Can I Get A Yee Haw? - Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce

JANUARY 2015
VOLUME 71 - ISSUE 1
Can I Get A Yee
Haw?
2015 Annual Awards Banquet
Inside This Issue
Enhanced Web Marketing Package
Maximize Your Online Presence
Rockwall County Days
Austin | February 22-24, 2015
2015 Board of Directors
Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
ROCKWALL AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
John Ratcliffe Sworn In
Selects Regional Representative
FOLLOW US
@rockwallchamber.org
facebook.com/RockwallChamber
twitter.com/rockwallchamber
Visit our websites at www.rockwallchamber.org and www.visitrockwall.com
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
A Monthly Publication of the:
Executive Committee Dana K. Macalik
Mike Mishler
David Mallard
Lou Johnson
Stewart Storms
Cindy Tayem
President
Rockwall Chamber of Commerce
Chair
Mishler Builders, Inc.
Chair-Elect
Law Offices of David Mallard
Past Chair
ANB Wealth Management Group
Treasurer
American National Bank
Secretary
Oncor Electric Delivery
Jon Bailey Liz Beauchamp Jay Bedford Adolfo Benavides
Robin Chouteau
Mike Conway
Rob Grand-Lienard
Rod Holland Lance Holmes
Brenda Kennedy
Brett Lee
Shane Lewis
Mark Moeller
Tim Nichols Richard Redig
Kim Timpa Rockwall County Helpin Hands
Atmos Energy Corporation
AJ Bedford Group
Texas A&M University – Commerce
Honda Cars of Rockwall
Conway Company CPAs, PC
Special Products & Mfg., Inc.
Rod Holland Real Estate
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital
Ebby Halliday Realtors
Lake Pointe Medical Center
FourSquare Healthcare
Rockwall Police Department
Nichols Wealth Management
Blue Ribbon News
The Timpa Law Office
Board of Directors KIM & CALVIN WALLEN,
Tauren Exploration, Inc.
PRESIDENT’S CLUB
Ex-Officio Directors David Sweet Dennis Bailey Lee Gilbert David Magness
Cliff Sevier Jim Pruitt
Sheri Franza
Bethany Browning Jeff Bailey Chamber Staff
Dana K. Macalik
Brad Bischof
Darby Burkey
Stacy Maynard
Rockwall County Judge
Rockwall County Commissioner
Rockwall County Commissioner
Rockwall County Commissioner
Rockwall County Commissioner
Mayor, City of Rockwall
President, Rockwall EDC
Main Street Manager, City of Rockwall
Superintendent of Rockwall ISD
President
Director of Membership Development
Director, Marketing & Communication
Admin. Communications Specialist
My Computer Guy
FEATURE STORY
President’s Pen
IN THIS ISSUE
by dana macalik
Businesses...Get Out There
Feeling the spirit of this time of year and the excitement of new plans and
advancements as we look forward, I was wondering what YOU will be doing differently
this year to better your organization?
This is a great time of year because the holidays are behind us, many folks took some
well-deserved time off, and are now ready to take on 2015. Just Questions to Ponder
What worked? What didn’t?
What can we do more of? What should we stay away from?
Here at the Chamber we are getting out there… We are working and planning on
some really exciting projects this year. It looks like it’s going to be an incredible
year for our community and businesses and we intend to add even more value and
resources to support you and your successes.
Yet no matter how many great ideas and programs we might present your way, there’s
one we should always keep in our Chamber bag of tools; and that it is to be customer
centered.
Over the next several months, the Chamber will be sharing with you our Strategic
Plan approved by the Board of Directors. Our Vision, Mission and Core Values
were developed and supported with the strategic framework to ensure what’s being
planned and done will deliver. To help make this tangible, below are some proposed
connections of the strategies and tactics.
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Achieve new levels of thinking and creativity.
Guide discussions that build trust and commitment.
Manage programs that are focused and productive.
Create opportunities for everyone to participate.
Foster environments of collaboration and cooperation.
Focus on the outcomes.
Our strategic outcome is a long-term and enduring benefit to our Chamber partners
and stems from our mission and vision. It represents the difference this Staff, Board of
Directors and interested partners intend to make for Rockwall businesses.
I’m looking forward to making every day extraordinary for business.
Your Friend,
Dana K. Macalik, President
Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
LEADERSHIP
PG 3 PRESIDENT’S PEN
by Dana Macalik
PG 4 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2015 Board Announced
PG15 LEADERSHIP ROCKWALL
COMMUNITY
PG 6-7 RIBBON CUTTINGS
PG 8 EVENTS CALENDAR
PG 9 FEATURED EVENT
Can I Get a Yee Haw?
