber president and local newspaper editor Harry Provence, the Chamber provided the steering committee $1,000 to secure public support for the junior college, now McLennan Community College, which was completed in 1966.

1965 Upon learning of the impending closure of the James Connally Air Force Base, the Chamber immediately began working on a plan for the site. Out of a special committee from the Chamber, with membership of Congressman Bob Poage, Murray Watson and John Connally, the idea of Texas State Technical Institute was born; its doors opened in 1965. Now, known as Texas State Technical College, it remains a key asset to Waco.

1963 Over 130 years after the building of Fort Fisher, the Chamber’s Publicity Committee pushed for the site to be developed into a tourist destination along with the newly arrived Interstate 35 through Waco. In 1963, local businessman James R. LeBlond offered the idea of a fresh, revived Fort Fisher that would serve as a multipurpose facility with space for a tourist center, the headquarters of Texas Rangers

36 | WINTER 2023

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

Company F and a small museum to house Texas Ranger memorabilia. A Fort Fisher Committee was developed by the Chamber, and after several years of work, the Waco City Council approved the Fort Fisher project construction in 1967. The “new Fort Fisher,” known today as the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, was dedicated in October of 1968.

1970 The Mid-Tex Farm and Ranch Show debuted as a place for farmers across Texas, and beyond, to congregate and share new techonologies and techniques in agriculture.

1975

1972 In the 1930s, the primary route between Waco and Temple was U.S. Highway 81 and those driving from Waco to Dallas used U.S. 77. In 1957, the first part of the new Interstate 35 was a four-lane stretch from the Falls County line to Temple. In 1958, interstate construction began within Waco and the project was completed in October of 1972.

In Waco, Interstate 35 and the access roads are named “Jack Kultgen Expressway” in honor of Wacoan J.H. “Jack” Kultgen. He was instrumental in many city affairs, from fighting for the building of the Lake Waco Dam to leading the Texas Good Roads Association. The Chamber of Commerce’s involvement in the completion of I-35 is, in large part, thanks to former board members Jack Kultgen, Harry Provence and Harlon Fentress. Their efforts helped plan, design and construct the network of highway facilities, ensuring Waco’s continued future as a hub of economic activity.

Paul Marable led the Chamber in the major announcement of the new M&M Mars Candy factory coming to Waco. With the arrival of Mars, many other companies followed.

1975

At a Chamber board meeting, a motion passed changing the name to “Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce,” reflecting the wide area the Chamber served.

1972 Time Manufacturing, with the help of the Chamber of Commerce, relocated its business to Waco with just over a dozen employees. Today, Time Manufacturing employs over 600 individuals at its Waco plant.

1984 Leadership Waco was launched to identify, develop and encourage potential leaders from within the Waco community.

1982 The Chamber’s community development committee developed the “All About Waco” gameboard to promote the area and local businesses.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

1985 The Chamber hosted the second Prosperity Banquet with host Bob Hope, celebrating 100 years of Dr Pepper in Waco. The celebration was organized by the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce and Dr Pepper Corporation.

The re-creation of the 1911 Prosperity Banquet was enjoyed by 2,050 attendees. Bob Hope produced a steady stream of one-liners throughout the evening and sang a few of his favorite songs.

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 37

PHOTO COURTESY OF DR PEPPER MUSEUM

1991 1985 Electrospace Systems, Inc. began operations in its Waco facility located at the TSTC Waco Industrial Airport. The Chamber saw Electrospace Systems through a name change to Chrysler Technologies Airborne Systems, Inc., a purchase by Raytheon, L-3 Technologies, and currently L3Harris.

The Dr Pepper Museum opened to the public on May 11, 1991, three years after the building was donated to the nonprofit. During the next six years, the museum embarked on additional construction phases until the entire building was restored and opened in May 1997.

The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce and the City of

Waco hoped that the Museum would be a catalyst for renewed energy and growth in the area.

The museum is home to the W. W. Clements Free Enterprise Institute, created in 1997, for the purpose of educating children and adults about the American economic system.

1988 After negotiations with Chamber and city officials, Allergan, now AbbVie, selected Waco as the site of its new manufacturing plant. Allergan spoke highly of Waco’s quality workforce, central location and posititive business environment as key influences in the decision.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

1989 The first annual Football Kick-Off Luncheon was held at the Lion’s Den. Since its start, the Football Kick-Off Luncheon has been a community-wide effort to generate excitement for the upcoming football season.

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1990 Sherwin Williams opened its 400,000 square-foot distribution center in Waco.

Through the efforts of community leaders, city management, Waco Industrial Foundation and the Economic Development Department of the Chamber, the company remains a great employer in Waco.

1996 Teen Leadership Waco was launched as a collaborative effort between the Tejas Council of Camp Fire Boys and Girls, the Chamber’s Leadership Waco Alumni Association and McLennan Community College.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

1996 The Chamber’s sports committee launched the Tip Off Luncheon, an annual community celebration and preview of the upcoming basketball seasons across high school and college campuses.

2005

2003 The SpaceX McGregor site began testing rocket engines for spacecraft with just three employees. Now, each engine that SpaceX produces passes through this 4,000-acre state-of-the-art rocket development facility.

1997 The Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation was established with leadership from city and county officials, the Waco Industrial Foundation and the Chamber for the recruitment of industrial business and jobs to the region.

2005

1996

The Waco Young Professionals group was founded as part of the Chamber with the goal of making Waco a “magnet for talent.”

The Chamber made its online debut at waco-chamber.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

1998 The Chamber and city and county officials secured a deal with Caterpillar to construct a new manufacturing plant in Waco.

The 2005-2006 school year saw the launch of the Chamber’s LEAD mentoring program. The initial class was small, with just one mentor in one school with five students.

In nearly 20 years, the programs has grown to serve more than 100 students each year and has awarded more than $600,000 in scholarships.

2005 The Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign launched and has raised over $21.6 million over the past 19 years.

Annually, over 140 volunteers come together for four months to enlist new members and generate programs, publications and event sponsorships to raise awareness of the Chamber throughout the region. It contributes more than a third of the Chamber’s annual operating budget.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

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2008 The Chamber opened its new building, the Salome Commerce Center, which is the first LEED-certified green chamber building in the nation.

