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Vol. 25 No. 4 April 2016Learn How to Market on a Shoestring Budget

pg. 7

Costly Overtime Rule Could Affect Your Business

pg. 12

Don’t miss Lubbock Uncorked on April 15!

pg. 6®

April 15Lubbock Uncorked

Reserve Your Sponsorships Today!

May 12Business Expo

May 5Community Prayer Luncheon

Cinco de Mayo Reception

October 6Business Mercado

Hispanic Heritage Luncheon

July 18Golf Classic

September 22Hub City BBQAugust 31

Football Kick-Off Breakfast

September 29State of the TTU Luncheon

September 28-29Legislative Forum

AND MUCH, MUCH, MORE! Contact us today!

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Thank you to our 5-Star Sponsors!

Lubbock Business Network

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In the News this Month:

A Message from the Chamber

Don’t Miss Lubbock Uncorked on April 15 .....................................6Learn How to Market on a Shoestring Budget .............................7Chamber Joins Legal Efforts on Changes to Persuader Rule ...9Costly Overtime Rule Could Affect Your Business .................... 12Chamber to Host Mayoral Candidate Forum ............................. 12Chamber Announces Young Entrepreneurs Academy ........... 13

Since 1913, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s mission of strengthening, promoting and serving its member businesses has positively benefitted the entire region and local quality of life.

As the largest business federation on the South Plains, the Chamber represents over 2,000 members who employ over 79,000 workers, and account for over $2 billion in annual household earnings in Lubbock and West Texas, all without tax dollars.

Each day, the Chamber strengthens, promotes and serves its member businesses through numerous programs and events. The Chamber advocates on local, state and federal levels and offers diverse programs for both large and small as well as minority-owned businesses.

Share Your News!To submit an article about your business, to purchase Lubbock Business Network sponsorships, contact the Chamber’s Communications and Marketing Division at (806) 761-7000.

®

Click here to visit the videos page on our website. This will keep you up to date with our latest ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings and testimonials.

2016 Board of DirectorsExecutive CommitteeChairwoman Beth Bridges, South Plains MallImmediate Past Chairman Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialities, Inc.Chairwoman Elect Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance AgencyTreasurer David Park, Atmos EnergySecretary Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of CommerceVice Chairman - Business Advocacy Michael Calvillo, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds/The ButlerVice Chairman - Chamber Services and Member Engagement Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust Co. Vice Chairwoman - Communications and Public Relations Kathy Oaks, American Cancer SocietyVice Chairman - Community Development Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech - Institutional Diversity, Equity and Community EngagementVice Chairman - Programs, Services and Events Scott Fagin, First United Bank Board of DirectorsCarmen Aguirre, Children’s Advocacy Center of the South PlainsByrnie Bass, R. Byrn Bass, Jr., Attorney at LawSharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center LubbockAlona Beesinger, SuddenlinkRon Betenbough, Betenbough HomesKevin Bryan, Digital Base ProductionsKeith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School DistrictRenee Gonzales Davis, Alderson Enterprises/Mercedes-BenzLinda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/RatcliffJeff Horn, Benchmark Business SolutionsChris James, United SupermarketsBrent King, UMC Health SystemChris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’sDave Marcinkowski, Madera CompaniesRichard Parks, Covenant HealthBill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAsTony Pena, FirstCapital BankL. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian UniversityCathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health SystemVanessa Reasoner, Grace Health SystemsDr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School DistrictShannon Spencer, Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc.Marcie Truby, Hyatt Place LubbockPolly Vann, V-tech Environmental ServicesChuck Walker, FirstCare Health PlansConnie Wharton, ConsultantTyler Young, Texas Tech Federal Credit Union

Lubbock Business Network

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Apr i l5 Ribbon Cutting: Lubbock Apartment Association’s 50th Anniversary 11:30 a.m. – 4227 85th Street Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee Meeting – 3:30 p.m. – LCOC Young Professional’s First Tuesday Networking – 5:30 p.m. Buffalo Wild Wings, 6320 19th St. Mayoral Candidate Forum – 6 p.m. – Live on KAMC

6 Ribbon Cutting: Walmart Grand Opening – 7:30 a.m. – 11415 S. Quaker Ave. Ribbon Cutting: Graham Construction & A/C – 11:30 a.m. – 2614 130th St. #21 New Century Leadership Steering Committee Meeting – 1 p.m. – LCOC Golf Classic Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC

7 Ag Committee Meeting – 8 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: 2016 Cotton Ginners Association Annual Meeting & Trade-Show – 9 a.m. – Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Lane Ribbon Cutting: Ag Resource Management – 4 p.m. – 2732 82nd St., Suite B Business After Hours sponsored by Las Brisas Southwest Steakhouse – 5:30 p.m. 4701 112th St.

8 Government Relations Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC

12 Ribbon Cutting: South Plains Job Fair – 9:45 a.m. – Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Lane Ribbon Cutting: The Bridge at Raider Ranch – 3 p.m. – 6550 43rd St. Ribbon Cutting: AimMortgage – 4 p.m. – 6102 Chicago Ave. #400 13 New Century Leadership: Community Service Day – ALL DAY

14 Lubbock Uncorked Wine Dinner – 6:30 p.m. – Reserve Your Seat Today!

15 Ribbon Cutting: Lubbock Uncorked – 2:45 p.m – Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, 511 Ave. K Lubbock Uncorked – 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, 511 Ave. K

18 Ribbon Cutting: Kindred At Home – 11 a.m. – 3223 S. Loop 289 Ste. 325 Young Professionals of Lubbock Steering Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Kingdom Come Ministries – 1:30 p.m. – Stubbs Park, 36th & Ave. L

