June - Chamber of Commerce

BLKRT U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 102
Commerce, Texas 75428
June 2013
Inside
Chamber President’s
Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Our Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Business
Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Backpage . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Sponsors
Congratulations
Class of 2013!
TIGERS
Good Luck
On Whichever
Path You
Choose To
Stride!
A PUBLICATION OF THE COMMERCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Commerce McDonald’s Celebrates
Grand Re-Opening
By Doug Rohrabaugh
When Larry Ingram purchased the Commerce McDonald’s
in 2012, his mission was to operate a McDonald’s that
would be attractive in appearance both inside and out.
Early in 2013 construction began on a new Play place for
children as well as a full remodel of the dining room. It
was his vision for the store to become an asset to the local
community.
After visiting with Larry for a short while it is easy to see
that Mr. Ingram is very passionate about what he does.
“Everyone deserves a good McDonald’s” said Larry “we
want the community to feel like this is their McDonald’s
and we want them to be proud of it.”
When it comes to running a successful McDonald’s Larry
Ingram knows exactly what he is doing. Larry has over
50 years of experience with the McDonald’s corporation
and more than 25 years of experience as an owner/operator.
In 1973 Larry opened the first drive-thru for McDonald’s
Corporation on April 1st in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Today, Larry owns eighteen (18) McDonald’s throughout
Texas.
On Tuesday, April 23, 2013 members of the Commerce
Chamber of Commerce, the City of Commerce, and Texas
A&M University-Commerce gathered at McDonald’s for
a ribbon cutting ceremony to help celebrate the newly
remodeled McDonald’s and to thank Mr. Ingram for his
investment in the Commerce community.
Page 2
CHAMBER
P re s ide nt ’s L e tt er
CHAMBER
Board of Directors
Dear Chamber Members,
Executive Board
Congrats again to all the graduates! It seems like this time every year that the town
slows down and gets that relaxed feel for the summer. I love that small town feel
that the summer offers here in Commerce. It’s time to enjoy the snow cone stand and
softball games, picnics at the city park and shorter lines at Walmart!!!
President
Executive Vice-President Secretary
Treasurer
Past President
Mark your calendars for July 6th! We will be having our 4th of July celebration
with bands, food, entertainment for the kids and of course our spectacular fireworks
display!!!
As always, let us know how we can help your business. We have great advertising
opportunities through the chamber so take advantage.
Sincerely,
Julie Gentle
More interesting Commerce facts:
The Commerce Public Library began as a paper back book collection effort located in
the city park.
Bonham Street was known as “Silk Stocking Row”
Our streets are named for generals, trees and presidents and notable public figures
Julie Gentle
Lisa Martinez
Jalinna Jones
Taylor Fore
Ladonna Patterson
Board of Directors
Robin Alexander
Marc Clayton
Blake Cooper
Taylor Fore
Bonnie Hunter
Michael Glas
Niki Grobe
Dr. Dan Jones
JoAnn Krischer
Michael Odom
Joel Shanks
Linnea Smith
Arvie Turner
Catherine Wiseman
Executive Director
Office Administrator
Doug Rohrabaugh
Sheryl Millar
1114 Main Street,
P.O.Box 290
Commerce, TX 75429
903.886.3950
f 903.886.8012
commerce-chamber.com
[email protected]
To place an ad in the CONNECTION, e-mail
[email protected]
Do you want to run an ad in the Connection?
Advertising in the Connection is a great way to increase your businesses visibility
beyond the Connection or Chamber website Directories
Display Ad (Horz. 5” w x 3” h or Vert. 3.25” w x 4.625” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30
Event Showcase (6” w x 4” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 35
Back Cover Ad (10.25” w x 10.75” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $300
Website Link Fee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 25
Chamber Membership Levels
Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 25
Individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 57.50
Clubs and Churches. . . . . . . . . . $ 57.50
Business Membership . . . . . . . $172.50
(1-10 full-time employees)
Business Membership . . . . . . . . . . $230
(over 10 full-time employees)
Hotels, Motels & Apartments. . . . $230
Banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $287.50
Manufacturers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $575
Utility Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . $575
2nd Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1/2 price
Enhanced Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 50
Directory Listing
Call 903.886.3950 to join the Chamber today!