The building features an impressive collection of local and regional art, made possible through the generosity of past Chamber chairs and other arts advocates.

2006 The Chamber and the Waco Industrial Foundation prepared a site for Sanderson Farms Inc., a project valued at $70 million and the creation of 1,290 new jobs.

The two-story, 13,916-square-foot building, made possible by the Challenge Greater Waco Campaign, is owned by the Waco Chamber of Commerce Community Development Foundation.

The Chamber’s sustainable site was made possible by the City of Waco. The building is designed to accommodate the scores of committees and task forces that advance the organization comprehensive economic, community and organization development agenda.

PHOTOS BY JOE GRIFFIN / COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION

2005 The Chamber identified 10 breakthrough opportunities which comprised the 2005 Program of Action, a precursor to the Challenge Greater Waco Strategic Plan.

2008

2007 The Chamber and other Waco leaders participated in the first intercity visit to Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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The Chamber collaborated with the Waco McLennan County Economic Development Corporation, the City of Waco, McLennan County and the Waco Industrial Foundation to support Waco Coca-Cola Bottling in securing a new location for its sales and distribution center after damages from a tornado in 2006 caused them to seek new facility options.

2009 The Chamber’s Sports and Special Events team kicked off the first annual TriWaco Triathlon.

2009 1000 Friends of Waco launched as an initiative to mobilize volunteers in the development of the Greater Waco Downtown Master Plan and Economic Development Strategy, which later became the Imagine Waco Strategy.

2013 Construction of the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC) was completed, occupying 300,000 square feet of the former General Tire facility. The BRIC space is appointed for laboratories, prototyping and testing, offices and workspace, workforce training, business formation and development opportunities, and symposium halls.

The Chamber was a collaborative stakeholder in BRIC.

2015 The Chamber’s Sports and Special Events team created The Texas Food Truck Showdown, the first event of its kind in Texas. This unique event far exceeded goals, with 35 food trucks traveling to Waco from all over the state to compete while serving upwards of 15,000 people.

2009 The Chamber, with support from former Waco Mayor Virginia DuPuy, formalized the Education Alliance. The alliance’s mission was “to develop an understanding that the entire community shares responsibility for educating every citizen.”

2018 2018

MarsWrigley Confectionary announced $30 million in new investment into its Waco facility, including the construction of a 65,000 square-foot expansion to accommodate product distribution.

The Greater Waco Chamber played a pivotal role in the development of Startup Waco, inspired by its 2016 InterCity Leadership Visit to Nashville, TN. The Chamber also served as a temporary “home base” for the initial Startup Waco employees, providing desks and meeting space, while the permanent space was under construction. The space was completed in late 2018 and continues to serve aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 41

2020

The Mexico-based Envases Group broke ground on its Waco operation, focusing on aluminum beverage containers commonly used for soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas and noncarbonated beverages. The facility, located in Texas Central Park, has more than 450,000 square-feet of production and distribution space.

2020

City of Waco, McLennan County, Greater Waco Chamber, and the Waco Industrial Foundation welcome Amazon to the community. Amazon’s site represents an investment of $200 million into a 3-story robotic fulfillment center in Waco, creating 1,000 jobs for Central Texans.

2020

HOLT, the largest Caterpillar equipment dealer in the United States acquired the former Caterpillar Work Tools, a 200,000 +/- square foot industrial campus in Texas Central Parkway. The company invested over $32 million and created 128 new jobs, with services including heavy equipment maintenance, engine rebuilds, equipment assembly and other products and services that will compliment other HOLT operations in the State.

42 | WINTER 2023

2020

Leading European galvanizer, ZINKPOWER, selected Waco for their first greenfield U.S. operation. This is the only galvanizing operation between DFW and San Antonio. Not only that, but it is the company’s longest galvanizing dip bed in the world. ZINKPOWER created 100 new jobs with this $32 million investment.

2022

2021

In January 2021, Uzin Utz North America Inc. announced its intentions to build its second North American manufacturing facility in Waco, Texas. The 125,000 square-foot facility is located on the corner of Mars Drive and Texas Central Parkway.

This facility also houses a new North American training center for professional flooring contractors. The expansion in Waco adds to the extensive global manufacturing footprint of Uzin Utz AG with manufacturing facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, France, Poland, Switzerland, Slovenia, Indonesia, and China.

Magnolia announced and commenced construction on its new headquarters located in the historic Waco Tribune Herald facility in Downtown Waco. The renovation of 70,000 square feet included offices, studio and film production space and a test kitchen. More than 75 new professional positions were created. This location employs approximately 200 Magnolia professionals.

2023 2022

South-Carolina based AstenJohnson selected Waco for its nonwoven manufacturing plant, supporting the auto, aviation, healthcare, filtration, and home furnishing industries. The 200,000 square-foot advanced manufacturing facility, located in the Waco International Aviation Park, represents an investment of $40 million, creating 36 new high-skilled jobs.

In early 2023, the Greater Waco Chamber announced its largest capital investment project! Graphic Packaging International is investing $1 billion in its new facility in the heart of Waco’s largest industrial park, Texas Central Park. The 124-acre campus will be home to 640,000 square feet in production and warehousing facilities and will offer approximately 230 high-paying jobs. GPI manufactures fiber-based consumer packaging solutions for the world’s leading consumer product and foodservice companies.

Visit WacoChamber.com/125

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

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 43

TRC WRAP UP

THE CHAMBER RAISES

1,722,562

$

IN ITS 19TH ANNUAL TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN! Over 90 volunteers from numerous member companies raised funds for the Greater Waco Chamber through a theme inspired campaign. These products included program, event and publication sponsorships, economic development, budget-reduction trade items, selected membership renewals and new members.

The TRC campaign kicks off in April and goes through the end of August annually.

The volunteers meet weekly to celebrate the incremental success!