19 Leadership Lubbock: Ropes Day – ALL DAY

20 Ribbon Cutting: Small Business Expo – 8 a.m. – McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center, 17th & University Ambassador Luncheon sponsored by FirstBank & Trust – Noon FirstBank & Trust, 9816 Slide Rd. Business Expo Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – Wells Fargo Building, 1500 Broadway, 2nd Floor - San Jacinto Room

21 Chamber University: Marketing on a Shoestring Budget – 8 a.m. The Hyatt Place, 2309 Mac Davis Lane Executive Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Business After Hours sponsored by Casey Carpet One – 5:30 p.m. 6000 Spur 327, Ste. 327

25 New Century Leadership Graduation Banquet – 5 p.m. – Baker Conference Center on LCU Campus, 5601 19th St.

26 Ribbon Cutting: Community Health Center – 3:30 p.m. – 1610 5th St.

27 Community Prayer Lunch Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC

28 Board of Directors Meeting – 10 a.m. – *LCOC = Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

Young Professionals of LubbockFirst Tuesday Networking

sponsored by

April 5th5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

For a complete list of Chamber and member events, visit our calendar online at lubbockchamber.com/events.

6320 19th St.

Business After Hourssponsored by:

April 21st 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.6000 Spur 327, Ste. 327

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber StaffPresident/CEO Eddie McBride, IOMExecutive Vice President Norma Ritz Johnson, CCE, IOMCFO/COO Sheri Nugent, IOMVice President - Communications & Public Realtions Tammi BoozerVice President - Programs, Services & Events Christye WeldCommunity Development Director Amy Marquez, IOMMember Relations Director Cathy PotterCommunications Specialist Haily AssiterEvents Specialist Allison CottrellGovernment Relations Specialist Stevie PooleEvents Specialist Peyton WaldripAdministrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy MoffettAccounting Assistant Patricia PiconCustomer Service Representative Melinda RodriquezInterns Mallory Barnett Maegan Hruby

f

Lubbock Chamber Business Show

Get the latest Chamber news AND hear from a different Chamber Member each week!

Tune into KRFE 580 AMEVERY Monday @ Noon

Business After Hourssponsored by:

April 7th5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

4701 112th St.Click here to learn more about the

Rhine River Cruisesetting sail October 19!

Lubbock Business Network

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Lubbock Uncorked Wine Festival on April 15 will be “Grape Barrels of Fun!”Come out to the Louis Hopkins Underwood Center for the

Arts (LHUCA), 511 Avenue K, on Fri., April 15 for the Lubbock Uncorked Wine Festival! This event will be inside and outside, on the Plaza and on the streets surrounding LHUCA from 3 p.m.-9 p.m. The festival will feature wine tasting, wine education classes, boutique beer tasting, food from food trucks and local restaurants, and some of the best music Lubbock has to offer.

Help us celebrate one of Lubbock’s hidden gems—a growing wine industry that is thriving with some of the best winemakers and grape growers in the country! Learn about wine made from grapes grown right here in Lubbock and find out why their unique taste have winemakers from all over the state purchasing from the South Plains. If you don’t like wine, come for the beer, food and music!

Tickets are now on sale at the Chamber office, 1500 Broadway, Suite 101, and through www.selectaseat.com. They can also be purchased at Market Street and all area United Supermarkets. They are $25 before the event and $30 at the door.

To kick off Lubbock Uncorked, there will be an award dinner on Thurs., April 14 at the Texas Tech Frazier Alumni Center from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. The dinner will begin a tradition of honoring individuals who have made important strides in grape-growing or wine-making in the Lubbock area. Tickets are $40, and Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. They are available at the Chamber by calling (806) 761-7000.

Sponsorships for the dinner and “Lubbock Uncorked” are still available. To reserve your sponsorship, call the Chamber today at (806) 761-7000.

Thank you to the 2016 Lubbock Uncorked Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsors:

Diamond Sponsor: KCBD News Channel 11

Emerald Sponsors: Purple Tie Valet, Suddenlink Communications

Platinum Sponsors: Arctic Glacier USA, Inc., Awesome 98!, Caprock Winery, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, KING FM 105.7, KISS FM 102.5, 99.5 Lone Star, Red Dirt Rebel 105.3 FM

Band Sponsors: Alderson Cadillac, Carpet Tech, First United Bank

Copper Sponsors: GO TEXAN, The Posh Du Salon

Gold Sponsors: Atmos Energy, Benchmark Business Solutions, Craftsman Printers, Choice Media, Forza Safety, Griffin Wink Advertising, Kinetico, Republic National Distributing

Silver Sponsors: Overton Hotel & Conference Center, Prosperity Bank – Main Branch

Stemware Sponsor: Sanford & Tatum

Wine Tasting Tent/Room Sponsor: South Plains Mall Office, Western Bank

Thanks to our 2016 Uncorked Dinner Sponsors!

Diamond sponsor: Llano Estacado Winery

Platinum Sponsors: Caprock Winery, McPherson Cellars

Register for a Wine Education Class5:30 p.m. - “Sip & Savor: The Pairing of Texas Wines & Texas Shrimp”, sponsored by the GO TEXAN program through the Texas Department of Agriculture.

7:00 p.m. - “Say Cheese & Flowers: Discovering the Perfect Marriage of Texas Wine, Flowers and Cheeses”

Click here to register for one of these classes on April 15.

Band Line-Up Announced!

Charlie Stout; 3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.Landon Scoggins; 4 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Alissa Beyer; 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.Joey Green; 6:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Dolly Shine; 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Join us for a Cinco de Mayo Celebration!We will celebrate diversity in the Lubbock business

community by hosting a Cinco de Mayo Reception on Thursday, May 5 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Landwer-Manicapelli House, located in Buddy Holly Park off of North University. This reception is a great way to see exactly what diversity can do for a working community!

The Chamber recognizes that diversity unlocks creative potential, as well as innovation in the workforce, and these aspects of diversity are the driving factors for market growth and productivity.

