July 2013 BusinessLink Monthly Newsletter

Vol. 2 Issue 2 • July 2013
GET YOUR NAME
OUT THERE
Don’t miss these
exclusive sponsorship
& advertising
opportunities available
only to chamber
members
— Page 9.
Local experts
share tips for
small business
marketing
— Page 14.
An official publication of the Kerrville Area
Chamber of Commerce
MIX & MINGLE
Save the date for the next
Business After Hours Mixer from
5:15 to 6:30 p.m. July 18 at The
Ridge. Get more details and see
snapshots from the June mixer
— page 18.
From natural
beauty to outdoor
recreation, KEDC’s
Jonas Titas opens
up on the ...
Tools of the
trade
— Read the full story Page 11
BusinessLin
CHAIRMAN’S CORNER
An official publication of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce
From marketing to Kerrville to marketing yourself ...
KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028
PHONE 830-896-1155 FAX 830-896-1175
T
OFFICERS
Kent McKinney, Chairman of the Board, Guadalupe National Bank
Kyle Bond, Chair-elect, Terminix Pest Control
Mike Graxiola, First vice chair, The Kerrville Daily Times
Randy Evans, CPA, Treasurer, Massey Itschner & Co., P.C.
Kim Clarkson, Secretary, Kerr County Abstract & Title Company
DIRECTORS
Mike Huff, Wells Fargo
Judy Eychner, Century 21 The Hills Realty
Denny Foster, Lemon Tree Cleaners
Keri Kropp, Schreiner Goods
Trace McCuan, Kerrville Public Utility Board
Scott Rain, Huser Construction Company
Jeff Talarico, Ameriprise Financial
Mark Tuschak, Schreiner University
Ellen Williams, Kerrville Independent School District
Keri Wilt, Grape Juice
CHAMBER STAFF
Harold Dean, President/CEO, [email protected]
Kristan Weaver, Vice President of Operations, [email protected]
Allison Bueché, Member Relations, [email protected]
Donna Harris, Customer Service Representative, [email protected]
“
“Much has
improved
in our fine
community,
and we have
the momentum
to create more
success stories.”
A PUBLICATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
The Kerrville
Daily Times
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, CALL 896-7000
Kent McKinney
Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce
Chairman of the Board, 2012-13
BUSINESS LINK STAFF
Mike Graxiola, Publisher
Carlina Villalpando, Managing Editor
Tom Holden and Marivel Resendiz, Photographers
Bev Barr, Editorial Assistant
Advertising: John Doran, Shea Kelton, Jennifer McCullough and Halsey Bascom
Composing: Dean Heep, manager, and Johanna Rangel
his month’s topic is marketing, and it’s a great opportunity to sell you on the value your chamber provides. As I
have alluded to previously, our new chamber president Harold Dean is doing an outstanding job in improving
our organization. With Harold’s leadership, this year’s program of work is significantly expanded, and we are
accomplishing much more for our members. Aside from the obvious continued success of the many chamber events,
behind the scenes there is an increased emphasis on business advocacy at the local and state level. The membership
is being provided more information through the weekly Knews e-newsletter, membership luncheons and this monthly
BusinessLink publication. Additionally, the Chamber has begun the process of preparing to achieve accreditation once
again after a lapse of several years. There are many facets of accreditation that will serve the community well and
make your chamber stronger.
The two key goals for the year already have been accomplished: There is a new investment (dues) structure in
place, and the strategic plan has been adopted. You should be aware of these changes and know that we are ready to
answer any questions you may have.
Also, for the first time in four years, a membership sales campaign has been accomplished.
As part of the strategic plan, “Vision 2016,” the Chamber has begun to organize a way to coordinate and facilitate
communication among leading organizations and individuals in an effort to identify and address issues that will lead
to the betterment of our community.
Much has improved in our fine community, and we have the momentum to create more success stories. We welcome
your input, involvement and enthusiasm in finding the best way forward.
Thanks for your membership and support, and don’t forget to shop locally!
BUSINESS BAROMETER - may
Utility Connections 2013
Electric meters
Active gas meters
Active water sewer
21,941
N/A
9,747
2012
21,595
5,129
9,632
Tourist Inquiries at CVB
Month
(Oct.-Sept.)
4,805
26,347
6,218 Cumulative
26,594
Financial Institution Deposits
2013
Bank of the Hills
Guadalupe National Bank Centennial Bank
Security State Bank & Trust
Union State Bank
Wells Fargo Bank
N/A
89,603,098
118,482,447
126,725,979
32,173,293
256,532,000
County Sales Tax Payment
Month
Cumulative
244,312
2,408,677
City Sales Tax
2012
N/A
116,351,999
108,119,350
114,732,624
32,161,209
263,124,000
2013
2012
Tax by month
taxes cumulative
502,989
3,634,467
446,695
2,129,744
4B sales tax revenue
by month
cumulative
251,468
1,857,030
223,320
1,064,763
Real Estate Statistics
Residential active
Residential sold
All residential sales:
by month
cumulative
232,968
2,233,916
678
52
23,131,261
46,684,227
1/3 h
Cafe at the Ridge
13439 S. Ranch Road 783
KeRRville, TexaS 78028
(Next to Tierra Linda Ranch Entrance)
Wide selection of native plants,
trees, shrubs, herbs, veggies
& organic garden supplies.
We also offer landscape design,
consultation and installation!
V isit
Comeift Shop
Our G
830-896-0430
Tues. - Sat. 9am-5pm
Sun. 9am-3pm
3945
Breads, cakes, pies, cookies,
& other confections.
Perfect for family gatherings!
ng
Maki
We’re e Room
Mor aking
For B
830-896-0420
Tues. - Thur. 8am-8pm
Fri. & Sat. 8am-9pm
Sun. 9am-3pm
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
made from scratch daily.
