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Vol. 24 No. 12 December 2015Introducing the 2016 Leadership Lubbock Class

pg. 10

Your Retirement Savings Could be in Jeopardy

pg. 14

New Open Carry Law Effective January 1

pg. 9 ®

Congratulations

to all of the 2015

Annual Awards Winners!

See pg. 6 for more info

2

Thank you to our 5-Star Sponsors!

Lubbock Business Network

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In the News this Month:

A Message from the Chamber

2015 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon Winners ..................6New Open Carry Law Effective January 1 .......................................9Introducing the 2016 Leadership Lubbock Class ..................... 102015 Educator Appreciation Award Winners ............................. 13Your Retirement Savings Could be in Jeopardy ........................ 14Chamber Joins Ag Community to Protect Crop Insurance ... 14

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 Lubbock Chamber will continue to advocate on behalf of the over 2,000 job creators and their 79,000 employees that account for around $2 billion in economic impact in Lubbock and West Texas. This is accomplished without the use of 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.

2015 Board of DirectorsExecutive CommitteeChairman Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialties, Inc.Chairwoman-Elect Beth Bridges, South Plains MallImmediate Past Chairwoman Alona Beesinger, SuddenlinkTreasurer Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance AgencySecretary Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of CommerceVice Chairman, Communications & Marketing Scott Fagin, First United BankVice Chairman, Government & Community Relations David Park, Atmos EnergyVice Chairman, Leadership & Membership Investor Relations Gabe Vitela, Twisted Root Burger Co. Board of DirectorsCarmen Aguirre, Children’s Advocacy Center of the South Plains

Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center Lubbock

Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes

Keith Bryant, Lubbock-Cooper Independent School District

Michael Calvillo, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds and The Butler

Abel Castro, FirstBank & Trust

Renee Gonzales Davis, Alderson Enterprises/Mercedes-Benz

Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/Ratcliff

Jeff Horn, Benchmark Business Solutions

Clayton Isom, The Isom Group

Chris James, United Supermarkets

Brent King, UMC Health System

Chris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’s

Dave Marcinkowski, Madera Companies

Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society

Richard Parks, Covenant Health

Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs

Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank

L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University

Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System

Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech

Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District

Frank Silvas, AFLAC-Frank Silvas

Polly Vann, V-tech Environmental Services

Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health Plans

Connie Wharton, Consultant

Lubbock Business Network

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December6 Ribbon Cutting: South Plains Food Bank - You Can Share Food Drive – Noon United Supermarkets - Amigos, 112 N. University Ave.

8 Leadership Lubbock Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Chamber Basics: Pizza with the President sponsored by Casey Carpet One & Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas – 11:30 a.m. Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway, Second Floor, San Jacinto Room Ribbon Cutting: Larry Combest Community Health & Wellness Center 4:30 p.m. – 301 40th St.

9 Ambassador Christmas Luncheon – Noon – Texas Tech Club 2508 6th St., Suite 417

10 Ag Committee Meeting – 8 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Texas Tech University College of Human Sciences Early Head Start – 9 a.m. – 3315 East Broadway Groundbreaking: Edge Homes – 11:30 a.m. – Cooper Ranch Community 1808 CR 7560

11 Government Relations Committee Meeting – 10 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Edward Jones - Anna Reyes – 4 p.m. – 5409 4th Street, Suite O

12 Ribbon Cutting: Northern Tool & Equipment – 10 a.m. – 2406 W. Loop 289

14 Young Professionals of Lubbock Steering Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC

15 Groundbreaking: West Texas Home Builders – 11 a.m. – 7205 Kewanee Executive Committee Meeting and Christmas Lunch – Noon Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Rd. Leadership Lubbock Graduation Banquet – 6:30 p.m. – McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center, 17th & University Ave.

