Huntsville, Walker County and Chamber

The
Chamber
The HuntsvilleWalker County
Chamber of
Commerce is the
Heart and Voice of
Walker County
Volunteers. Opportunities. Involvement. Community. Events.
The Chamber V.O.I.C.E. is a monthly publication that highlights people who are the heart of the Chamber, recognizes the countless volunteers who dedicate their time
and talents, gives insight to the endless opportunities to network and connect with others, promotes ideas for involvement from businesses and/or organizations that make
up the membership, provides communication to the Huntsville-Walker County community, and keeps you abreast of the events within the chamber and our town.
February 2010
Welcome Our New
SHOW YOUR STUFF
MARK YOUR CALENDAR… the momentum is building
for the 23rd annual Trade Expo and Taste of Huntsville.
Thursday, March 4, 2010 from 4:00-8:00 pm will be an
exciting opportunity for you to market your business to
over 2,500 consumers. New as well as long-established
businesses showcase themselves and their services to the
Huntsville-Walker County community. WIESNER, Inc. –
HUNTSVILLE is the corporate sponsor and will feature
the 2010 auto models! This is the perfect venue for businesses to obtain leads and referrals, to promote their
image, and receive product feedback, make media con-
tacts, and to network!
“The
Taste
of
Huntsville” will launch
another “new look” this
year with a “Freedom
Hall” restaurant atmosphere, inside the main
building, featuring some
of Huntsville’s finest cuisine. Tickets are only $5
to sample an array of won- See
Member Spotlight… Huntsville Travel
H
untsville Travel, owned by Gloria
and Dale Wright, is a full service
agency that has served the community since 1974. Gloria stated, “Being in
business for 36 years gives us the
opportunity to draw on experience,
knowledge and passion to create and
deliver to our customers a delightful
and
memorable
vacation.”
Huntsville Travel handles all aspects
• Farmers Insurance – Ashley
Doughtie-Butler,
• Grapeland Drive Thru Safari
• Highway 19 Diesel Repair
See Page 7 for more info
550 members and growing!
Trade Expo page 3
of travel planning whether your travel
is within the states or on the other
side of the world. They can arrange
leisure and business travel down to
the last detail including tours, cruises
or personal itineraries. “Having traveled all over the world, we can offer
personal experiences, including the
See
Members:
SPOTLIGHT page 2
PRESORT STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
H U N T S VI LL E T X
PE R M I T N O . 6
What’s Happening!
F e b r u a r y 2 2 - Chamber Luncheon-featuring SHSU Coach Willie Fritz
F e b r u a r y 2 5 - Business After Hours-sponsored by Eagle Graphics
M a r c h 4 - Trade Expo & Taste of Huntsville
M a r c h 1 1 - Small Business Breakfast-sponsored by Liles Lawn Service
A p r i l 2 4 – Shot in the Dark Golf
Tournament & Helicopter Golf Ball Drop
COME VISIT OVER COFFEE!!
Your Chamber of Commerce is here for its members…both current and prospective and we want to
know you better!! Please consider this your personal invitation to drop by anytime, but especially on
Friday mornings. On those special mornings, the
hot coffee (and maybe some pastries) will be ready
& waiting for you at the front door beginning at
8:30 am. It’s just one more way we want to open
our doors to you all…come by for a visit and tell us
what’s on your mind.
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PAGE 2 — Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Thoughts from
CAROL’S CORNER
From my “little corner of the world” I
have a great view through a large window looking out on a serene deck surrounded by trees and a “sliver” of nearby 11th Street. Almost on a daily basis
a frisky little squirrel plays on the deck
near my window while the traffic on
11th Street hums up and down at a
steady pace. As a typical day unfolds
Carol Smith.
here in the chamber office, I often find
renewed optimism and positive peace as I catch a glimpse of
my furry friend playing so innocently on the deck and unbothered by the busy world just a few yards away. As I contemplated what I wanted to share in my column this month, a
powerful 8-letter word kept creeping into my thoughts….it
begins with the letter “a” and ends with an “e” and describes a
very important mindset. It is so important that I shared its
meaning and application often with the many different students I taught over the years. It’s a word that depicts my
friend the squirrel, but more importantly, our vision at the
chamber, and hopefully you and your business…you may be
asking…what is that word?