PG 10 EVENTS HOT SPOT
PG 11 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
INTEGRITY
PG 5 LEGISLATIVE NEWS
John Radcliffe
BALANCE
PG 12
PARTNERSHIP
New Partners
Renewals
110% Club
SERVICE
PG 13 AMBASSADORS CORNER
PG 14 MARKETING
PG 15 MAGIC OF MARGO
DON’T MISS EVENT!
$700 Sponsor a Table of 8
Includes pre-event premier sponsorship
publicity, recognition at the event, dinner and
seating for 8, a bucket of beer and a bottle of
wine at your table.
$375 Sponsor Half-Table of 4
Includes pre-event sponsorship publicity,
recognition at the event, dinner and seating
for 8, and a bottle of wine at your table.
Tickets Only:
(no sponsor recognition)
$80 per Couple
$45 Individual Ticket
REGISTER ONLINE
www.rockwallchamber.org/events
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE ROCKWALL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES
2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
It is with great honor that the Chamber presents our 2015 Board of Directors. These professionals representing diverse
organizations have been elected to the Chamber’s Board of Directors for one, two or three-year terms, 2015-2017.
Executive Committee
Dana Macalik, President, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
Mike Mishler, Chair, Mishler Builders, Inc.
David Mallard, Chair-Elect, Law Offices of David S. Mallard
Lou Johnson, Past Chair, ANB Wealth Mgmt Group/Trust Services
Stewart Storms, Treasurer, American National Bank
Cindy Tayem, Secretary, Oncor Electric Delivery
Board of Directors
Jon Bailey, Rockwall County Helping Hands
Liz Beauchamp, Atmos Energy Corporation
Jay Bedford, AJ Bedford Group
Adolfo Benavides, Texas A&M University-Commerce
Robin Chouteau, Honda Cars of Rockwall
Mike Conway, Conway Company CPAs, PC
Rob Grand-Lienard, Special Products & Mfg., Inc.
Rod Holland, Rod Holland Real Estate – Keller Williams
Lance Holmes, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Rockwall
Brenda Kennedy, Ebby Halliday Realtors
Brett Lee, Lake Pointe Medical Center/Lake Pointe Health Network
Shane Lewis, FourSquare Healthcare Mark Moeller, Rockwall Police Department
Timothy Nichols, Nichols Wealth Management
Richard Redig, Blue Ribbon News
Kim Timpa, The Timpa Law Office Ex-Officio Directors
David Sweet, Rockwall County Judge
Dennis Bailey, Rockwall County Commissioner
Cliff Sevier, Rockwall County Commissioner
Lee Gilbert, Rockwall County Commissioner David Magness, Rockwall County Commissioner Jim Pruitt, Mayor, City of Rockwall
Bethany Browning, Main Street Manager, City of Rockwall
Sheri Franza, President, Rockwall Economic Development Corporation Jeff Bailey, Superintendent of Schools, Rockwall ISD
Rockwall Chamber of Commerce - “ To make every day extraordinary for business while maintaining the ideal hometown feel.”
LEGISLATIVE NEWS
JOHN RATCLIFFE SELECTS
LORIE GRINNAN AS
REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE
ROCKWALL COUNTY’S OWN JOHN
RATCLIFFE SWORN IN AS MEMBER OF
114th US CONGRESS
HEATH, TX – Rockwall County resident and former
Mayor of Heath was sworn in as the next Congressman from Texas’s 4th District in the 114th US Congress.
Ratcliffe previously served as the four term Mayor of Heath
from 2004 to 2012. He also served Rockwall County and the
surrounding areas as the United States Attorney from 2007
to 2008. “I am humbled and grateful for the support that all of
Rockwall County has provided over the years,” Ratcliffe said.
HEATH, TX – Congressman-elect John Ratcliffe has added Lorie Grinnan to his district team in the role of Regional
Representative. Grinnan’s role will be outreach focused as
she engages with constituents, community and civic organizations, and local governments to ensure they are wellrepresented by their Congressman. Grinnan brings impressive credentials, which include almost two decades of
experience as an elected official in the 4th Congressional
District, most recently as a Rockwall County Commissioner.