Located in the heart of the Jim Bertram Canyon Lakes System, the Landwer-Manicapelli House is part of the Fiesta plaza area. The Cinco de Mayo reception location was specifically chosen

to not only provide a culturally relevant meeting place, but also to create an atmosphere that reinforces what the Chamber supports in the working community on the grounds of diversity.

There is no cost to attend the Cinco de Mayo Reception, and sponsorships are still available! For more information, please contact Allison Cottrell at (806) 761-7000 or by email at allison.cottrell@lubbockbiz.org.

Don’t miss out on this reception that celebrates the Hispanic Community, promotes cultural diversity in the Lubbock workforce and emphasizes its importance to creative and innovative growth!

Lubbock Business Network

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Thank you to our sponsors:American National BankEvensky and Katz Wealth ManagementGoodwill Industries of Northwest TexasUnited SupermarketsWorkforce Solutions South Plains

The Chamber is proud to congratulate Plains Cotton Growers on the April Business of the Month achievement. Plains Cotton Growers along with all the other businesses of the month for 2016, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award, in December 2016.

Join us Thurs., April 21 from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at The Hyatt Place, 2309 Mac Davis Lane, for Chamber University, a program designed to address critical business topics and offer tools to navigate and thrive in the ever-

changing demands of the 21st century workplace.Each year, the Chamber University program presents one

topic of business management to attendees and this year’s topic will be “Marketing on a Shoestring Budget.” This topic gives businesses methods to market their services in an economical way that will still reach a large number of their audience.

Chamber University’s presenters will be Chuck Parr with American National Bank, Mary Myers with United Supermarkets and Marcie Truby with The Hyatt Place. Let our presenters share with you all they know about marketing your business on a tight budget! You will gain valuable information and make new connections along the way!

Chamber University will begin with check-in and breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and the seminar kicks off at 8:30 a.m. The cost of the seminar is $50 for an individual ticket, but Chamber members get a discounted price of $35 per individual ticket. For information on group pricing, please call the Chamber.

Registration is open and reservations can be made by visiting LubbockChamber.com. Any changes to reservations may be made until 5 p.m. on Mon., April 18.

Come out to Chamber University and learn what you can do to market your business efficiently and economically while still reaching your target audience! Make new connections, enjoy some breakfast and gain useful insight on how to make your business more marketable!

Learn How to Market on a Shoestring Budget at Chamber University!

Congratulations to the April Business of the Month, Plains Cotton Growers! They have been Chamber members since 1997 and PCG Executive Vice President, Steve Verett, was Chairman of the Chamber in 2006.

“Being a member of the award-winning Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is a non-negotiable part of our operation here at Plains Cotton Growers. Agriculture is a sizable part of our economy, and being a member of the Chamber allows us to not only build the relationships and coalitions outside of our normal circles that are so vital to strengthening our industry, but it also helps us to be more knowledgeable about issues facing other business sectors. That relationship helps ensure that our business community continues to thrive,” stated Mary Jane Buerkle, Director of Communications and Public Affairs.

As the voice of business the Lubbock Chamber has helped give Plains Cotton Growers a stronger voice on legislative issues as well as keep them aware of legislative and regulatory issues that impact the business community as a whole.

“The Chamber has written multiple letters of support on our behalf and encouraged businesses and other Chambers of Commerce to do the same. We can have an even greater impact in Austin and Washington when the Lubbock Chamber is on our side, and we appreciate their steadfast support of agriculture,” said Buerkle.

Plains Cotton Growers is the collective voice of the Texas High Plains cotton producer. We focus on legislation, research, promotion, and service. For 60 years, we’ve been tackling the tough issues facing cotton growers and bringing needed economic relief through beneficial legislative and regulatory changes. We help facilitate vital research that advances the cotton industry from the seed all the way to your favorite T-shirt. We identify producer leadership for the National Cotton Council, American Cotton Producers, the Cotton Board and Cotton Incorporated to ensure our growers’ seat at the table. We build relationships and coalitions, such as the Southwest

Council of Agribusiness, that advance our goals and open the door to success. We utilize various methods of communication to increase awareness about cotton and its significance to our city, state and nation.

When we asked what Plains Cotton Growers favorite Chamber event to attend Buerkle said it is difficult to pick just one, “some of our favorites include the Harvest Luncheon, the Salute to Ag Luncheon, and Chamber Day in Austin.”

“We enjoy being involved in multiple Chamber activities where we can develop meaningful relationships with business leaders across the city and region. One of the Lubbock Chamber’s greatest strengths is the ability of the staff to ensure that the right people assemble in the same room to accomplish the task at hand, whether it’s to find a solution to an issue, plan an event, or launch an initiative such as the Chamber Employer Health Plan,” Buerkle said.

The Plains Cotton Growers staff has been involved with the Chamber in a number of ways over the years by serving on various committees which include, Government Relations, Agriculture, Hub City BBQ, and the Young Professionals of Lubbock. We also work with their staff to advise us on general issues in agriculture, particularly the cotton industry, when needed as well.

Again, congratulations to Plains Cotton Growers on the April Business of the Month award!

Introducing our April Business of the Month, Plains Cotton Growers!

Lubbock Business Network

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Great Plains Distributors, LP honored with MillerCoors President’s AwardMillerCoors President Gavin Hattersley recently awarded

local beer distributor Great Plains Distributors with the "MillerCoors President’s Award" in front of some 2,000 fellow distributors from across the country.

The President’s Award was presented at the annual MillerCoors Distributor Convention held March 22-23 in New Orleans. The President’s Award recognizes sales excellence by rewarding the top performing distributors from across the five MillerCoors sales regions with a special trip for two to Vienna, Austria.

“These distributors should be extremely proud of this well-deserved recognition, as they represent the absolute best in our business,” said Hattersley. “These teams not only understand, but have successfully executed the agenda and goals we have laid forth.”