C A M PA I G N L E A D E R S H I P

S U M M A RY R E S U LT S

2023 CAMPAIGN CHAIR Debbie Keel, Retired from AT&T

CAMPAIGN TOTAL $1,722,562 CAMPAIGN GOAL $1,680,000

2023 CAMPAIGN CHAIR-ELECT

New Memberships

$62,631

Jeremy Vickers, Baylor University

Member Renewals

$309,279

Direct Budget Reduction Trades

$70,700

2023 CAMPAIGN VICE CHAIRS

Publication Sponsorships

$155,392

Mary Ellison, Cen-Tex Roof Systems

Program & Event Sponsorships

$1,124,560

Becky Kramm, Sierra Nevada Corporation Scott Rogers, Alliance Bank of Central Texas FALL 2023 2023 44 | WINTER

VO LU N T E E R T E A M S

American Bank American Guaranty Title Ascension Providence ATMOS Energy Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest Baylor University Cen-Tex Roof Systems Community Bank & Trust E.H. Anderson Public Relations Extraco Banks First Title Company of Waco H-E-B Home Abstract and Title Company Insurors of Texas JRBT Kelly, Realtors Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP Premier ER and Urgent Care Staybridge Suites The First National Bank of Central Texas Trane Vogel Financial Group Weichert Realtors – The Eastland Group

come to a close, I would like to say: The 19th annual Total Resource Campaign has a huge success! thank you, thank you, thank you for making this n for the 2023 Total Resource Campaign This campaign exceeded our goal of $1.68 millio amazing volunteers and Chamber staff by raising $1,722,562. A big thank you to all the work helped us reach our goal. I who made this possible! Your dedication and hard for showing relentless effort for this deeply appreciate every member of this team r of this team. project. It gives me great pride to be the leade theme: vice chair for embracing our “Happy Camper” campaign A big thank you to my awesome leadership team Texas (aka Ranger ral Cent ; division chairs Scott Rogers, Alliance Bank Jeremy Vickers, Baylor University (aka Yogi Bear) oration (aka Girl Corp da Counselor), and Beck y Kramm, Sierra Neva Rick), Mary Ellison, Cen-Tex Roof Systems (aka Camp great results. ve achie and collaboration to help our volunteer team Scout). I’m especially thankful for your teamwork and soul of this on as the Chamber’s TRC Director. She is the heart It is an honor and privilege to have Nancy Gupt the TRC campaign. put in countless hours in preparing and planning campaign. Nancy and her amazing Chamber team itment to to them for their dedication, hard work, and comm I would like to express my deepest appreciation excellence. d like to recognize giving us a total of 97 campaign volunteers. I woul This year, we signed up 19 new TRC volunteers r, Gary Vogel, Halle Jim artz, Schw ibutions to this campaign: Loren a few volunteers who have made incredible contr who exceeded teers volun TRC new e. I’d also like to recognize some Peggy Jezek and Team Sales Ascension Providenc and Kristina ey Linds s Justu ry, Gent ie of the Year and April Rosier, Jim their individual goals: Hector Sabido, TRC Rook ies choosing rook new the and teers ssful because of the seasoned volun Holcomb. This campaign continues to be succe ber.

Cham rtunities available through the to invest their time to continue to share the oppo s our campaign of the Chamber’s entire annual budget. That mean As many of you know, TRC raises more than a third retain our current to nue and its economic development work as we conti efforts are vital to the success of the Chamber our community. businesses while welcoming new businesses to ion. Representation memberships are the backbone of our organizat In addition to sponsorships, the Waco Chamber’s ber’s work. During the important asset to the everyday success of Cham of small, medium, and large businesses are an on. bers who want to invest in the Chamber’s missi campaign, the volunteers signed up 116 new mem Chamber. You have many businesses for investing in the Greater Waco On behalf of the volunteers, I want to thank the e economic urag enco , esses busin programs that support our local allowed the Chamber to continue to provide its . Thank you all ages all of ns citize our and promote leadership among development, extend our public policy platform, ber.

Cham ts on behalf of the Greater Waco for your support and investing your time and talen make your campaign a you have an awesome group of people who will Best of luck to Jeremy Vickers, 2024 TRC Chair; success. and congrats on the recent success.

Thank you everyone for achieving these goals team. You’re all terrific and incredible!

You achieved this together as a

Debbie Keel 2023 TRC Chair

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 45

PAST CAMPAIGN RESULTS & LEADERSHIP YEAR

TRC G OA L

AMOUNT RAISED

2005 $250,000 $499,061 2006 $500,000 $640,499 2007 $650,000 $729,940 2008 $750,000 $849,168 2009 $850,000 $943,623 2010 $950,000 $1,081,132 2011 $1,100,000 $1,137,411 2012 $1,150,000 $1,182,546 2013 $1,200,000 $1,238,643 2014 $1,250,000 $1,268,163

2015 $1,275,000 $1,296,529

2016 $1,300,000 $1,327,794 2017 $1,350,000 $1,368,639 2018 $1,375,000 $1,385,758 2019 $1,400,000 $1,430,678 2020 $960,000 $968,197 2021 $1,250,000 $1,403,399 2022 $1,450,000 $1,603,836

C A M PA I G N CHAIR

David Lacy, Community Bank and Trust David Lacy, Community Bank and Trust Terry Stevens, First Title Co. of Waco Stewart Kelly, Kelly, Realtors Scott Felton, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Debbie Keel, AT&T Jim Haller, The First National Bank of Central Texas Mark Reynolds, Extraco Banks Mike Reitmeier, JRBT Glenn Robinson, Baylor Scott and White Medical Center – Hillcrest Ted Teague, Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat Ed Page, H-E-B Hal Whitaker, Englander dZignPak, LLC Chuck Sivess, American Guaranty Title Aaron McMillan, 1519 Surveying & Engineering Jennifer Manning, Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP Sam Brown, The First National Bank of Central Texas Philip Patterson, Ascension Providence

2023 TOP FIVE VOLUNTEERS Loren Schwartz, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, $133,731 Jim Haller, Retired, $123,004 Gary Vogel, Vogel Financial Group, $101,047 Peggy Jezek, Staybridge Suites, $75,144 Team Sales Providence 2, $59,150

2023 TOP FIVE TEAMS The First National Bank of Central Texas, $265,883 Vogel Financial Group, $237,585 E.H. Anderson Public Relations, $154,523 American Guaranty Title, $121,091 Ascension Providence, $115,581

2023 TOP ROOKIES

WINTER 2023 2023 46 | FALL

Hector Sabido, Prophecy Media Group, $38,845 April Rosier, The Wood Group-Fairway Independent Mortgage Co., $24,858 Jim Gentry, VanTran Industries, Inc., $20,575 Justus Lindsey, Leadership Waco Alumnus, $18,863 Kristina Holcomb, Premier ER & Urgent Care, $18,537