“Through my public service, I have come to know Congressman-elect Ratcliffe as an intelligent, committed, and
gifted leader,” Grinnan said. “I have also developed tremendous respect for Congressman Hall and his legacy in
our district. Given this, I am both humbled and honored
to have the opportunity to serve as a Regional Representative for the 4th Congressional District. I have served
our communities for 17 years - working closely with independent school districts, cities, counties, multiple state
and federal agencies, as well as many service organizations. I believe my experience in these diverse areas can
create an important link to best serve all our constituents
as Congressman-elect Ratcliffe leads us into a new era.”
Ratcliffe expressed gratitude in Grinnan’s desire to continue her public service as a key member of his Congressional staff. “Lorie possesses a deep and abiding appreciation for what it means to effectively serve constituents,”
Ratcliffe said. “I am thrilled to welcome to her to the
team, and confident that her considerable talents will be
of great value to people of the 4th Congressional District.”
Jason Ross, Ratcliffe’s District Director, specifically sought
out Lorie Grinnan for the first Regional Representative position within the 4th District. “I have known Lorie and worked
closely with her on several projects throughout her service
as a Rockwall County Commissioner,” Ross said. “Not only
is she a principled woman of great integrity, Lorie brings a
unique combination of incredible work ethic, compassion
for our constituents, and genuine and humble servant leadership. When we began assembling our district team, Lorie was immediately the number one person on my list to
talk with about leading Congressman-elect Ratcliffe’s service to the counties in the western region of our District.”
“I was graced with the company of friends, family, and neighbors that made the trip to Washington to attend my swearingin ceremony for the 114th Congress. I look forward to bringing
a good dose of Texas common sense to Washington as I work
to tackle the challenges our country faces,” added Ratcliffe.
Congressman John Ratcliffe will serve on both the Judiciary and
Homeland Security Committees in the 114th Congress. Both committees are vital to the protection and security of the American people.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve on two committees
with jurisdiction over areas of critical importance to the American
people,” Ratcliffe said. “These committees allows me to continue to fight illegal immigration, oppose any form of amnesty, and
work to secure our border. My previous experiences as a U.S.
Attorney and terrorism prosecutor will give me valuable subject
matter expertise in the policy areas these committees oversee.”
Ratcliffe has also been selected as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies. “The protection of our American values,
business, and way of life is in jeopardy unless we, as a country, take a strong stance against cybersecurity threats. Allowing foreign countries and terrorist to threaten our infrastructure
and freedom of speech will not be tolerated,” said Ratcliffe. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance the
conservative agenda so desperately needed to put our country
on a better path. It is clear that our country needs a conservative voice in congress that is not a “go along to get along” politician. I am a limited-government conservative with a proven record of defending the Constitution and balancing budgets. I will
build on this record and work to preserve a strong national defense, protect our homeland, grow our economy, and create goodpaying American jobs by reducing the size of the federal government. I look forward to bringing a good dose of Texas common
sense to Washington. With more freedom and less government,
I’m confident our country’s best days are indeed ahead of us.”
Congressman Ratcliffe has opened up district offices in
Rockwall, Sherman, and Texarkana. Jason Ross, a Rockwall County native, will manage Ratcliffe’s district operation
across the 18 counties of the 4th Congressional District. He
will be joined in the Rockwall office by Lorie Grinnan who
most recently served as a Rockwall County Commissioner.
Prior to joining Ratcliffe’s team, Grinnan served as a Rockwall County Commissioner from 2007-2014 where she
represented over 20,000 constituents and helped oversee
a $30 million county budget. From 1996-2005 Grinnan
served on the Rockwall ISD Board of Trustees, including
two terms as President. Her community involvement also
includes leading the successful effort to construct a Rockwall
County Veterans Memorial. Grinnan is a Texas native and
graduate of Texas A&M University with a B.S. in Psychology. Lou and Kerry Johnson, pictured with Congessman John Ratcliffe, and
wife, Michele at the swearing in ceremonies.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
PAINTING WITH A TWIST
Painting with a Twist is Rockwall’s newest entertainment venue. Looking for a fun night out? Unleash your creative side with
Painting with a Twist! We are a great place to have fun with your
friends, or meet new friends; relax - just let your hair down and be
you; or simply discover your inner artist. Bring your favorite bottle
of wine or beverage, and paint along with our artist to create your
own work of art that you will take home at the end of the evening.
We provide all painting supplies and artist instructions. No art
experience is needed. With a brush in one hand, your wine in the
other, and surrounded by friends - come enjoy a rare opportunity to
unplug and unwind. Simply be ready to have a good time! Follow
us on Facebook to hear about studio events, get sneak previews
of new art and our monthly calendar.