Below is the full list of MillerCoors President’s Award winners:

Central Region• GG Distributing, LLC (Longview, TX)• Golden Beverage Company, LLC (Ogden, TX)• Great Plains Distributors, Lp (Lubbock, TX)• Heart of America Beverage Company (Springfield, MO)• KEG 1 O'Neal, North Texas (Weatherford, TX)• RMC Distributing (Colorado Springs, CO)

Great Lakes Region• Bonbright Distributors (Dayton, OH)• Breakthru Beverage (Saint Paul, MN) • John P. O'Sullivan Distributing, Inc. (Flint, MI)• Kloss Distributing Co., Inc. (Gurnee, IL)• La Crosse Beverage (Onalaska, WI)• United Beverage (Waterloo, IA)

Northeast Region• Atlas Distributing, Inc. (Auburn, MA)• Beverage Distribution, Inc. (Washington, PA)• Kohler Distributing Company (Hawthorne, N.J.)• Shore Point Distributing Co., Inc. (Freehold, N.J.)• Spirit & Sanzone Distributors Co., Inc. (East Syracuse, N.Y.)• Wilson-McGinley, Inc.(Pittsburgh, PA)

Pacific Region• Beauchamp Distributing (Compton, CA)• Breakthru Beverage (North Las Vegas, NV)• Craig Stein Beverage (Boise, ID)• TEC Distributing (Twin Falls, ID)• New West Distributing Inc. (Sparks, NV)Southeast Region• Beverage South of Aiken, LLC (West Columbia, SC)• Buck Distributing Company, Inc. (Upper Marlboro, MD)• Crescent Crown Distributing (Baton Rouge, LA)• J.J. Taylor Distributing Florida, Inc. (Tampa, FL) • S.R. Perrott, Inc. (Ormond Beach, FL)• Skyland Distributing Company, Inc. (Asheville, N.C.)• Supreme Beverage Company, Inc. (Birmingham, AL)

About Great Plains DistributorsGreat Plains was founded in Lubbock, Texas, in March of

1961 as one of the first four distributors in the state assigned to sell and distribute Coors Brewing Company beers. Great Plains was exclusively assigned Lubbock County as well as 14 surrounding counties in West Texas. The Company grew substantially after becoming the exclusive distributor of the Miller Brewing Company in December of 2002.

Today, Great Plains consists of around 90 employees. The company also now distributes more than 520 items from over 90 brands, and represents 24 suppliers including our early supplier partners now known as MillerCoors

About MillerCoors Through its diverse collection of storied breweries,

MillerCoors brings American beer drinkers an unmatched selection of the highest quality beers steeped in centuries of brewing heritage. Miller Brewing Company and Coors Brewing Company offer domestic favorites such as Coors Light, Miller Lite, Miller High Life and Coors Banquet. Tenth and Blake Beer Company, our craft and import division, offers beers such as Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy from sixth-generation Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company and Blue Moon Belgian White from modern craft pioneer Blue Moon Brewing Company. Tenth and Blake also operates Crispin Cidery, an artisanal maker of pear and apple ciders using fresh-pressed American juice. The company imports world-renowned beers such as Italy’s Peroni Nastro Azzurro, the Czech Republic’s Pilsner Urquell and the Netherlands’ Grolsch. MillerCoors also offers pioneering new brands such as the Redd’s franchise and Smith & Forge Hard Cider. MillerCoors seeks to become America’s best beer company through an uncompromising promise of quality, a keen focus on innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability. MillerCoors is a joint venture of SABMiller plc and Molson Coors Brewing Company. Learn more at MillerCoors.com, at facebook.com/MillerCoors or on Twitter through @MillerCoors.

Lubbock Business Network

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Get to know Board Member, Michael CalvilloHow did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? My friend and Past Chamber Chairman, Carlos Morales, talked to me about the benefits of the Chamber and how it could help my business. As far as what keeps me involved, it is what the Chamber stands for and all they do for our community and businesses. We have the best chamber in the nation and I believe our 5-Star

Accreditation speaks to that, but I also believe the Chamber staff proves it. Our chamber goes as our staff goes, and we have hands down the best staff in the nation as well. It's easy to stay involved with something as special as the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and I’m honored to be a member with both of my businesses, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds and The Butler.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? I'm not sure I can pick just one event or program...selfishly I love the golf tournament and the Hub City BBQ. However, the Lubbock Chamber is so much more with all our committees, including the Board of Directors and Young Professionals of Lubbock (YPL) as well as new programs like the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), starting this fall.

What are some of your other community leadership roles? Besides my role with the Chamber. I also sit on the appointment Advisor Board for the City of Lubbock, Fan Advisory Board with Texas Tech Athletics, Chapter Advisor of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, and my most important role of husband and daddy at home.

Finish this sentence: Never again will I…not have one of my businesses, nor myself, not be a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

On March 31, the Lubbock Chamber joined forces with the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Texas Association of Business (TAB), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and Texas Association of Builders (Texas Builders) in filing a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas challenging the constitutionality of changes to a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) regulation known as the “persuader rule.” The group seeks an injunction on the regulations and ultimately to overturn the new rule.

“On behalf of the job creators we represent, the stakes are far too high for us to sit on the sideline and not stand up for businesses in this effort,” said Beth Bridges, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman, adding, “This joint effort in Lubbock federal court against the Obama Administration seeks to strike down the rule change because it violates First Amendment free speech rights and infringes on attorney-client privilege.”

Lubbock attorney Fernando Bustos of Bustos Law Firm, PC, is representing the Lubbock Chamber, NFIB, TAB, NAHB, and Texas Builders in the joint effort. Also representing the Lubbock Chamber, NFIB, TAB, NAHB, and Texas Builders are the Ogletree Deakins and Kemp Smith law firms.