T H A N K YO U T O A L L O F O U R C A M PA I G N S P O N S O R S

C A M PA I G N G I F T S & D O N O R S

American Guaranty Title Balcones Distilling Baylor Club Baylor University Ben E. Keith Beverages Bubba’s 33 Element Hotel George’s Restaurant & Bar #1 Hal & Jana Whitaker Hawaiian Falls H-E-B Hotel Indigo Jon Lillie’s Steakhouse Main Event and Entertainment - Waco Ninfa’s

Nutone Cleaners Pattillo Brown & Hill, LLP Republic Gun Club Rio Brazos Catering Secret Chef Sterling Clothing Co. Texas Moxie Seasonings Texas Roots Vegetation Maintenance Tiffs Treats Cookies True Value Hardware Twisted Cowboy Mobile Bar Vitek’s Vogel’s Spices, LLC Waco Surf Whataburger, Inc. WACOCHAMBER.COM | 47

ED NEWS

TEDC RECOGNIZES WACO-MCLENNAN COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TEAM In October, at the Texas Economic Development Council’s (TEDC) 2023 Annual Conference, it announced the recipients of the annual Community Economic Development Awards (CEDA). During the event, the City of Waco, McLennan County and Greater Waco Chamber were recognized for excellence in “measured objectives” for the important work on the Graphic Packaging International project.

“Economic development is truly a team effort, and we are appreciative of the collaboration among all our partners,” said Kris Collins, senior

vice president of economic development for the Chamber.

The CEDA program recognizes exceptional contributions of TEDC member cities toward the economic vitality of their communities and the state of Texas through creativity, leadership, and partnership in the achievement of business retention, business recruitment and community improvement. n

GREATER WACO AEROSPACE ALLIANCE ATTENDS NBAA The Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance attended the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) annual conference in Las Vegas in October. The conference gave our community the opportunity to educate attendees about why Waco is the place for aviation business. n

LEARN THE LATEST GREATER WACO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION AT WACOECONOMICDEVELOPMENT.COM 48 | WINTER 2023

10 STUDENTS AWARDED AEROSPACE SCHOLARSHIPS High school and college students in the Greater Waco area recently underwent a rigorous interview process with the Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance’s Scholarship Selection Committee, and 10 of those students were awarded a total of $24,500 in scholarships.

Applicants are required to be enrolled for the upcoming fall semester and pursuing an aviation/aerospace or engineering related degree at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), Baylor University, McLennan Community College (MCC), Texas Tech – Waco, or Tarleton State University at Waco.

The scholarships were awarded to: Bobbi Bruehl Caleb Chakmakjian Benjamin Chidwick Clayton Hearn Thomas Kiang Branden Littlefield Seamus Lowe Gabriela Meriano Zach Rutman Clayton Sander The Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance scholarships are made possible through funds raised by the Greater Waco Chamber’s Freedom Ball event.

Freedom Ball is an annual event that provides Central Texas with the opportunity to honor military personnel, both past and present, and Gold Star families. To date, the Aerospace Alliance has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships to more than 100 Central Texas high school and college students. n WACOCHAMBER.COM | 49

ECONOMY IN FOCUS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE SEPT. 2023

3.6% 4.1%

UNITED STATES

SEPT. 2022

LABOR FORCE

137,575

3.7%

TEXAS

SEPT. 2023

WACO MSA

130,992

3.3% 3.8% 3.4%

UNITED STATES

TEXAS

SEPT. 2022

WACO MSA

Ec n i Ou lo WACO COST OF LIVING Third Quarter 2023

Source: 2023 Data Purchasing Power

U.S. Average Composite: 100

Waco Composite: 93.8

PURCHASING POWER

COMPARISON CITIES

Housing:

81.9

Chattanooga, TN:

88.0

Groceries:

94.0

Asheville, NC:

98.2

Utilities:

105.8

Greenville, SC:

88.7

Transportation:

91.8

Richmond, VA:

94.9

Health Care:

93.3

Colorado Springs, CO:

106.4

Misc. Goods & Services:

100.9

Kansas City, KS:

94.4

Ec n i In RETAIL SPENDING

50 | WINTER 2023

BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED

AUTO SPENDING

YTD 2022: $3,085,948,041

YTD 2022: $541,224,918

July 2022: $74,364,029

YTD 2023: $3,087,432,827

YTD 2023: $943,205,510

July 2023: $75,239,490

% Change: +.05%

% Change: +74.3%

% Change: +1.2%

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 51

CHAMBER NEWS

COMMUNITY LEADERS VISIT ORLANDO, FL Each year, the Greater Waco Chamber undertakes a visit to a community similar to Greater Waco. The trip is designed to provide community leaders the opportunity to learn from and exchange ideas with other leaders with the ultimate goal of adapting and implementing new, innovative economic development ideas, programs, initiatives and best practices in the Greater Waco community. In 2023, community leaders visited Greater Orlando, Florida. Presenting sponsorship is provided by Baylor University. n

GREATER WACO CHAMBER CELEBRATES MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES This year, your Chamber has been thrilled to celebrate milestone anniversaries with some of our longest standing Chamber members. This fall, we commemorated these occasions by presenting awards to each of these businesses. n Specialty Restoration 25 Years of Membership Waco Founder Lions Club 25 Years of Membership Howmet Aerospace 50 Years of Membership Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network 50 Years of Membership 52 | WINTER 2023

GREATER WACO CHAMBER NAMES NEW MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR The Greater Waco Chamber announced the selection of Gabriella Colurciello to serve as the Marketing & Communications Director. Colurciello joined the Chamber staff in March 2019 and has demonstrated her commitment to the organization and community. She has lived and worked in Waco for just a few years but is excited to call Waco home.

Colurciello grew up in Lockhart, Texas and attended the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton. She graduated from UMHB with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and a minor in psychology in May 2016. n

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 53

CHAMBER NEWS

GREATER WACO CHAMBER HOSTS STATE OF SERIES In late 2023, the Greater Waco Chamber hosted its State Of Series. First, at the State of the Nation, attendees heard legislative updates from U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz.