Live music on Friday nights!
830-896-0420
hef
New CYou are Tues. - Thur. 8am-8pm
als
Fri. & Sat. 8am-9pm
Speci e to Love!
r
u
s
Sun. 9am-3pm
www.TheRidgeMarketplace.com
2
July 2013
875
55
11,493,525
42,339,021
HIGHLIGHTS
4
6
8
9
NEW MEMBERS
Find out what new businesses have
joined The Kerrville Area Chamber of
Commerce, along with which businesses
are celebrating renewals.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Find out what local businesses celebrated
grand openings and other ribbon cuttings
with the chamber of commerce.
‘OUR VIEW’ PARTNERSHIP
The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce
kicks off a new partnership with The
Hill Country Community Journal for
production of its “Our View” membership
directory and newcomer’s guide.
promote your business
Plan your small business marketing
strategy using this guide to the full array of
sponsorship and advertising opportunities
offered through the chamber.
11
14
16
18
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
COVER STORY — Jonas Titas, executive director
of the Kerrville Economic Development
Corporation, opens up about his tool kit for
marketing Kerrville to prospective businesses.
1/6
onLiving
the River
RetirementPlaza
• Assisted
• Skilled Nursing
Independent Living with lifestyle options
MARKET LIKE A PRO
Some of the area’s experts on marketing and
advertising share their tips on expanding
brand exposure and attracting more
customers.
GOOD STEWARDS
What happens when private businesses
partner with local government in a project
to benefit the community? Republic Service
shares its experience working with the city of
Kerrville Beautification Advisory Committee.
mixing it up
See if you were spotted at the June Business
After Hours Mixer, and get details about the
upcoming July 18 mixer at The Ridge.
UGRA
“Design Retirement Your Way”
Emeritus at Plaza on the River is located on a beautiful
seven acre campus overlooking the Guadalupe River.
We are the only continuous care retirement community in the Hill Country.
Unique services and amenities tailored to your wishes including:
• Fitness Center
• Game Room with Billiard Table
• Library with Reading Areas
• Chef prepared meals and fine
dining
• Maintenance Free Living
• Available Housekeeping, Linen,
and Laundry Services
• Secure Campus and 24 hour
emergency call system
• Daily Courtesy Safety Checks
• Available Covered Parking
• Available Assistance with
Transportation
• Daily Activities including
available Excursions
• Available Spa and Salon
Services
• Theatre Night
• Available Cable Packages
• Room Service Menu
• Personal Concierge Services
Call to schedule your Complimentary Meal and Tour
Klint Mckinney @ 830-928-5593 or 830-895-2626
135 Plaza Drive • Kerrville, Texas 78028
1/2 h
10th Annual
River Clean Up
UGRA
July 27, 2013
Family
Fun & Education
8am - Noon
3832
Flat Rock Park, Kerrville
Keeping Ou
Community Involvement
r River Clea
n
The UGRA River Clean Up provides a creative solution
to the litter problem by offering fun, family-oriented activities
while accomplishing the dual goals of raising public awareness
and removing trash from our waterways.
Free T-Shirts • Prizes • Food!
For more information or to Pre-Register, visit www.ugra.org/AnnualRiverCleanUp.html
kerrvilletx.com
3
CELEBRATING new & Returning members
We welcome these businesses and organizations that have recently joined or renewed memberships with the chamber. For membership information, call 896-1155.
NEW MEMBERS
Office Max *Gold Member
307 Sidney Baker St. S., Kerrville, 257-0088
www.officemax.com
Family Heritage *Silver Member
Kerrville, 377-2838,
www.familyheritagelife.com
LegalShield *Silver Member
Kerrville, 877-586-2515
The Firm *Gold Member
120 La Hacienda Way, Hunt, 238-4112
www.thefirmservices.com
Kerr Capital Partners *Bronze Member
1400 Sidney Baker, Kerrville, 512-992-2181
Sterling House of Kerrville *Bronze Member
725 Leslie Drive, Kerrville, 257-6769
www.brookdaleliving.com
sterling-house-of-kerrville.aspx
The Last Outpost Bed & Breakfast
*Bronze Member
6068 FM 2828, Bandera, 281-352-9294
www.thelastoutpostbandb.com
RENEWING MEMBERS
A Comfortable Place to Stay-Vacation Rentals
Aaron Plumbing Company, Inc.
Acapulco Mexican Restaurant
Alltex Nursery and Landscapes
Ameriprise Financial - Collum, Wofford & Associates
Just For You *Bronze Member
Arnold III, A. William, & Associates
3474 Junction Highway, Ingram, 739-4455
Bernhard Meat Processing & Market
www.jfycustometching.com
Business Brokers of Texas
Butler, Carroll, DDS
Action Automotive *Silver Member
C & M / Freed & Barker
1321 Broadway, Kerrville, 792-6546
Camp Honey Creek for Girls
www.aplusactionautomotivekerrville.com
Carlson, John W. - Attorney at Law
Cartewheels Caterers
Kerrville Realty-Donna Bueché *Bronze Member Celia’s Closet & Merle Norman
2026 Sidney Baker, Kerrville, 377-1025
Classic’s Burgers & ‘Moore’
www.kerrvillerealty.com
Commercial Realty Services, Inc. - Sue Tiemann
Country Club Apartments
Our Taxi *Bronze Member
Covenant Academy
Creations *Bronze Member
1013 Main St., Kerrville, 896-8088
www.creations-online.com
Kerrville, 928-9706
Cowboy Steak House
Dacy, Tony, DDS, MS
Discount Tire Company
Double L Ranch & Wildlife Feed
Dumpster Dumpers, Inc
Eco-Haus, LLC
Exotic Wildlife Association
E-Z Self Storage Co., LLP
Family Auto Sales
Friends Butt Holdsworth Memorial Library
Frost Wealth Advisors
Gibson Real Estate Services, LLC
Greg Maxwell Motors, LLC
Henneke, Rob & Lesley
Hill Country Bicycle Works
Hill Country Classics, Inc.
