4 column

M a y / J u n e 2 0 0 7 V o l . 1 I s su e 3
Don’t Miss…
Alley Fest, p. 6
Chamber of Commerce J Convention and Visitors Bureau J Downtown Development
Also in this issue…
LEADERSHIP CRISIS
4
GET READY FOR ALLEY FEST
6
TOURISM PARTNER OF THE YEAR 7
KEEP LONGVIEW BEAUTIFUL
10
SMALL BUSINESS BREAKFAST
11
LEADERSHIP LONGVIEW
12
AMBASSADORS OF THE MONTH 14
D e p a r t m e n t s
FROM THE PRESIDENT
3
SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
5
RIBBON CUTTINGS
8
ANNIVERSARIES &
NEW MEMBERS
9
CALENDAR
15
Longview Progress Report is published by:
410 N. Center Street / Longview, TX 75601
903-237-4000 / www.longviewtx.com
Business Profile
LeTourneau University —
Representing Excellence
Dr. Ginger Dennis, director
faculty who teach in the online
programs.
of Distance Learning and
Beginning with the first online
Instructional Services at
program
in 2004, they now have
LeTourneau University, will be
more
than
350 students working
among the first to share with
toward
degrees
completely
the community how proud she
online.
The
university
offers
is of the university.
online
degrees
at
both
the
LeTourneau University offers
undergraduate
and
graduate
about 60 programs at the
Teresa Horn, Dr. Ginger Dennis and
levels in business administration
graduate and undergraduate
Michelle
Jackson
pose
for
a
photo
on
and
management, as well as an
levels in a variety of fields. The
the
campus
of
LeTourneau
University.
online
MBA degree in
university’s flagship programs
educational
leadership.
are in aeronautical science and
At
LeTourneau
University,
their
philosophy of
engineering with strong programs in the areas of arts
business
is
educating
students
academically,
socially
and sciences, teacher education and business. Almost
and
spiritually.
The
foundation
of
the
university
is
4,000 student from nearly every state and 25 nations
based
squarely
on
biblical
principles
and
practice.
seek out LeTourneau to further their education.
“Membership in the Longview Partnership is
As director of the Distance Learning and
important
to LeTourneau University because it
Instructional Services, Dr. Dennis leads the
helps
bring
together all facets of the Longview
Instructional Technology Services Department which
community.
The university values our location in
provides assistance to other LETU departments and
East
Texas
and
our partnership with Longview
schools with the development, delivery and
businesses
and
individuals,” Dennis said.
evaluation of all online programs, and manages the
Public office seekers to get tips at LP Candidates Academy
The Longview Partnership is pleased to present
the first training program in the Gregg County
area to aid individuals in the preparation of
running for public office. A task force of the
Governmental Affairs committee was formed to
design the framework of a four (4) week training
program. The curriculum is designed to equip
you, the future candidate, with the skills to run
and win.
Individuals committed to doing their best for
their communities will find the Candidates
Academy to be their opportunity to become better
leader and elected official. It seems no matter how
much professional expertise one can develop in a
given field of business, running for public office is
a big decision; especially, when determining am I
the “right” person to run for this position.
Business leaders often find themselves wanting
our community to be cutting edge and striving to
improve our processes so that Longview and Gregg
County continues to be a great place to live and do
business. Then the questions become: How do I
run for office? Where do I go to learn more about
running for office?
more on p. 13
Let us help you Step It Up!
Are you strategically aligning
your organizational readiness?
The Longview Partnership can
help you deliver your message
to targeted audiences based on
your marketing plan. In 2006
the Partnership began
developing customized
marketing plans for our
members. You too can now
build your own member
benefits package which best fits
your personal and professional
needs.
Consider looking at a menu
at a restaurant you have never
visited. Typically, you’ll find
many possible selections;
often, more than one will catch
your eye. Have you ever
and help you find the
needed the server
appropriate package,
to come back
and the benefits
more than one
included to meet your
time while you
needs. Customized
considered your
packages can be
options? The
introduced one at a
answer is yes, of
time, from highest to
course you have.
lowest, based on your
This is because
specific needs.
too many choices
Kelly Hall
Would you like to take
cause paralysis for
most customers. The numerous advantage of this paradigm
shift? If so, contact myself or
options inevitably lead to
Mitzi Barnes at 903-237-4000.
indecision. The same can be
Let us meet with you and see
true when looking at the
how we can effectively
Partnership’s buffet of special
implement member benefits to
events, educational
not only meet but exceed the
opportunities, luncheons,
sponsorships, you name it. We goals you had when you first
joined our organization!
want to remove the confusion
ALLEYFEST
VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED!
You’re Safe At
Home with Us!