16 Ribbon Cutting: Home2 Suites by Hilton – 11:30 a.m. – 6004 Marsha Sharp Fwy.

17 Board of Directors Meeting – 3:30 p.m. – Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA), 511 Ave. K Business After Hours sponsored by Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) – 3:30 p.m. – 511 Ave. K

18 Committee Chairman Appreciation Lunch – Noon – Rain Uptown, 5217 98th St.

25 Office Closed for Christmas

*LCOC = Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

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

Let’s get socialLET ’S GET SOCIAL2016

Chairman Casey Doyle, Casey Carpet One Co-Chairman Marcus Young, United Supermarkets, LLC

Vice Chairman Bobby McCloud, Wayland Baptist UniversityVice Chairman Keith Patrick, Frenship Independent School District

Vice Chairwoman Myndee Pool, Carpet TechVice Chairman Nathan Scarborough, Scarborough Financial Group, LLC

Vice Chairman Tyler Young, Texas Tech Federal Credit Union

Interested in volunteering for the 2016 TRC? Contact Sheri Nugent today at (806) 761-7000!

Total Resource Campaign Volunteers

Thank you

for sponsoring our BAH on Dec. 3rd!

Message from the Chairman

As my year as serving as Chairman of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce comes to an end, I am honored and privileged to have had the opportunity to serve the Chamber and its over 2,000 members in 2015.

Once again our major membership events – Total Resource Campaign, Business Expo, Golf Classic and Hub City BBQ Cook-off were all great successes. Thank you to all our volunteers and especially those who chaired these events for all their efforts to plan, support and attend these outstanding programs. I also want to give a big thanks to our Chamber Ambassadors for their continued volunteer service to the Chamber and our member businesses.

We could not have had such a successful year without the amazing volunteers we have at the Chamber. So thank you for all of your time and dedication to making 2015 such a great year! We look forward to continuing our pursuit of excellence for our members and community. A special thank you to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee members for their leadership this year.

As 2016 approaches, I look forward to continuing to serve on the Board of Directors and working with one of the best Chamber staffs in the country. I want to wish the best for the 2016 Chairwoman, Beth Bridges, who I know will do an outstanding job.

Thank you again to all our Chamber members, the staff and the community! I hope you and your families have a wonderful Christmas and may 2016 be the best year yet!

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber StaffPresident/CEO Eddie McBride, IOMExecutive Vice President Government & Community Relations Norma Ritz Johnson, IOM, CCECFO & Vice President Administration Sheri Nugent, IOMVice President Business Development Christye WeldVice President Communications & Marketing Tammi BoozerLeadership Director Amy Marquez, IOMEducation Director Allison CottrellMember Relations Director Cathy PotterMarketing Specialist Haily AssiterEvent Specialist Haley HoweyGovernment & Community Relations Specialist Stevie PooleAdministrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy MoffettAccounting Assistant Patricia PiconCustomer Service Representative Melinda RodriquezGraduate Intern Peyton WaldripIntern Maegan Hruby

fBusiness After Hours

sponsored bAssy

Dec. 17 | 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.511 Ave. K

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

Our new Online Membership Application is Live!

Do you know a prospective Chamber Member? Get them to join now!

It’s EASY! Businesses can now click the “join

now” button on our website and become a member of the largest business

organization in Lubbock!

Lubbock Business Network

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2015 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon

Thanks again to our sponsors!

Annual Meeting Presenting Sponsor:

Annual Report Presenting Sponsors:

Annual Report Diamond Sponsor: American National Bank, McDougal Companies

Annual Report Platinum Sponsor: Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency

Annual Meeting Diamond Sponsors: George McMahan Development, LLC, Lubbock National Bank, Southwest Airlines, Suddenlink

Annual Meeting Platinum Sponsors: 7B Building & Development, Atmos Energy, Covenant Health, FirstCapital Bank, Lubbock Independent School District

Award Sponsors: Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, Reagor Dykes Auto Group, Volunteer Center of Lubbock

Mario Ybarra accepting his Ambssador of the Year award from Joe Rapier, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper with Chairman Jay Jacobus.

Mike Lambert accepting his Volunteer of the Year award from Sharon Bass, Volunteer Center of Lubbock with Chairman Jay Jacobus.

Robert L. Duncan, J.D., M. Duane Nellis, Ph.D, and Tedd L. Mitchell accepting their Business People of the Year award from Chairman Jay Jacobus.

Gabe Vitela accepting his Entrepreneur/Small Business of the Year award from Bart Reagor and Rick Dykes, Reagor Dykes Auto Group with Chairman Jay Jacobus.

The December 3 Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon highlighted this year’s achievements while honoring those who made it possible.