513 East Interstate 30
Rockwall, TX 75087
(469) 314-8110
Painting With A Twist
KROGER
The Kroger Rockwall store (2935 Ridge Road) completed an
extensive expansion and celebrated their Re-Grand Expansion
Opening Ceremony. the new addition to the store is an additional
16,000 square feet that will offer customers a food-centric
shopping experience with chef-prepared items and pastries, Texas
grown fruits and vegetables, an increased fine wine section (the
best and lowest price in Rockwall!), the largest floral department
in North Texas, premium-cut meats, fresh open air seafood, and
bulk nutrition items, gourmet coffee and peanut butter. Don’t forget
about the new salad bar, soup bar, olive bar, speciality cheese
shop, kitchen shop, sushi, juice bar, and a drive-through Pharmacy!
The remodel of this store has created 50 new jobs!
Kroger
2935 Ridge Road
Rockwall, TX 75032
(972) 882-1255
DALLAS HARLEY-DAVIDSON
Dallas Harley-Davidson has been serving the metroplex of
motorcycle enthusiasts for many years with new and pre-owned
Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales, service, accessories, and a
huge selection of clothing and home goods.
With the growth in Rockwall and a large customer base located
there, this year we wanted to join the Rockwall Chamber for
expanded community involvement and to support our local market. Dallas Harley-Davidson is committed to the brand, the community,
and most importantly, our customers. 1334 W. Centerville Rd
Garland, TX 75041
(972) 200-1664
Dallas Harley-Davidson
MEDPOST URGENT CARE
In today’s fast-paced world, people expect immediate access to
quality care at a reasonable price. MedPost Urgent Care is a great
choice for people who need care for non-life threatening illnesses
and injuries but don’t want to wait for an appointment or go to an
emergency room. We are proud to serve Rockwall, and invite you
to connect with us on Facebook!
MedPost is open extended hours during the week and on
weekends, and now has two locations in Rockwall (visit us at
www.medpost.com for more information):
2951 Ridge Road, Suite 107 Rockwall, Texas 75032
(in the Kroger Shopping Center)
(972) 722-4001
MedPost Urgent Care
3090 N. Goliad Street, Suite 110 Rockwall, TX 75087
(in the Tom Thumb Shopping Center)
(972) 882-1255
RIBBON CUTTINGS
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES
GARLAND LAKE RAY HUBBARD
The hotel is conveniently located off Interstate 30 and the George
Bush Turnpike. Enjoy exclusive water front lodging on Lake
Ray Hubbard. Quick and easy access to Downtown Dallas,
Texas to experience more of what Texas has to offer. Upgrade
your hotel stay to indulge in an exclusive sunset in one of our
balcony executive suites overlooking the lake. You won’t forget
the amazing view.
Make sure to pack your swimsuit whether you’re taking a boat
ride from the dock or relaxing in our heated outdoor pool. Keep
your friends informed with the lake view photos while connected
at the pool side with our complimentary high-speed Internet.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
4412 Bass Pro Drive
Garland, TX 75043
(972) 203-5700
ROCKWALL SEWING SCHOOL
Rockwall Sewing School is the fun place to sew! It started in 2009
by Kathlene Backer. It has beautiful classrooms, fully equipped
with computerized sewing machines, sergers, cutting tables, and
all the tools you will need for sewing. Classes are year round. You
may start at anytime during the year. Everyone works at their own
pace. They also have quilting classes, summer camps, birthday
parties, and private lessons. Ages 5 to adult, all sewing levels.
For more information: rockwallsewingschool.com
Rockwall Sewing School is located at:
500 Turtle Cove Dr., Suite 107
Rockwall, TX 75087
(972) 322-7727
Rockwall Sewing School
JANUARY RIBBON CUTTINGS
ENGLISH INSURANCE GROUP
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Ribbon Cutting: 1:20 PM
2231 Ridge Road, Suite 200
Rockwall, TX 75087
LAKE POINT ADVISORY GROUP
MORE
Photos and Stories will be shared in
the NEXT EDITION
of our Monthly Newsletter!
Thursday, January 13, 2015
Ribbon Cutting: 1:20 PM
1 Horizon Court A
Rockwall, TX 75032
Read more at:
www.rockwallchamber.org
on Facebook and in
The Blue Ribbon News
GLEN OAKS HOSPITAL
Don’t Forget to “Like”
our Partners on Facebook!
Tuesday, January 15, 2015
Ribbon Cutting: 12:30 PM
A light lunch will be served. Facility Tours.