From the President
Executive
Committee
Suzanne Cook, Chair
Jimmy Howell,
Incoming Chair
Bill Miller, Treasurer
Judy Brown
David Hayes
Richard Manley
Lester Lucy, Past Chairman
Board of Directors
Mark Abernathy
Shane Best
Brian Bunt
Frank Chaney
Kellyn Drayer
Charles Farmer
Keith Honey
James Hugman
Charles Ireland
June 1 - 3 2007
Call us! We’re Your Home Team!
Suzanne Cook & Company
1127 Judson Rd. Suite 146
Longview, TX 75601
(903) 757-2111
www.suzannecook.com
If you would like to
volunteer for this
year's event,
please contact
Ellen Brumfiel at
903-757-8676.
Don't miss out
on the fun!
FREE T-shirt!
www.longviewtx.com
District Judge
Alvin Khoury
Darrell Rachels
Charles Rader
Mel Reynolds
Sandra Roel
Craig Sisk
Ex Officio
Richard Lazarus
Maxey Cerliano
The Longview Progress Report 3
Community and Leadership Development
STAFF
Kelly Hall
President
903-237-4004
kelly@longviewpartnership.org
NEWS: Leadership Crisis on the Horizon
One-fifth of the large, established companies in
the United States will lose 40 percent or more of
their top-level talent in the next five years as
senior executives retire, according to a study by
Paul Anderson
Development Dimensions International Inc., a
Sr. Vice President
903-753-3281
Pennsylvania-based organizational development
lcvb@longviewtx.com
firm.
Elaine Reynolds
Over the next 15 years, there will be a 15
VP Downtown Development
percent decline in the number of people ages 35
903-237-4040
elaine@longviewpartnership.org to 44, said Tom Saporito, senior vice president
of RHR International in Chicago.
Claudia Inman
“This means there will be fewer people
Business Manager
available for the top management slots, and high903-237-4010
claudia@longviewpartnership.org performance executive talent will be in demand,”
he said. (Source: Executive Leadership)
Elton Taylor, Jr.
Membership Services Coordinator
Multiple Generations in the Workplace 903-237-4013
There may be as many as five generations present
membership@longviewpartnership.org
in one company, representing potential
Mitzi Barnes
challenges for managers of all ages:
Special Projects Coordinator
1. Radio babies, born 1930 through 1945,
903-237-4021
with
63 million still working
mitzi@longviewpartnership.org
2. Baby boomers, 1946 - 1964, with 78
Mary Whitton
Program Coordinator
903-237-4003
mary@longviewpartnership.org
million working (the biggest demographic bulge
in U.S. history)
3. Generation Xers, 1965 - 1976, with 48
million in the workforce
4. Generation Yers, 1977 - 1991, with 80
million employed
5. Millennials, 1991 forward, representing
teens entering the job force
In the book When Generations Collide: Who
They Are, Why They Clash, How to Solve the
Generational Puzzle at Work, authors Lynne C.
Lancaster and David Stillman acknowledge that
people of various ages see things differently and
offer these observations:
“Bridging the generation gaps at work can
provide huge payoffs when it comes to recruiting,
retaining, managing and motivating others.
The next time you bump into someone from
another generation whom you don't relate to,
stop and remember that no one is right or wrong
... we're just different.” (Source: St. L)
LP MISSION
STATEMENT
Lindsay Vanderbilt
Community Pride
and KLB Coordinator
903-237-4029
klb@longviewpartnership.org
To enhance economic
growth of the Longview
trade area, by focusing
on education,
promotion and
development of the
business community.
Leska Parker
Convention Sales Manager
903-753-3281
meetings@longviewtx.com
LP CORE VALUES
Susan Post
Tourism Services Manager
903-753-3281
info@longviewtx.com
• Creating a Strong
Economy
• Promoting the
Community
Jolie Gilley
New Membership Sales Support
903-237-4041
sales@longviewpartnership.org
• Provide Networking
Opportunities
Carrie Fisher
Receptionist
903-237-4000
info1@longviewpartnership.org
• Represent the Interest
of Business with
Government
Christi Harris
Office Assistant
903-237-4013
community@longviewpartnership.org
• Community
Leadership &
Development
4 May/June
www.longviewtx.com
Creating a Strong Economy
Small Business Week a Big Deal with LP Members
Small Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year Named
As part of the national Small Business Week
promoted by the United States Chamber of
Commerce, the Longview Partnership Small Business
Committee gave special recognition to three member
businesses during the 2007 Business EXPO.
Forbes & Butler Visual
Communications
(Holly Forbes and
Jason Butler
pictured)
received the
Small Business
of the Year
Award.
Stephanie Phillips,
owner of REAL ESTATE
CENTER, was the recipient of the Entrepreneur of
the Year Award.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Jason Butler & Holly Forbes
Stephanie Phillips
Forbes & Butler Visual
Communications
REAL ESTATE CENTER
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 5
Promoting the Community
East Texas Celebration of the Arts: It’s AlleyFest Time!
