The Chamber - Terrell Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
The Chamber - Terrell Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber Spotlight Vol. 7 No. 1 January-February 2015 Chamber sets 2015 luncheon Rotary to give Terrell community service award B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y T he 107th Annual Membership Meeting and Industry Luncheon is set to kick off at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 3. The annual recognition luncheon, sponsored by the Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau is going to be held at Furlough Middle School. This year’s keynote speaker is Terrell’s own, Sgt. 1st Class Davin Marceau, who also served as a guest speaker during the Veterans Day ceremony at the Terrell ISD Performing Arts Center. Marceau served in the mountains of Afghanistan and lost fellow soldiers when one of their vehicles hit a buried explosive device. During the luncheon, the Rotary Club of Terrell will present the community citizen of the year award while the chamber will present industry specific awards as well as recognition for the past directors and executive board. The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY Sgt. 1st Class Davin Marceau speaks during the Veterans Day ceremony at the Terrell ISD Performing Arts Center. Marceau, who is stationed at the Texas National Guard Armory, is slated to be the guest speaker at the Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitor Bureau’s Membership Meeting and Industry Luncheon. Inside this issue Veterans Day Spotlight on Terrell ISD Stanley L. Ballard Sr. Christmas Parade Creative Framing 106 E. Moore Avenue Terrell, TX 75160 972-528-4770 Page 2 p The Chamber Spotlight THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE TERRELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/CVB, P.O. BOX 97 TERRELL, TEXAS 75160 Phone: 972-563-5703 Fax: 972-563-2363 www.terrelltexas.com 2015 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Denny Rohe, Chairman Glenn Caldwell, Chairman-elect and Vice Chairman Economic Development Dorman Williamson, Vice Chairman Internal Operations Shuck Wieland, Vice Chairman Community Development Stephanie Elswick, Vice Chairman Tourism Ken Lane, Treasurer Cindy Tayem, Past Chairman Danny Booth, President Carlton Tidwell, Vice-President Donna Riley, Director of Tourism BOARD OF DIRECTORS Erin Green, Davin Marceau, Lisa Johnson, Wayne Babovec, John Kegerreis, Cary Harwell, Becca Murphey, Tom BatRick Carmona, Darren Lemons, Kyle Shannon and Bobbi Byford VISITORS CENTER Patsy Ellis, Faye Wilson, Debby Goolsby and Linda Norton CHAMBER STAFF Danny Booth, Carlton Tidwell, Dawn Steil, Donna Riley, Sue Humphreys and Angie Cooper THE CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT IS PRODUCED BY THE TERRELL TRIBUNE. Publisher Mike Elswick Editor Gary E. Lindsley Advertising Manager Stephanie Elswick Quality Health Care Close to Home Serving Area Health Care Needs t'BNJMZ1SBDUJDF t(ZOFDPMPHZ t4QPSUT.FEJDJOF t-BCPSBUPSZ t0DDVQBUJPOBM)FBMUI Radiology Services t#POF%FOTJUZ t$54DBO4QJSBM t.BNNPHSBQIZ t.3* t93BZ'MVPSPTDPQZ t6MUSBTPVOE /7JSHJOJB4USFFU 5FSSFMM59 (972) 551-7500 (972) 524-7418 Fax www.FMCTerrell.com #BZMPS3FHJPOBM*NBHJOH$FOUFS (972) 551-7400 Family Medicine Tyson Barnes, MD Christian Lance, MD Charlie Risinger, MD Neil Satyu, MD Nicole Swofford, MD Judy Candler, NP Mary Carver, NP Debra Grunden, NP 1IZTJDJBOTBSFFNQMPZFFTPG)FBMUI5FYBT1SPWJEFS/FUXPSLBOBGýMJBUFPG#BZMPS4DPUU8IJUF)FBMUIª#BZMPS4DPUU8IJUF)FBMUI Delivery service available GS & SALES Let us make 2015 outstanding A s we begin a new year, I am inclined to pause and give thanks for many things. This year, I am incredibly appreciative for Caroline, my first grandchild who will be born in February. I began to wonder what Caroline would be thankful for if she were a student at Terrell ISD. I would hope that a day in the life of Caroline would go something like this: “Good morning Caroline. It‘s nice to see you this morning. Please make sure you’re in your seat before the bus gets moving,” said the bus driver. “Good morning Caroline. Welcome to Burnett. We are glad you are here today. Please head to the cafeteria. There is some yummy breakfast waiting for you,” said the principal. Entering the clean and kid-friendly cafeteria, Caroline is promptly greeted with smiles and uplifting comments by the entire cafeteria staff, the custodian and the teacher’s assistant assigned to morning duty. She has a warm breakfast and some time before class to talk with friends. After breakfast is over, Caroline heads to class. Her teacher meets her at the door with a smile and welcoming spirit. In this class, she is allowed to take risks, feels safe and nurtured and is treated with respect every day. She is never admonished publicly, yelled at or made to feel less than. She is never the subject of bullying by her peers or her teacher. The bell-to-bell instruction 972-563-7821 she receives is rich in substance and engages her mind at high levels. She is expected to read on or above grade level, she is not given busy work to keep her quiet, and an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity permeates her classroom. She is in a TISD classroom where students come first. Caroline is in the hands of not just a teacher of content, but an artist painting an instructional masterpiece. Micheal French As Caroline’s day progresses, she encounters a physical education teacher, a librarian and other adults who put her needs and aspirations above their own. As she leaves the building, the principal says, “I hope you had a great day and I look forward to seeing you in the morning. Have a super night and don’t forget to read your library book.” At Caroline’s school, she feels loved