301 E. Division St.
Greenville, TX 75401
Rockwall Chamber of Commerce - “ To make every day extraordinary for business while maintaining the ideal hometown feel.”
Rockwall Area Chamber Events
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New Year’s Day
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Offices Closed
AM & PM Networking Groups
1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
7:30AMand4:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring $1 and lots of business cards
Ambassador’s Luncheon
1st Wednesday of each month
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
12:00PM– 1:00PM
Dodie’sCajunRestaurant
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Monthly Meeting for Ambassadors
Young Professionals of Rockwall
Networking 1st Thursday of the Month
Thursday, January 8, 2015
6:00PM– 8:00PM
OscarDeltaTexasKitchen
108S.GoliadSt.,Rockwall,TX
Become a YPR Member to Participate
Professional Development Wed
Topic: Enhance Your Online Presence
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
12:00PM– 1:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring Your Own Lunch
Martin Luther King Day
Monday, January 19, 2015
Offices Closed
AM & PM Networking Groups
1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
7:30AMand4:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring $1 and lots of business cards
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Partnership Luncheon
Sponsored by Bimbo Bakeries USA
State of the City: Economic Forecast
Presentedby:
- Mayor Jim Pruitt
- City Manager Rick Crowley &
- EDC CEO Sheri Franza
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
12:00– 1:00PM(Check-In11:45)
Lake Pointe Church - Warehouse 45
701 E.Interstate30|Rockwall
Register Online - $18.00
Chamber Basics
Maximize Your Membership!
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
4:00PMto5:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Free Presentation – Register Online
Can I Get A Yee Haw?
2015 Annual Chamber Banquet
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
6:30PMto10:00PM
Southern Junction Steakhouse
5574Hwy276(atFM551),RoyseCity
Table Reservations & Tickets Online
AM & PM Networking Groups
1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
7:30AMand4:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring $1 and lots of business cards
2015 Sponsorship
Opportunities Available:
Partnership Luncheon
Partnership Breakfast
Business After Hours
Get Noticed!
Promote Your Business!
darby@rockwallchamber.org
Ambassador’s Luncheon
1st Wednesday of each month
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
12:00PM– 1:00PM
Zanata Restaurant
202EastRuskStreet,Rockwall,TX
Monthly Meeting for Ambassadors
Young Professionals of Rockwall
Networking 1st Thursday of the Month
Thursday, February 5, 2015
6:00PM– 8:00PM
CheckFacebookforNextLocation
Become a YPR Member to Participate
Professional Development Wed
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
12:00PM– 1:00PM
Chamber CommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring Your Own Lunch
AM & PM Networking Groups
1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
7:30AMand4:00PM
ChamberCommunityRoom
697E.Interstate30,Rockwall,TX
Bring $1 and lots of business cards
Partnership Luncheon
2015 SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
12:00– 1:00PM(Check-In11:45)
Lake Pointe Church - Warehouse 45
701 E.Interstate30|Rockwall
Rockwall County Days – Austin, TX
February 22 to February 24, 2015
Register Online by February 2nd!
Business After Hours
2nd or 4th Thursday of the Month
Thursday, February 26, 2015
5:00PM– 7:00PM
Hormonal Health and Wellness
1207AristaDrive,Suite103, Rockwall
REGISTER ONLINE
All events are subject to change.
For more information or to register visit
www.rockwallchamber.org/Events or call 972.771.5733
GET A FRONT ROW SEAT
AT THE CHAMBER’S ANNUAL BANQUET!
SPONSOR A TABLE TODAY!
JOIN OUR CORRAL OF SPONSORS:
AND THE
NOMINEES
ARE....
EVENTS HOT SPOT!
Support Your Community at the 84th Legislative Session
REGISTER ONLINE:
www.rockwallchamber.org/events
Registration Deadline: February 2, 2015
ALL RESERVATIONS must be made by this time. Please use the attached link to
our website and make your reservations. THE CHAMBER will not be taking any
reservations over the phone or BILLING accounts separately.
NEW All-Inclusive Package - $675 per person (Best Value!)
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Registration with Access to All Organized Events (Sun – Tues). Includes Welcome Reception, Breakfast
Monday and Tuesday and Dinner on Monday evening. Lunch Monday and Tuesday will be on your own.
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2 Nights Lodging at DoubleTree Hotel and Suites by Hilton- Austin, 303 West 15th Street, Austin, TX 78701
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Round Trip Motor Coach Transportation – Snacks will be available on the bus.
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Credit card needed for incidentals.