Hill Country Home Builders Assoc.
Hill Country Limousine Service, Inc.
Hill Country Pools and Spas
Impact Christian Fellowship
Ingram Readymix, Inc.
KAXA Radio - 103.7 The Buck
Kerr County Abstract & Title Co.
Kerr County Connection
Kerrville Citizen Police Academy Alumni
Kerrville Realty
Kiwanis Club of Kerrville
KLRN-TV (Alamo Public Telecommunications)
League of Women Voters of the Kerrville Area
Mercedes-Benz of Boerne
Midway Wrecker Service
Mossman Financial Solutions
Muehlstein, Scott A. Insurance Agency
National Car Rental & Sales
Natives of Texas
F u l l 1/3
S eh r v i c e
NURSERY
Alltex
Organic Garden 1159
Center for the Serious
Hill Country Gardener
family owned and operated since 1990
New York Life
Partners in Ministry
Peterson Home Care
Peterson Regional Medical Center
Foundation
Poindexter, Robert, DDS, PC
Ragsdale Family Camps
Rails: A cafe at the Depot
Realty Executives Kerrville
Realty Executives Kerrville - Candace Cormier
River Hills Apartments
River Star Arts & Event Park
Schmidt, Arthur Construction Co., LLC
Silpada - Independent Representative
Spears Mobile Homes, Inc.
Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy
Stevens Rich, PLLC
Summer Dreams
Susan Goodwin - Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC
Terrell, Tom, Attorney at Law
Texas Express Lube & Auto
Texas Home Health Skilled Services, L.P.
The Gardens at Clearwater
The Haven
The Main Liquor
The Peach Basket Natural Foods
The Ridge
Tivy High School Booster Club
TriCo Inspecting Service, Inc.
Troy Faust Motor Company
Urgent Care & Occupational Health Centers
of Texas, PA
Vention Molding & Device Assembly
Walker, Carol or Stu
Western Hills Baptist Church
• Texas Native Specialists
• Deer Resistant Plants
• Drought Tolerant Plants
• Container Gardens
• Herbs & Vegetables
• Unique Pottery
• Fountains & Much More
customer satisfaction is our #1 priority!
1302 Bandera Highway • Kerrville, Texas • 830-895-5242 • www.alltexlandscapes.com
4
July 2013
Guadalupe State bank
3008
kerrvilletx.com
5
Ribbon Cuttings
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Hill Country Telephone
Jennifer
Cullins Family Pavilion
On May 24, the Scott Schreiner Municipal Golf Course celebrated the dedication of
the Cullins Family Pavilion with a ribbon cutting at 1 Country Club Lane. You can
call them at 257-4982.
Texas Hill Country Cleaning
Texas Hill Country Cleaning celebrated with a ribbon cutting on Thursday, June
6. They offer a wide range of residential, commercial, auto, RV and boat cleaning
services and have been serving the Texas Hill Country since 2005. Visit their
website at texashillcountrycleaning.com or call them at 830-955-3015.
6
July 2013
Stay on Top!
1/2 v
Ribbon Cuttings
Stay on top of all of the news…
KDT
Stay
on top of all of the events…
Stay on top of all of the trends…
5357
Upcoming Special Sections in the Kerrville Daily Times
Back To School
Publishing Mid August
Let’s Get Our Kids and Our Families
Ready to Go Back to School
Hill Country Football
Publishing End of August
See How The Biggest Season in Texas
Shapes Up Here in the Hill Country
Wishes ... My Lingerie
On June 13, Wishes ... My Lingerie celebrated with a ribbon cutting at 320 Texas
39, next to the Hunter House Cafe, in Ingram. The boutique carries an assortment
of corsets, bustiers, gowns, swimwear, shapewear, bridal and gift cards. Visit them
Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Arts & Rhymes
Publishing this Fall
Our Kids Are Talented…
You’ll Be Amazed at Their Artistic Efforts
Hill Country Hunting Guide
Publishing this Fall
Set Your Sights on the Hunting Market
Readers…get ready to enjoy lots of information that keeps your family
on top of what is happening. To subscribe call 896-7000 today!
Businesses…profile your goods and services where your audience
comes for information. Contact Your Advertising Representative for
more information about promotional opportunities.
For more information Phone Your Ad Rep:
John Doran - 257-0310
The Kerrville
Daily Times
[email protected]
Shea Kelton - 257-0308
[email protected]
Jennifer McCullough - 257-0309
[email protected]
Halsey Bascom - 257-0311
[email protected]
Mike Graxiola - 257-0330
[email protected]
Hill Country Veterans Center
On June 14, the Hill Country Veterans Center celebrated its grand opening with a
ribbon cutting. The facility serves Hill Country veterans with accredited veteran
counselors. It also provides storage, meeting space, telephone and Internet service
and a permanent mailing address for various veterans’ organizations that do not
have a permanent home. Visit the center at 411 Meadowview Lane or call 315-3000.
kerrvilletx.com
7
Chamber partners with The Journal for ‘Our View’
Publication to feature membership
directory, newcomer’s guide
SCHREINER UNIVERSITY
The Kerrville Area Chamber of
Commerce has partnered with the
Hill Country Community Journal to
produce the chamber’s “Our View”
magazine.
The magazine was created to
serve as both a membership directory and visitor’s guide for new
residents and tourists.
Chamber President Harold Dean
sent out invitations to local businesses to bid on the job in April,
and The Journal was selected from
the responses to the “Request for
Quote” in mid-May.