Some of you have already begun to guess that it is the all
important term…ATTITUDE!! I’m a firm believer that attitudes are contagious…even the attitude of my new friend, the
small squirrel that plays just outside my window …he never
seems to let the busy traffic on the nearby street deter him
from a great day. He stays busy enjoying the serene world
around him there on our deck, and I’m often inspired as I
watch him scamper along.
But on a more serious note, our attitude is critical to our
daily lives, our families, and our businesses. So important that
I believe it is often the one difference between success and
failure. One of my favorite authors, Mac Anderson, says
“I’ve come to realize the difference in success and failure is
not how you look, not how you dress, not how much you are
educated, but how you think.” Over my lifetime I have been
involved with an array of different ventures including many
different types of people, of all ages and from all walks of life.
I love being around and working with people. More and more
I am convinced that attitude not only impacts our personal
happiness and success, it also impacts the people around
us…family, friends, and business associates. Attitude may not
be everything, but it comes pretty darn close, and it IS contagious!!
So, I leave you with this pledge…we continually work
hard to keep positive, caring attitudes here at the
chamber….it’s our pledge to the public and to the membership
that we serve. We strive to reflect this on a daily basis and
truly believe that your chamber is the heart and voice of
Walker County. Great customer service is only delivered by
nice, passionate, sincere, caring employees. There is no other
way it can happen. It’s our philosophy that customer service
is not a department…it is an ATTITUDE, and we hope ours is
contagious!! With our positive attitude, we are also working
on good, hometown hospitality…we want you to drop in anytime, but especially on Friday mornings we’ll have the coffee
ready and waiting…right at the front door…so come by and
have a cup with us…you might even get a glimpse of my
friend the squirrel!!
Best Regards, Carol Smith, YOUR President
Dixon’s Recieve Award for
Historical Work
In late 1987 the Walker County Historical Commission
preservation committee voted to award certificates of
appreciation to citizens, store owners, churches and
organizations that have preserved structures that are
historically and architecturally important to our community. Since 1987 the committee has presented 18
awards in the Huntsville and Walker County area.
James Patton stated, “We were happy to present this
award to Dale and Candyce Dixon for their work on the
Joe and Cornelia Davis-Dixon House on February 5,
2010.” The house is located at 1106 Avenue O and
serves as the office for Candyce Dixon CPA.
SPOTLIGHT
v e r y
popuContinued from page 1
l a r
European river cruises which is
the newest trend for experienced cruisers. Group travel
has also been one of our specialties since beginning the
agency. We can customize your
itinerary from groups of 10 or
more,” said Gloria.
Huntsville Travel has been
an active member of the
Huntsville-Walker
County
Chamber of Commerce since
1974. Gloria served on the
tourism council for 34 years,
was a director for 5 years and
served as the first woman
Chairman on the Chamber
board in 1991. She still is an
active volunteer at all Chamber
events and she serves as an
ambassador for the Chamber
as well. Both Gloria and Dale
are graduates of the Huntsville
Leadership Institute.
Gloria
said, “We believe in the
Chamber. The networking done
at the Chamber breakfast, business after hours and working
with members on various committees has given us new
clients. The Chamber helps to
keep us op to date on affairs
that are relative to making us a
profitable business.
The
Chamber is good for our community.” Huntsville Travel is
located at 168 B Col. Etheredge
Blvd.
You can contact them at
936-295-6428 or
www.huntsvilletravel.com
C HA MBE R S P ON S OR SH I P S
O P P O R T U N I T I ES :
As the heart and voice of Walker County, your Chamber of
Commerce is a business that among many other responsibilities
provide activities and events for its members to network and market their goods and services to a wide audience. To help assure
quality in this endeavor, we offer many different sponsorship
opportunities. We are currently contacting the most recent event
sponsors to offer them the first rights to continue with that support
and to help those sponsors better plan their resources and budgets,
we are reviewing all possible opportunities and developing a financial plan that best meets their needs. Be sure to review the center
section of this edition of our V.O.I.C.E. and see the many opportunities that are available for upcoming events, and then give us a
call… 295-8113.