According to Bustos, the new rule significantly changes the persuader rule, which had previously required only that businesses must report the names of individuals who directly communicate with their employees on labor issues. The new changes extend those reporting requirements to anyone providing a company with advice, behind the scenes, about how to communicate with their workers about unionization issues—which would extend those requirements to trade associations,

consulting firms and even attorneys providing legal counsel. Yet of course, nothing in the rule requires union organizers to disclose similar relationships with consulting firms or their legal counsel.

The rule change will also require that lawyers, consultants and associations in the above circumstances to not only identify themselves as persuaders advising a business facing unionization, it would also force them to publicly disclose all fees, disbursements and arrangements with all of their clients for all human resources or labor relations services, regardless of whether the lawyer is doing persuader work for any of their other clients. This includes services such as personnel handbook reviews or offering advice on workplace disciplinary action.

“The new persuader rule would place attorneys and consultants in a Catch-22,” said Bustos. “The Department of Labor would require an attorney, consultant or association labeled as a persuader to disclose work they do for their other clients or members, which is a breach of confidentiality. They have to realize that this would make it virtually impossible for most lawyers to offer advice to business owners.”

Beth Milito, Senior Legal Counsel at the NFIB Business Legal Center, explained NFIB’s concerns. “The Department of Labor, at the bidding of union allies, is attempting to deprive business owners of legal advice during a time when they need it the most. Labor law is extraordinarily complex and a small business owner could easily find themselves in hot water if they don’t understand the rules governing union elections. The new persuader rule is a perverse attempt to tilt the playing field in favor of unions.”

Chamber Joins Legal Efforts Against Changes to Persuader Rule

Lubbock Business Network

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Meet Leadership Lubbock Committee Member, Jennifer Bledsoe

Growing Community LeadersWhy did you choose to become part of the Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee? Not being from Lubbock, the Leadership Lubbock program was such a blessing to me. Not only did I learn all about the city in which I have chosen to raise my family, but I have gained new lifelong friendships.

How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? Since 2012

What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? During the class of 2012/2013 we attended a demonstration where the fire department put out a massive fire on an aircraft. It was an amazing sight and gave me a whole new respect for firefighters and what they do on a daily basis to keep us safe.

Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you?You are given the opportunity to network with the best of the best and the future leaders of our city!

Who do you work for? Happy State Bank

What is your position? Vice President of Regional Operations

What all does your position entail? I am responsible for all of the Lubbock area Happy State Bank operations. I am the liaison between our operations center in Amarillo and our Lubbock market.

How long have you been with your current company? By the grace of God, I was able to obtain my new position at Happy State Bank through a relationship/friendship built in my Leadership Lubbock class. Although I have been in banking for over 14 years, I have been with Happy State Bank now for eight months.

Share some info about your family. I am one lucky woman. My husband Shane and I have been married for 10 years. He is a sniper on the SWAT team for the Lubbock Police Department. We have two handsome boys; Drake (8) and Jax (6). In our spare time we love watching the boys play baseball. It’s our favorite time of the year!

Leadership Lubbock traveled to Austin for Lubbock Day!Thanks to our trip sponsors

for making it possible!

The 2016 Leadership Lubbock Class had a great time in Austin for Lubbock Day! They visited the Bullock Museum, LBJ Museum, toured the capitol and heard from some great speakers

including: Texas Supreme Court Justice Phil Johnson, Texas Department of Agriculture Chaplain Michael Tummillo and Texas Association of Business President, Chris Wallace.

Thanks to all off Leadership Lubbock

sponsors for their support throughout the year!

Click here to learn more about the Leadership

Lubbock program.

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Meet Young Professionals of Lubbock member, Ashley AmmonsWhy did you chose to be a member of the Young Professionals of Lubbock? I wanted to join the Young Professionals of Lubbock because I felt like it was an excellent opportunity to network with like-minded individuals who live and work in the Lubbock community.

How long have you been a YPL member? I have been a YPL member since March of 2014.

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YPL member? There are many rewarding parts of being a member of YPL. If I had to pick one, it would be relationship building with others members who work in many different industries within the Lubbock community. It’s great to have the opportunity to meet men and women in all different industries and learn how we can help each other in continuing to make Lubbock the best place to live and work. My second choice would be the lunch and learns because it provides me the opportunity to continue to better myself professionally.

Why is being a YPL member important to you? It is important to be a YPL member because we are the next generation of leaders and it’s important to know one another and constantly strive to become the best professionals we can be. YPL membership is important to me because it gives me an avenue to know other young professionals from many different professional fields and the opportunity to learn from them.

Where do you work? I work for Lubbock Area United Way.

What is your position? I am a Campaign Division Director.

What all does your position entail? I work with volunteers and employees who work in the public sector (state and federal employees). I oversee the State Employee Charitable Campaign and the Combined Federal Campaign for the Greater West Texas region. This year for the Lubbock Area United Way Annual campaign, I will be working with volunteers and employees from the local government sector, which includes the City of Lubbock, Lubbock County and Lubbock Independent School District.

How long have you been with your current company? I have been with Lubbock Area United Way since June of 2014.

“Go for the Gold” at the Business Expo with the Chamber!Give your business a competitive edge with the skills and

networking opportunities showcased at the 2016 Business Expo! The Business Expo will be held Thurs., May 12, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. A private networking event for exhibitors only will be held from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. and a ribbon cutting will be held at 9:45 a.m. to officially kickoff the event to the public.

Hosted each year by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, the Business Expo showcases over 200 exhibitors and will welcome between 6,000-7,000 attendees throughout the day. Booths and sponsorship opportunities are still available through the Total Resource Campaign (TRC). Please call the Chamber if you would like to be contacted by a TRC volunteer to discuss sponsorship or reserve a space at the 2016 Business Expo.

This year’s theme, “Go for the Gold,” was developed by RD Thomas, the official advertising agency for the 2016 Business Expo. The Expo will focus on ways local businesses can become significant in their success and network efficiently with other businesses in the community.