Fun awaits you at AlleyFest, June 1-3, 2007 in downtown
Longview. Alley Art, Alley Run, Music Fest, Food Fest, Kids Fest,
and the AlleyFest Chili Cook-off, something for everyone. Gates
open Friday 6:30 pm – midnight, Saturday 10 am – midnight, and
Sunday 11 am – 3 pm. Admission for Friday is $5.00, Saturday is
FREE until 3:00 pm, and then after 3:00 pm admission is $10.00,
Sunday is FREE. Children 12 and under are FREE at all times.
Gates open Friday at 6:30 pm with arts and crafts, plenty of
food, and music! Friday entertainment is Vehicle Reason at 6:30
p.m., Vocal Trash at 8 p.m. and Music Fest welcomes the #1
tribute to KISS Worldwide, KISS Army at 10 p.m.
Saturday, get up early, Alley Run registration starts at 6:30 am.
Alley Run will feature a new and improved route for runners who
choose the One Mile, 5k or 10k route. The 10k course will be a
double loop of the 5k course. Alley Run offers something for the
runner who wants a fun run, as well as something for the serious
competitive runner.
Chili Cook – off gets under way at 8 a.m. The AlleyFest Chili
Cook-off will give chili cooks the opportunity to showcase their
chili recipe. Local companies are encouraged to enter a team in
the local division.
AlleyFest opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday with Alley Art, plenty of
food and drinks and Kids Fest. The highlight of AlleyFest is still
Alley Art, which retains its original high standards with quality art,
as well as unique arts and crafts. Come ready to shop! In Kids Fest
children will enjoy many kid’s activities. Many hands on activities
will be available as well as the favorite space walks and of course
quality family entertainment on the Kids Fest stage. Kids Fest
hours are Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 11 am – 3 pm.
Saturday at 4 p.m. the Main Stage cranks up with Tyler Bryant
followed by Ms Mac and the Groovetones. Talented, versatile, and
energetic, are words that describe the band Shinebox. Shinebox is
the ‘real deal’ playing at 8 pm.
Get ready at 10 p.m. One Hundred Acres of Heritage is proud to
present Little River Band, one of the busiest bands touring this
summer all the way from Australia. Fun is what they’re all about.
Throughout the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, Little River Band has sold
over 25 million records and charted over 12 top 20 hits. It is said
Little River Band is the best harmonizing band in the business.
“I am excited that we are able to get such a great musical group
to come to Longview for AlleyFest and think it is great to be able to
see them perform for only a $10 admission charge,” said Mike
Hawkins, co-chair of AlleyFest.
New this year at AlleyFest beef lovers will experience the thrill of
the grill at the Texas Beef Council’s new exhibit, The Ultimate
Backyard. The goal of the Ultimate Backyard is to educate Texans
about beef through a fun, exciting and casual venue. Come and see
the Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Number 8 Nextel Cup Car sponsored by
Mid South Engine & Machine, LLC.
Sunday AlleyFest continues with Alley Art, Kids Fest, food and
drink, and music. Performing at 12 noon is Katie Rae Davis
followed by Mark Cooke and Cooke County Line on the Main
Stage.
For more information www.alleyfest.org or call 903 237-4000.
SPONSORS
Thank you for your sponsorship in supporting AlleyFest
Budweiser • Supercuts • Eagle Audio and Lighting / Mid South Power
Systems • AT&T • East Texas Spa • Century Tel • Curb Appeal • Longview
Bridge and Road • Longview New Car Dealers • Network Communications •
Network IP • Texas Beef Council • Beer Wells Real Estate • Crosby Lebus •
Good Shepherd Health System • Longview News-Journal • The Made-Rite
Company • Snelling Personnel Services • SWEPCO • Spring Hill State Bank
• Capital One • Eastman Chemical Company • Eastman Credit Union •
Cherokee Minerals • KSA Engineers Inc. / Expert Computing • Noon &
Associates Real Estate • Sonic Drive-In • Texas Lottery Commission • First
Baptist Church • LeTourneau University • Southside Bank • Atmos Energy •
Austin Bank • Darby Equipment • Express Personnel Services • Texas Bank & Trust
Our Media Hosts:
American Classifieds • Media Quest • Suddenlink Media • KLTV Channel 7 •
KZQX • CBS 19 • KYKX 105.7 East Texas Radio Group • KNUE 101.5 •
MIX 93.1 KTYL • KKTX 96X • Hot 107 JAMZ • KETK NBC 56 • KFXK FOX 51
6 May/June
www.longviewtx.com
Promoting the Community
Made-Rite drinks in glory as first Tourism Partner of the Year
The first Tourism Partner of the Year award was
donated beverage products to more than 10
presented by the Longview Convention and
convention and meetings that brought overnight
Visitors Bureau during the May 1st Quarterly
visitors and generated economic impact for
Membership Luncheon of the Longview
Longview.