Presenting sponsorships provided by Ascension Providence and Texas State Technical College.

U.S. CONGRESSMAN PETE SESSIONS

U.S. SENATOR TED CRUZ

WACO MAYOR DILLON MEEK

MCLENNAN COUNTY JUDGE SCOTT FELTON

Next, at the State of the City and County Luncheon, the Chamber welcomed City of Waco Mayor Dillon Meek and McLennan County Judge Scott Felton to give updates on area developments, challenges and an overall view of Greater Waco. Presenting sponsorships provided by Ascension Providence, Kelly, Realtors and Texas State Technical College.

The series concluded with the State of the State Luncheon. The luncheon began with a presentation from Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar followed by a moderated Q&A with Representatives Charles “Doc” Anderson and Angelia Orr. Presenting sponsorships provided by Ascension Providence, Tarleton State University and Texas State Technical College. n

REPRESENTATIVES CHARLES “DOC” ANDERSON AND ANGELIA ORR

COMPTROLLER GLENN HEGAR

KICK OFF LUNCHEON At the annual Kick Off Luncheon in August, the Greater Waco Chamber presented Mike Cadell with the Dave Campbell Award in recognition for his commitment to football in Greater Waco. In addition, attendees heard from Baylor University’s Head Football Coach, Dave Aranda, and a keynote presentation from former Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers and Washington Commanders (Redskins) football player, Santana Dotson. Presenting sponsor was Jim Turner Chevrolet. n

54 | WINTER 2023

JOHN MORRIS WITH SANTANA DOTSON

MIKE CADELL

WACO CHAMBER BIG CUP CLASSIC In mid-September, the Greater Waco Chamber hosted the Waco Chamber Big Cup Classic with presenting sponsor, Hemisphere Aerospace. We could not have asked for nicer weather for networking, golfing and fun! Special congratulations to our “Kind-Of-A-Big-Deal” Cup winners, Uzin Utz North America, for hosting a great hole during the tournament. Thanks to all of the players who joined us and congratulations to our tournament winners. n

TIP OFF LUNCHEON At the annual Tip Off Luncheon in October, the Greater Waco Chamber presented Quinton Snell with the Frank Fallon Award in recognition for his commitment to basketball in Greater Waco.

In addition, attendees heard from Baylor Men’s Basketball, Baylor Women’s Basketball, McLennan Community College’s Men’s and Women’s Basketball coaches, and a keynote presentation from American entrepreneur, philanthropist, education activist, and former high school basketball player and coach, Ken Carter. Presenting sponsor was Jim Turner Chevrolet. n

KEN CARTER

QUINTON SNELL

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 55

CHAMBER NEWS

POLICE CHIEF SHERYL VICTORIAN NAMED 2023 ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT AT LEADING WACO WOMEN SERVING SUMMIT In November, the Greater Waco Chamber brought its 2023 Leading Waco Women Summit Series to a close with the Serving Summit. The event featured a keynote presentation from Felecia Mulkey, Baylor University’s head acrobatics and tumbling coach, and a panel discussion with the ATHENA Leadership Award finalists: Christy De Leon, TFNB Your Bank for Life; Dr. Peaches Henry, WacoMcLennan County NAACP; Leah Stewart, The Olive Branch; Chief Sheryl Victorian, Waco Police Department. Following the panel, Chief Sheryl Victorian was named Waco’s 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient, for her leadership and involvement in the community. Presenting sponsorship is provided by Ascension Providence. n

56 | WINTER 2023

LEADERSHIP WACO CLASS 39 CREATES OUTDOOR LEARNING SPACE AT BROOK AVENUE ELEMENTARY In August, the Greater Waco Chamber’s Leadership Waco Class 39 celebrated the completion of its group project: a brandnew garden and outdoor learning space at Brook Avenue Elementary. The project provided an all-weather whiteboard, shed, 18 cedar planters, nine benches, three picnic tables, a potting table and rainwater collection bins.

“The class raised more than $21,000 for this project, making it the largestscale, community-driven Leadership Waco project that we’ve experienced to date,” said Rachel Martinez, Director of Leadership Development of the Greater Waco Chamber. “This class was truly invested in Waco’s growth and significantly impacting our community.

Leadership Waco has always been about individuals working together on solutions to community needs, and the Brook Avenue project revitalized an area that is now a beautiful and sustainable space for students to learn for years to come.”

Presenting sponsor for Leadership Waco is Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP. n WACOCHAMBER.COM | 57

MEMBER NEWS PHOTO: JERRY LARSON / WACO TRIB

BALCONES DISTILLING WINS WHISKEY OF THE YEAR AWARD Balcones Distilling’s Texas 1 Single Malt was awarded the highest honor of Whiskey of the Year at the New Orleans Spirits Competition presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation. In addition to this recognition, Balcones Distilling received category Double Gold for Balcones Texas 1 Single Malt, which means it was named Best American Single Malt, as well as Best Single Malt overall. To add to the list, Balcones Lineage Texas Single Malt also won Gold in the Whiskey category.

“Tales of the Cocktail is a fantastic event and it’s a huge honor to take home any medal in The New Orleans Spirits Competition,” said Jared Himstedt, head distiller at Balcones Distilling. “To be recognized for both of our American Single Malts is a testament to our team who pioneers the category

58 | WINTER 2023

every day, showing great whiskies can come from the state of Texas.”

These awards come on the heels of Balcones being named American Single Malt Distillery of the Year at 2023 New York International Spirits Competition, as well as Double Gold for Texas 1 Single Malt, and Gold for Lineage Texas Single Malt and Pilgrimage Single Malt respectively. n

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 59

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Oak & Ivy Wine Bar Bistro Ribbon Cutting on March 16, 2023

Oak & Ivy Wine Bar Bistro offers a unique dining experience that combines a sophisticated atmosphere with New American cuisine. In addition to a full dinner menu, there is an extensive selection of wines, cocktails, cheese, and charcuterie. Oak & Ivy also offers private events on site and catering for outside events.

If you love great food, fantastic drinks and good company, Oak & Ivy is the place for you.