and valued. She knows that she matters to her teachers and that the entire campus is there to Medicaid & CHIP Accepted Se Habla Espanol 22 years in business! Discount building materials Hwy. 80 West, Terrell Spotlight on Terrell ISD ic Dental Clin 401 N. Ann, Suite A, Terrell 972-524-1048 make her successful. She is proud to be a Tiger! In closing, I want you to know how honored I am to be the Terrell ISD superintendent because I know that Caroline’s story takes place each day in our schools. Terrell ISD is committed to providing all of our students with the education that I will one day expect Caroline to receive. I am thankful for our teachers who are focused on our goal of increasing student achievement in all areas. I am thankful for our support staff that makes each campus an inviting, safe and secure homeaway-from-home for our students. I am thankful for our administrators who work tirelessly to support campus staff and improve instruction. I am thankful for our board of trustees who give their time, without compensation, to make the right, and often tough decisions for all Terrell ISD students. And finally, I am thankful for this community’s ongoing support of our students, staff and schools. Without our combined efforts, the Caroline’s of the world would have no hope or future. Thank you for helping write the success stories of today for our children. Let’s make 2015 an outstanding year! —————— Micheal French is superintendent of the Terrell Independent School District. Pritchett’s Jewelry Casting Company A family tradition since 1912 Downtown Terrell 972-563-8874 www.pritchetts.com Page 3 Spotlight on Creative Picture Framing Creative Framing frames art B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y 1011 N. Galloway Ave., Mesquite 214-320-7000 DallasRegionalMedicalCenter.com D an Sowers knows how to make a work of art a masterpiece. Whether it is an oil painting, self portrait or photograph, Sowers knows how to frame it and make it shine. He has been framing artwork since 2002 in Terrell at his custom shop and art gallery. Sowers moved from where Morgan Miller has his insurance agency to his present location, 112 E. Moore Ave., in 2006. See FRAME On Page 10 CHEVROLET CADILLAC 972-524-2663 The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY Dan Sowers stands next to a portrait he framed at his shop on Moore Avenue, Creative Picture Framing. 1212 Hwy. 80 Terrell www.mussermotors.com New Chamber Leader Rohe’s goals include revitalizing downtown I t’s an honor and privilege to be the incoming chairman of the Terrell Chamber of Commerce. So many great things have occurred in past years and will continue to happen in 2015 in Terrell America. We have a great chamber staff and it is doing an excellent job of running the chamber to improve our city. For years, Danny Booth and the TEDC have done a great job for economic development. Now with the development of the triangle at the intersection of U.S 80 and I-20 we are seeing retail come to our city. The” Robert Messer” Dairy Queen is open, Buc-ee’s is under construction and Starbucks and Whata-Burger have signed contracts, while others are pending. Our city will see many good things coming. Baylor hopefully will break ground this year and then we can look forward to a hospital in our town, something the city and chamber have worked on for years. Several years ago our city hired a new police chief, Jody Lay, and since that time our city has seen a reduction in crime. With the hiring of superintendent Michea l French, our schools have seen a major improvement, and in a short time, become a school district where people will want to send their children. With the improved police department and school district, folks will want to move to our city, and then we will see a housing boom as folks will want to be part of these great things. What a great time to be part of Terrell America. In several weeks we will have the annual chamber planning retreat for 2015. We will explore what items we need to focus on to make the chamber, schools, and city better for 2015. Many great things were done in 2014 under Cindy’s Tayem’s term as chairwoman, so we will continue with those and expand to help Terrell America become a better city. My goals for 2015 are many but I’m realistic enough to recognize that we must concentrate on a few items and make certain that we accomplish what is truly important to make our city and chamber better. One very important goal is the revitalization of downtown Terrell. Many good programs have been established. They need to continue and grow. We have a very historic downtown; we need to help it get better. Another goal is to promote the “Work in Terrell Program.” We need folks to see what employment is available in Terrell versus driving to Dallas. People every day drive from our city and East Texas to Dallas for work. We need to make them aware of what opportunities are in Terrell. Another very important goal is to promote the chamber and get retail, service and industry involved. It’s easy to get involved — just become a chamber member and volunteer your time. It doesn’t pay well but I can promise it’s very gratifying and fulfilling. I look forward to a very exciting 2015. I encourage folks to get involved and help our chamber, city and school to become better. Denny Rohe is plant manager at Madix Inc. 214.878.2145 .!DELAIDE3Ts4ERRELL48 www.ants-technology.com Tech Support, Computer Networks, Hardware, Business Telephone Systems, Cell Phone Boosters, Wireless Networks 1100 Hours Mon-Sat 10-5:30 Page 4 Chamber gets set for annual jubilee Event is for “kids” of all ages B Y G A RY L I N D S L E Y T he 34rd r unn i ng of t he annual Terrell Heritage Jubilee promises once again to be a family fun-filled weekend