Partnership. Recipient of the award was The
This company’s employees give of their time and
Made-Rite Company of Longview.
expertise as active members of many boards and
The Tourism Partner of the Year is a new award
commissions in the community, including the
that the LCVB created to honor and recognize a
Longview Convention and Visitors Bureau,
Longview business or person who has gone above
Longview Parks and Recreation Parks Advisory
and beyond the call of duty in their support of
Board of Concessions, and the Longview
tourism in our city. Tourism Partners can be any
Hospitality and Tourism Association. While
Jack Mann and Les Rickett of
person or business and includes hotels,
The Made-Rite Company receive recognized by LCVB, The Made-Rite Company is
the inaugural Tourism Partner
restaurants, vendors, or suppliers who support
also involved in communities throughout our
of the Year Award.
LCVB’s efforts to bring and provide services to
region holding membership in many local
conventions, meetings, tournaments and other events that attract
Chamber of Commerce organizations including Longview,
visitors to Longview.
Gladewater, Marshall, Henderson, Kilgore, Nacogdoches, and
For many years, The Made-Rite Company has provided
Marion County.
outstanding service to many local organizations, especially tourism
It was with great pleasure that LCVB presented this inaugural
generating events. The Made-Rite Company has a reputation for
award to The Made-Rite Company, represented at the luncheon by
their willingness to help. Within the last year, this company has
Jack Mann and Les Rickett.
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 7
Ground Breakings & Ribbon Cuttings
Leilawood Flowers, a long-standing
local institution, is now under new
management. Karen Hailey and staff are
eager to continue the Leilawood
tradition as they service your floral
desires.
Advanced Temporaries recently moved
into their new, larger office space.
Opening as the company’s eighth
branch, the Longview office can meet
your temporary hiring needs.
Jene Travel conveniently meets all your
travel needs online. Book your next trip
– whether business or pleasure –
through Branden and Tabitha Johnson
today.
Advanced Temporaries is located at 414
S. Loop 281, Suite 7, Longview, TX
75605. Call (903) 757-8204.
The Jene Travel homepage is located at
http://www.JeneTravel.com. Email
JeneTravel@hotmail.com.
Gorman-McCracken Mazda Volkswagen
recently unveiled its new state of the art
Mazda Revolution showroom, featuring
virtual touchscreen kiosks, Internet
access and the “mCafe”.
Wal-Mart SuperCenter, part of the push
to develop South Longview, opened
with much fanfare and excitement. The
store employs 375 full and part-time
team members.
Hometown Hardware, one of the Spring
Hill area’s newest neighborhood stores,
is owned by Ken and Suzie Turner and
also stocks kitchen supplies and décor
items.
Gorman-McCracken Mazda
Volkswagen is located at 800
Highway 31E, Longview, TX 75604.
Call (903) 753-8657.
Wal-Mart SuperCenter is located at
4006 Estes Pkwy, Longview, TX
75603. Call (903) 236-4743.
Hometown Hardware Inc. is located at
1341 Heritage Blvd., Longview, TX
75705. Call (903) 291-1120.
Leilawood Flowers is located at 303 E.
Methvin St., Longview, TX 75601.
Call (903) 758-2711.
Hayes RV Center recently celebrated 60
years in business serving the Greater
Longview area and announced its new
and exciting partnership with Meals on
Wheels.
Hayes RV Center is located at 5009
Judson Road., Longview, TX 75605.
Call (903) 663-3488.
8 May/June
Longview’s new Fire Station No. 4 was commissioned in the Spring Hill section
during a bittersweet ceremony also celebrating the career of retiring Chief Richard
Lazarus. Fire Station No. 4 is located on George Richey Road.
www.longviewtx.com
Anniversaries & New Members
May 2007
June 2007
One Year
Advanced Temporaries Inc.
Alford Pre-Owned
Auto Center
Ashley Furniture Home Store
Donuts Plus
Gary Lawrence Insurance
The Glitz
Longview Cash Now LLP
Longview Community
Center/Longview Federated
Clubs Inc.
Lowe's of Longview Inc.
Photography by Don & Judy
Strathmore Products
The Wedded Bliss
Wells Fargo Financial Texas Inc.
One Year
Alltel Call Center
Churchill At Longview
DeHaven Eye Clinic
Fazoli’s Restaurant
Hospice of East Texas
Juvenis Laser & Skin Care
Longview Computer Center
Mr Rooter of East Texas
Paradigm Changes
Pepsi-Cola Company
Plantation Shutters
Warehouse
Prudential Preferred Properties
Rexam Beverage Can
Scrubs & Such
The Stain Concrete Store Inc.