Cathy Potter Named Chamber Member Relations DirectorThe Lubbock Chamber of

Commerce has announced the hiring of Cathy Potter as Member Relations Director.

Potter comes to the Chamber after spending the last two and half years as Operations Manager for ThinkViral. Prior to her time at ThinkViral, Potter was the Community Director for McDougal

Companies for over eight years and two years as Activities Director at Brookdale Grand Court Retirement Community.

As the Member Relations Director, Potter will oversee member retention, membership renewals, investor relations, the Ambassadors and provide support for the Total Resource Campaign (TRC).

A native of Ruidoso, N.M., Potter attended South Plains College and she has one daughter.

George McMahan accepting his Business of the Year award from Chairman Jay Jacobus.

Lubbock Business Network

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Join us for the Phase 2 GroundbreakingCooper Ranch Community, 1808 CR 7560

Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 11:30 am. Food and drinks will be provided.

Edge Homes is currently building in the following areas:Day Estates (98th & Iola) | Prices starting from the $280’s minimum 2,400 sq. ft.

Kelsey Park (FM 1585 & Memphis) | Prices starting from the $230’s minimum 2,000 sq. ft.Cooper Ranch (Woodrow Road) | Prices starting from the $290’s on (1 acre home sites) minimum 2,400 sq.ft.

The Ridge (Upland & 98th)Wolfforth (FM 179 & N 6th) | Front entry homes from the low $200’s

Like us on Facebook, visit our website www.EdgeHomesOnline.com or contact Jeanna Treider @ 806.781.1076 for more information.

Edge Homes, one of Lubbock’s premier builders, was established in 2006, and offers new homes with a focus on architectural designs and outstanding quality. Neighborhoods started in the Hereford & Bushland areas and soon expanded into the Lubbock, Odessa and Canyon markets. With over 50 years building expertise combined in the residential and commercial markets, Edge Homes offers unparalleled value and well-planned communities in prime locations. They have designed multiple floor plans to accommodate different lifestyles and needs.

Many companies build homes but few are as committed to improving the quality of life for the people who live in them.

To the dedicated professionals at Edge Homes, designing and constructing new homes means virtually every aspect of living - comfort, lifestyle, convenience, quality and innovation.

Unlike other builders, Edge Homes prides itself on being able to provide custom home features and benefits to their home owners without the custom pricing. Home buyers have the opportunity to choose their home, on the home site they select, along with many other interior and exterior features. Edge Homes’ goal is to offer the highest quality home for the best value to their home buyers.

December Business of the Month: Twisted Root Burger Co.Congratulations to the December Business of the Month,

Twisted Root Burger Co.! Twisted Root has been a member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce since they broke ground in 2013.

Gabe Vitela, Owner Operator, believes that the business contacts he has made through the Lubbock Chamber played an important role in getting Twisted Root up and running.

“The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has been monumental in the success of my business and general awareness of what is going on in the community. From Business After Hours where you have the opportunity to meet other business people and visit with your peer businesses. To the Monday Memo which keeps us informed of the upcoming events happening within the Chamber and its member businesses,” stated Vitela.

Vitela is very involved with the Chamber, from serving on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee to volunteering at events.

“I have had the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors as the Vice Chairman of Leadership, Membership and Investor Relations. I enjoy volunteering on the various committees including: the Business Mercado, Business Expo and the Chamber Golf Tournament. I also serve as a Chamber Ambassador and I’m involved with The Young Professionals of Lubbock,” said Vitela.

When asked what their favorite event is Vitela couldn’t pick

just one. They enjoy participating in the Business Expo, Business Mercado, Hispanic Heritage Luncheon and the bi-weekly Business After Hours.

We appreciate all that Twisted Root and Vitela do for the Chamber and we would like to congratulate them on not only receiving the December Business of the Month award, but also the Entrepreneur/Small Business of the Year award as well!

Lubbock Business Network

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If you have sponsored one of our events in the past a TRC volunteer will reach out to you between Feb. 25-April 28.

If you haven’t sponsored an event in the past, but would like to be contacted please contact Sheri Nugent at sheri.nugent@lubbockbiz.org.