“It is our job as a chamber to
support and promote local business,” Dean said. “Our board and
communications committee felt it
was important to keep this job in
Kerrville.”
Tammy Prout and her staff at
The Journal will sell the advertising
in the magazine, provide all
creative services for design and will
be responsible for collecting and
distributing advertising revenue.
8
July 2013
“It is important to note that the
board has decided not to increase
the advertising rates,” Prout said.
“And advertisers with premium
spots in the magazine will have
first right of refusal again this
year.”
The chamber will print 8,000,
full color magazines that will
feature high quality photographs
and editorial content depicting
highlights of the Kerrville area, in
addition to a complete directory of
business members.
“The new directory will be delivered to us in early January and
we will begin distribution at that
time,” Dean said.
A new membership structure
was adopted by the chamber this
year, giving top-tier members a
chance to be highlighted in the
directory.
“We are very excited about our
new membership structure and
the benefits it will offer to our
members,” Dean said. “Our vari-
From left, Kim Clarkson, chairwoman of the Kerrville Area Chamber of
Commerce Communication Committee; Tammy Prout, publisher and
editor of The Hill Country Community Journal; Harold Dean, chamber
president; and Denny Foster, chairman of the chamber policy and
governance committee gather to discuss “Our View.”
ous committees have worked very
hard to create additional ways our
chamber can promote its members,
being highlighted in the directory is
just one of the many benefits of the
new structure.”
Dean said letters will go out to
members naming The Journal as the
partner in the “Our View” magazine
project, and premium advertisers
will be contacted first, so that they
can secure their placement.
“We are very proud to have been
selected by the chamber to produce
the membership directory,” Prout
said. “We have been members
since 1999, and most of us have
lived in Kerrville for many decades,
so writing about our hometown
will be a lot of fun.”
MBA
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1/2 h
Schreiner University
5304
Ethics |
Leadership Integrity | Decision-Making |
Quality
BusinessLink
magazine wins
national award
BusinessLink, the official publication of the
Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce produced
in partnership with The Kerrville Daily Times, was
recently honored with an Award of Excellence
from the American Chamber of Commerce
Executives.
ACCE received 142 entries in the annual
Awards for Communication Excellence
competition. A three-judge panel of chamber
professionals evaluated four subject categories:
advertising, campaigns, electronic and
publications.
Each category was subdivided into two size
classes: chambers with budgets exceeding
$2 million and those with budgets below
that amount. BusinessLink won an Award of
Excellence in the publications category for
chambers with less than $2 million budgets.
BusinessLink was first published in June 2012
and has a circulation of about 11,000 a month. It
is published by The Kerrville Daily Times on the
second Thursday of each month.
For more information on BusinessLink, call
the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce at
896-1155. For information on how to advertise
in BusinessLink, call the Kerrville Daily Times at
896-7000.
100% online MBA
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that focuses on leadership integrity
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Find out more at
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[email protected]
or 800.343.4919.
schreiner.edu
2100 Memorial Blvd.
Kerrville, TX 78028-5697
Market your business through upcoming
chamber sponsorship, advertising opportunities
EVENT SPONSORSHIPS:
Advertising OPPORTUNITIES:
91st Annual Chamber Awards Banquet — Sept. 26
Lion King Sponsorship: $3,000
Gazelle Sponsorship: $1,500
Wildebeest Sponsorship: $1,000
Zebra Sponsorship: $650
Website
• Complete Package: $750/year, 480 x 60 pixels (Ad rotates with five others)
• Premium Package: $500/year, 480 x 60 pixels (Ad rotates with five others)
• Category Header Package: $250/year, 480 x 60 pixels (Ad rotates with five others)
10th Annual James Avery Hill Country Golf Classic — Nov. 8-10
Sponsorships ranging from $2,000-$5,000
Mixer Host
Sign up begins in December for 2014 Mixer Hosts.
Sponsor a Business After Hours Mixer: $300
Sponsor a Quarterly Networking Membership Luncheon or
Christmas Breakfast: $500
Business After-Hours, Quarterly Membership
Networking Luncheon, or Holiday Breakfast
Cash jackpot sponsorship, with recognition at mixer and in K-news for: $100
19th Annual Chamber Golf
Tournament — March 31, 2014
Sponsorships ranging from $125-$1,000
Kerrfest — May 16-17, 2014
Sponsorships ranging from $295-$2,500
*Prices are subject to change.
Our View Magazine
This is our Chamber Membership Directory & Annual Relocation Guide
for Kerrville. It is distributed freely throughout the community (hotels,
motels, public areas, visitor’s bureau and the chamber).Ad sales begin in
September 2013.
Available sizes include:
• Premium full page: $1,660
• Half page: $875
• Quarter page: $600
• One-eighth page: $495
*Based on 2012 prices listed. Prices are subject to change
Official Kerrville City Map
Be featured on 20,000 city/county maps available for free and distributed at
locations around town. Each advertiser will receive a supply of maps to be
given away at their business. All spaces sold on first come, first serve basis.
*Advertising Deadline in April 2014
MEMBER |
BENEFITS
BusinessLink Magazine
Reach more than 11,000 people by advertising in BusinessLink, the
monthly magazine produced by the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce
and The Kerrville Daily Times. The magazine focuses on the business
community, with the latest news regarding local economy, business and
chamber happenings. Contact The Kerrville Daily Times to Reserve your Ad
space at 896-7000.
Available sizes include:
Full page: $660
Half page: $360
One-third page: $250
One-sixth page: $180
Knews
The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Knews e-newsletter is a great way
to advertise your business, message or event to the public with distribution
to more than 1,800 email contacts, sent every Wednesday.