Texas Massage Institute
Winterfield United
Methodist Church
Five Year
AP Equipment & Rentals Inc.
LeTourneau Inc.
QUOIN Chapter of AGC
Ten Year
Eyemart Express #40
Four S Oil Company Inc.
Lamar Advertising
UniFirst Uniform Corporation
Fifteen Year
Jim Fisher Builder
Twenty Year
Gregg County Oil Company
Holders A/C & Heating
Rooker - Downing Insurance
Vision Source - Jeffrey Jones OD
West Drum Corporation
Thirty Year
Spring Hill State Bank
Thirty-Five Year
Lakeview Funeral Home &
Memorial Gardens
Longview Cable
Television Company Inc.
Rescar Inc.
William E Bussey DDS
Five Year
East Texas Workforce Center
Ten Year
Advantage Building Services
Amtrak
Bunt & Wright PLLC
The Longview Partnership Chamber of Commerce would like
to welcome the following new members:
Tammy Del Angel
Cash Now #2
301 E. Marshall Ave
Longview, TX 75601
(903) 753-3335
Suzie Turner
Hometown Hardware Inc.
1341 Heritage Blvd
Longview, TX 75605
(903) 291-1120
Robert Herbert
Clearwire
3100 McCann Rd, Ste 3207
Longview, TX 75605
(903) 806-6055
Terry Howard
Murphy Oil USA # 7391
4004 Estes Pwky
Longview, TX 75603
(903) 234-1691
Kasha Williams
Divine Care Home Nursing
911 Pegues Place, Ste A
Longview, TX 75601
(903) 753-1000
Lance Schooley
Noon & Associates Lance Schooley
1201 W Loop 281, Ste 600
Longview, TX 75602
(903) 758-7805
Bill Bolls
East Texas Beverages, Inc.
880 NE Loop 281
Longview, TX 75601
(903) 753-4016
Rachel Allen
Fitzpatrick Butler Architects Inc.
1510 S. Vine Ave.
Tyler, TX 75701
(903) 592-0728
Mark Stonebreaker
Office Depot
422 NW Loop 281. Ste 300
Longview, TX 75605
(903) 757-9757
Scott Lassiter
Select Comfort
3500 McCann Rd
Longview, TX 75605
(903) 753-4406
Fifteen Year
Leach Property Management
Twenty-Five Year
G.P. Smith Inc.
Thirty Year
Satterwhite Log Homes
Thirty-Five Year
Barron's
Coghlan Crowson LLP
Friedman Industries Inc.
HELP US KEEP YOUR MEMBER
LISTING CURRENT.
Submit any changes in your organization’s
contact information to Elton Taylor,
Member Services Coordinator at 903-237-4013
or membership@longviewpartnership.org.
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 9
Creating a Strong Economy
Bring It Home
Remember how fun that
conference was last year that
you went to in West Texas?
But do you remember how
long it took to get home?
Whether the conventions
and meetings you attend are
purely business or mixed
with a little fun, it’s time you
bring the group home to
Longview for the next one.
The staff at the Longview
Convention and Visitors
Bureau is well trained in
planning for and hosting
groups of all sizes. We have
created many outstanding
events for organizations
who have hosted their
annual meeting in Longview
and we look forward to
making you look like a hero
when you bring your state
organization here. We all
fall into a rut of thinking
there is “nothing to do
here,” but that is where the
Longview CVB can step in
and help create a successful,
profitable and great time for
all attendees.
Are you ready to bring it
home? Call us and we can
make it happen. Not only
will we provide outstanding
meeting planning and
assistance, but we’ll give
you the tools to get the
group here and have a great
time once they arrive.
Contact us TODAY at
903-753-3281 to help
plan your next event!
10 May/June
KLB Awards Community, Installs New Directors
To nominate your business for a KLB
Keep Longview Beautiful celebrated its Annual beautification award, email
Awards Recognition and Installation meeting on
klb@longviewpartnership.org.
April 25 with a luncheon at LeTourneau
Debbie Morrow, KLB’s appointed board
University Memorial Center.
member for Downtown Longview, received the
Also celebrating its new Keep America
Volunteer of the Year award. Debbie joined the
Beautiful affiliate status, the organization gave
board in 2006 and volunteered to chair KLB’s
13 special recognition awards,
beautification committee. Her
presented its Annual Award,
committee created the HWY 80
Le ft:
Linda
Pursley
Volunteer of the Year Award,
Beautification Project that has
accepts
and a surprise Outstanding
planted over 50 crepe myrtles
Outstanding
Achievement Award for Linda
behind HWY 80 rights of way.
Achievement
award for 28
Pursley.