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber Basics“Pizza with the President”

You are invited to attend

Sponsored by:

Office: 806.761.7000 | www.LubbockChamber.com | LubbockChamberofCommerce | @LubbockChamber

Tuesday, December 8th 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wells fargo Center, 1500 Broadway2nd Floor, San Jacinto Room

Click here to RSVP for this FREE event or emaiL Haily assiter

This event is a great way for not only new members to get involved, but also for those who are a new employee of a long-standing member company or for those who haven't been active in the Chamber.

You'll learn about the Chamber and meet other members as well as volunteers and staff. Plus you will have the opportunity to promote your business!

New Open Carry Law Effective: January 1, 2016House Bill 910Caption: Relating to the authority of a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun; creating criminal offense.General Information:

• Authorizes individuals to obtain a license to openly carry a handgun in the same places that allow the licensed carrying of a concealed handgun with some exceptions. (See "Exceptions" below for more information.)

• Unconcealed handguns, loaded or unloaded, must be carried in a shoulder or belt holster.

• Individuals who hold a valid CHL may continue to carry with valid existing license.

• A separate license will not be required to open carry. No additional fee will be required.

• Individuals currently licensed will not be required to attend additional training. Training curriculum for new applicants will be updated to reflect the new training requirements related to the use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of openly carried handguns. The new curriculum will be required for all classes beginning January 1, 2016.

• The eligibility criteria to obtain a license to carry do not change.

• The department will be updating website, forms and training materials to reference License to Carry (LTC) instead of Concealed Handgun License (CHL).

• Changes to the laminated license are being developed and will be implemented at a later date.

Signage:• Private businesses may post signs to indicate entry on the

property with a handgun by a license holder is forbidden.• Penal Code Section 30.06 provides the language to be

included on signs to indicate license holders are forbidden to carry concealed.

• Penal Code Section 30.07 provides the language to be included on signs to indicate license holders are forbidden to open carry.

• Posting of both signs is an indication by the business that license holders are forbidden to carry concealed or openly.

Exceptions:Open carry is not permitted by a license holder regardless

of whether the handgun is holstered:• on the premises of an institution of higher education or

private or independent institution of higher education• on any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or

walkway, parking lot, parking garage or other parking area of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education

• by an individual who is acting as a personal protection officer under Chapter 1702, Occupations Code and is not wearing a uniform

For more information, click here to go directly to their website.

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber Leadership DivisionIntroducing the 2016 Leadership Lubbock Class

Congratulations to the 2016 Leadership Lubbock Class. The 2016 Leadership Lubbock class will begin in January with a mandatory full-day orientation on Jan. 12. Following January’s orientation, the class will meet one day a month during the year.

Since its inception in 1976, Leadership Lubbock has continued to provide an outstanding leadership and community orientation program for selected Chamber business leaders. This program provides a source of leaders for the Lubbock Community by ensuring that Leadership Lubbock participants receive necessary community information/orientation and leadership skills. Leadership Lubbock is open to members of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, and they are selected through an application process.

Introducing the Leadership Lubbock Class of 2016:Elaina Albarez, Goodwill Industries of Northwest TexasChristine Allen, Lubbock Economic Development AllianceAshley Ammons, Lubbock Area United WayLasey Ashburn, FirstCapital Bank of TexasJason Atchley, Bacon Heights Baptist ChurchNeal Barron, City of Lubbock Police DepartmentWesley Bishop, Security State BankJack Bohannon, Mandry Technology SolutionsRonald Bonacci, United SupermarketsTammi Boozer, Lubbock Chamber of CommerceErik Breon, KCBD-TV, Raycom MediaStephanie Cole, Wells Fargo BankShannon Cook, SouthWest BankLeslie Demma, American Bank of CommerceCurtis Diaz, American National BankStephanie Dumas, FirstCare Health PlansSheila Dye, Lubbock Christian University