“Chamber University: Expo Series” will once again be offering free interactive learning sessions to educate, motivate and collaborate with local experts on a variety of topics relating to local businesses and employees. The sessions will be located in the meeting room on the south side of the Pedestrian Mall.

Admission to these seminars is free, but don’t hesitate to register now! Space is limited so please RSVP by calling Allison Cottrell at the Chamber, (806) 761-7000 or by email, allison.cottrell@lubbockbiz.org.

Thank you to the 2016 Business Expo Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor:

Emerald Sponsors:

Diamond Sponsors: Chick-Fil-A, RD Thomas Advertising

Platinum Sponsors: Bodyworks, European Wax Center, FirstCare Health Plans, Workforce Solutions of the South Plains

Gold Sponsors: Ama TechTel, Express Employment Professionals, Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas, Sam’s Club

Sign Sponsor: Advanced Graphix

Media Sponsor: Ramar Communications

Silver Sponsor: Woodshed Gifts

Lanyard Sponsor: Switch I.T. Support

Banner Sponsors: Caprock Home Health Services, Courtyard by Marriott Lubbock Downtown, Premiere Cinema, Racer Classic Car Wash, South Plains Mall

Golf Cart Sponsor: First United Bank

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Voice of Business

Legislative Benefactor:

The Department of Labor recently sent its new overtime rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget, which means the rule could go into effect as soon as late summer – or sooner, if those who suspect the change is being fast-tracked through the system are correct.

Speeding up the process would be a strategic calendar move for the Obama Administration and ensure the rule takes effect without congressional intervention. Most experts agree that the rule, which could cost small business owners and employees alike, would be stopped by Congress if the body is given the opportunity. Fast-tracking the rule will most likely undermine the checks and balances system.

The new rule will most likely lead to more regulation for businesses and lower wages for workers. Last year, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce filed official comment to the Department of Labor opposing the proposed rule that will expand overtime pay and reduce the group of employees who will qualify for exemptions under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Right now, employees are exempted from overtime based on job duties and a base salary of more than $23,660. Under the new rule, however, minimum salary to be considered exempt will double to $50,400 and the definition of qualifying job duties are likely to be redefined.

The comment period for the overtime rule closed on September 4, 2015 with 293,370 comments received. By contrast, the agency only received 75,280 comments the last time changes were made to the overtime rule in 2004.

Now that the public has had input, the draft final rules will be reviewed by the OMB when they are considered “economically significant” — which is the case here, according to the California

Chamber of Commerce’s Employment Law Lawyer. The review includes a final analysis of estimated costs and benefits and may take into consideration the public comments. The period for review by the OMB is generally limited to a maximum of 90 days, although extensions are possible. There is no minimum period for review.

After the OMB review, a final rule is published in the Federal Register. If no specific date is set for compliance, final rules that have a significant effect, like this one, cannot go into effect until 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. During this period of time, Congress is allowed to review the rule under the Congressional Review Act. Since the start of this process in 1996, Congress has only disapproved one rule.

The DOL could also choose to set an effective date for compliance with the rule that is farther out than 60 days.

Assuming the OMB took the full 90 days for review, the overtime rule would not be published in the Federal Register until mid- June. If the rule were to take effect 60 days after publication, there rule could be in effect before Labor Day.

Labor Department makes move to implement costly overtime rule

What is the Fair Labor Standards Act?The FLSA establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards affecting employees in the private sector and in Federal, State, and local governments. Covered nonexempt workers are entitled to a minimum wage of not less than $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009.

Legislative Benefactor:

Mayoral Candidate Forum to be hosted by Lubbock Chamber and KAMCAs the voice of business on the South Plains, the Lubbock

Chamber of Commerce aims to help provide members with the information necessary to make informed decisions at the voting booth. To do so, the Chamber will team up with KAMC to host a televised Mayoral Forum on Tuesday, April 5.

The 60-minute forum will be broadcast live on KAMC beginning at 6:00 p.m. and will feature all four of the candidates currently vying to become the next Mayor of Lubbock: Ysidro Gutierrez, Todd Klein, Victor Hernandez and Dan Pope. (pictured left to right)

The forum can be viewed on KAMC on the following channels:• Over the Air, channel 8.1• AT&T, channel 1028• Suddenlink, channel 108.1 • NTS, channel 712• Dish, channel 28Note: This taping of the forum is not open to the public.

Lubbock Business Network

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The Young Entrepreneurs Academy is looking for students 11-18 years old!We are excited to announce that the Lubbock Chamber is

bringing the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) to the area to transform middle and high school students into business owners as part of a weekly entrepreneurship education class beginning this fall.

YEA! is a cutting-edge program that takes students ages 11 to 18 through the process of starting and launching a real business or social movement over the course of an academic year. By the end of the class, students own and operate fully-formed and functioning businesses, which may be carried on after their graduation from the program.

“The Young Entrepreneurs Academy will help the Lubbock Chamber to fulfill its goal of supporting small business development in our community by training our future leaders and helping them to establish strong, lasting relationships with their hometown business community,” said Beth Bridges, Chairwoman of the Lubbock Chamber. “We are thrilled to be the next community in the nation to adopt the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. This program will enhance business education for students and provide a unique, challenging and fulfilling experience for all participants.”

During the 30-week commitment, students will brainstorm and form their business ideas, make pitches to investors for startup funding, file their DBAs, and launch their own businesses or social movements. Mentors and local entrepreneurs across a variety of industries, such as graphic design, web development, law, accounting, retail, manufacturing, technology and more are invited to support the students throughout the hands-on curriculum as mentors, field trip hosts or guest lecturers.