1 weekly Knews banner ad: $50
Membership Mailing Labels
Reach the full chamber membership by purchasing a printed set of 900
member mailing labels: $75
215 Earl Garrett
Across from Schreiner Mansion
1/6
1/6
LeMeilleurs
Sheftall’s
1/6
Salvation Army
5358
8946
4499
Halsey
Ground Floor – Retail
Second Floor – Professional Offices
New Elevator • All New Infrastructure
3000 Sq.Ft. on Each Floor
Contact: The 1890 Building LLC
830-257-3373
kerrvilletx.com
9
A Plan for Retention and Expansion of Existing Business & Industry
A Program of Government Affairs Committee Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce — 2013
Introduction
Existing business and industry development
or “retention” and “expansion” in traditional
terms has long been taught and practiced as an
underlying fundamental of any successful plan
for economic development. The theory is quite
straightforward.
In order to successfully attract quality new
businesses and industry, a community first needs
to know and understand the needs of its existing
base of business and industry and have an effective program in place to address those needs.
It is quite common for a prospective new
business and industry to determine, on its own,
what the true business climate is before making a
decision to locate in a given community.
Objective
A healthy existing business base is one of the
key factors any new business or industry looking
at our community will want to determine prior to
making decisions to relocate to our community.
This program is designed to help understand the
local existing businesses, to provide them with
potential for growth.
Roles, Responsibilities and Results
The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce and
the Kerrville Economic Development Corporation
are working hand–in-hand to maintain a level of
responsibility in seeing that any and all requests
for information are answered in a timely fashion.
When the chamber receives a call, staff
determine whether the call is best handled by
the Economic Development Corporation or the
chamber. Having both offices together in the
same building is a win-win for Kerrville.
Additionally, the process would be even better if
the Convention & Visitors Bureau was located in
the Chamber building.
The Small Business Development Center,
which is housed within the chamber building,
provides private business counseling services by
a qualified counselor at no charge. For information, call 896-1155.
The long range results of this program will enhance the chamber’s VISION 2016, by providing
continuity in achieving increased economic improvement, by improving the ability of businesses
to access financing and consulting services and
other assistance they may need to grow.
Strategic Plan — Short Term
• Develop a data base of existing businesses
through surveys, personal visits
• Solve existing business’ immediate problems by
workinging with any and all entities involved to
solve these business problems
• Demonstrate that Kerrville is a pro-business
community by achieving consensus from all
stakeholders on a consolidated marketing plan
• Create a quick response development plan by
working with the Economic Development Corporation on a packet/document that can be handed
out as a quick response upon request
• Be a policy advocate for business by working with any business on issues affecting their
growth in a negative way
STRATEGIC PLAN — Long Term
• Increase competitiveness of existing businesses
by growing awareness in the community of existing business and creating a visitation program to
assure a basic positive and cooperative communication between the community and businesses;
providing seminars on customer service; and
encouraging Alamo College to continue developing skills training
• Develop a community Strategic Plan by promoting a communitywide involved charette to
capture the ideas that exist and be able to place
them into a workable plan
• Continue expansion and retention programs
that include updating this plan annually and
revisit businesses
• Create jobs and tax base for Kerrville with the
goal of increasing community capacity (social
capital)
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KACC
3168
Holloway
HOLLOWAY
Plumbing
0515
Our licensed, trained technicians will
come to your door in fully stocked trucks,
make a full diagnosis and safety check;
and give you firm, up-front pricing before
any work begins.
1/3 v
Jeff Talarico
4525
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317 Earl Garrett
Kerrville, TX 78028
830-315-6525
[email protected]
www.ameripriseadvisors.com/
jeff.talarico
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Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (512) 936-5200 • Joe Mosty, Master Plumber M-40241
10
July 2013
The initial Confident Retirement conversation provides an
overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive
written analysis and/or recommendations.
Confident retirement is not a guarantee of future financial
results.
Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made
available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member
FINRA and SIPC.
© 2013 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
“
The only
successful
economic
development
tool kit is
a diverse
one.”
— Jonas Titas, Executive
Director of the Kerrville
Economic Development
Corporation
e
d
a
r
t
TOOLS OF THE
Jonas Titas talks about his kit for
attracting and keeping new businesses
J
Story by Mark Armstrong • Photos by Tom Holden
onas Titas took over as head of the Kerrville Economic
Development Corporation nearly a year ago, following a
career path he almost skipped.
“When I was in South Carolina, they just recruited the big
BMW plant, and it was a big deal,” Titas said. “The state was
very aggressive at putting together the recruitment package,
and it really transformed the area.”
Titas was born in Cleveland, Ohio, but grew up in
Walhalla, S.C. He attended the University of South Carolina and later Georgia
Tech and the University of Texas in Tyler, but he hadn’t planned to go into
economic development. Titas said he found economic development when he was
applying to law school.
See Jonas, page 12
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11
Jonas | continued from page 11
“I found I had a good background in geography, history
and business, and everything tied together,” Titas said.
Titas worked for the Virginia Economic Development
Partnership in Richmond, the Georgia Tech Economic
Development Institute and Atlanta Regional Commission
prior to joining Tyler Economic Development Council
in 2007. He spent six years in Tyler as an economic
development specialist before being tapped last year to
head the Kerrville economic development effort.
Titas, 32, said the Kerrville area has a lot to offer
to attract new businesses and for the expansion of
existing ones. Some of the important tools he uses when
recruiting include the character of the community, the
proximity to major markets such as San Antonio and
Austin, the success of other companies, including Fox
Tank, Nature Blinds and James Avery Craftsman, and a
stable workforce.
He added that the workforce probably was the No. 1
factor businesses look at, along with community support
and the cost of doing business here.
“We’re a small enough community that we can be
very responsive to prospects,” Titas said. And “the only
successful economic development tool kit is a diverse one.”