Erin Gregg, Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterJulie Heinrich, Computer Transition Services, Inc.Ryan Henry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterLindley Herring, Officewise Furniture & SupplyCyril Hill, Prosperity BankJoe Jimenez, City of LubbockWesley Jordan, Warren CaterpillarValerie Kerr, Covenant HealthAngelos Lambis, United SupermarketsBruce Larson, Lubbock National BankChristopher Lauer, HB ConstructionJessica Marlar, Texas Tech University – Institutional AdvancementBobby McCloud, Wayland Baptist UniversityGrant McMillan, FirstBank & Trust Co.Daniel Odom, Western BankBecky Palmer, Atmos Energy CorporationBill Paulk, SuddenlinkScott Peterson, Sanford & Tatum Insurance AgencySpenser Piercy, Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam, LLPKathryn Rollo, Lubbock Independent School DistrictMiles Seybert, First United BankShannon Shuttlesworth, Covenant HealthJody Slaughter, Titan Aerial, LLCSarah Stracener, Texas Tech University Office of the PresidentPatrick Tran, Boy Scouts of America, South Plains CouncilJose Watson, Lowe’s Home ImprovementBrooke Witcher, City of LubbockTodd Wyrick, Spirit Ranch

Thank you to our 2016 Presenting Sponsor:

The Chamber’s Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Twenty Under Forty Banquet was held on Thurs., Nov. 12, Lubbock Scottish Rite. Thank you to our Emcee for the evening Christy Hartin, KCBD News Anchor, and our keynote speaker, Blake Buchanan, CEO of Bahama Buck’s Franchise Corp.

The following recipients received their Young Professionals of Greater Lubbock Twenty Under Forty Award at the banquet: Chanda Allen, Neugebauer Congressional CommitteeJeremy Barbee, Roy W. Neal, Jr. Agency, Inc.Constance Barbian, Benchmark Business SolutionsBryce Bowley, Robinson Burdette Martin & Seright, LLPKyle Carruth, WC Land ServicesChristi Chadwell, Texas Tech University College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural ResourcesCindi Cobb, Frenship Independent School DistrictRachelle Collins, Studio WestJennie Hill, CASA of the South PlainsBrianna Ingram, Benchmark Business SolutionsBradley Madison, Calvert Home Health Care, Ltd.Bobby McCloud, Wayland Baptist University – Lubbock Campus

Sheri Mudd, KLBK TV 13Scott Peterson, Sanford & Tatum Insurance AgencyMyndee Pool, Carpet TechHeather Smith, Covenant HealthIan Van Reenen, First United BankMisti Welch, American Cancer SocietyEmily Wilkinson, Texas Tech University SystemMarcus Young, United Supermarkets, LLC

Congrats to the 2015 Twenty Under Forty Award Recipients

Lubbock Business Network

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Young Professionals of Lubbock Spotlight: Bobby McCloud

Leadership Lubbock Spotlight: Kevin McConic

Why did you chose to be a member of the Young Professionals of Lubbock? It is a great networking organization with lots of wonderful people, who I now call friends.

How long have you been a YPL member? I have been a YPL member for four years.

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YPL member? Being a part of a group of people who are in the same stage of life as you that can understand what you are trying to do in your business. Also the opportunity to hear from successful people in their industries.

Why is being a YPL member important to you? It allows an avenue for you to network and make friendships with others that are starting their careers and trying to gain a foothold.

Where do you work? Wayland Baptist University-Lubbock Campus

What is your position? Director of Development

What all does your position entail? I organize our two major events, a golf tournament in the fall and a gala in the spring. I also write grants to foundations for support as needed. I also look for potential donors, as well as maintain relationships with current donors.

How long have you been with your current company? I have volunteered for them for four years, but I started on a full time basis in July.

Melinda Rodriquez Named Chamber Customer Service Representative

Why did you choose to become part of the Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee? I think Leadership Lubbock is an amazing way to see the city differently. I believe I can help impact future classes by brining new ideas to the committee. How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? This is my first Year with Leadership Lubbock.

What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? Learning about things I didn't know much about, like Ag day. It was very insightful. I also really enjoyed hearing from some of our elected officials.

Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you?It is important to have leaders that are in the know, are well connected and are passionate about moving our city forward. It is important to have strong leaders in a city where people want to raise their families. I think Leadership Lubbock does a good job identifying those in our community who might be amazing servant leaders.

Who do you work for? United Supermarkets

What is your position? Training and Development Spec. What all does your position entail? I do all kinds of training for our team on all levels. From soft skills to compliance to functional training. My strength however with soft skills, culture and service

How long have you been with your United Supermarkets? Nine years

Share some info about your family. I’m married to Tawnya McConic. We have three kids; Kiasia (19) is a Freshmen at WTAMU, Deon (16) is a Junior at Estacado High School and Tori (14) is a Freshman at Estacado High School.