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Departure from Rockwall at 12:00 Noon (from the Chamber Office)
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Return from Austin, Departing at 10:00 AM (returning to the Chamber Office)
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May leave vehicles at the Chamber - The Chamber will not be responsible for any loss/damages.
A later option is available at 1:00 p.m. with the Leadership Rockwall 2015 class if desired.
Registration ONLY:
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$100 per person - Includes Access to all Organized Events (Sun-Tue)
Transportation - $100 per person *Registration Required (see details above)
Attendees registering without the All-Inclusive Package will be responsible for their own hotel reservations.
Hotel and Room Block Reservation Information:
DoubleTree Hotel and Suites by Hilton-Austin, 303 West 15th Street, Austin, TX 78701, Phone: (866) 460-7456 or (512) 478-7000.
These rooms have been reserved at the rate of $189 +tax single/double occupancy per night for the nights of Sunday, February
22nd and Monday, February 23rd. Deadline for Block Room Reservations is Monday, February 2, 2015.
Mention Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce when making reservations.
ALL Attendees to Rockwall County Days MUST be registered to attend.
Itinerary: Participants will receive the events itinerary and legislative report prior to February 22nd.
ROCKWALL CHAMBER HOSTS PREMIER LADIES’NIGHT OUT
Excerpt from Living Magazine, Lakeside Edition
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a community-wide ladies’ night out in December presented by Alliance
Bank, Honda Cars of Rockwall, Trend HR and Willis Fine Jewelry. The premier La Tee Da - Fa La La event was open to all
area women and even included motor coach transportation to the Springs Event Center in Poetry. Upon arrival, the ladies
were treated to food, spirits, music, shopping with local vendors and pampering passes from some of Rockwall’s elite salons. Rockwall Mayor David Sweet and other special gentlemen were decked out in tuxedos to serve the ladies and to present prizes
throughout the evening. A portion of the event’s proceeds went to benefit annual holiday meals served to the homebound
elderly and disabled in the community by Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockall County.
Robin Choteau and a friend show off their La
Tee Da Swag Bags.
Bill Houser, Kevin Fowler, Mayor David Sweet and Darby
Burkey pose with Lynette Coughlin - Winner of the Diamond Giveaway (Courtesey of WIllis Fine Jewlery)
Shelli Miller, Melissa Huffaker-Smith, Dorothy
Spradlin and Mary Johnson having a great
time.
Margie Verhagen, Meals on Wheels with Kevin Fowler,
MidSouth Bank.
Meals on Wheels wrote:
“Thanks to the Rockwall Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring the Meals on Wheels Christmas meal with the proceeds
from the La Tee Da event and
thank you Zanata for preparing
such a fantastic meal for the
senior homebound.”
Pictured (Left): Meals on
Wheels Volunteers.
Pictured (Right): Delicious
meals ready for dellivery!
Rockwall Chamber of Commerce - “ To make every day extraordinary for business while maintaining the ideal hometown feel.”
PARTNERS
WELCOME
NEW PARTNERS
Family Medicine at Rockwall
Active Wealth Management
7902 Traders Circle
Greenville, TX 75402
(903) 455-6956
www.activewealthmgmt.com
Origami Owl by Amy
5544 Melinda Circle
Sachse, TX 75048
(214) 810-0671
http://amyscharms.origamiowl.com
Ladybug Scrubs
2823 Market Center Drive
Rockwall, TX 75032
(972) 772-8228
www.ladybugscrubs.net
Primetime Petz
505 E. Boydstun Ave #8
Rockwall, TX 75087
(214) 257-8068
www.primetimepetz.com
Lake Pointe Medical Partners
Family Medicine at Rockwall
1215 Arista Drive, Suite 102
Rockwall, TX 75032
www.rockwallfamilyhealth.com
THANK YOU
RENEWALS
Aerobic Enterprises, Inc.
Best Western Plus Rockwall Inn & Suites
Beyond Faith Homecare & Rehab
Checkmate Casuals Custom T-Shirts
City Of Fate
Classic Rock Inc.
Comet Cleaners
Craft Customs-Carter Craft
Custom Outdoor Trends, Inc.
El Chico
Elite Suites Pet Resort
Firestone
Frances Egan-Ebby Halliday
Great Plains National Bank-Mortgage Division
Green Electronics Solutions
Hampton Inn Dallas/Rockwall
Hanby Ramey King Insurance
Hunt Regional Open Imaging
Jack Palmer Photography
Law Office of John F. Gussio
Michael Fisher, DDS, PA
Mission Rockwall
Northstar Bank of Texas
Occasions at Stone River
Packer Brick
Pecan Tree Pediatrics
QC7 Development Services, Ltd.