for all. The jubilee is set for April 16-19 at Lions Club and Ben Gill parks and will kick off with family night on the midway at 5 p.m. on April 16. Ter rel l Cha mber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism director Donna Riley said for the price of an armband, children and adults alike will be able to go on all the rides they want during the night. The rides are being provided by Fort Worthba se d Ta l le y A mu sements. T he Ta l le y A mu sements midway will open the jubilee on April 16 beginning at 4 p.m. During the weekend of events there will be an arts and crafts show, quilt show, and motorcycle and car shows “We are look ing for new attractions,” Riley said. So stay tuned. Returning for 2015 will be racing pigs, a bear, See FUN on Page 11 The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY People enjoy the midway during the 33rd edition of the Terrell Heritage Jubilee in April 2014. The 34th edition is set for April 16-19 with a soft opening, also known as family night, on April 16. Page 5 Seniors, Receive Your Healthcare in the Comfort of Home. 903-873-2770 or 800-285-1209 401 S. FM148 Terrell 563-2171 The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY TEDC Board Chairman Rick Carmona talks during the Nov. 6 Room To Boom ceremony. Terrell has ‘Room To Boom’ B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y I t was Terrell America day on Nov. 6 during the city’s “Room To Boom” ceremony. City and Terrell ISD officials — Mayor Hal Richards, Assistant City Manager Mike Sims, Terrell Economic Development Corporation Board Chairman Rick Carmona and TISD Board Chairwoman Dena Risinger — were joined by Kaufman County Judge Bruce Wood for a ribbon cutting ceremony near the future home of Dairy Queen. The ceremony, accentuated by a blast from The Spirit of ’02 by members of the Texas A&M’s Parson’s Mounted Cavalry, heralded the completion of the Farm-ToMarket 148, Interstate 20 Frontage Road, Crossroads Parkway, Medical Center Drive and Walker Way. Richards said the area is the highest traffic intersection in the region. And the road projects, he said, were all possible because of private sector money. The “boom” started a few years ago when Wood went to a Buc-ee’s store and bought a turducken. A turducken is a dish consisting of a deboned chicken stuffed into a deboned duck, which in turn is stuffed into a deboned turkey. Wood knew Terrell had to have the store come to Kaufman County. Before leaving the store, he asked to speak with the store’s manager. “We talked a little bit and I asked if I could connect with the owner,” Wood said. Wood went to his office and emailed Buc-ee’s owner Arch “Beaver” Aplin, telling him if he was ever interested in bringing one of his stores to North Texas, to call him. Wood was a bit surprised when less than two hours later, Aplin called him and told him North Texas was on Buc-ee’s radar screen. “He said I was the first county official to contact him,” Wood said. The 61,000-square foot store is a multi-million dollar project that in the end will have 84 fuel pumps and initially will employ 125 people with a possibility of maybe 200. Construction of the facility started in August. “There is a reason why these business people are buying stock in Terrell America, Richards said. “They can see what is coming. “The saying, ‘You build it and they will come’ doesn’t apply here,” he said. “They are already here.” He said $10 million in private investment in public infrastructure shows how the market responds to sound growth policies put in place by the city’s council. The boom in Terrell is not just in the FM 148, I-20 and Spur 556 area, according to city officials. It is throughout the city. New single-family home values, they said, are up 145 percent. Housing starts are up 228 percent. Then there is another $3.5 million in home renovations since 2010. And Trinity Valley Community College has linked up with TISD’s Career and Technical Education Center for free associates degrees. “Our cit i zens have a n opportunity to live and work here,” Richards said. “They don’t have to spend their lives in traffic [traveling] to Dallas. “Terrell is booming,” he said. “It will continue to boom.” Wood said from a county perspective, there is more interest from developers. “That is a good sign for all of us,” he said. “It is a blessing to me to see all of the activity going on in Kaufman County. This is a major project that will put the city of Terrell on the map. I am glad Beaver called me back.” Carmona said the reason for Thursday’s gathering was because of the community’s leadership, from the mayor to the city of Terrell’s council to City Manager Torry Edwards, Sims, city engineer Steve Rogers, TEDC’s president Danny Booth and assistant vice president Dawn Steil. “Thank you for your hard work,” Carmona said. “Projects like this don’t happen overnight. Partnerships enable us to create infrastructure. This project is about partnerships.” He said the site will become a major hub for the county. “It is a great day to live in Terrell America,” Risinger said. “It is a great day to be a Terrell Tiger.” Assisted living ... Yes, better living! Kim Doyal – Director && """ # ! Call today for a free security evaluation 972-524-6700 WWW.TERRRELLALARM.COM RELL TER ALARM Systems ACR-2749 TX Lic. #B09970 Custom Security Systems Burglar & Fire Alarm Systems Smoke Detectors Carbon Monoxide Detectors Wireless Alarm Systems 24-Hour Local Monitoring Camera Systems Access Control Integrated Systems Home Theater & Surround Sound New Construction Pre-Wire All insurance accepted. Medicaid and CHIP accepted. Immediate appointments. Alan L. Nix, D.D.S. 101 E. High, Terrell 972-563-7633 dralannix.com Celebrating more than 30 years! Page 6 DQ returns to Terrell