June 2013
June 2013
CHAMBER
Page 3
Calendar of Events for 2013
Commerce 4th of July Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .July 6th
Centennial Park
28th Annual Bois d’Arc Bash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 27th – 29th
Downtown Commerce
Commerce Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 28th
Downtown Commerce
20-mile Yard Sale from Ladonia to Ben Franklin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 15, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.,
(maps/info available at Granny’s on the square in Ladonia)
If you would like to us to showcase your event or have it added to the
Calendar of Events please e-mail your event information to the Chamber of Commerce at
[email protected]
Showcase
Commerce Chamber
of Commerce Mission Statement
The purpose of the Chamber of Commerce shall be to promote the common business interests of merchants and citizens living and working in the City of Commerce, Texas, and
in the immediate area; promote the free enterprise system; encourage the commercial, industrial and agricultural development of the City of Commerce and the immediate area;
assume a role of active leadership in community improvement. The Chamber shall stand
for local harmony, cooperation, and progress and shall be non-partisan, non-sectarian and
non-sectional in its activities.
Member Spotlights
Is there a wedding in your future? These
Chamber members can help!
All Star Enterprises
(for t-shirts, hats, favors)
903-886-0300
Latson’s Print Services
(invitations, etc.)
903-886-2710
Personalized Printing
(invitations, etc.)
903-886-7173
New England Flare (catering) 203-558-9395
here
Summer is a great time to make sure your
finances are in order. Contact these Chamber
members now for a “money check-up”.
Active Wealth Management
903-455-6956
AIS Financial Services
903-886-8050
Edward Jones & Company
903-886-3333
State Farm Insurance
903-886-7774
Oak Meadows Town Homes
150 Maple Street
Commerce, TX 75428
903.886.1555
M-F 8a.m.-5p.m.
Susan Oliver, Manager
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Get Happy
Make Us Your
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“French
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2203 Culver Street Commerce, TX 75428
l o n e s t a r e a t e r y. c o m | f a c e b o o k
903.886.2121
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Page 4
CHAMBER
June 2013
Our Community
Principles and Keys to Success
By Dr. Velvete H. Womack, PhD, LMT, CE, MI, Owner and operator of Fire & Ice Massage
If there is one thing that I have learned about business is there are certain laws
or keys that must be applied with consistency in order to truly achieve success.
Success can mean different things to different people, for some it will mean a
dollar amount and for others it will be a quality of life they and others get to
enjoy. Realize that I said, “….they and others get to enjoy”. Mr. Scrooge may
have seemed very successful to those that saw money as a means to an end, but
we quickly discover that no matter how much money he appeared to have he was
miserable.
Anyone that is in business surely knows the first law, the law of AIM. A business
that opens without aim or purpose will quickly find they are struggling and trying
to make ends meet no matter how passionate they are about what they do. This law
is so profound and powerful that it can take a person from lack of focus to rising
on the ladder of success if applied in all endeavors.
A person that follows the mind of others in believing in a failing economy is one
of a weak mind and this must be met head on with a strong aim and desire for
success. When we first heard about a “recession” many lost their jobs, but the
internet and news reports became flood with stories of people that overcame the
appearance of a “recession” and began new businesses and prospered. If we are
looking to make a buck by just opening a store and hoping that people will come to
buy is not success. Hope is like leaving our fate or destiny in the hands of others.
Hope is good while we discover our own inner aim and goodness.
I welcome you to discover the truth in these words by applying them in your own
lives. Whether you own a business that could use a little more profit or whether
you are dedicated in helping others in school, home, or the community YOU must
have your end goal in mind.
Once I am able to obtain from my own mind what my aim is I’m able to put into
action that means to the end. If I want to sail to Japan but I’ve left the port without
my map, compass, and common sense I’m not going to make it very far on good
luck and hope. We never set sail in uncharted territory without the proper tools to
get us there. With this in mind, what are some of the proper tools that we need to
set our AIM in motion?
Purpose or Passion – We must be somewhat passionate about the field we are in
or at least love it to some degree. If you are already in a field that you love then
remember to stay current and excited.
Imagination – This is the fuel behind the desire. When we set sail we usually
have another piece of land we want to arrive to. We know that we want to get there
because of stories that have been told of this place or because we’ve been there
before and want to experience it again. Either way, when we are sailing we are
always looking for the land. The imagination gives us this material, physical sense
of arrival. What will it look like and feel like when I arrive at my AIM.
Faith – If we are putting our faith in others we must first have this faith in ourselves
that we know where we’re heading. Then we know that everyone else on board
wants to get to the same destination (for their own reasons and imagination of
course), but we are all traveling on the same ship. Faith in knowing that you are
going to arrive safely because of the “action” you took to get there. My husband
said, “I have faith that the sun is going to rise in the morning, but I must do my
part to get up to witness it.” This is so true in our daily lives, to get up and witness
what we have faith in.