That diversity includes various business incentive
packages, good infrastructure and quality of life.
The Kerrville Economic Improvement Corporation
plays a big role in business incentive packages, providing
grants to help new or expanding industries that create
new jobs, but local government also has a part through
sales tax rebate programs and tax breaks. Titas said the
key to incentive packages is making sure they also help
existing businesses.
“About 75 percent of all economic development is
expansion of existing local businesses,” Titas said.
Infrastructure from zoning to highways also are
important factors, especially when businesses look at
being able to sell products to customers out of the area.
Water and sewer play big roles for some industry, and
the availability of developable land is important.
“I think the new commercial zoning ordinance is a
fantastic step in the right direction,” Titas said.
The final tool in Titas’ belt is quality of life from good
schools to recreational options to affordable housing. He
said that’s what keeps a stable workforce here willing to
work for competitive wages.
Titas knows the importance of quality of life, since
that’s what helped bring him and his wife Lessly here.
The couple, who recently celebrated their second
wedding anniversary, share their home with a
chocolate Lab.
1/3 v en the
t ev
a
h
t
e
v
ssion
a
p
I belie
m
o
of c
t
c
a
t
a ct .
es
p
l
l
m
i
a
e
g
m
r
s
Odyssey
e a laHospice
v
a
h
can
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We believe that every moment matters. Maybe
that’s why so many families believe in us when
it comes to choosing a hospice provider. Call for
more information or to receive our free DVD,
“Hospice and Your Loved One.”
Air Fastener & Supply
We sell woodworking tool & machinery
for hobbyist to professionals including:
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• Festool • Sawstop
• Woodstock
• Jenny
• Hitachi
Air Fastener
& supply
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Accessories:
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• Concrete Accessories • Woodturning and more
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ir
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Air Fastener
& Supply
91 Coronado Drive
Kerrville,TX 78028
(830) 896-3922
Store Hours:
Mon.-Fri. 7am-5pm
Sat. 8am-12pm
830.792.6200 • gentiva.com
Gentiva accepts patients for care regardless of age, race, color national origin, religion, sex, disability, being
a qualified disabled veteran, being a qualified disabled veteran of the Vietnam era, or any other category
protected by law, or decisions regarding advance directives. ©2012 Gentiva Health Services, Inc. MKT3599
12
July 2013
Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce
91st Annual Banquet & Awards Dinner
“Hill Country Safari”
Thursday, September 26, 2013 • Y.O. Ranch Resort Hotel and Conference Center
Social Hour 6:00-6:30 p.m. Dinner 6:45 p.m. • Entertainment, Live and Silent Auction to follow
“Lion King”
Event Sponsor
$3000 includes: Exclusive sponsor with
1 Spotlight Premium Table for 10 with
Sponsor Logo Signage at Event, Sponsor
Recognition on Invitation, Recognition
Centerpiece, Exclusive Front Page
Program Recognition, Name & Logo
Recognition in BusinessLink, Knews,
and at Mixers, Logo running on screen
during Year in Review, a Chamber
Website Banner Ad (one month), plus
Private Drink Service with 20 Drink
Tickets.
“Gazelle”
Sponsor
“Wildebeest”
Sponsor
$1500 includes: A Premium Table for
10 with Sponsor Logo Signage at Event,
Recognition Centerpiece, Name & Logo
Recognition in BusinessLink + Knews,
Logo running on screen during Year in
Review, a Chamber Website Banner Ad
(one month), Full Page black & white
Ad in Program, plus 20 Drink Tickets!!
$1000 includes: A second-tier Table for
10 with Sponsor Logo signage at event,
Name Recognition in BusinessLink + at
Mixers, Logo Running on Screen during
Year in Review, 1/2 page black & white
ad in program, and 10 Drink Tickets.
Kerr Chamber Area Banquet
Only ONE will be sold!
5302
“Zebra”
Sponsor
$650 includes: A Table for 10 and a
listing in the program.
“Individual Tickets”
$65 individual ticket. On sale July 1st.
**SEATING ASSIGNED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS**
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL THE CHAMBER AT (830) 896-1155
kerrvilletx.com
13
AREA PROS SHARE
Marketing
QUICK TIPS
W
Compiled by Marivel Resendiz | The Kerrville Daily Times
hen it comes to attracting loyal customers and building
a successful small business, it takes more than a solid
business plan, customer service and top quality products.
Even the best of businesses can suffer without strategic
marketing. While the Kerrville Economic Development Corporation, the
Kerrville Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Kerrville Area Chamber of
Commerce are busy marketing the area, individual businesses have to do their
part to showcase what they offer. We asked area pros for some of their favorite
small business marketing, and this is what they had to say:
1/2 v
Women’s Wellness
2113
Melissa Wampler, MD
Board Certified OB/GYN
In-Office Procedures
• Infertility
• Bio-Identical Hormones
• Minimally Invasive
• Sonography
Gynecologic Surgery
• Osteoporosis Screening
Including DaVinci
• Urinary Incontinence
Robotic Procedures
“Nowadays, what used to be a real estate curvb appeal, has now become
a Web presence appeal. I think it’s almost mandatory to have an online
presence to discuss products a business sells and how a person can get it.”
— Aaron Yates, owner of Kerrville Photo
“Identify the target customer and develop a consistent message and content
strategy. You need to know your target and know what they’re wanting.”
— Caroline Wilson, account director of iGrow Media, LLC
“Marketing always starts with the customer. Don’t try to be unique; try
to be different. Humans for the entirety of human history make purchase
decisions in market places. If I’m different in comparison, I have the best
position in the marketplace.”
— David Vinyard, president of Briscoe Hall
“Understand what your image projects, from the way your business looks to
the signage you want. You want everything professional and everything you
do professional.”