with Grill & Chill B Y G A RY L I N D S L E Y I t did not take long to fill the seats of the newest fast-food joint in Terrell. The Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, off FarmTo-Market Road 148, opened its doors to the public on Dec. 29. DQ is located in the Terrell Market Center, next to the under construction Buc-ees. Bill Spae, president and CEO of Vasari LLC, which owns the new DQ facility, took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony with some of his company officials, as well as members of the Terrell Chamber of Commerce. DQ serves up selections such as the half-pound Hungr-Buster, Texas T-Brand Tacos and a crispy chicken wrap. How about biting into a chili cheese dog or digging into a salad? And for a real treat, does a double fudge frozen hot chocolate or a candy cane chill Blizzard sound appealing? These are just a few of the offerings at the new DQ. Besides joining Buc-ee’s, which is slated for summer 2015 completion, there will be a Starbucks and Whataburger. Chick-fil-A is expected to build on the other side of FM 148 near Interstate 20 and Spur 557. “We are excited to be part of the great economic growth and development for Kaufman County and the city of Terrell,” said Bill Spae, president and CEO of Vasari LLC. “For 70 years, DQ has been a longtime favorite where families and friends can gather to share smiles and stories over great meals and our iconic sweet treats.” Though Terrell at one time had as many as three DQs, Spae said the Grill & Chill represents a new day and a new way. The older buildings that served Terrell are part of the past with new technology and a new look fueling the new prototype DQ, according to Spae. “It is an updated and more fun look,” he said. “It is much more family friendly. With Buc-ee’s and Terrell Market Center being developed, Spae said it made sense to once again invest in Terrell. The new prototype building makes it much easier to provide service to the community, he said. The 2,680-square foot building blends the eatery’s history with an updated interior with comfortable booths, large wooden tables, warm lighting and music, according to company officials. BIS The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY Dairy Queen Grill & Chill and Terrell Chamber of Commerce representatives joined together on Dec. 29 to open Terrell’s new Dairy Queen. It is located off Farm-To-Market Road 148 in the Terrell Market Center, adjacent to a new Buc-ee’s, which is currently under construction. It also seats 72 and has a patio outside with hours set for 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Spae said he started looking at building a Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Terrell Market Center in March 2014. If it had not been for Buc-ee’s and development moving forward at the center, Spae said he might not have built a new facility in Terrell at this time. “We are very excited about being in Terrell,” he said. “The city has been tremendously cooperative.” 309 N. Adelaide St., Suite B Terrell, TX 75160 Bain Investment Services, Inc. Tommy R. Bain 972-524-0597 800-300-0597 Fax 972-563-3266 www.baininvestmentservices.com Securities Offered Through ProEquities Inc. Member-FINRA, SIPC 721 UTA Blvd., Arlington, TX 76013. 817-275-8275 BIS, Inc. is Independent of ProEquities ® Spae also said people are very excited about DQ returning to Terrell. “It will mean jobs for sure, and tax revenue,” he said. It is projected DQ will hire about 100 people. Vasari LLC is the second-largest DQ franchise in the country with 76 locations in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, according to company officials. Gary E. Lindsley may be reached at [email protected]. Page 7 The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY TOP LEFT: Brandi Flanagan smiles as Carolyn Gordon does her nails during Terrell’s annual Shop at Home Small Business Saturday event on Nov. 29. TOP RIGHT: Angel Herrera, 9, gives Santa Claus a big hug at Books and Crannies in the former Iris Theatre building. Terrell’s ‘Shop at Home’ extravaganza deemed successful B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y A ngel Herrera, 9, was all smiles as Santa Claus gave him a big hug at Books and Crannies in the Iris Theatre building on Nov. 29. Santa Claus was having pictures taken with “children” of all ages during Terrell’s annual Shop At Home, Small Business Saturday event. Jerry and Beverly Burr are usually busy during the event. This year they were beyond busy and actually were swamped at times with customers — and many of them were new customers. Carolyn Gordon of the Terrell Downtown Business Association said the same thing. Gordon had many new customers at Nail Boutique. “Everyone is really tickled and happy,” Gordon said. “They did very well. There were a lot of new people.” She estimated she sold about 50 gift certificates. Brandi Flanagan, who was having her nails done by Gordon, said having the event every year is great for the merchants. “It is empowerment of small businesses, especially women-owned businesses,” Flanagan said. Gordon said between the fliers and newspaper stories, new customers found their way to Terrell’s small shops. “A lot had just moved here,” she said.” Rosemary Jett, a sales associate at Risingers Country Store, said they were very busy as well, especially new customers. “They are buying a little bit of everything, boots, jeans and jewelry,” Jett said. “The whole nine yards.” Faye Hathcock, who was shopping for gifts and looking at clothing at the country store, likes the event. “I think it is good for the businesses,” Hathcock said. Gordon said just as the merchants faced competition from First Monday in Canton during their Christmas in July event, they also were compet- ing against the big event for Shop At Home. “We did not see a lot of regulars,” she said. “But we made up for it with new people. I think it’s going to continue to build momentum.” The winners of the basket drawings at the end of the event were Randi Trimuar, Anne Davidson and Laurel Ewing. Gary E. Lindsley may be reached at [email protected]. 