Action – Now that you know where you are going it’s much easier to sit down
and write out what action must be taken in order to arrive to your destination
with as much ease and grace as possible. If I say I want to open a store, but know
nothing about my vendors, where to get merchandise and/or who my customers
are going to be, then I will not know the steps or action I need to take in order to
open my store with ease. If I see a storm coming while on the sailboat and I don’t
take action in turning my sails away from the storm there’s a good chance I might
experience loss. Even if I make it through I’ve loss time and energy that could
have been more productive. I am also not going to try to sail my boat in the desert
either. Our action is based on truth of our AIM.
Put the first law into action in any business and you will have a recipe of success.
It is never too late to redirect your ship to success, so if you didn’t have an aim
before, it’s okay. Start today by asking yourself where you want to be one year, five
years, even ten years from now and then work backwards in achieving this aim
while moving forward with ease.
Stay tuned to learn more about how to take action and in what direction to fully
feel the effects of success and well-being.
A Member of the Texas A&M University System
www.tamuc.edu
June 2013
CHAMBER
Page 5
Our Community
CenturyLink recognizes employees during
“Technician Appreciation Week”
Company applauds technicians in Texas
Killeen, TX – CenturyLink, Inc. (NYSE: CTL) designated the week of
May 20 as “Technician Appreciation Week” to thank its more than 11,000
installation, maintenance and repair technicians nationwide who work night
and day, often in inclement weather, to serve the company’s customers
across the U.S.
“CenturyLink’s technicians are committed to maintaining our high
standards of customer satisfaction, and it shows in the work they do every
day to provide quality service to our customers across the country. They
work tirelessly, in all sorts of weather and all hours of the night, to keep
our customers connected to the people and information that are important
to them,” said Karen Puckett, executive vice president and chief operating
officer. “Our dedicated technicians are an important part of the public face of
our company, and sometimes they are the first and only face that customers
see. We appreciate them each and every day of the year; however, we have
set aside this week to ensure they know just how much we value their hard
work, sacrifice and dedication to our company and our customers.”
Events for the week included celebrations at the technician work centers and
an all-employee effort to send thank-you notes to technicians.
There are 250 CenturyLink technicians in Texas. Over the past year,
technicians have responded to service outages due to wildfires and localized
flooding; turned-up higher capacity circuits for Internet services and
participated in many local community service projects. CenturyLink Texas
provides services in 126 communities in 51 counties from the Gulf Coast to
the Oklahoma border. “We’ve been known by other company names over
the years, but we’ve been serving Texans for over 100 years,” said Steve
Hanik, CenturyLink’s Market Development Manager.
“CenturyLink has a dedicated employee base with a customer-focused
culture, and our technicians do an excellent job upholding our company’s
commitment to our customers,” said Darrion Bowers CenturyLink’s vice
president and general manager for Texas “We’re excited to keep this annual
tradition of dedicating a week to recognize our hard-working techs, and I
want to personally thank all of them for the work they do every day to serve
our customers.”
Hunt County Tax Office to
Re-Open Commerce Sub-Station
Randy, Wineinger, newly elected Tax Assessor/Collector of Hunt County is pleased
to announce the re-opening of the Eastern Branch Tax Office in Commerce, Texas
which had been closed by prior administration over three years ago. Wineinger
stated that “I want to serve the people of Hunt County the best ways possible.
We have a target date to open on July 10th.” The sub-station will be located at
the Commerce Chamber of Commerce at 1114 Main Street in Commerce. Even
though this office will only be open on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., we
plan to offer full service to our taxpayers including motor vehicle registration and
property tax collection services. Mr. Wineinger also wants to remind the people
of Hunt County to visit their online services available at www.hctax.info.
For further information please call 903.408.4000 or by email rwineinger@hctax.
info
positive results for life™
$10 Off To Chamber Members
400 Maple Street, Commerce, Texas 75428, 903-886-3153
Page 6
CHAMBER
June 2013
Our Community
Texas A&M-Commerce Hosts
9th Annual Bill Martin, Jr. Symposium
By Taelor Duckworth
The Texas A&M University-Commerce Department of Curriculum and
Instruction held its 9th annual Bill Martin Jr. Symposium recently in the Sam
Rayburn Student Center.
Bill Martin, Jr. was one of America’s most beloved children’s authors whose pen
wrote Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and Chicka Chicka Boom
Boom. He spent the last eleven years of his life living in Commerce and as a
friend of the university. In 2000, Bill Martin, Jr. donated his professional library
to A&M-Commerce, and it is held in a special room in Sowers Education South
building. This library includes numerous manuscripts, letters from the greats of
children’s literature and many of his published works. His honorary degrees and a
majority of his awards are also displayed in this collection. For the last nine years,
A&M-Commerce has hosted this symposium to bring in educators near and far
for the ability to learn from friends and colleagues of Mr. Martin.