Business Seminars
FIRST STEP To Starting Your Small Business
Thursday, March 11, 2010, 6-8 p.m.
No Fee
Pictured are Dale and Candyce Dixon, Secretary for the
Historical Commission and Preservation Chair Beverly
Hansen and Historical Commission Chair James Patton.
HOURS: 6 AM - 1 AM
Pharmacy: 291-7977 • 1611 I-45 • Huntsville • Store: 291-9598
Developing Your Business Plan
Thursday, March 25, 2010, 6-8 p.m.
No Fee
Events
Trade Expo
Thursday, March 4, 2010, 4-8 p.m.
Drop by our booth and visit with the staff!
Tickets for free entry to the Expo at the SBDC office
All seminars are open to the public and held at the SHSU SBDC Computer Learning Center at
2424 Sam Houston Avenue, Huntsville, TX unless otherwise noted. Please visit our website at
http://sbdc.shsu.edu/ to register or call (936) 294-3737 for more information.
SMALL BUSINESS
Breakfast
Thanks to Huntsville Auto Center for sponsoring the February Chamber
Small Business Breakfast. Huntsville Auto Center is owned and operated by
Kenneth Matej and has been serving the Huntsville area since 1990. “Our
goal is to provide the highest quality repairs and the very best in customer
care. If you are looking for a reliable and trustworthy auto repair shop, come
see us.” Kenneth said. Huntsville Auto Center specializes in many kinds of
collision repair including dent repairs, accident and body repairs and finishing
work. They also offer auto glass replacement. Stop by their location at 2534
Montgomery Road, check them out on the web at
www.huntsvilleautocenter.com or call 936-295-2886.
TRADE EXPO
derful items to tempt
your taste buds! You
Continued from page 1
will see the theme of a
military salute throughout the entire expo exhibit hall.
Booths are going fast on a first-come, firstserved basis, so reserve yours today by contacting the Chamber for more information, 2958113.
Co r por a te S pon s or :
Transportation Sponsor
Co mmu n i c a ti on S po n s or
H os p i ta l i ty S p on s o r
G o o d i e B a g Sp o n s o r s
Huntsville Memorial Hospital
Pinetree Publishing
Amedisys Home Health
Pictured above are Owner Kenneth
Matej and Account Manager Rachel
Larrison Yarabeck.
Right, The Chamber Small
Business Breakfasts continue to be
successful for all who attend. An
average of 40-50 businesses are
represented each month. If you
haven’t attended one of these networking events, mark your calendar and join
us next month to see what you are missing!
SMALL BUSINESS Breakfast
Thursday, March 11 at 7:30 a.m.
at Golden Corral
• $7 for Chamber Members ($10 for potential members)
• One-minute “Commercial” of your business
• Drawings held for door prizes
• Networking opportunity
“The Small Business Breakfasts are extremely successful for those who attend. The variety
of businesses present is part of what makes this marketing
opportunity work!
It’s your opportunity to advertise, market,
publicize or brag about your business or
organization! Call today to reserve your
spot at the head table!
Lile’s Lawn Service
Sponsored by
RSVP March 9
To reserve your seat call the Chamber (936)
295-8113
2010 sponsorships are available. We are already booked thru June 2010, so call
today if you would like to reserve your spot at the head table!
Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010 — PAGE 3
Cash Give Away Sponsors
Community Service Credit Union
First National Bank
Exhibitors (as of 2/11/2010)
Avalon Place
Community Service Credit Union
Huntsville Lions Club
The Carpet Store
Liles Lawn Service
Ample Computer Services
W A Electric
Magnolia Lake
Scentsy – Jodi Lawson
Brooke Funeral & Cemetery Services
R. G. Miller Engineers, Inc.
Mid South Synergy
Suddenlink
HISD – Career & Technology
Compro Wireless
University Cancer Center
Heartfield Florist
Nautilus Health Center
Farmers Insurance – Ashley Doughtie-Butler
Wiesner, Inc., Huntsville
Green Acres of Huntsville
First Victoria National Bank
Shred-All Texas
Mary Kay Cosmetics – Carol Martin
Camfield Energy
Texas Alcohol & Drug Testing
Carriage Inn
Walker County Democrats
Huntsville ISD
Amedisys Home Health Care
All About Referrals
Walker County Republicans
EASCO A/C & Heating
Huntsville Item
Small Business Development Center
Walker County Fair Association
SAAFE House
Weatherford International
Try 2 Recycle
Cates Insurance
Juice Plus+
Walker-Byrd Building Materials
Huntsville Chiropractic
Walker County Federal Credit Union
Boys & Girls Club of Walker County
KSAM - 101.7
Taste of Huntsville
Bob Luby’s Seafood
Carbonero Rotisserie Chicken and Steak
Carriage Inn
Golden Corral
Nestles Nesquick
Potato Shack
NUPLISTEN UPLISTE
The Workforce Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer located at 901 Normal Park, Ste 7. Phone: (936) 291-3336. Classes are held
weekly relating to job search skills.
Monday, February 22
8:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m., Resume Writing
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PAGE 4 — Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010 — PAGE 5
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PAGE 6 — Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010
A d v e r t i se Y O U R B u si n e ss i n t h e 2 01 0 -2 0 1 1
C ha m b e r Di r e c t o r y
Market and advertise you and/or your business! The Huntsville-Walker County Chamber
of Commerce Membership Directory and
Community Profile is a very important component of your total marketing plan. It gives you
an opportunity available nowhere else - daily
direct exposure to neighboring businesses and
citizens - as well as national and international
visibility. The 2010-2011 edition will be published and distributed in late June/early July.
The Chamber is once again partnering with
Lawton Publications, to professionally publish
the same magazine format as in the past. The
front portion will contain the community profile
which markets our community and the back
portion will contain the membership directory
which markets YOU, our member.
We distribute our directories daily for one
full year. It is mailed to prospective businesses
and residents in relocation/demographic packets all over the country, and used locally by
businesses, visitors and residents looking for
someone to do business with. The entire content is showcased on our web site, so this is a
wonderful opportunity to advertise your business on the Internet!
Every current Chamber member will receive
a FREE listing in the membership section and
also a FREE listing under the business category
of your choice. Advertisements and additional
listing opportunities are also available at affordable prices. The directory is funded entirely by
advertising sales and helps provide revenues to
fulfill the Chamber’s mission.
Angila Ervin, a professional advertising representative from Lawton Publications is working with the Chamber to share advertising
opportunities with you. She has been contacting members over the past few weeks and will
continue to do so until advertising sales end on
April 2. Please take advantage of this opportunity to reach thousands! Through your participation we will produce a high quality marketing
tool for Huntsville, Walker County and Chamber
business members and help spur a healthy
economy and an outstanding community.
It’s a privilege to market you and your business!
Mary Frances Park
Memorial Scholarship
The Huntsville Walker County
Chamber of Commerce will award
the Mary Frances Park Memorial
Scholarship in the amount of at
least $1500.00 to a deserving 2010
high school senior to attend Sam
Houston State University.
Funds for the scholarship were Mary Frances Park.
raised by members of the local
Chamber at our Annual Meeting/Gala Auction under
the leadership of former Chairman of the Board Todd
Armstrong, Community Service Credit Union and Gala
Auction Chair Bill Gulley, Pine Tree Publishing.
Applications have been distributed to area schools.
Students in both Huntsville and New Waverly School
Districts as well as students of Walker County private
schools are eligible. Students must hold ranking in the
top 25% of the class and plan to attend SHSU for the
2010 Fall semester.
The application deadline is fast approaching.