3IGNATURE,OANSs4ITLE,OANSs3TARTER,OANSup to at $1340 Toledo Finance NOW OPEN! 507 W. Moore 972-551-0502 Open Everyday 5 a.m. - noon 972.210.2990 %-OORE!VEs4ERRELL48 WWWTOLEDOCORPCOM CSR- Courtney Dickerson Manager - Cheryl Blasius Energy Smart Polyiso. Simply the World’s Best Insulation !1!&).+-5!++!&&!1, $ 5 %#$!,-&.!*!+%($)"(2%(,.&-%)( 5 )'*&%(-4 !+)!1*(,%)(#!(-,.,! 5 ),-%( .,-+%&+!2&! )(-!(5 )'*&%(!0%-$,-( + , 5 )(-+%.-!,-)0+ ® !+-%3-%)(+! %-, 5 )+!,--!0+ ,$%*).(%&**+)/! 0)) *+) .-,/%&&! 5 '!'!+ 5 )&2%,)")++))"( 0&&**&%-%)(, Custom designed buildings made from American steel. Designed, detailed, and fabricated in America. 972.551.2030 www.vekainc.com 107 Metrocrest Way,Terrell 600 Apache Trail, Terrell, TX 972-524-5407 www.NucorBuildingSystems.com Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Frame Building frames actually was pretty easy for Sowers. It also helps that His career in framing actually hap- he is a people person. “I like to engage people,” he said. “I pened in a rather nonchalant way. Originally from Radford, Va., Sow- am curious and interested in people.” In the nearly 13 years since he took ers came to Terrell in 1990 after shutting down an AT&T facility and mov- over the shop Sowers estimates he has built about 10,000 frames. ing it to Mesquite. “I just finished with a shadow box He had children in Tyler, thus it befor a lady’s deceased husband’s saxacame a nice fit. After coming to Texas with AT&T, phone,” Sowers said. “I lined it with he saw his division change hands mirrors so you could see all sides of it within the frame.” from Lucent to Tyco. When the woman, Johnnie Malouf, Eventually, he had to lay everyone went to pick up her off. Then he was gone husband’s boxed saxas well. So in about 2001 “I enjoy making aphone, she was surhe built a barn on his things with my hands prised. “She asked me, 90-acre ranch and reand seeing the pleasure ‘Aren’t you going to paired the fences. He and his wife, on peoples’ faces when put glass on it?’ Then, she touched it,” SowClaudette, breed and they see my products. ers said. show quarter horses. It brought pleasure Sowers eventual— Dan Sowers, ly made his way to the Creative Picture Framing to Sowers when he saw Malouf’s reaction picture framing store to the fact it was covin Terrell. “I actually came in to get some- ered in glass. “I enjoy making things with my thing framed,” Sowers said. “The girl said, ‘Glad you came in. I am fixing to hands and seeing the pleasure on peoples’ faces when they see my sell it.’” Lisa Abrams, he said, owned the products,” he said. “It is very rewardshop and had been running it for nine ing, personally.” Sometime in the not so distant fuyears. An electrician by trade, for two ture, Sowers would like to possibly days he thought about the possibility sell his shop and help the new owner. He wants to concentrate on his of owning a framing shop. “She was going to close the doors quarter horses, which have won he and walk away,” Sowers said. “I and his wife numerous accolades and thought this was a business I could awards over the years. “We have had three world-reserve work at. She helped me the first couchampions,” Sowers said. “We also ple of months.” Continued from Page 3 Veterans Continued from Page 9 He left college and was fired from his job. “I saw that the Marines were looking for a few good men,” Lee said. He knew he was one of the few good men and wondered who the others were. “I wanted a change,” Lee said. “I was tired of being told what to do. I joined the [U.S.] Marine Corps.” At 1:30 on March 8 in 1969, as he was leading a mine sweeping patrol, he stepped on a mine. It blew him in the air and ripped away both of his legs. “I should have been killed,” Lee said. Another Marine also stepped on a mine and had one of his legs blown off. “That day with my head [in another Marine’s lap], I was begging God to let me live.” He spent months in a hospital in Pennsylvania and was told he would never be able to sit up again. “Eight months in that hospital and I heard all those things I could not do,” Lee said. “Never did anyone see me bitter or angry,” he said. “You want to know why? I wanted to live. God spared my life. “I believe God had a plan for my life,” he said. “I wanted to live. “Someone said you never live until you almost die,” Lee said. Veterans Day is an important day for the country, Lee said. “It is a day you have to remember,” he said. “It is a day to be grateful. There is a way out. God can help you find a way out.” Also speaking at the ceremony was Terrell’s own Sgt. 1st Class Davin Marceau who talked about his own experience in the mountains The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY Besides framing works of arts and breeding and showing quarter horses, another one of Dan Sowers passions is riding his Harley Davidson. won the Quarter Horse Congress award in 1997 and 2000.” The couple also had a horse that was in the top 10 for nine consecutive years. But for now, you can find Sowers in his framing shop. He has museum quality glass that protects paintings and photographs, as well as different mattes and more than 1,600 corner samples. Sowers designs matting and framing to match a customer’s needs, as well as price point. He builds the frames, cuts the mattes and glass and assembles the of Afghanistan and loosing fellow soldiers when one of their vehicles hit a buried explosive device and cut the vehicle in half. The