KLB wanted to specially
years
of
Special Recognition merit
recognize Linda Pursley with an
service.
awards were given for extensive
Outstanding Achievement
support of the KLB program of
award. Linda has volunteered
work to the following:
from 1979 to 2007 as KLB’s
Best Buy, Chick-Fil-A, City of
executive secretary. KLB has
Longview, Dr. John
declared the Volunteer of the
Greifenkamp, Gregg County,
Year award to be renamed to the
KLB Investors, KSA Engineers,
Linda Pursley Volunteer of the
Lamar Advertising, Longview
Year award.
Ab ove : KLB board member, Dennis
Downtown Rotary Club,
New KLB directors installed at
McKinney presents Annual Award
to
FUMC
business
administrator,
Longview News-Journal, Neal
the luncheon included Barbara
Andy Reynolds.
McCoy, Starbucks Coffee and
Crabtree, Brian Bowman,
The Perfect Blend.
Debbie Morrow, and Peggy
KLB’s Annual Award was granted to the First
Mayfield.
United Methodist Church of Longview located
KLB welcomed its 2007-2008 officers:
on Fredonia Street. The Annual Award is only
Dwayne Archer, president; Debbie Morrow, first
given to those who have received a monthly
vice president; Brian Bowman, second vice
Beautification Award from Keep Longview
president; Mary Barham, secretary; and Ben
Beautiful for their beautification efforts.
Avedikian, treasurer.
Keep Longview Beautiful presented a monthly
beautification award to David Houston of
Brew Honda for the month of April. Brew’s unique
shrubbery is designed to mirror the building’s
architecture. The business is located at
519 South Street.
Our deserving winner this year for the
Keep Longview Beautiful Annual Award who sets
an example for others to follow was
First United Methodist Church of Longview.
www.longviewtx.com
Providing Network Opportunities
IDENTITY THEFT:
Gain Leverage: Become an Ambassador
How to Stop It in It’s Tracks
Small Business Breakfast Set for July 11
The Longview Partnership’s Small Business Committee will
host the next Small Business Breakfast on Wednesday, July 11,
2007 at 7:30 a.m. at the Summit. Luke Yocom, Personal Banker
for JP Morgan Chase Bank, will share with LP members tips and
techniques on how to prevent identity theft.
Identity theft occurs when a person’s identity is stolen for the
purpose of opening credit accounts, stealing money from existing
accounts, applying for loans, even renting apartments or
committing crimes.
Mr. Yokom will help LP
members understand ways to
protect your business from
identity theft. Reservations
may be made for this important event by calling the Longview
Partnership at 237-4000 or info1@longviewpartnership.org.
Cost is $12.00 and reservations are required.
This year’s Small Business Breakfast sponsor is East Texas
Shredding.
W
e are frequently asked, “How can I get more exposure for my
business?” Typically, event sponsorships, advertisements, and
booths are the methods of choice. However, those seeking to
invest their time more so than money find being a Chamber of
Commerce Ambassador quite the rewarding avenue for exposure.
If you are enthusiastic, dependable and honest, possess an
outgoing personality and good organizational skills, you may have
what it takes to be a successful Ambassador.
Formerly the Blue Blazers, the Ambassadors are the public
relations arm of the Chamber - attending ribbon cuttings and
monthly meetings, volunteering at events, and recruiting new
Chamber members. These experiences effectively position our
Ambassadors to make one-on-one contact with the membership as
well as potential, current and past customers. Additionally, top
performing Ambassadors receive special public recognition each
month by earning points in proportion to their involvement with
the Chamber.
Any members (as well as employees of member businesses)
interested in receiving more information on becoming an Ambassador
should contact Elton Taylor, Member Services Coordinator at 903237-4013 or membership@longviewpartnership.org.
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 11
Community Leadership and Development
Understanding the importance of membership
The Longview Partnership is the organization’s name under
which the Chamber of Commerce is a division. It was created out
of a merger of the Longview Chamber of Commerce, Longview
Downtown Development Corporation and the Longview
Convention and Visitors Bureau. Since that merger in 1994 a
myriad of committees have become a part of this organization’s
progressive and pro-active efforts.
Developing goals to serve a diverse 1,200-member constituency
is a challenging task. Small businesses, large businesses, retailers,
manufacturers, professionals, hotels, motels, medical facilities,
schools, non-profit organizations, restaurants, individuals,
nationally-recognized businesses, small locally-owned ventures,
and other types of businesses and organizations are found as
members in most chambers of commerce.
These members are people who want their community to grow
and prosper, and for their businesses to gain some of that
prosperity.
Chamber members do usually have one thing in common,
L eadership L ongview:
B uilding for a b etter c ommunity
T
Every year the Leadership Longview class has the privilege of
selecting a community project. This year’s Leadership Longview
class chose to build a playground for Kilpatrick Center. The
Center is part of Health Core, formerly Sabine Valley, which helps
families who are in drug rehab. The class built a playground,
spruced up the yard and provided yard furniture and toys for the
children who come through there with their family.