Applications must be returned to the high school counselor’s office or the chamber NO LATER than April 16,
2010.
For more information, please contact the
Chamber of Commerce at 295-8113 or the counselor at
your school.
Cha
ri
er B
mb
RECENT MEMBER RENEWALS
Hat’s off to the following members who recently renewed their Chamber membership. Marketing, advertising and networking are just a few of the benefits of Chamber membership. We encourage everyone to shop with Chamber members.
1st Choice Insurance
Ad Vantage Specialties, Inc.
Beckham & Jones
Coca Cola Bottling Co.
Dahill Industries
EASCO A/C & Heating
First Baptist Church
Huntsville Pet Clinic
Mary Kay Cosmetics – Carol Martin
Maureen McIntyre
Dr. Charles Monday, MD
Printer Cartridge Supply
Rainbow International Restoration &
Cleaning
Ridgewood West Apartment Homes
Frank “Poncho” Roberts
Frank Robinson
Sam Houston Antique Mall
Sherwin Williams Paint Co.
Stevenson Beer Distributing Co., Ltd.
Suddenlink
Team Synergy
Walgreen’s
Walker County Democrat Club
Walmart
Weatherford Liner Systems Global
Support Center
Bearkat Head Football Coach Willie Fritz
Guest Speaker at Chamber Luncheon
The color orange is a
prominent color seen not only
on the campus of Sam Houston
State but also throughout the
community as businesses decorate windows and the community dresses in official Bearkat
attire anticipating a brand new
season of Bearkat football!
Tailgate parties and football
games are truly one of the
highlights in Huntsville during
the fall.
This year Sam Houston
State University will be led
under the direction of new
Head Football Coach Willie
Fritz. Although Fritz is just
beginning his career as the
newest head football coach for
Sam, he is not new to SHSU.
In 1991 and 1992, as the
Bearkat’s secondary and special teams coach, he helped
lead Sam Houston to a
Southland Conference championship.
On Monday, February 22
t h e H u n t s v il l e c o m m un i t y w i l l
h av e t he o p p o r t u n i t y t o m e e t
Mr. Fritz as he is the guest
s p e a k e r d u r i n g t h e fi r s t
C h am b e r L u nc h an d L e a r n
s er i e s f o r 2 0 1 0 . T h e l u n ch eo n
w i ll b e h e l d a t R e g i o n V I
E d u c a t io n S e r v i c e C e nt er an d
w i l l b e g i n w i t h e a r l y s e at i n g
a t 11 : 30 . T h e l u n c h e o n i s
o p e n t o t h e p ub l i c a n d y o u d o
n o t h av e t o b e a c h am b er
me mb e r to a tte n d.
Help us welcome Coach
Fritz and listen as he shares
his plans and goals for Sam
Houston State University’s
football department. Coach
Fritz, after being hired in
December 2009, began immediately recruiting for next
year’s season. During National
Signing Day which was
Wednesday, February 3, the
Bearkats signed 24 high school
seniors to the team. “We really want to build a solid foundation for the team with high
school players who fit our academic mold.” stated Fritz-courtesy SHSU website.
Mark your calendars for
Monday, February 22, 11:45
a . m . – 1 : 00 p . m . Th e l u n c h e o n w il l b e h el d at R e g i o n V I
E d u c a t io n S e r v i c e C e n t e r
l o c at e d o n 3 3 3 2 Mo nt g o m er y
R o ad . E a r l y s e a t in g w i ll
begin at 11:30. Tickets are
$15.00 and reservations are
r e q u i r e d a n d ca n b e m a d e b y
c al l in g t h e C ha m b e r at 9 3 6 295-8113 by Tuesday,
F e br u a r y 1 6 .
BUSINESS
Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010 — PAGE 7
Who’s Who in the Chamber
12
9
The Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce would like to highlight the
2010 board of directors over the next several months. We will introduce two to
three board members each month in an effort to familiarize our members and the
community with the individuals that devote countless hours and tremendous talent.