Josh Sims, General Manager 13701 Woodway Dr #619, Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 615-3111 oakandivywinebar.com

Humane Society of Central Texas Ribbon Cutting on June 20, 2023

Local Skate Rats

Ribbon Cutting on May 9, 2023

Dan Rettinger, a recent graduate from the Baylor University Business school, had his official ribbon cutting for Local Skate Rats. Dan started his hand drawn clothing company while studying at Baylor in 2021. His mission is to support local, create clothing from a California coastal influence, and help other entrepreneurs start their own business.

Dan supports local by hosting monthly “Skate Rat” Vendor markets that include college and Waco vendors.

Dan Rettinger, Owner (818) 665-6623 localskaterats.com

Stretch Zone Waco South Ribbon Cutting on June 26, 2023

The Humane Society partnered with City of Waco Animal Services to joyously celebrate the grand re-opening of the Waco Animal Shelter Adoption Floor Shade Pavilion. This revamped space now offers a refreshing, cooler environment, ensuring comfort in the hot Texas summer months for both community members and campus staff. It has enhanced the experience of introducing adoptable dogs, making it a more pleasant experience for all involved.

Stretch Zone Waco South opened March 24th, 2023. They celebrated their grand opening with the community June 26th, 2023. The Joneses are happy to bring practitioner assisted stretching to Waco and the surrounding areas. The best feeling is knowing that not only their clients, but also, their practitioners are achieving a better quality of life. When clients are out doing things they love most, it makes their practitioners grateful that their services are warranted.

Brooke Farrell, Director of Development & Public Relations 2032 Circle Rd, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 754-1454 humanesocietycentraltexas.org

Valerie Jones, General Manager/Owner 2816 Marketplace Dr, #130, Waco, TX 76711 (254) 732-2218 stretchzone.com/locations/waco-south

60 | WINTER 2023

SPONSORED BY

The Carlson Law Firm Ribbon Cutting on June 28, 2023

The lawyers at The Carlson Law Firm Waco have been putting their heart into helping their community for over 20 years. If you’ve been injured, a Carlson Law Firm personal injury lawyer will be your guide through the legal process. The Carlson Law Firm in Waco is consistently voted one of the best law firms and trial lawyers by clients and neighbors because of their signature customer service. Schedule your free consultation today.

Dominic Braus, Partner 2420 I-35 South, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 772-5653 carlsonattorneys.com

Home2 Suites by Hilton Waco Ribbon Cutting on July 11, 2023

Home2 Suites by Hilton Waco held a joint ribbon cutting event with the McGregor Chamber and Greater Waco Chamber to celebrate recent renovations. As a pet friendly hotel and to give back to the community, the celebration had a pet adoption and free microchips for local pets. Home2 is an allsuite, extended-stay hotel that offers eco-friendly amenities.

The spacious suites feature a kitchen and extra room for personal storage and a place to work.

Laura Samaniego, Director of Sales 2500 Bagby Ave, Waco, TX 76706 (254) 752-4400 home2waco.home2suitesbyhilton.com

Emerald Transformer Ribbon Cutting on July 11, 2023

Emerald Transformer, the leading solution provider for distribution electrical equipment, proudly announced the grand opening of its new transformer facility in Waco, TX. To commemorate this momentous occasion, it brought together esteemed community dignitaries, industry leaders, and valued stakeholders. This plant’s product offerings include refurbishing transformers coupled with decommission, field service, field decommission, recycling, and oil lab testing services.

Amy Meyer, Marketing Manager 5652 N State Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76712 (254) 587-0005 emeraldtransformer.com

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice of Waco Ribbon Cutting on July 14, 2023

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice has been scooping up tasty frozen treats since 1996. A decadent yet refreshing treat with maximum flavor that spans the taste spectrum, from the everyday to the exquisite and eccentric flavors. For an ultimate Jeremiah’s experience, be sure to grab a Gelati – their showcase menu item consisting of a perfect layering of Italian Ice and Soft Ice Cream. A true indulgence - when you visit!

Jeremiah’s likes to keep things fun and upbeat, always staying true to the company motto: LIVE LIFE TO THE COOLEST! William Canelos, Owner 1230 N Valley Mills Dr, #500, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 301-7120 jeremiahsice.com WACOCHAMBER.COM | 61

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Farmhouse 1905

Ribbon Cutting on July 25, 2023

Farmhouse 1905 is a ranch-style wedding venue, located just twenty minutes from Waco, Texas. The venue features a private lake, ten acres of rolling meadows, a historic farmhouse that accommodates 14 guests, and a 3,900 sq.ft. white barn with amazing views. A perfect place to celebrate weddings with up to 200 guests, corporate events, graduations, birthdays, memorials, idyllic retreats away from the city. Farmhouse 1905 combines rustic charm with modern amenities to create happy memories.

Ash Chary, Venue Manager 7582 Spring Valley Rd, Moody, TX 76557 (512) 436-3448 farmhouse1905.com

Studio Gallery

Ribbon Cutting on July 27, 2023

Studio Gallery Inc. is a 54-year old, family-owned business, offering the most creative custom picture framing in Central Texas. Over the years, Studio Gallery has had the opportunity to assist their clients with many special projects, from shadowboxing your grandfather’s war medals to framing your baby’s first drawing. No matter the size or the uniqueness of the job at hand, Studio Gallery makes sure that each customer’s piece is treated and framed to preservation standards.

Lance Magid, Owner 4712 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 772-0907 studiogallerywaco.com 62 | WINTER 2023

Centex Realty Group Ribbon Cutting on July 26, 2023

Centex Realty Group is a branch of Classic Realty, where dreams of owning your home come true. The dedicated team of professionals at Centex Realty Group are there to guide you through the exciting journey of buying or selling property.

Providing quality customer service while building long-term relationships is top priority. So, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, visit their office today and let them help you find your perfect property.

Evan Carpenter, Branch Director Kolbey Carpenter, Team Lead Lorrie Kennedy, Broker 4714 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710 (254) 300-5101 Centexrealtygroup.com

Refresco

Ribbon Cutting on August 3, 2023

The team at Refresco Waco held an official ribbon cutting event to celebrate their transition from The Coca-Cola Company to Refresco. Refresco is a global independent beverage solutions provider for retailers and global, national and emerging (GNE) brands in Europe, North America and Australia. They transitioned the Waco facility at the start of 2022 bringing onboard almost 400 employees. The plant is one of the most technically advanced facilities across the Refresco network in North America.