“We have this wonderful symposium where we invite back friends of Bill to
enlighten us on their great ideas in literacy,” said Dr. Martha Foote, Head of the
Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
This year’s symposium featured poet and speaker, Brod Bagert, a friend of Bill
Martin, who also attended many of the Bill Martin, Jr. Conferences that were held
while he was still alive. Bagert also read aloud a poem from his book, Rainbows,
Head Lice and Pea-Green Tile, the majority of which he mentioned were actually
written at Bill Martin, Jr. Conferences. Session attendees were invited to register
at 8 a.m. before the 9 a.m. keynote session with music, prizes and the 5th grade
children from a local Greenville, TX elementary school read aloud the book they
authored and illustrated. Several breakout sessions were hosted throughout the
day across the A&M-Commerce campus for teachers to attend and learn about
children’s literacy and writing. Vendors were available for those who were
interested in purchasing teaching supplies or the various authors’ children’s books
that were on display.
Dyer Insurance Agency, Inc.
Serving Commerce and the University
for over 75 years
1504 Washington St.,Commerce, TX 75428
903-886-2131
dyerinsurance.com
During the conference, two students were recognized as the recipients of the Bill
Martin, Jr. Literacy Endowment Scholarship for $800 each in tuition. Meghan
Methvin is a junior pursuing her EC-6 ESL teaching certification, and plans to
attend A&M-Commerce for her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction.
Elisha Rivera is working toward her EC-6 generalist teaching certificate and plans
to graduate this December.
“This is a day I look forward to all year long, said Dr. Gail Johnson, Interim
Dean of the College of Education and Human Services. “It’s a happy day. A&MCommerce has been educating teachers now for almost 125 years. We are so
happy to continue doing so through events like this symposium.”
Preparations are already being made for next year’s symposium, so save the date
for May 2, 2014. For more information on the Bill Martin Jr. Symposium visit
http://www.tamuc.edu/BillMartinJr.
June 2013
Page 7
CHAMBER
Our Community
L-3 Mission Integr ation Donates 12 iMacs to
Computer Science Department
By Sydni Walker
L-3 Mission Integration donated 12 iMac computers to the Texas A&M UniversityCommerce Computer Science Department on May 9.
“We’ve done things we wouldn’t be able to without the help of L-3,” said President
Dan Jones. “It’s a wonderful partnership.”
The computers, valued at approximately $2,000 each, total just under $25,000, will
be used as part of a Mobile Computing and Applications Lab (MCAL) to develop
applications for use on platforms such as iPhones, iPads and other mobile devices.
“L-3 is exemplary at being just as passionate toward students as we are,” said Dr.
Grady Blount, Dean of the College of Science, Engineering & Agriculture. “We
really appreciate, not just hardware like this, but the internships and the employees
that L-3 shares with us. It’s the kind of connection that we all know is required in
the twenty-first century.”
Programming track in the newly established computational science master’s
program. Students concentrating on this track will be able to develop various
mobile apps to experiment with iPhone/Android programming. Furthermore, the
department plans to use this lab for K-14 summer outreach to recruit students for
STEM majors.”
Headquartered in Greenville, Texas, L-3 Mission Integration (MID) is a division
of L-3 Communications Integrated Systems Group, an internationally recognized
systems integration organization. MID’s focus is on the design, development and
integration of advanced avionics, special purpose airborne systems and aircraft
maintenance and modernization for government and military customers worldwide.
The ceremony was held at 9:30 a.m. on May 9 at the Journalism building. Several
faculty attended the event including: Dr. Dan Jones, A&M-Commerce President;
Dr. Grady Blount, Dean of the College of Science, Engineering & Agriculture;
Dr. Sang Chuhl Suh, Computer Science & Information Systems Department
Head; Dr. Daniel Edelman, Associate Provost and Vice President for Academic
Affairs; Jim Gibson, Vice President Engineering at L-3; Frank Brandon, Director
of Advanced Technology at L-3; and Jack Cooke, former L-3 executive and now
A&M-Commerce Distinguished Lecturer in Marketing & Management. “Mobile computing is a recently emerged and rapidly growing computing
paradigm,” said Dr. Sang Chuhl Suh, Computer Science & Information Systems
Department Head. “It implies taking computer and all necessary resources out
into the field and involves mobile communication, mobile hardware, and mobile
software. The newly created MCAL in the department of computer science
will be used to provide a software development platform for all applications
related to mobile computing. MCAL will support a new Mobile Computing and
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903-886-6252
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L to R: Suh, Brandon, Cooke, Edelman, Jones, Gibson, Blount
Page 8
CHAMBER
June 2013
Our Community
Hammond: Tax Relief For Businesses Is Key For Jobs And
Continued Growth
By Bill Hammond | May 18, 2013 | Updated: May 18, 2013 2:49pm
Tax relief for businesses is key for jobs and continued growth Texas spends $43
billion annually on tax breaks and targeted business incentives. At issue: Do Texas
businesses need the relief? Should the incentives be evaluated?