Toni Bruner
Vice Chair
Membership/
Communications
Division
Bruner Angus Ranch
Rex Maynor
Director-Governmental
Affairs Council
Huntsville Item/cnhi
Toni Bruner.
Toni serves as the Vice Chair over
Membership and Communications on the
Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce
Board. She has served on the chamber board for
two years, beginning in 2009. Toni and her husband Robert own and operate Bruner Angus
Ranch which has been a member of the Chamber
since 1996. Toni came to Huntsville in 1958 to
attend Sam Houston State University (then Sam
Houston State Teachers College). Following
graduation and marriage, Toni and Robert
decided to stay in Huntsville. They purchased
their first herd of commercial cows in the early
60’s and became involved in the nation’s cattle
industry. They added purebred Angus cattle to
their operation several years later and began to
produce seedstock for the commercial cattleman. They have enjoyed being in the business
because they enjoy the animals and the people in
the industry with whom they are involved. Toni
says they look upon the cattle business as one
which “feeds America” and that thought keeps
them motivated. Both Toni and Robert are active
locally with the Extension Service, statewide
with Texas Angus Association, and nationally
with the American Angus Association.
Rex Maynor.
Rex is currently serving
the last year on a three term on the HuntsvilleWalker County Chamber of Commerce board as
Director of the Governmental Affairs Council.
Rex is employed with cnhi (Community
Newspaper Holding, Inc.) the parent company
for the Huntsville Item. Since August of 2007,
Rex has held the title of Vice President of Sales
and Marketing for the Gulf Coast Division in
Texas and Mississippi, serving 23 locations
including Huntsville. His primary responsibilities are for the financial performance of all of the
papers in the division. The Item is the second
oldest daily newspaper in the state of Texas, dating back to August 20, 1850. The Item, produces
a growing number of media items, including a
continuously updated online newspaper, and has
been in its current location for 42 years and
employs 45 local residents and uses 25 local
independent contractors. Rex moved from North
Carolina to Huntsville in 2006 to begin his work
as Publisher for the Item. After Rex was promoted in 2007, Dennis Garrison was made Publisher
and he still serves in that capacity. Rex is married with 2 children who attend Huntsville High
School. Besides serving on the Chamber board,
he is also a graduate of the Huntsville
Leadership Institute Class #25.
3
6
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After Hours
Thanks to Stylecraft Builders for sponsoring the January Chamber
Business After Hours. For a little over a year, Stylecraft Builders has been
offering new homes in Huntsville. Brookview is Huntsville’s newest
neighborhood and is located off 75 North across from Walker-Byrd
Building Materials. When complete, Brookview will have 140 homes, a
park and jogging trails. Prices in Brookview range from $130,000$200,000. Stylecraft also builds on select lots in Elkins Lake and Spring
Lake. These homes range from $170,000-$280,000.
Sales Consultant Jana Grieve and Construction Manager Tim Pickering,
both Sam Houston State graduates, stated they are “excited about having
the opportunity to represent Stylecraft Builders in Huntsville and provide
wonderful new homes for the community.”
You can contact Stylecraft Builders by calling 936-295-9800 or visiting
their website at www.stylecraft-builders.com.
Pictured, top, in front of the model home are Sales Manager Michelle Marshall,
Construction Manager Tim Pickering and Sales Consultant Jana Grieve.
Pictured above are Ruby Rushing and Irma Dowden of Magnolia Lake and
Tommy and Thomas Stewart of Edward Jones Investments enjoying networking
at business after hours
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS — January 2010
The following businesses recently joined the Chamber and we extend A WARM CHAMBER WELCOME. The information printed was gained from membership applications.
For any additions and/or corrections, contact the Chamber as complete membership information is vital to your records with us. Our most recent new members we welcome:
Far mers Insu ra nce – A shl ey Doug htie- Butl er, located at 4010 Sam Houston Ave, is the agency owner and can be reached at 936-714-3567; e-mail is
[email protected] and fax number is 936-295-4948. The hours are Monday through Friday from 8am-5 pm and Saturday from 9am-12 pm. Farmers Insurance
provides insurance for business, auto, home, life and umbrellas. Ashley joined the chamber “to network and meet new people and other business owners and to provide her
time and expertise to the city of Huntsville”.