Tabitha Muniz, Human Resources Business Partner 8400 Imperial Dr, Waco, TX 76712 (254) 666-5500 refresco-na.com/na

WACOCHAMBER.COM | 63

NEW MEMBERS

PRESENTED BY

202 Beauty Lounge 215 S 2nd St #103 Waco, TX 76701 (254) 300-4757 202BeautyLounge.com

Benchmark Mortgage 5525 Speegleville Rd #104 Waco, TX 76712 (254) 870-0370 AdamGoldenberg.Benchmark.us

Fairway Independent Mortgage Reverse (254) 537-5020 FairwayReverse.com/loan-officers/timharder

A-Affordable Boat & RV Storage (Lorena) 1751 Old Lorena Rd Lorena, TX 76655 (866) 788-0768 A-AffordableStorage.net

Blessie MJ Photo 107 Topeka Dr Woodway, TX 76712 BlessieMJPhoto.MyPixieSet.com

Family Martial Arts of Texas 7005 Woodway Dr Ste 111 Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 772-5425 FamilyMartialArtsOfTexas.com

Affordable Outdoor 1116 S Connally Dr Elm Mott, TX 76640 (254) 644-6535 AffordableOutdoorBuildings.com Allsup’s 315 S University Parks Dr Waco, TX 76701 (254) 294-8034 AllSups.com Angelia Orr for State Representative 214 E Elm St Hillsboro, TX 76645 AngeliaOrr.com Associated Builders and Contractors Central Texas Chapter 2600 Longhorn Blvd Ste 105 Austin, TX 78758 (512) 719-5263 ABCCentralTexas.org Baker Fabrication LLC 202 Mid Tex Rd Lorena, TX 76655 (254) 749-5902 TheHoseMule.com Bancin Business Services 9401 Woodway Dr Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 399-6833 BancinServices.com Barrett Bailey - Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtor 500 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 101 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 715-5656 CBApex.com/agent/2547155656/barrett-bailey BC Roofing and Construction 108 Adrian Dr Robinson, TX 76706 (254) 366-3618 BCRoofingAndConstruction.com BCT, Inc. Trucking 7200 Mars Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 741-8247 PackagingCorp.com 64 | WINTER 2023

Brazos Water Sports (254) 749-0820 BrazosWaterSports.com C & D Medical Aesthetics 1603 N Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76710 (512) 665-6911 CDMedicalAesthetics.com/waco-medspa CapabilitySource 913 Franklin Ave Ste 201 Waco, TX 76701 (866) 406-2790 CapabilitySource.com Cave Holdings USA, Inc 8443 N Hwy 6 Crawford, TX 76638 (703) 232-1433 Cave-Holdings.com Centex Realty Group 4714 W Waco Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 300-5101 CentexRealtyGroup.com Da’ Shack Farmers Market Health and Wellness, Inc. 925 Houston St Waco, TX 76704 (817) 374-0155 Da-Shack-Farmers-Market.business.site Dakota Premium Hardwoods LLC 6805 Imperial Dr Ste D Waco, TX 76712 (254) 772-9663 DakotaHardwoods.com Dave’s Burger Barn 600 N Patricia Waco, TX 76705 (254) 867-8000 DavesBurgerBarn.com Deerfield Estates & Venue 915 Spring Lake Rd Waco, TX 76705 (254) 284-0070 DeerfieldVenue.com

Farmer Veteran Coalition 1516 Austin Ave Unit 2 Waco, TX 76701 (855) FVC-FARM FarmVetCo.org Fidelity Bank of Texas - (Robinson branch) 410 S Robinson Dr Waco, TX 76706 (254) 662-3931 FBOT.com FloorCo. Premium Flooring & More 16000 Woodway Dr Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 870-3400 FloorCoPremium.com Foster Village Waco 9191 Woodway Dr Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 716-1301 FosterVillageWaco.org Girling Personal Care 1404 S New Rd Ste 100 Waco, TX 76711 (254) 751-0200 Girling.com Glory Bell Coffee 600 Columbus Ave Waco, TX 76701 (254) 307-8577 GloryBellCoffee.com GLS 613 Austin Ave Ste E2 Waco, TX 76701 (254) 218-1544 GLSTexas.com Grafix Gorilla, LLC 513 Connie Dr Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 447-7266 GrafixGorillatx.com Graham Property Company (254) 301-6502 GrahamPropertyCo.com

BOARD OF ADVISOR - BRONZE Graphic Packaging International Gateway Blvd Waco, TX 76712 (901) 417-0971 GraphicPkg.com H&R Carpet 19743 N IH-35 Service Rd West, TX 76691 (254) 749-4944 HAndRCarpet.com Heart of Texas Goodwill Community Connect 1000 E Waco Dr Waco, TX 76704 (254) 753-7337 HOTGoodwill.org Hispanic Leaders’ Network 605 Austin Ave Waco, TX 76701 (254) 715-7554 HLN-Waco.org Holos Medical Spa, LLC 6701 Sanger Ave Ste 105C Waco, TX 76710 (254) 265-4576 HolosMedicalSpa.com Holos Wellness, PLLC 6701 Sanger Ave Ste 105A Waco, TX 76710 (254) 424-4373 HolosWellness.net Home Abstract & Title Co. 1227-A N Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 524-5241 HomeAbstract.com Home Abstract & Title Co. 500 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 111 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 524-5241 HomeAbstract.com Hotel 1928 701 Washington Ave Waco, TX 76701 (254) 342-3911 TheHotel1928.com Impact Health Sharing (254) 723-1179 ImpactHealthSharing.com Imperium Public Affairs (512) 922-1583 ImperiumPA.com

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Ivy Kids of Waco 9201 Chapel Rd Waco, TX 76712 (254) 679-7775 IvyKids.com/listing/ivy-kids-of-waco

Magnolia RV Resort LLC. 3096 New Dallas Hwy Waco, TX 76705 (254) 799-3105 MagnoliaRVResort.com

J.A. Green Accounting Services, PLLC 9401 Woodway Dr Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 399-6833 JAGreenCPA.com

Mammoth Realty 2124 Stinson Ct Lorena, TX 76655 (254) 523-4800 MammothRealty.net

James A Edmond American Legion Post 121 (Old Linden Hall) 722 Leroy Pkwy Elm Mott, TX 76640 (904) 329-6496 James-A-Edmond-Post-121.org