The project was ambitious and each member was responsible
for soliciting funds and contributing to the project. Thanks to our
generous community, partners of chamber of commerce and the
Leadership Longview class, more than $10,000 was raised.
On April 12, the class came together for a workday to plant
flowers; build the play equipment and a fence. The families in the
program brightened at having a new play yard for their children.
The project would not have been complete without a dedication
service. On April 17th, class representative Bob Kindig welcomed
everyone to the event. Longview Mayor Jay Dean spoke on the
importance of community leadership and involvement; followed
by Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt who echoed the remarks and
encouraged the class to get involved in local government.
Thank you Leadership Longview class for caring for those in
need, donating your time and resources, and making Longview a
better place to live.
12 May/June
though.They know that when things are good in the community,
their businesses have a better chance of success. Many people
believe that while direct impact on their business is effectively
measured, indirect benefit can be just as important. It is this type
vision that keeps chambers in full operation pursuing their vision.
“What’s in it for me?” is the age-old question. The answers are
as diverse as the organization itself. Most chamber of commerce
members understand that while time might prevent them from
becoming as actively involved as they would like, the ongoing
mission of the chamber of commerce ensures that someone is out
there working on their behalf to make sure that Longview’s
business climate is positive.
The Longview Partnership/Chamber of Commerce is something
good for the community and good for businesses to support
because, if this organization doesn’t do it…..who will?
To become more involved in making a difference in our
community contact Elton Taylor, Member Services Coordinator
today at 903-237-4000.
automobile dealerships • attorneys • insurance agencies • health-related
services • trade organizations • school districts • city governments •
mortgage
oil and gas
industries •protect
employment
• youcompanies
have an •“implied
contract”to
youragencies •
automobile
dealerships
•
attorneys
•
insurance
agencies
• health-related
consumers’ information?
services • trade organizations • school districts • city governments •
• identity
theft• oil
is the
crime in the
mortgage
companies
and fastest-growing
gas industries • employment
agencies •
United
States? • attorneys • insurance agencies • health-related
automobile
dealerships
services
• trade
organizations
• school
districts • cityYOU
governments
•
• the
U.S. Supreme
Court
has determined
are
mortgage
companies
oil and gas industries
• employment agencies •
responsible
for• protecting
trade information?
automobile dealerships • attorneys • insurance agencies • health-related
services • trade
• school
districts
• city governments •
Letorganizations
us help you
protect
yourself
mortgage companies •and
oil and
gas industries
• employment agencies •
your
company!
www.longviewtx.com
Did you know …
Locally owned and operated
1114 W. Harrison Road, Longview, TX
903-295-8600
Representing Business with Government
Leadership Development and Training Opportunities
for Individuals Seeking to Run for Public Office
cont. from p. 1 —
Candidates Academy is the answer. This series will
provide the nuts and bolts of running for political office by focusing
on areas like communications, fundraising, and campaigning - skills
you can use in your work and in your community up to the day you
decide to run!
The first session will be on Leadership on July 12th. Topics will
include what defines a viable candidate and the importance of
Leadership. Session II will follow on July 19 discussing what to
expect when running for office, issues facing public schools and
campaign ethics. Campaign finance laws and report, fundraising,
how to file for elected office is slated for Session III while Session
IV delves into Managing your Campaign with topics spanning from
selecting your campaign team, defining why you are the best
candidate for the job to working with the media. Each session will
run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sessions will have a panel of high
caliber professionals who are or actively work with elected officials.
Speakers will share their stories, insights and strategies, and then
take questions from the participants.
Interested citizens and potential candidates are encouraged to
register for the courses today by contacting the Partnership at
903.237.4000 or go online at www.longviewchamber.com.
The Chairman’s Club
Platinum
Frequently Asked
Questions
What is Candidates Academy ?
The Candidates
Academy is an annual training program which kicks off on July 12,
2007. The training is a 4 week training designed to demystify the
political process by teaching individuals the basic skills involved in
running a campaign and being a candidate. Studies show that men
are twice as likely to self identify as political leaders and run early before the age of 35. With the political pipeline 86% male and 81%
white, we need to invite individuals from throughout our
community in to gain fresh perspectives and diverse solutions. The
training provides the nuts and bolts of running for political office by
focusing on the core areas of Communications, Fundraising, and
Campaigning.
How do I apply? Simply download and complete the online
application or contact the Longview Partnership. The application is
confidential and secure; your information will only be used to help
tailor our trainings to the needs of the participants.
What is the cost of the Candidates Academy ? $100.
The cost covers all training materials, meals, and activities.
Can I attend if I do not live in Gregg County ? Yes, you
can attend the Candidates Academy if you live in a neighboring county.
The Candidates Academy aims to cover the local and county political
landscape.