Grapeland Drive Thr u Safari is located at 13440 US Hwy 287 N in Grapeland. Wayne Herring is the owner and can be reached at 936-687-5292 or by email at [email protected]. This attraction gives you the opportunity to drive through in your own car or they have a school bus available for birthdays, field trips or
reunions. They are open 7 days a week from 9am til dusk. Their website is www.grapelanddrivethrusafari.com.
Highway 19 Diesel Repair, owned by Patrick Camfield, is located at 1018 2303 SH 19 in Huntville. He may be reached at 936-435-9990, fax 936-435-9991 or by email at
[email protected]. Pat expects to gain business and community support from his partnership with the chamber. Be sure to contact him for any of your diesel
repair needs.
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PAGE 8 — Chamber V.O.I.C.E., FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Your 2010 Huntsville-Walker County
Chamber of Commerce
2010 Officers
George Miles, Chairman of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .First National Bank
Todd Armstrong, Immediate Past Chair/Nominating . . . .Community Service Credit Union
Paul Davidhizar, Treasurer, 2011 Chair Elect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Alpha Omega Academy
Toni Bruner, Vice Chair Membership/Communications . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruner Angus Ranch
Jim Hodges, Vice Chair Business Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hodges Business Interiors
Frank Holmes, Vice Chair ED/Institutional Liaisons/Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SHSU
Lezlie Parish, Vice Chair Community Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Weatherford International
Carol Smith, President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chamber of Commerce
Directors
Sherri Ballard, Tourism/Visitor Service Council . . . . . . . . . . .Amedisys Home Health Care
Pat Camfield, Communications/Resources Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hwy 19 Diesel Repair
Tom Freeman, Networking Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Scotsman Storage
Bill Gulley, Member Events Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pine Tree Publishing
Chris Holm, Tourism/Visitor Services Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Huntsville State Park
Morris Johnson, Education/Workforce Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Retired, HISD
Conrad Liles, Community Events Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Liles Lawn Service
Rex Maynor, Governmental Affairs Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Huntsville Item
Cindy Pierce, Membership Development Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Heartfield Florist
Tommy Stewart, Existing Business Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Edward Jones Investment
Weldon Wallace, Leadership Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Carpet Store
Community Associates
Judge Danny Pierce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Walker County
Mayor J Turner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .City of Huntsville
Bob Barragan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Small Business Development Center
Doris Gimpel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Community Liaison
Russell Humphrey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Huntsville Leadership Institute
Dr. Richard Montgomery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Huntsville Independent School District
Sally Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Health Care
David Stephens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Texas Department of Transportation
Dr. Clay Webb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .New Waverly Independent School District
Jerry McGinty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Chamber Staff
Carol Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .President
Laura Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Events & Communications Manager
Shannon Higbie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Office Manager
Chris Schmitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Receptionist/Secretary
OUR MISSION:
The Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce
is a member and community service organization
that develops and promotes
businesses, leadership and tourism
for the enrichment of our quality of life
and the local economy.
Contact Us
The Chamber V.O.I.C.E. is the monthly newsletter of the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of
Commerce. For story ideas, calendar of events, advertising information or any other contributions to
this publication, please contact the Chamber at 295-8113, by mail at PO Box 538-Huntsville, TX
77342, by fax at 295-0571 or by e-mail at [email protected]. The chamber web site
can be viewed at http://www.chamber.huntsville.tx.us. The Chamber office, located at 1327 11th
Street in Huntsville, is open from 9-5 weekdays. Switchboard from 8:30-5.
Chamber Calendar
FEBRUARY
15
16
16
18
18
22
23
24
25
25
25
26
Executive Board Meeting, 10:3.0 am @ Chamber
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
HLI Class – Local Government @ Various Locations
Board Meeting, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Thursday Leads Exchange, 8:00 am @ Wiesner Inc.