ceremony also included recognition of people from Terrell who had died while serving their country. And as the songs from the various U.S. military branches were played, veterans in the PAC also were recognized. “Veterans, thank you for giving your all,” TISD Superintendent Micheal French said. “Today is a day to pay homage.” He urged the students attending the Veterans Day ceremony to abundantly live their lives as a way to honor the legacy of the veterans who have given selflessly to their country so all would remain free. Gary E. Lindsley may be reached at news@terrelltribune. com. package for the customer. And do not forget Sowers’ art gallery. Whether looking for something special for home or office, he most likely will have what you are seeking. Sowers has a wide selection from companies such as Somerset Fine Art and The Greenwich Workshop. Themes include architecture, children, religion, fantasy, historical, landscapes, sports, military and wildlife. Visit Sowers gallery at 112 E. Moore Ave. or call him at 972-524-1288. Gary E. Lindsley may be reached at [email protected]. 972.563.7888 300 Tanger Dr. Terrell, TX 75160 Conveniently located off I-20 next to Tanger Outlet Mall and an abundant choices of eateries. 12.99 5.99 Medium Large $BSSZPVUTQFDJBM0/-: t 6QUP5PQQJOHT t UPQQJOH t X-JUFS%SJOL EFMJWFSZDIBSHFNBZ t EFFQEJTINBZCF FYUSB BQQMZ Page 11 Fun Continued from Page 4 tigers and a wild west shoot-out. A nd exc itement aw a it s rode o a f ic ionados when members of ranch rodeo w ill e x h i b i t t h e i r f i n e l y- t u n e d r o d e o s k i l l s . The ranch rodeo will take place at Wade Indoor Arena on County Road 304. There will also be live music entertainment, though specific acts have not been lined up yet. The Terrell Garden Club and the NorthEast Texas Fine Art Alliance will be present for children to make arts and crafts as well. Home Depot also will be present with a Kids Corner for children to build things. And for all those “smokers” in the area, there is the annual jubilee barbeque competition with teams firing up their smokers to cook some of the best brisket, ribs and chicken seen this side of the Mississippi. The competition is state sanctioned so it The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY counts toward national championship. Panning for gold will also return for 2015. RiDanny Booth, president of the Terrell Chamber of Commerce and Convention Bureau, kicks off the 2014 ley said it will be located closer to other venues annual chamber retreat at Peninsula Ranch. this year. Also returning are the health and business expo, as well as arts and crafts. Rounding out the weekend of activities is The Terrell State Hospital Volunteer Services CounThe retreat starts at 8 a.m. on what his predecessors have done. cil’s annual 5K run fundraiser. B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y Gary E. Lindsley may be reached at reporter@ Jan. 16 and is an all-day affair, “We will explore what items terrelltribune.com. Chamber’s annual retreat set for Jan. 16 T errell Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau staff members are putting the finishing touches on what will be the 2015 program of work, which will be discussed at the chamber’s annual retreat at Peninsula Ranch. getting the chamber’s board of directors together with the Terrell Economic Development Board of Directors to discuss how well 2014 went, the upcoming 2015 budget, and the 2015 program of work. Incoming chamber board chairman Denny Rohe is raring to go and will continue to build on (/-%s,)&%s!54/s-/"),%(/-%3 New we need to focus on to make the chamber, schools, and city better for 2015,” Rohe said. “Many great things were done in 2014 under Cindy’s Tayem’s term as chairwoman. So we will continue with those and expand to help Terrell America become a better city.” Smile, New You! Gwendolyn Kines-McLeod, DDS 1414 W. Moore Ave. 972-563-7991 "ROOKSHIRES3HOPPING#ENTER NEXTTO(OMEROS9ELLOW2OSE#AFE G.L. Stoddard, Charlotte Daniel, Laura Cervantes & Beverly King WWWALLSTATEAGENCIESCOMGLSTODDARDsGLSTODDARD ALLSTATECOMs3EHABLAESPA×OL #/--%2#)!,s"/!43s!..5)4)%3s)2!3 Phone: 214.215.5744 Dispatch: 817.329.8550 Sales: 972.621.0999 103 Metrocrest Way Terrell, TX 75160 Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 401 N. Ann St., Ste. B, Terrell 972-524-5347 www.gwendolynkinesmcleoddds.com Greenwood Industrial Battery Services Owners - Mike & Susan Burt /Mark Hawkins Authorized Douglas Battery Dealer 11808 S. Profit Row Forney, TX 469-402-0044 [email protected] www.greenwoodbattery.com Mitchell Welding Supply welding supplies and Machines rental Terrell 972-524-5813 1106 s. Virginia 7-5 Mon. - Fri. - both locations 8-12 sat. - Terrell only major credit cards accepted Serving the area since 1968 seagoville 972-287-4191 1702 n. hwy 175 Risinger Veterinary Hospital We love your Animals and it shows! Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Sat.: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Page 12 Home Tour has great turn out B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y L eigh Pool was very happy early Dec. 6. The Christmas in a Small Town 2014 Home Tour had just started and organizers already needed to have more tickets printed for the annual event. Although the event was well attended in 2013, despite taking place after an ice storm, this year’s tour had the benefit of balmy weather – which brought people out in droves. The home tour is sponsored by the Social Science Club of Terrell and is the club’s annual fundraiser for Terrell civic and educational projects. “We were so pleased to showcase such lovely and locally significant homes,” Pool said. “We hope all our guests had as grand a time as did the homeowners and the SSC members.” Pool, one