“One of the interesting components of YEA! is the ‘behind the scenes’ knowledge that local business leaders are able to share with students. Community support will strengthen the program, and the Academy aims to strengthen the community,” said Eddie McBride, President and CEO of the Lubbock Chamber. “The students will also gain skills that they can apply to any field they choose to enter, and will have the foundation to become

future leaders of their industries.”YEA! was developed in 2004 at the University of

Rochester in Rochester, NY, with support from the Kauffman Foundation. YEA! now receives support from the United States Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Sam’s Club.

• 100% of Academy graduates graduate high school on time• 99% of Academy graduates enroll in college• 49% of YEA! students are female• 56% of YEA! students are underrepresented minorities• 19% of YEA! students start second businesses• YEA! students have been awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships as a result of their involvement in YEA!• 4,338 students nationwide have launched more than 3,172 real businesses in America

“YEA! offers a unique model that helps bridge the business and academic communities together, while creating meaningful ties to the area for students. We are excited about launching this expansion in the Lubbock community,” said YEA! Founder and CEO Gayle Jagel. “The program currently operates in more than a hundred communities all over the U.S., with the goal of expanding to chambers of commerce, colleges, universities, and school districts in every community across the country.

“YEA! aims to teach students at an early age how to make a job, not just take a job,” Jagel added. “At a time when small business growth is declining in the U.S., young entrepreneurs with the right training can become a powerful force of innovative thinkers and even employers.”

YEA! classes will be run by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and hosted at the Texas Tech University Innovation Hub from October to May. Applications are now being accepted.

For more information visit yeausa.org or contact Amy Marquez at amy.marquez@lubbockbiz.org or call (806) 761-7000.

Join us for lunch on the National Day of Prayer!Come join the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce on Thurs.,

May 5 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Lane, as we host the annual Community Prayer Luncheon. The Community Prayer Luncheon is an annual event held in honor of the National Day of Prayer and is focused on emphasizing the need, both individual and corporate, to return to God and His holy word for the support of their businesses and individual lives.

The theme for this year’s luncheon is “Wake Up America” and it is designed to help those who attend see the events happening in today’s society and cling to God’s word to help resolve issues. Isaiah 58:1 has been chosen as the scripture for the 2016 National Day of Prayer and our luncheon. “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet.”

The featured speaker for the Prayer Luncheon will be Matt Bumstead, whose family founded United Supermarkets 100 years ago. Bumstead served on the Board of Directors and filled many day-to-day roles from Store Director to Co-President.

Bumstead now leads Num Ide, a consulting company and speaking firm that helps individuals and organizations find a better way to lead, work and live. We believe he will help those who attend this luncheon find success in their personal lives, as well as within their business or organization.

Tickets for the luncheon are $50, but Chamber members get a discounted price of $35. Please call the Chamber for more information.

Contact your Total Resource Campaign Representative, or Sheri Nugent at the Chamber, to find out about sponsorship opportunities for this event. Registration is now open. For more information, visit the Chamber website or contact Peyton Waldrip at (806) 761-7000 or peyton.waldrip@lubbockbiz.org.

Thanks to the 2016 Community Prayer Luncheon sponsors!Diamond: 7B Building & Development. First United Bank

Platinum: PrimeWest Mortgage, WestMark REALTORS

Lubbock Business Network

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Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings Sponsored by:

Ambassador of the Month: David Putman

Beth Bridges (R), 2016 Chairwoman, presenting David Putman (L) with his Ambassador of the Month award.

Chamber Ambassador ProgramCongratulations to David Putman, February Ambassador

of the Month! He joined the Ambassador Program a little over four and a half years ago, serving as Chairman for three of those years.

Putman said he joined the program because he realized that networking among business partners was going to be essential for his business.

“The attraction of the Ambassador program was not only beneficial for business, but I was seeing long time friendships being formed as well. This is common to West Texas and I just love it,” stated Putman.

Putman said his favorite Ambassador event to attend would be the groundbreakings, but he also enjoys attending the Business After Hours and ribbon cuttings.

Putman and his wife, Kim, are self-employed and love to help people with LegalShield, as a small business and group benefits specialist.

“We help business owners protect their business as well as employees by offering affordable access to a program that provides legal and identity theft protection service plans. As an added bonus, we are now a “value-added” Lubbock Chamber partner that can provide these services at a discounted rate to chamber businesses and give back to the Chamber all at the same time,” Putman said.

Putman started with the company in 2006 on a part-time basis and has since grown the company into a full-time job for both he and his wife, who joined him full-time in May 2015. He is a Small Business Specialist with emphasis on theirBroker Division.

“Kim and I operate as solutions providers through our association with LegalShield. Since we can bring a solution to the table for a small business owner, either by protecting the

business or its employees, it is very rewarding at the end of the day,” said Putman when asked what is so rewarding about the Ambassador Program.

“We are expanding our association with chamber members thru our value-added program – this is keeping us very busy. We have seen our number of customers and employee groups grow at a rate of over 4 fold in the last 6 – 8 months reaching new levels of responsibility in our company – and we owe 99.99% of that to our precious volunteer time building relationships through the Lubbock Chamber,” Putman said.

When we asked Putman what his favorite Chamber event was he said, “I love the Hub City BBQ, as we (Kim) both serve on that committee, but we also love volunteering at the Business Expo. Serving as Past Chairman of the Ambassadors for three years was an awesome honor for me as well.”

Outside of being involved with the Chamber, but Putman and his wife stay very busy with their two kids in college, Jordan and Joshua through church and “chillin’ time”.

Again, congratulations to David Putman for earning his second Ambassador of the Month award! We appreciate his dedication not only to the Ambassador Program, but the Chamber as well!

74th Annual ABC Rodeo

Albarrans Mexican Bar and Grill

7722 Milwaukee Ave.

Autumn Oaks Event Center

10210 Woodrow Rd.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lubbock

3221 59th St.

Lubbock Business Network

15

Dunkin Donuts4328 50th St.

Escondido Apartments6720 28th St.