— Cory Traub, owner of Pro-Tech Media and Marketing, LLC
“The basics in every ad needs to include who you are, where you are and
how people can contact you, and most importantly what’s the product.
Describe how that product will set you apart from your competition.”
—Jennifer McCullough, advertising account representative
with The Kerrville Daily Times
14
July 2013
1331 Bandera Highway
Suite 2
Kerrville, TX 78028
New Patients Welcome
830-895-7755
• Organic Gardening Product • Large Selection of the
The Future
StartsPlant
in Haus 2
Your Own
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Backyard
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PlantHaus 2
528 Jefferson St • Kerrville, Texas
830-792-4444
• Biggest Greenhouse in Kerr Co. • Garden Gifts
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the Hill Country
July/august CALENDAR
JULY 11–AUG. 8
Art Camp Museum
9 a.m.-4 p.m., The Gallery at the Point, Texas 39, Ingram.
367-5120. www.hcaf.com.
JULY 11 –AUG. 8
KACC Exhibits
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett
St. “Kerr County History,”“Birds of A Feather,” Photography
by Mark Holly. “Hometown Crafts Teachers’ Show.”
895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com.
SAVE THE DATE
July 18 — Business After-Hours Mixer
Don’t miss this chance to mix and mingle with your chamber friends
with the July mixer from 5:15 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.at The Ridge, 13439 S.
Ranch Road 783, at the entrance to Tierra Linda Ranch.
JULY 17, 24, 27, 31 & Aug. 7
Kerr County Produce Inc. 10 a.m.- 5:30 p.m., 215 A St., Kerrville. Wholesale fresh
produce warehouse open to the public every Wednesday.
JULY 27
UGRA River Clean Up Day
8 a.m.-11 a.m., Flat Rock Park, 3840 Riverside Drive.
www.ugra.org/annualrivercleanup.html.
JULY 12–27
‘9-5: The Musical’
8:30 p.m., The Point Outdoor Theatre, Hill Country Arts
Foundation, Texas 39, Ingram. 367-5121. www.hcaf.com.
JULY 23
Lunch Seminar - What’s Your Strategy?
11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Inn of the Hills, Bluebonnet Room. Join
Joyce Mechler of Edward Jones Investments for a seminar on
retirement income strategies.
AUG. 2
1st Friday WineShare
6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater/ VK Garage
Theater, 910 Main St. www.1stfridaywineshare.com.
JULY 13
‘An Evening with Larry Gatlin’
7:30 p.m., Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. Presented
by Sharity Productions. 896-9393. www.caillouxtheater.com.
JULY 26, 27–AUG. 2, 3
‘The King and I’-Playhouse 2000
7:30 p.m., Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. 896-9393.
www.caillouxtheater.com
JULY 14
Second Sunday Summer Serenade
7:30 p.m., Louise Hays Park, off Thompson Drive, Free
concert in the park. 895-2265, www bankofthehills.com.
JULY 27
Kerr County Market Days
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St.
895-7524. www.kerrmarketdays.org.
JULY 11–13
‘The Pillowman’ by Martin McDonagh
7:30 p.m., Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater/ VK Garage Theater,
910 Main St. 896-9393. www.caillouxtheater.com.
AUG. 4-12
Hill Country Cowboy Camp Meeting
All day, Texas 27, 8 miles west of Ingram. Call 800-603-0157.
AUG. 6
Leadership alumni mixer
1st Tuesday Leadership Kerr County Mixer
5 p.m. -7 p.m. Mingle with fellow LKC alumni.
AUG. 8
Dreaming in Color
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Gallery at the Point, Texas 39, Ingram.
3rd Saturday
1/2 h
PRMC
B
Affordable Lab Testing
3169
eginning July 1st, the Peterson Regional Medical Center Outreach Lab at Kerrville
Medical Plaza will offer discounted blood tests every third Saturday of the month. Tests include:
Lipid Panel $20
Wellness One Panel $65
Wellness Two Panel $95
Women’s Health Panel $150
Men’s Health Panel $150
Healthy Heart Panel $180
PLAC Stroke Test $70
Your Life. Our Calling.
Cash or check accepted only. No appointment or physician order needed. All results are
reviewed by a local Pathology Specialist and will be sent to you and kept in your electronic
medical records at Peterson Regional Medical Center. These tests will now be offered
exclusively at the Peterson Outreach Lab at Kerrville Medical Plaza, 1331 Bandera Hwy, Kerrville.
For more information on 3rd Saturday Affordable Lab testing, please call our Peterson Outreach
Lab at Kerrville Medical Plaza at 830-258-7616, or visit us online at www.petersonrmc.com.
kerrvilletx.com
15
GOOD
STEWARD
PROJECT
Private businesses partner with
city in project to beautify Kerrville
In a day of firsts, Republic Services
and the Kerrville Beautification Advisory Committee demonstrated the
substantial achievement that can result
from positive cooperation between private business and the city of Kerrville.
The two entities, Republic Services,
represented by Sherri Jones, Territory
representative, and Barry Loveless,
landfill/transfer station operations
director, and the Kerrville Beautification Advisory Committee, represented
by Jimmie Spradling, created the first
Good Steward Project.
Jones and Loveless recruited 10
Kerrville Republic Services’ business
partners to participate in the day’s
efforts. These businesses included:
Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce,
Cecil Atkission Motors, Atmos Energy,
Chicken Express, Sonic Drive In, Terminix, Benefit Choices Company, Liberty
Tax, The Salvation Army Ray and Joan
Kroc Corps Community Center, and
Texas Parks and Wildlife.
More than 40 volunteers from these
businesses donated their Saturday
morning June 6 to pick up trash on
Holdsworth Drive from Antler Stadium
to Harper Road and around Antler
Stadium.