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce welcomes Melinda Rodriquez to its staff as the Customer Service Representative. Rodriquez began her duties on Nov. 10.

A native of Tulia, but raised in Lubbock, Rodriquez has over 10 years of experience in the customer service field. Prior to coming

to the Chamber, Rodriquez worked at AT&T Mobility and Prem Sales/Taj Hospitality.

In her position at the Chamber, Rodriquez will handle the day to day visitor inquiries and assist with event preparation. Rodriquez is married with four children.

Lubbock Business Network

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Chamber Ambassador Program

Ambassador of the Month: Dionne Hill

The Ambassador program is comprised of 222 men and women of widely diverse Chamber member businesses & organizations, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are a highly visible, prestigious group of volunteers who strive to assist in fulfilling the Chamber’s mission to “strengthen, promote & serve our member businesses.” They play an essential role in helping facilitate Ribbon Cutting and Ground Breaking ceremonies and by giving of their time to help businesses grow and achieve successful results, the Ambassadors contribute to the overall economic health and growth of the Lubbock business community.

The Ambassadors are charged with extending the hand of friendship to new and old members alike, with many providing a welcome at Chamber 101 for new and potential members and act as greeters and hosts at Business After Hours by helping with name tags, gathering business cards for drawings and making introductions. They help ensure members make business contacts and begin to participate in Chamber events by creating awareness of the many opportunities and benefits offered. This valuable program helps build volunteer leadership which is exhibited too, when help is given by assisting fellow Ambassadors with their events. Most importantly though, they have served as the tour guides for the Red Raider Orientation tours facilitated by Visit Lubbock for parents of Texas Tech incoming freshmen.

The Chamber appreciates the efforts put forth by our Ambassadors, and the time they each devote to Chamber

events. These 209 ambassadors are split up into five teams and Ambassadors compete every month for the most participation in ambassador events.

We had five team captians for the year and the team totals for each are as follows; Team Hannon: 3241, Team Soliz: 3211, Team Laughlin: 2802, Team Davis: 2383 and Team Jenkins: 2129

Following is a list of the top 10 Ambassadors for 2015 which was led by Chairman Rex Andrews.

Mario Ybarra, Workforce Solutions of the South PlainsMike Laughlin, Llano Estacado Winery

David Putman, LegalShieldVictoria Braun, Ashmore Inn & Suites

Danny Soliz, Workforce Solutions of the South PlainsMarie Evans, Lifetime Membership

Krista Jenkins, Keller Williams RealtySharon Judd, Workforce Solutions of the South Plains

Bart Bartholomew, Matador MotorsKim Davis, Mosaic

If you are interested in sponsoring the Ambassador of the Month award and/or the Ambassador Team of the Month Award, or if you are interested in becoming an ambassador, please contact Cathy Potter, Member Relations Director, at cathy.potter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7000.

Congratulations to Dionne Hill, October Ambassador of the Month. Hill joined the Ambassador Program a mere six weeks ago and won the award the first time she was eligible.

Hill said she chose to be an Ambassador for the Lubbock Chamber because she wanted to help an organization that advocates for businesses small and large throughout Lubbock.

“The power of networking is amazing, however the pure reward is giving or supporting without expecting anything in return. Being an ambassador allows me to give and support seamlessly, and in a fun atmosphere with likeminded business representatives,” stated Hill.

Hill’s favorite events to attend are the ribbon cuttings. She likes welcoming new businesses and their employees to the Chamber.

“I want the new businesses to know they have a BIG FAMILY that wants to help support them and their business,” said Hill.

Hill has been with her current company, Forza Safety, for the past two months. As the Business Development, Sales and Marketing liaison she is responsible for developing and implementing growth opportunities within the Lubbock community and outside it as well.

“I am responsible for key account management activities, marketing, sales and relationship development for prospective customers,” Hill said.

Outside of the chamber Hill is a member of BNI, the West Texas Home Builders Association and the Lubbock Lions Club. She is also partnering with Paul’s Project and Restoring Hope

preparing winter weather clothes and hygiene kits for the less fortunate.