Resourcing Edge
Rockwall Auto Direct
Rockwall Nursing Care Center
Scott Turner, State Representative
Soroptimist International Of Rockwall
Texas Cardiac Associates
Williamson Foundation Repair
Willis Keepsake and Collectibles
Introducing the
110% CLUB
The Chamber proudly recognizes Mathnasium as our inaugral 110% Club Member!
Join the 110% Club!
By contributing an extra 10% when you renew your partnership dues, you will promote your business, and help the
Chamber promote Rockwall’s economic vitality. Club members will be recognized by the Chamber.
AMBASSADORS
AMBASSADOR
OF THE
MONTH
Diane Porter
Weight Off For Life
Diane Porter, co-owner of Weight Off for Life, in its 8th year of service with an office
in Rockwall, Texas serves an Independent Certified Health Coach and Regional
Director, with Take Shape for Life. She and her husband, Dr. Jim Porter’s business,
Weight off for Life incorporates the Take Shape for Life program, the FREE and
professional coaching division of Medifast, a publically held company in business for
over 35 years.
She is certified through COPE, a partnership with Take Shape for Life, the MacDonald
Center for Obesity Prevention and Education and the College of Nursing at Villanova
University. She coaches individuals to optimal health on a local, statewide and
national level and offers her services at no charge to the clients she serves. She sponsors and mentors health coaches
nationwide who also have the passion to help others with their health.
She has a super strong passion to make a difference in the health of America, one person at a time and has helped
thousands of people including teens and children transform their lives, with great enthusiasm. She is one of over 12,000
independent health coaches nationwide and serves her clients and other health coaches on a nationwide basis.
Diane graduated from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Texas Woman’s
University in Dallas, Texas with a Master of Science in Nursing.
She and her husband, Dr. Jim Porter, a natural consultant pharmacist, have lived in Rockwall for the last 10 years and
love this community. She enjoys spending time with their 2 daughters, son-in-laws and 4 grandchildren. She loves travel
internationally as well as a round of golf every so often.
Contact Diane at 972-722-8200 and visit the website at www.weightoffforlife.tsfl.com/explore or join her team of health
coaches and check out www.weightoffforlife.tsfl.com/biz
MEET OUR
Ambassador of the Month
RUNNERS-UP:
Jeannie Swanson, Minuteman Press
Jerry Welch, Ebby Halliday Realtors - The Welch Team
AMBASSADORS
Mary Bell Chad Caudill
Maureen Cook
Brenda Cross
Tim Cypert Kay Dutta Robin Fowler
Sheila Hair Susan Holt Bob Lewis Tammy Mancuso
Katy Miller Daniel Nichols
Israel Norton
Diane Porter Ginger Scott
Josh Sparks
Dorothy Spradlin
Jeanie Swanson Crystal Tatum
Toni Waldrop
Brittany Whisman
Jerry Welch Leigh Wilcoxson
Northstar Bank
Paychex
Amy Joyce Designs
Highland Meadows Health & Rehab
Cypert Insurance Services
Rockwall County Helping Hands
MidSouth Bank
My Computer Guy
North American Title
Planet Rockwall
CertaPro Painting
Lake Pointe Medical Partners
BB&T
US Health Advisors
Weight Off for Life
Shear Passion Salon
American National Bank
ScanSee
Minuteman Press
Guild Mortgage Company
Rockwall Gold & Silver
Texas Title/Vice & Henley Law
Ebby Halliday Realtors
Ranger Title
AMBASSADOR’S LUNCHEON
1st Wednesday of the Month
Monthly Meeting for Ambassadors Only
JOIN US
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Zanata Restaurant
202 E. Rusk Street, Rockwall, TX
RSVP to brad@rockwallchamber.org
SAVE THE DATE
Locations TBD
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
MARKETING
Maximize Your Online Presence
Compare Basic and Enhanced Web Marketing Package Features
As a member of the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce we invite you to use your Partner Login information to
manage how others view your business on our Chamber website. Our online Business Directory gets over 7,500
Hits per Month!
You have the opportunity to market your business to consumers visiting www.rockwallchamber.org and enhancing
your informational Home Page with pictures and text. You can also post Hot Deals, Job Openings and Events; and
add Keywords to help consumers find you when they run searches, and run reports to see Hit Statistics for your
home page and other advertised items.