What is the length of the training? The program runs
Silver
from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday evenings at the Longview
campus of Kilgore College located in downtown Longview, 300 S
High Street.
Will meals be provided? Yes, all meals are included and will
be served at 6 p.m., prior to the sessions. Please include any dietary
needs in the application.
Who do I contact? Contact Kelly Hall at 903.237.4000 or
kelly@longviewpartnership.org .
FAQ
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 13
Promoting the Community
Alley Fest
2007
Schedule
Festival Hours
Friday, June 1 6:30 p.m. to midnight
Saturday, June 2 10 a.m. to midnight
Sunday, June 3 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Music Fest
Friday, June 1 The Vehicle Reason
6:30 p.m.
Vocal Trash
8 p.m.
KISS Army
10 p.m.
Saturday, June 2 Tyler Bryant
4 p.m.
Ms. Mac and the
Groovetones
6 p.m.
Shinebox
8 p.m.
Little River Band
10 p.m.
Sunday, June 3 Katie Rae Davis
Noon
Mark Cooke and Cooke
County Line
1:30 p.m.
Kids Fest
Saturday,
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday,
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
14 May/June
A
mbassadors of the Month:
Linda Johnson, Lori Keebaugh and Jan Pelton
Name: Linda Johnson
Employer: KLTV
Position: Account Executive
How long have you been an
Ambassador? Since 1991
What do you enjoy most about
being an Ambassador?
I enjoy the volunteer activities as
well as the opportunities to meet
people.
Name: Lori Keebaugh
Employer: Suzanne Cook & Co.
Position: Realtor
How long have you been an
Ambassador? Since 2002
What do you enjoy most about
being an Ambassador?
The most enjoyable part of being an
Ambassador would be meeting new
business owners at the ribbon
Name: Jan Pelton
Employer: Combined Insurance
Position: Agent
How long have you been an
Ambassador? Since July 2004
What do you enjoy most about being
an Ambassador?
I most enjoy meeting new people. The
March 2007
March 2007
April 2007
How has being an Ambassador
helped your business?
Being an Ambassador has helped me
to know about the new businesses in
Longview. Additionally, I get to meet
and become better acquainted with
new people as we work together on
volunteer activities and help the
community.
cuttings and the friendships I have
developed with my fellow
Ambassadors.
How has being an Ambassador
helped your business?
Volunteering as an Ambassador
keeps me informed of what is going
on in the community so that I can
inform my clients as well.
ribbon cuttings give me such a great
opportunity to get to know a lot of
interesting individuals.
How has being an Ambassador
helped your business?
Since becoming an Ambassador, I’ve
made many new contacts, some of
which have become clients.
Business After-Hours
5:15 - 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 26, 2007, Longview Mall
(Come in mall entrance by Longview PD Sub-station, look for Great Texas Balloon Race
banner and follow directional signage
towards store space next to Sears)
www.longviewtx.com
JUNE
UPCOMING EVENTS
1-3
Alley Fest – Downtown Longview
8
11:30 a.m.
Member2Member Networking Luncheon
12
11:00 a.m.
Boat Show Committee Meeting at LP
4:00 p.m.
Community Pride Committee Meeting at LP
4:00 p.m.
Par Busters Committee Meeting at LP
18
3:30 p.m.
LP Executive Committee Board of Directors
20
12 noon
Leadership Longview Committee Meeting
21
8:15 a.m.
One Hundred Acres of Heritage Executive Committee Meeting
4:00 p.m.
LP Board of Directors Meeting at LP
26
5:15 p.m.
Business After Hours at Longview Mall
27
12 noon
One Hundred Acres of Heritage Board of Directors Meeting
28
12 noon
GLOBE Board of Directors Meeting
4
10
JULY
11
Fourth of July – LP Office closed
11:00 a.m.
Boat Show Committee Meeting
4:00 p.m.
Community Pride Community Meeting
4:00 p.m.
Par Busters Committee Meeting
6:30 p.m.
Candidates Academy at Kilgore College Longview
7:30 a.m.
Small Business Breakfast at Summit Club
12:00 noon Leadership Longview Committee Meeting
13
11:30 a.m.
Member2Member Networking Luncheon
16
3:30 p.m.
LP Executive Committee Board of Directors
17
6:30 p.m.
Candidates Academy at Kilgore College Longview
19
8:15 a.m.
One Hundred Acres of Heritage Executive Committee Meeting
4:00 p.m.
LP Board of Directors Meeting at LP
24
6:30 p.m.
Candidates Academy at Kilgore College Longview
25
12 noon
One Hundred Acres of Heritage Board of Directors Meeting
26
12 noon
GLOBE Board of Directors Meeting
www.longviewtx.com
The Longview Progress Report 15
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 82
LONGVIEW, TX
410 N. Center Street
Longview, TX 75601
903-237-4000
www.longviewtx.com