“Being an ambassador not only allows you to represent your own company but allows me to represent an organization much greater than my own. It is my honor to be named an ambassador of Lubbock Chamber of Commerce knowing that I support such a highly accredited organization that focuses on strengthening business, promoting businesses and always serving their members,” said Hill.

Again, congratulations to Dionne Hill for earning her first Ambassador of the Month award!

Lubbock Business Network

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Looking for the perfect

Christmas gift?

Purchase a trip to Ireland for

you and someone special, today!

Departing: March 13, 2016Returning: March 20, 2016

$2749 per person!

Contact Haily Assiterfor more information!

(806) 761-7003

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce hosted an Educator Appreciation Reception on Wed., Dec. 2, to honor recipients of the 2015 Educator Appreciation Award.

The Chamber supports the educational efforts of the local schools and the educators who work diligently to serve our students and community. The Educator Appreciation Award honors and celebrates these accomplishments. The educators were selected by the students of the 2014-2015 New Century Leadership class. It is with great pleasure that the Chamber congratulates the following 12 educators for receiving the 2015 Educator Appreciation Award.

Congrats to the 2015 Educator Appreciation Award Winners

2015 Educator Appreciation Award Recipients!Gina Becker, Kingdom Preparatory Academy

Mike Bennett, All Saints Episcopal School of Lubbock, Inc.Alicea Chaloupka, Christ the King Cathedral School

Brent Chamberlain, Coronado High SchoolKendall Jackson, Lubbock-Cooper High School

Joan Jenkins, Monterey High SchoolScotta Knight, Shallowater High SchoolConnie Pfanmiller, Frenship High School

Samuel Whitfill, Estacado High SchoolLinda Wickersham, Lubbock High School

Casey Wilkins, Talkington School for Young Women LeadersBob Wood, Lubbock Christian School

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the places you’ll go.” - Dr. Seuss

Board Member Spotlight: Connie WhartonHow did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? I first became involved with the Chamber when I was with Texas Instruments. I went through Leadership Lubbock in 1979….I remember because I was pregnant with my older daughter. Jake Henry, JC Chambers, and Jay Eagan were the leaders. I have stayed involved with the Chamber because it does an exemplary job of representing business interests in the city and at the state level. The recent "Imagine Lubbock Together" effort has resulted in the chamber assumimg an even broader footprint in the city. I think that Eddie McBride and his team do an absolutely fantastic job in all the numerous areas that they serve. They make it easy for businesses to come together in a cooperative effort to improve the business environment for all Lubbock businesses. What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber? I think the BBQ has to be my favorite. Not only is it a great event

for the city, but it is generally a great team building experience for the teams that enter. At Cox Communications, everyone wanted to be on the “BBQ team"! What are some of your other community leadership roles?I sit on the Rawls Business School Advisory Board and I’m the Lubbock Downtown Development Corporation Board Chair.

Finish this sentence: Never again will I…say never again.

Lubbock Business Network

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Advocacy at Work Legislative Benefactor:

When the Lubbock Chamber found out that a backroom budget deal meant major cuts to crop insurance, it joined with agriculture organizations to defend one of farmers' last safety nets.

The $3 billion set to be cut was included in a budget bill to raise the debt ceiling and to establish a two-year budget governing appropriations bill--both of which would effectively kill Federal Crop Insurance.

Tapping into the Chamber's grassroots network helped to ensure the Capitol was inundated with letters and phone calls urging lawmakers to strip the language from the bill, and giving our West Texas representatives much needed ammunition to get the job done.

House Ag Committee Chairman Mike Conaway and Vice Chairman Randy Neugebauer spent two days convincing urban lawmakers and congressional leaders of the importance of agriculture to our economy and our national security.

As a result, leadership at all levels of the federal government have assured the agriculture community that the cuts made to crop insurance in this budget agreement will be stripped out in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill expected to come before Congress in December.

Most importantly, under the agreement, the provision will be stripped out with NO cuts from the Farm Bill or Crop Insurance to replace them.

To show your gratitude for the work Chairman Conaway and Congressman Neugebauer did to protect our farmers, please send a quick thank you note HERE.

Chamber Joins Agriculture Community in Fighting to Protect Crop Insurance

If the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) moves forward with a new fiduciary rule, your retirement savings could be in jeopardy.