Whether at work, at home, or traveling, anywhere that you have access to the internet you will be able to edit your
information by logging into the ChamberMaster website. If you have any questions regarding this site please contact
your Chamber Representative.
Basic Web Marketing Package
Free at the Entrepreneur investment level ($375)
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200 character business description
Hours of operation
Driving directions (without map)
Personalized keywords
Free online job postings
Free online promotions (Hot Deals)
Ability to post & register for Events
Update the Chamber’s database yourself
Available Upgrades to the Basic Web Account:
• Add a Web & Map Link for $75
• Upgrade to the Enhanced Package for $150
Enhanced Web Marketing Package
Included with the Business Investment Levels & Above
($750 +)
Add’l Branding Features Increase your Website Hits!
On the e-Brochure/Member page:
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Logo/Image next to company info
Expanded description of 1600 characters (standard 200)
5 Bulleted highlights
Additional website and map links
8 Photo Slideshow (max 150 x 150 Pixels) and 1 video
(for SEO integrated Chamber sites)
In the Search Results Listing:
About
Painting with a Twist is an awesome BYOB entertainment option - come unplug and unwind
with us. We provide everything
you need to leave with a finished painting, our instructors
will walk you through your painting step by step and you’ll leave
with your own masterpiece. It’s
FUN art, not FINE art - come
have a great time with us!!
Rep Info
Christine Pilling, Owner
Phone: (469) 314-8110
Send an Email
Map Link:
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Priority Placement over Basic listings
12 More Searchable Keywords available
Logo/Image next to listing
200 character Search Results
“Visit Website” link above phone number on Search
Results
In the Enhanced Map features, when clicked on:
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Picture/Logo
Name
Phone Number
Address
Description
Web Link
Contact Email
Directions Link
A FOND FAREWELL
THE MAGIC OF MARGO NIELSEN - 25 YEARS OF SERVICE
By Melody Hail, Rockwall County Helping Hands
Rockwall County Helping Hands liken the legacy of Margo Nielsen to a quote from Winston
Churchill: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Clearly, the spirit of
Helping Hands today is a reflection of Nielsen’s giving of herself.
Past and present Boards of Directors, volunteers and
staff invite the community to join them in honoring the retiring Executive Director during a “Magic of Margo” event
Jan. 24 at the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront. The retirement party will reflect on the evolution of the agency
under Margo’s direction, recalling the challenges and joys
of leading RCHH since the early 1990s. Longtime friends
of RCHH will share remembrances of Nielsen and her
impact on the community. The celebration will not only
mark Margo’s 25th anniversary with Helping Hands, but
also her 70th birthday.
“It will be an opportunity to recognize Margo’s many accomplishments in Rockwall County as well everything she’s accomplished as Executive Director of
Helping Hands. As a community, this is our chance to honor her, applaud her
work, and show her our gratitude,” said Heath Mayor Lorne Liechty, Chairman
of the Board of Helping Hands.
Tickets are available at rockwallhelpinghands.com.
CLASS PROJECT ANNOUNCED
by Katy Miller, Lake Pointe Medical Partners
LEADERSHIP
The Leadership Rockwall Class of 2015 has chosen Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County
for their class project. Our class goal is to raise $30,000 to refurbish the MOWSS offices which will save
MOW an estimated $90,000 over the next few years. This will allow the money to be used for mobile meals
for senior citizens in the community instead of on overhead expenses. The condition of the Meals on Wheels
building made it an obvious choice for our class.
Meals on Wheels currently resides on the Helping Hands property (the Williams Street campus). The building
has reached such a high level of deterioration that soon Helping Hands will have no choice but to tear it
down. As a result, MOWSS would then have to find a new location and pay a much higher rent and utilities.
Our class is so thankful to all of the contractors who have come forward donating both labor and materials to help curb the
cost of our renovation project.
Our class is still fundraising through February and would gladly accept any donations. Please contact the Meals on Wheels
office and ask for our leadership classmate Margie Verhagen if you are interested in donating to “Meals on Wheel, Building
for the Future” project. (Read more about this story in the Blue Ribbon News - Coming Soon).
Rockwall Chamber of Commerce - “ To make every day extraordinary for business while maintaining the ideal hometown feel.”
Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
3021 Ridge Road #63
Rockwall, TX 75032
www.rockwallchamber.org
Located at:
697 East Interstate 30, Rockwall, TX 75087
Your
Ad
Here
More Info Contact:
darby@rockwallchamber.org
Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce - To make every day extraordinary for business while maintaining the ideal hometown feel.