The group met at Antler Stadium
at 8:30 a.m. and enjoyed coffee and
donuts before receiving instructions
on their duties from Jones and Loveless. Two hours and 30 full industrial
size garbage bags later, that section
of Holdsworth Drive was clean as a
whistle. From there, the group was
treated to a lunch sponsored by Republic Services and Chicken Express at the
Chicken Express Store on Sidney Baker
Street.
“We were proud to be the first to step
up and initiate and complete a project
with this very important new city committee,” Jones said. “This project was
the idea of Barry Loveless who, said,
‘The support by local businesses for
this effort was outstanding.’”
All of the enthusiastic volunteers were
pleased with the results of their efforts, and indicated that they would be
happy to participate in future projects.
1/3 h
TRAVEL with LIZ
Great Trips @
Great Prices!
at Kerrville Travel Travel with Liz
Motor Coach Across The USA with your Hill Country Friends
rry
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Filling Fa
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free
Oct 29-Nov 8 - 2013 Washingtion,
DC
11 Days/10 Nights, 18 Meals $1029pp
APPLIES TO MOTOR COACH BOOKING: All prices based on DO and include transportation from Kerrville, lodging, most meals, and all admission fees. $75 deposit holds your seat.
Hill Country Special! Western Caribbean Cruise 2014
Cozumel, Mexico - Roatan, Honduras - Belize City, Belize
Ship: Caribbean Princess - Sailing out of Houston
Sail Dates: Jan 25 - Feb 1, 2014
Prices Starting From: $774 per person. Veterans - Additional On Board Credit offer of $100.
Prices based on DO include: base cruise fare, port charges, and taxes.
H Bonus: $50 On Board Credit Per Cabin.
16
July 2013
Dec 1-7 - 2013 Branson Show Trip
7 Days/6 Nights, 10 Meals $640pp
April 5-13, 2014 Tropical Costa Rica
Land Tour • 9 Days - 14 Meals
Early Booking Price: $2,299 per-person.
Priced based on DO includes: Round trip air from San Antonio, air tax and
fees/surcharges, Great Hotels, and hotel transfers.
H BOOK NOW & SAVE $100.
Call Liz at
830-257-6266
to book your trip or
for more information.
Kerrville’s Republic Services teamed with the
Kerrville Beautification Advisory Committee
to sponsor the first of what it expects are many
future beautification projects. As part of the
project, Republic Services enlisted volunteers
from 10 of its area business partners, including:
Kerrville Area Chamber, Cecil Atkission Motors,
Atmos Energy, Chicken Express, Sonic Drive In,
Terminix, Benefit Choices Company, Liberty Tax,
The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps
Community Center and Texas Parks and Wildlife.
1/3 h
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kerrvilletx.com
kerrvilletx.com 1717
Johnny Brink’s Floor Store
Carpet • Ceramic Tile • Hardwood • Vinyl
1/6
johnny brinks
6463
Business After
Hours Mixer
June 20 — Co-sponsored by LeMeilleur’s RV, Truck
& Equipment Repair Co. & NAPA Auto Parts
rices!
P
t
a
e
r
G
&
tion
Large Selec
1204 Sidney Baker South • 830.896.1204
www.johnnybrinks.com
David LeMeilleur of LeMeilleur RV, Truck and Equipment Repair
Co. and Justin Hammack of Centennial Bank catch up Thursday
evening at the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce mixer
co-sponsored by LeMeilleur’s and NAPA Auto Parts.
1/2 h
Sheftall’s
6519
211 Earl Garrett St. • Kerrville
830-257-3373
“Merchants in America since 1733
At left: Caroline
Wilson of iGrow
Media and Linda
Garrett enjoy the
weather and one
another's company
at the June 20
Kerrville chamber of
commerce mixer.
Below: Cassie Alex,
Jo Carol Smith and
Launa Kindrick, all
of Peterson Hospice
and/or Home Care,
enjoy refreshments
at the mixer.
At right: Carolyn McLaughlin of Wishes ... My Lingerie in
Ingram and Halsey Bascom of The Kerrville Daily Times
chat at the June 20 mixer.
Below:
Jeanette
Bode,
Terry Wolle
and Kim
Behrends,
all directors
of Harper
Community
Chamber of
Commerce,
visit at the
July Business
After Hours
Mixer.
Below: Donna Bueche and Georgeanne Schwethelm of
Kerrville Realty enjoy some refreshments at the mixer.
The next mixer is set for 5:15-6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 18,
at The Ridge, 13439 S. Ranch Road 783.
Kerrville Plumbing
™
Saves you Money, Energy, Time & Water.
1/6
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memberships” sold by others. Our up front
pricing is much lower than any “club price!”
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Kerrville Plumbing
™
serves only Kerrville & immediate
area to save you money.
Quality work always.
All Plumbing Problems Solved!
830-896-0111
www.kerrvilleplumbing.us
Furniture customized for your home!
Steve Holloway Master Plumber since 1987
M16563
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Guaranteed lowest prices
in the Hill Country.
Fitch Estate Sales
BUYS GOLD & SILVER
We buy all types of Gold and Silver; Estate Jewelry, Broken Jewelry, Gold &
Silver Coins, Flatware, Sterling Silver, Tea Sets, etc.
With Gold & Silver at all-time highs, Now is a great time to sell!
Fitch EstatE salEs can hElp
Come By 407 JunCtion HigHway or 838 Sidney Baker
• FREE Consultations
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• You will know the exact value of your piece
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Often times, people who need the most money
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This is not the case with us.
Fitch Estate Sales has been
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for over 20 years.
Rachel Fitch, Owner
We Make House Calls • 830-257-8482
838 Sidney Baker • Kerrville, Texas 78028 • www.FitchEstateSales.com