If this proposal becomes reality, when financial advisors provide retirement advice, they will now be considered an ERISA fiduciary and face new requirements, but this also means they won’t be able to provide advice recommending specific investment options.

Losing access to quality retirement advice is an unintended consequence of this bad rule that could hurt small businesses and their employees. The reality of the fiduciary rule is that it will do more harm than good at a time when Americans around the country cannot afford to put their retirement savings at risk.

The proposed rule will also impose complex regulatory hurdles on financial advisors that would require significant, costly changes to their business models. As a result, some advisors will likely reduce services to individuals and small businesses that provide more than 9 million households across the country retirement plans.

This will very likely leave many Americans with no access to retirement advice at all.

It is essential for the DOL to understand how its actions actions could seriously hurt small businesses’ ability to provide retirement savings options to employees and prevent retail investors from receiving needed, affordable investment advice.

Contact your elected officials to encourage them now to block this rule HERE.

Your Retirement Savings Could be in Jeopardy

“This will very likely leave many Americans

with no access to retirement advice at all.”

Congressman Randy Neugebauer

Ag Committee Chairman Mike Conaway

Lubbock Business Network

15

Eric Minns, MD, PA10202 Quaker Ave.

Ribbon Cuttings & GroundbreakingsSponsored by:

Children’s Hope Dinner Series “Hope is in the Air”

Graco Real Estate- West End Shopping Center34th & Loop 289

Great Clips1910 Quaker Ave., Ste. 102

Hollyhocks3521 34th St.

Hiring Red, White & You Veterans Job Fair

Hawk Portable Buildings12101 Hwy. 87

Buffalo Wild Wings7638 82nd St.

Bliss Baby3806 50th St., Ste. 114

Carpenter’s ChurchHousing First Duplexes

1901 13th St.

FirstBank & Trust2811 S. Loop 289, Ste. 3

Be a Santa to a Seniorby Home Instead Senior Care

Lubbock Business Network

16

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Adams Paint Company (806) 763-2944 1416 N. University Ave. (79415) PO Box 5276Lubbock, TX 79408 Paint - Wholesale & Manufacturer

Benjamin Donuts (806) 993-1100 811 50th St. Lubbock, TX 79404 Doughnuts

Dora Moss Interiors (806) 220-9144 3536 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79410 Home Accessories & Décor

Farmers Insurance - Hatchett, Greg(806) 794-6336 5124 82nd St. Lubbock, TX 79424 Insurance

First Data (806) 632-7062 5316 Kenosha Ave. Lubbock, TX 79413 Credit Card Processing and/or Equipment

Gene Messer Volkswagen (806) 793-8844 7007 University Ave. Lubbock, TX 79413 Auto Dealers - New, Used and/or Leasing

Home2 Suites by Hilton (806) 833-5000 6004 Marsha Sharp Fwy. Lubbock, TX 79407 Hotes & Motels

Inn of the Mountain Gods (575) 464-7777 287 Carrizo Canyon Rd. Mescalero, NM 88340Hotes & Motels

Karma Compliance (806) 855-2505 7412 82nd St., Ste. D Lubbock, TX 79424 Drug Screening - Alcohol Testing

Medal Homes, LLC (806) 724-6058 5712 Cranston Pl. (79707) PO Box 7254 Midland, TX 79708 Building Contractors

Northern Tool & Equipment (806) 686-0838 2406 W. Loop 289 Lubbock, TX 79407 Tool Sales

Southwest Insurance Associates (806) 793-1300 22 Briercroft Office Park, #7 Lubbock, TX 79412 Insurance - Life & Health

West Texas Investments (806) 687-5257 4010 82nd St., Ste. 105 Lubbock, TX 79423 Financial Planning

Wisely Organized(806) 344-8016PO Box 15960 Lubbock, TX 79490 Organizing Services

Please place this addition in your Chamber Business Directory & Resource Guide

Sponsored by:

Refresh Carpet Cleaning5214 Marsha Sharp Fwy.

Texas Federation of Republican Women’s Biennial

Convention

Vogue College of Cosmetology1712 34th St.

Wayland Baptist’s 4th Annual “Lubbock Lights Christmas

Festival” Light Show

Junior League of LubbockHoliday Happening

Merry Christmas!