of the club’s members, said people started showing up before 2 p.m. to start the tour. There were oohs and ahhs, as well as plenty of praise and smiles, at every home along the tour. Money raised during the tour goes to organizations such as the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum, Wildwood Cemetery Association, Terrell Heritage Society, Friends of the Hulsey Library, E! Terrell, the Share Center and Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation. This year’s tour featured the Muckleroy/French home on First Street, Bivins/O’Neil/Dowlearn home on Johnson Street, Brittain/ Freeman home on Griffith Avenue, First Presbyterian Church on Griffith Avenue, the Gill/Corley/ Craig home on Ninth Street and the Stan and Jenny Heisel home on Lovers Lane. While the 2012 tour raised about $19,000, the 2013 version came in at $15,000. Organizers believe the LOCK BOX SELF STORAGE +AUFMAN#OUNTY4ITLE!BSTRACT#O 350 British Flying School Rd. 972.524.9097 P fir rorat st m e ont Ashley Hill – Manager ice storm that struck right before the tour affected the turn out. One of the homes, in fact, could not open to the public because power had been knocked out by the storm. Money from the 2013 tour was dispersed in 2014 as follows: No. 1 BFTS Museum, $750; Wildwood Cemetery Association, $100; Terrell Heritage Society, $500; Friends of the Hulsey Library, $1,000; E! Terrell, $500; Share Center, $6,150; and TISD Excellence Foundation, $3,000, according to Joyce Lewis, one of the club’s officers. The Social Science Club of Terrell formed in 1894. In 1897, SSC, along with 21 other women’s clubs, formed the Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs. One of the goals of the TFWC was to secure libraries for small towns in Texas. This was accomplished in 1904, and the Andrew Carnegie Foundation funded the Carnegie Library in Terrell. %STABLISHED h www.urentitsalesandservice.com Celebrating 31 Years! 2280 W. Moore Ave., Terrell 972-524-7368 (RENT) 37ASHINGTON3Ts+AUFMAN The place to get custom picture framing 972-524-1288 112 E. Moore Ave. Terrell [email protected] Mention this ad when you come in! Creativity is the force of invention “Thank you for your continued trust in Kaufman County Title and please remember us on your next transaction.” 214.688.1255 ed@ zahradesign.com Advertising . Graphic Design . Branding Zahra Design Group | 2404 Farrington | Dallas TX 75207 | zahradesign.com Serving Kaufman County and Surrounding Areas Since 1987 Commercial, Industrial & Residential 205 E. College 972.563.5979 Cindy Crecy’s Electrolysis/Derma Clinic s s s s s s permanent hair removal s therapeutic facials permanent make-up s acid peels spider vein therapy s relaxation treatment body sugaring s mirco-dermabrasion body polish/ wraps s pulse-light therapy cellulite reduction s eyelash perm/ tints 7-OORE!VE3TEs4ERRELLs 7ILLS0OINTs www.electrolysisclinic.com 1725 T.L. Townsend, Rockwall 972-771-1885 1310 S. 3rd St., Mabank 903-887-7368 Ed Zahra 972-932-2417 Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm 4BUBN/PPOt$MPTFE4VOEBZTBOE)PMJEBZT U-RENT-IT SALES & SERVICE 200-B Fourth St., Terrell, TX 972-524-9995 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visit our online store awardmusic.com Service On All Makes & Models 620 E. Nash Terrell 972-563-8634 www.cliffsheatingand air.com Owner - Ellis Smith [email protected] Residential Commercial Come Visit Us For A Tour! Country View Private Rooms Available For ALL NEW ADMISSIONS (Dependent on availability) You will want to SEE! Theater Room Coffee Shop Full Size Shuffleboard room 1900 N. Frances, Terrrell 972.524.2503 303 N. Frances 972-524-3771 www.ranger-title.com Serving Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Rockwall & Dallas Counties Page 13 Thank You! RENEWALS & NEW MEMBERS AS OF 10-28-13 THROUGH 12-26-13 A great big “thank you” to the following businesses that continue to support Terrell with their chamber memberships. 205 Collision Supercenter 429 RV Park & Marina AAA Bail Bonds Aaron’s Sales and Lease Ownership Advantage Copy Systems Airgas American Home Care American National Bank Anchor Printing Apex Supply Company Auto Center of Texas B.H. Daves Appliances Barnes, Tyson H., M.D. Michael Bedford, CPA Books & Crannies Braum’s Brookshire’s Food Store Carroll’s Ace Glass & Mirror Inc. Catalytic Heater Company (CATCO) Chapman Property Co. Cole Mountain Catering Company Copier Connection-auth. Xerox agency Kaufman County Crime Stoppers Currington Window, Siding & Gutter Dairy Queen The Depot Wayne Dry Car Wash Eddie Deen Catering Company Edward Jones-Kirby Webb, CFP El Cantante Cuisine Elfar Family Partners Bob Ellis Insurance Services EnVogue Ervin, Scott A. D.D.S. Family Medical Center at Terrell-BHC Figueroa, Sergio, M.D. G & S Sales Inc. Gas & Supply Golden Years Homecare Specialist Greenwood Industrial Battery Service Inc. Heather Lane Apartments J.S. Helwig and Son LLC. Hickory Roots BBQ Johnnie Homes Construction Johnson Chiropractic Health Center K.L. Breeden & Sons LLC. La Quinta Inn Lamar Ranch Lautz, Susan C., L.P.C. Life Pointe Church Lochhead Properties Lock Box Self Storage Lone Star Credit Union Madden Electric Services Inc. Madix Inc. Law Offices of David S. Mallard Marlow Oil Dist. Inc. Midtown Village Shopping Center Mitchell Welding Supply MLK Celebration of Terrell Inc. Muse Metal Lab Inc. Musser Motors Nail Boutique Nix, Alan L., D.D.S. Oakridge Investments Inc. Oldcastle Building Envelope Oncor Electric Delivery Parnell, Judge Joe Paul’s Oil Station LTD. Poinsett, Roy Pope, Nancy, CPA P.C. Pop’s Honey Fried Chicken Powerlab Inc. R&R Design Inc. Ramsey, Mary Gayle Randall Noe Ford, Mercury, Chy, Dodge, Jeep Real Estate Services Co. Renfro Graphics Risinger Veterinary Hospital Risinger’s