Fresh Start of Monroe, Inc.1314 35th St.

Grace Hearing Center7335 82nd St #3

Happy State Bank11007 Quaker Ave.

Lemonade Day Kick Off

Lubbock Plastic Surgery Institute10105 Quaker Ave.

Monsanto Southern Production Co., LLC

11613 North I-27

Posh Du Salon4620 71st St.

South Plains Food Bank, Inc.

5605 MLK Blvd.

Sparx Flooring8004 Indiana Ave., Ste. B4

Strive - Reduced Emissions Fuel

Program, Alon 7-Eleven

Texas Boys Ranch Dedication for Chapel

Renovation4810 NCR 2800

The Timeless Cafe & Cocktails

6015 82nd St., Ste. 5

Thrivent Financial2022 82nd St. STE 102

University Custom1021 University Ave

U-Swirl & Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

6616 Milwaukee Ave., Ste. 800

Woodshed Gifts6405 Indiana

Lubbock Business Network

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Affordable Moving (806) 799-4033 4211 34th St. (79410) PO Box 6946Lubbock, TX 79493 Moving and/or Storage

Autumn Oaks Event Center (806) 553-0532 10210 Woodrow Rd. Lubbock, TX 79358 Weddings, Parties & Special Events Planning and/or Catering

Bigfoot Storage (806) 500-5570 1601 N. Frankford Ave. Lubbock, TX 79416 Storage Service

Bueno Caddy Delivery, LLC (210) 827-1966 119 Verdant San Antonio, TX 78209 Food Services

Davis Motor Co. (806) 745-7434 1129 E. Slaton Rd. Lubbock, TX 79404 Automobile Dealers - Used

El Palacio Mexican Food Restaurant (806) 637-0276 102 E. Cardwell PO Box 1322 Brownfield, TX 79316 Restaurants

Empire Fabrication & Machine (806) 746-5300 15806 N. FM 2902 Abernathy, TX 79311 Machine Shops

Escondido Apartments (806) 780-6646 6720 28th St. Lubbock, TX 79407 Apartments

Fence Lubbock, LLC (806) 500-6750 2625 23rd St. Lubbock, TX 79410 Fence - Construction, Supply, Sales & Manufacturing

Glass Magic (806) 799-7272 4302 W. Loop 289 Lubbock, TX 79407 Auto Glass

Glen Robertson for Congress, Inc. (806) 787-3002 PO Box 3517Lubbock, TX 79452 Advocacy Organization

Humana MarketPoint(806) 407-2939 PO Box 1235 Shallowater, TX 79363 Insurance

iLoveKickboxing.Com (806) 486-1454 9810 Slide Rd., Ste. 200 Lubbock, TX 79424 Health Clubs

JAGEN Production (806) 472-4514 812 Main Lubbock, TX 79401 Advertising Outdoor

Jersey Nails & Spa (806) 771-3284 5217 98th St., Ste. 800 Lubbock, TX 79424 Nail Salons and/or Manicures

Knockout Staging & Runner Service (806) 702-1419 4517 54th St. Lubbock, TX 79414 Entertainment

Local Legends Print Factory (806) 928-3020 2614 130th St., Ste. 3 & 4 Lubbock, TX 79423 Screen Printing

Lubbock Ideal Wellness (806) 368-8984 3415 23rd St. Lubbock, TX 79410 Wellness Centers

Metabolic Research Center(806) 785-8100 5705 Slide Rd., Ste. #B Lubbock, TX 79414 Diet Centers

Mike Fox Insurance (806) 441-4507 5910 130th St., Ste. 101 Lubbock, TX 79424 Insurance

Monsanto Southern Production Co., LLC (806) 652-1044 11613 North I-27 Lubbock, TX 79403 Seed and/or Grain

Posey Gin, Inc. (806) 828-6084 12511 CR 3100 Slaton, TX 79364 Agricultural Related Businesses

Posh Du Salon (806) 784-2426 4620 71st St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Beauty Salons and/or Barbers

PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company (806) 788-4476 4010 82nd St., Ste. 110 Lubbock, TX 79423 Mortgages

Salted Oats, LLC (505) 280-7841 10502 Fremont Ave.

Lubbock, TX 79423 Consultants - Organizational

Scott’s Gourmet Salsa (806) 535-2265 8510 CR 6910 Lubbock, TX 79407 Food - Wholesale

Skin Cancer Institute(806) 701-5844 4709 66th St. Lubbock, TX 79414 Clinics

State Farm Insurance - Borrego, Ana (806) 745-2555 8001 Quaker Ave., Ste. G Lubbock, TX 79424 Insurance

Swink Triangle, LLC (806) 697-2429 PO Box 321 Crosbyton, TX 79322 Agricultural Related Businesses

Texans for Jodey Arrington (806) 701-5714 3008 50th St., Ste. H Lubbock, TX 79413 Advocacy Organization

Texas Truck and Equipment Sales and Salvage, Inc.(806) 745-1977 1115 E. Slaton Rd. Lubbock, TX 79404 Truck & Equipment Sales, Services, Etc.

Time2Vaca Travel Agency (806) 370-5802 2258 I 27/87 Hale Center, TX 79041 Travel Agencies

Toogood Built Homes (806) 407-0403 4414 82nd St., Ste. 212-124 Lubbock, TX 79424 Home Builders

Ventura Place(806) 785-5565 3026 54th St. Lubbock, TX 79413 Retirement Living

VTM Graphics & Threads (806) 445-7987 2614 FM 1585, Ste. 12 Lubbock, TX 79423 Embroidery

Wine & Food Foundation - High Plains Chapter(806) 687-9463 1615 Texas Ave. Lubbock, TX 79401 Liquor, Beer & Wine

Ya’ Making Me Hungry (904) 735-5418 105 Ave. P Lubbock, TX 79401 Catering

Welcome New Chamber Members!