Mayer LLP 750 N St Paul St #700 Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 379-6900 MayerLLP.com

Jardon Tile Company 3708 Parrot Waco, TX 76707 (254) 715-0237 JardonTileCompany.com Jeremiah’s Ice of Waco 1230 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 500 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 301-7120 JeremiahsIce.com JPMorgan Chase & Co. 320 N New Rd Waco, TX 76710 (254) 776-9500 Chase.com JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Downtown Branch) 720 S 5th St Ste 100 Waco, TX 76706 (254) 340-6054 Chase.com JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Hewitt Branch) 800 Hewitt Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 666-1428 Chase.com King Electric (254) 744-5883 Facebook.com/KingElectricWaco Lawrence Brothers Investments 101 Spring Oak Waco, TX 76705 (254) 301-1950 LawrenceBrosInvestments.com Lean On Me I.T. 510 Austin Ave Ste 25513 Waco, TX 76701 (254) 300-6213 LeanOnMeIT.com 66 | WINTER 2023

Merritt Engineering, LLC (254) 709-5720 MerrittEngineeringServices.com MetalMax 10231 South IH-35 Waco, TX 76706 (254) 230-4141 MetalMax.com Micah Renovato - Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors 500 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 101 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 721-7909 MRenovato.CBApex.com Montgomery Construction & Roofing 1998 Cooksey Ln Lorena, TX 76655 (254) 655-1024 RoofsTexas.com My Xpress Laundry 202 E Crest Dr Waco, TX 76705 (254) 304-0949 MyXpressLaundry.com Newman Technology Solutions 1902 N 3rd St Temple, TX 76501 (254) 239-5138 NTSI-us.com North Capital Consultants 510 Austin Ave #25534 Waco, TX 76701 (512) 792-0234 Northwestern Mutual Waco 510 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 503 Waco, TX 76710 (254) 227-5610 NorthwesternMutual.com

NuGenesis Medical Spa and Veincare 1000 West SH 6 Ste 430 Waco, TX 76712 (254) 776-7546 WacoMedicalSpa.com Partners Land Fund 1360 Post Oak Blvd Ste 1900 Houston, TX 77056 (832) 421-8710 PartnersRealEstate.com Patient First DPC 7917 Woodway Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 863-8741 PatientFirstDirect.com BOARD OF ADVISOR - BRONZE PJC Investments, LLC 204 Woodhew Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 532-4422 Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas 700 W Hwy 6 Ste B Waco, TX 76712 (254) 759-5750 PlannedParenthood.org/plannedparenthood-greater-texas Poseidon Property Maintenance LLC 10412 China Spring Rd Ste F #1098 Waco, TX 76708 (254) 870-8550 PoseidonPropertyMaintenance.com Precision Garage Door of Waco 1100 Jewell Dr Waco, TX 76712 (254) 522-9657 PrecisionDoorCentralTX.com BOARD OF ADVISOR - BRONZE PRIDE Industries 1 Chisholm Trl Rd Ste #450 Round Rock, TX 78681 (800) 550-6005 PrideIndustries.com Prime Asphalt 3096 New Dallas Hwy Waco, TX 76705 (817) 689-8965 TexasTarAndChip.com Quality Cabinets 720 New Dallas Hwy Bldg 1 Waco, TX 76705 (254) 744-0938

Ramble and Company 216 S 11th St Waco, TX 76701 (940) 851-9882 Shop.RambleAndCompany.com Reign Coffee Company 10214 China Spring Rd Ste 100 Waco, TX 76708 (254) 836-5075 ReignCoffeeCompany.com Renew Vitality Clinic 7003 Woodway Dr Ste 302 Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 216-2343 RenewVitalityClinic.com Rent-A-Center 622 N Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 772-2668 RentACenter.com Russ Davis Homes 2125 Stinson Ct Lorena, TX 76655 (254) 294-5800 RussDavisHomes.com S & S Machining and Fabrication LLC 1331 N Hwy 14 Groesbeck, TX 76642 (254) 729-3685 SAndSMachining.com Segovia Wine Bar 300 S 6th St Unit F Waco, TX 76701 (254) 294-8600 SegoviaWineBar.com Star Tex Propane LLC 1201 LaSalle Ave Waco, TX 76706 (254) 752-6591 StarTexPropane.com STUDIO CTX 5496 N SH 6 Ste 2 Waco, TX 76712 (888) 593-3101 StudioCTX.com Tinovus Health, PLLC 9111 Jordan Ln Ste 300 Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 253-2855 TinovusHealth.com TRL Construction LLC 463 Meadow Ln Crawford, TX 76638 (682) 774-7534 facebook.com/profile. php?id=100093767476789 WACOCHAMBER.COM | 67

NEW MEMBERS True Value Hardware 1200 Richland Dr Ste I Waco, TX 76710 (254) 230-9695 Stores.TrueValue.com/tx/waco/22775 Trujillo’s Restaurant Inc 2612 La Salle Ave Waco, TX 76706 (254) 756-1331 facebook.com/ TrujillosMexicanRestaurant Tyler Anderson, REALTOR - Coldwell Banker Apex Realtors 500 N Valley Mills Dr Waco, TX 76710 (254) 723-4082 TAnderson.CBWaco.com Ultimate Poolscapes of Texas, Inc. 22010 Woodway Dr Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 224-6646 UltimatePoolscapesWaco.com Waco Bounce House Rentals LLC (254) 870-8078 WacoBounceHouseRentals.com Waco Creekside Resort 1972 Leroy Pkwy Elm Mott, TX 76640 (254) 651-3999 WacoCreeksideResort.com Waco Junk Removal LLC 923 Westgate l Rd Eddy, TX 76524 (254) 414-0444 JunkRemovalWaco.com Will Phipps - Coldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate 500 N Valley Mills Dr Ste 201 Waco, TX 76710 (817) 528-1079 JimStewartRealtors-waco-tx. cbcworldwide.com/professionals/ profile/105F2C1C-7FC6-4331-AB4E2CE6A6AB4CCD Woodway Family Dental 5525 Speegleville Rd Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 297-4444 WoodwayFamilyDental.com

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 30 Waco, Texas P.O. Box 1220 Waco TX 76703-1220