Country Store Rock Church of Terrell Rowden, Hndrickson, Shipley & Rymer Inc. Brenda Samples-Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors Sanders Lawn & Landscape Schoen, Kenneth, Precinct 3 commissioner Senior Citizen Services Inc., Kaufman County Sherwin-Williams Paint Co. Shipley Donuts Shumphert Law Offices Smith, Mike, Precinct 3 justice of the peace Sonic Drive of Terrell Southland Athletic Manufacturing Co. Spitzer, Stuart, state representative STEFCO Advertising Super 8 Southwestern Christian College Tanger Outlet Center offices Taqueria Dos Aces Inc. Terrell Healthcare Center (Nexion) Terrell Heritage Society Terrell Iron & Metal Terrell Metal Recycling Terrell Office Products Terrell Pharmacy Terrell RV Park Terrell Senior Terrace I and II The Terrell Tribune Texas Motor Toys Three Forks Senior Living of Forney Tiger Car Wash LLC. Tomblin, Reg Traylor Furniture & Applicances Trinity Discount Warehouse Trinity Roofing & Construction Trinity Valley Community College Van Tone Creative Flavors Inc. Vannoy Surveyors Inc. Vintage Moments Studios TSH Volunteer Services Council fVyas, Priti B., M.D. Welch, Truman Wells Fargo Bank Zajac’s Welding and Steel Supply New Members Dairy Queen, 5100 N. OConnor Blvd., Irving 972-499-4967 www.vasarillc.com El Cantante Cuisine 501 E. Moore Ave., Terrell 972-210-7210 www.elcantantecuisine.com Gas and Supply 290 FM 429 northTerrell 972-551-1099www.gasandsupply.com A Little Bit of This & A Little Bit of That 120 W. Moore Ave. Terrell 214-254-7830 State Rep. Stuart Spitzer, M.D. 114 N. Washington, Suite E, Kaufman www.stuartspitzer.com Sudden Link Communication 3015 SSE Loop 323, Terrell 888-822-5151 www.suddenlink.com Nancy Pope, CPA, P.C. 604 College St., Terrell 972-551-1333 [email protected] Terrell Crossing 2390 W. Moore Ave. Terrell 972-524-6049 TerrellCrossings@YesCommunities. com Bass-Rutledge Drug 201 W. Moore Ave. 972-563-331 Page 14 RIBBON CUTTINGS S.P.I.R.I.T. PARANORMAL BOSS PAWN YOUR IDEAL BODY ANY TIME FITNESS EL CANTANTE CUISINE NANCY POPE CPA NEW DIRECTORS SPECIAL DONATION FROM LEFT: Shuck Wieland, Davin Marceau, Darren Lemons, Ricky Carmona, Jerry Burr, Juan Salazar and Kyle Shannon. Southwestern Christian College’s Circle K chapter members were honored by the chamber for all the volunteer hours they put in. Chamber members Warren Roberts, Mitzi Daniel and Dorman Williamson help congratulate them. Page 15 Jan.-Feb. 2015 Activities & Events Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Page 16 People line Moore Avenue for parade Photos by Gary E. Lindsley CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Rock Church float glides along Moore Avenue during the Stanley Ballard Sr. Christmas Parade; a dog and its handler sits amongst some brush on the Terrell Animal Adoption Center float; Josh Farmer of the Terrell Volunteer Fire Department is greeted by children; and members of the Terrell Tigers and their trophy take part in the parade. The parade started at Terrell Memorial Stadium and ended at the intersection of Moore Avenue and Adelaide Street on Dec. 13. JOHNSON CHRIOPRACTIC NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME! s7%34-//2%!6%.5% 4%22%,,4%8!3 www.texasbankandtrust.com 115 W. Moore Ave, Terrell 972-563-7661 Dr. Darlene Johnson Voted Terrell’s Favorite Chiropractor for 18 Years! 0AGEn4%22%,,#(!-"%2/&#/--%2#%s*ANUARY&EBRUARY 4%22%,,#(!-"%2/&#/--%2#%s*ANUARY&EBRUARYn0AGE Photos by The Chamber Spotlight/GARY E. LINDSLEY CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Kaufman County Young Marines present the Colors during Terrell’s annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Terrell Performing Arts Center; the American flag waves in the breeze outside the performing arts center; wounded Vietnam War veteran Tim Lee talks about serving his country and losing his legs; veterans are recognized during the ceremony; and members of Terrell ISD choirs perform during the ceremony. Vietnam veteran urges respect “We did not have enough men,” Lee said. “There was a draft and we went to a little place called South Vietnam.” More than 58,000 Americans died. “And tens of thousands were wounded,” he said. “When the Vietnam veterans im Lee is a Vietnam veteran who does not returned, often times they were spit upon. They were called baby killers.” mince words. Lee also said bags of urine were often thrown at them. “I did not give my two legs to be politically “There were no welcome parties,” he said. correct,” Lee said to a packed Terrell ISD PerBut the country as a whole has learned a lesson, according to Lee. It has forming Arts Center on Veterans Day. learned once again to say thank you. Lee, the keynote speaker for the community’s Veterans Day ceremony, joined “I have strangers come up to me and say welcome home,” he said. “Honor those the U.S. Marines in 1969. willing to put on the uniform. We still have men and women serving in AfghaniHe said more than 16 million Americans served in World War II. stan.” Soldiers returned home to parades and other activities. Lee’s path to serving in and losing his legs in Vietnam began in his youth, being “Then there was another war, Korea,” Lee said. “Actually, there were no win- raised by a Baptist minister. ners.” Although he was a Christian, Lee said he began to mess up his life. He estimated there are about 35,000 Americans serving in South Korea today “Bad things began to happen,” he said. as a buffer. Lee graduated from high school and went to college. After the Korean War, something happened, he said. It was forgotten. “My life was still a shipwreck,” he said. “When the Korean War veterans came back, there were no parades,” Lee said. See VETERANS on Page 10 “Then, my war came, the Vietnam War … the unpopular war. B Y G A RY E . L I N D S L E Y T