Chamber Leadership Luncheon- speaker, Willie Fritz-SHSU Football Coach,
11:30 am @ Region VI
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Shot in the Dark Meeting, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Ambassador Meeting, 12:00pm @ Margarita’s
Thursday Leads Exchange, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Business After Hours, 5:15 pm @ Eagle Graphics
HLI Board Meeting, 12:00 pm @ Chamber
2
4
4
11
15
16
16
18
18
23
25
25
30
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Thursday Leads Exchange, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Trade Expo & Taste of Huntsville, 4-8 pm @ Walker County Fairgrounds
Small Business Breakfast sponsored by Liles Lawn Service, 7:30 am @ Golden Corral
Executive Board Meeting, 12:00 pm @ Chamber
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
HLI Class – Natural Resources @ Various Locations
Board Meeting, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Thursday Leads Exchange, 8:00 am @ Office Depot
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Thursday Leads Exchange, 8:00 am @ Chamber
Business After Hours, 5:15 pm @ American Bank
Preferred Partners, 8:00 am @ Chamber
16
Flag Day Performance by Huntsville Community Men’s Choir @ HEARTS Veterans
Museum
Interagency Networking Lunch/Meeting @ Carriage Inn
Early Voting
Ondine @ SHSU Mainstage
“Legends of the Night Sky” SHSU Planetarium series@ Farrington Bldg. Room 102
Kick Wheel Pottery Making Demonstration @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
Chamber Lunch & Learn, speaker Willie Fritz, SHSU Football Coach @ Region VI
Education Service Center
Better Business Bureau speaker Larry Lightfoot @ Carriage Inn
“The World’s Healthiest Vegetables”, Master Gardeners education program @ City Hall
Chambers
Citizen of the Year Banquet @ Walker Education Center
Alone Together Huntsville Community Theatre @ Old Town Theatre
Young at Heart Seniors Festival @ Carriage Inn
7th Annual Huntsville Beautification Golf Tournament @ Raven Nest Golf Course
Kiwanis Club Pancake Supper @ Fire Station #2 on Sam Houston Avenue
Blacksmithing & Woodworking Demonstration @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
Casino Night hosted by Rita B Huff Humane Society @ Elkins Lake Clubhouse
Alpha Omega Academy Banquet/Auction @ Walker County Fairgrounds
16
16-26
17-20
19
20
22
23
23
25
25-27
26
26
26
27
27
27
2
2-6
3
4
4-7
5
6
6
9
13
13
13
13
13
16
18
20
20
20
22-4/30
25
26-4/3
27
27
29-30
MARCH
Community Calendar of Events
FEBRUARY
MARCH
Sam Houston Birthday & Texas Independence Day Celebration
The Great Grombolian Plain @ SHSU Showcase Theatre
“Go Fish” learn to fish @ Huntsville State Park
Trade Expo & Taste of Huntsville @ Walker County Fairgrounds
Alone Together Huntsville Community Theatre @ Old Town Theatre
“Extreme Planets” SHSU Planetarium series @ Farrington Bldg. Room 102
Cherokee Indian Culture & Crafts @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
All About Alligators @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
“Cooking With Herbs” Master Gardener program @ City Hall Chambers
Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale
15th Annual Trash Bash @ Huntsville Recycle Center
All About Alligators @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
“Go Fish” learn to fish @ Huntsville State Park
Spinning & Weaving Demonstration @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
“Hide & Seek: The Art of Camouflage” @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
“Hide & Seek: The Art of Camouflage” @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
Kick Wheel Pottery Making demonstration @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
“Sounds of the Night” @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
Spring Celebration @ Huntsville State Park Nature Center
Huntsville TX: Then and Now exhibit @ Walker Education Center
Walker County Fair Parade
Walker County Fair & Rodeo @ Walker County Fairgrounds
Saturdays @ Sam
Blacksmithing & Woodworking demonstration @ Sam Houston Memorial Museum
Auditions for Huntsville Community Theatre Crimes of the Heart @ Old Town Theatre