It doesn’t matter where you look, Texas consistently ranks as one of the best places
to live, work and do business. While we can pat ourselves on the back and comment
on how lucky we are to have earned these distinctions, the fact is luck had nothing
to do with our success; and luck certainly won’t guarantee our future success.
Texas is among the best of the best because of the commitment of Texas leaders
and due to the great leadership of Gov. Rick Perry. Our leaders understand that
for Texas to be economically sound, the Texas Legislature must invest in the
businesses that are the backbone of this great state. Our leaders’ records speak for
themselves through the accolades that our state has received and through the voters
who continue to elect them.
Whether a business has one employee or a thousand employees, each business and
every worker contributes to the success of this state. With a Texas Association
of Business membership made up of every size business and representing almost
every sector and industry, we know firsthand the struggles of employers of this
state. These struggles are the reason we will always champion business issues on
behalf of our state’s entrepreneurs and job creators, and why we always will look
for solutions that are broad-based and benefit as many employers as possible.
Low taxes attract and keep business in Texas. The franchise tax has been
scrutinized and criticized, but in reality it is the best system available. Because
Texas is constitutionally barred from basing tax businesses on actual income,
it is important that we keep finding ways to provide broad-based relief to Texas
businesses.
It is in seeking positive solutions that provide real relief to businesses in Texas that
TAB is proud to fully support Gov. Perry’s tax plan. Among numerous tax cuts and
other positive relief, Gov. Perry’s recommendations will help every business trying
to make payroll, not just businesses in one specific industry.
Included in the governor’s plan is the intent to provide a $1 million deduction to every
business grossing $20 million or less. Gov. Perry’s proposal will allow small businesses
that barely miss being eligible for the current exemption to finally receive its benefits.
The governor’s office estimates that this exemption will keep close to $1 billion
in the hands of small- and medium-sized companies to add more workers and
equipment. That’s a win for all Texans.
The governor’s proposal also calls for a 5 percent reduction in franchise taxes for
all businesses. For businesses struggling to provide ever-increasing health benefits
to their employees, this solution may be just the ticket that employers need to be
able to continue to offer health benefits for their employees.
Other recommendations that TAB fully supports include lowering the rate for EZ
Form filers and giving companies relocating to Texas from out of state a one-time
deduction of moving expenses in the first year they pay the franchise tax. These
recommendations are simple and straightforward. Deducting moving expenses for
companies moving to Texas is just one more reason for companies to choose Texas.
The fact is, every company has many choices on where to locate its business. While
I would choose Texas any and every day of the year until the day that I die, it is
important for Texas to provide incentives to seal the deal.
TAB also firmly agrees with Gov. Perry in his support of money for infrastructure,
including water and roads. The investment in tax cuts, water and roads is an
investment in Texas. We can achieve these goals while at the same time meeting
the needs of Texans in every other area of the budget. Texans will reap benefits
from the foresight of this plan well into the future. The only ones complaining
about these initiatives are the ones who have always complained and will continue
to complain. TAB is more about solutions and results, and we believe that these
initiatives will keep Texas moving for decades to come.
Hammond is president and CEO of Texas Association of Business.
The views expressed in the above article are not necessarily the views of the
Commerce Chamber of Commerce.
June 2013
CHAMBER
Page 9
Big Events
th
July 6th • Centennial Park
July
C el ebr at ion
Contact the Chamber to Get Involved
EVENT STARTS AT 5 P.M. • FIREWORKS BEGIN AT DARK
Event Emcee – Daniel Starks • www.commerce-chamber.com
Page 10
CHAMBER
June 2013
Our Community
Hotel Azul & Suites to
Become Magnuson Hotel
Commerce
A&M-COMMERCE TO ADD
SOFTBALL; FIRST PITCH
SLATED FOR SPRING 2015
By Joanna Noel
Texas A&M University-Commerce Athletic Director Ryan Ivey announced a
major addition to the Lion Athletic Department as A&M-Commerce will begin
competing in softball beginning the 2014-15 athletic season.
Hotel Azul & Suites will soon be flying under the new flag of Magnuson Hotels as
Magnuson Hotel Commerce. Founded in 2002, the Magnuson chain is the world’s
largest group of independent hotels with over 150 hotels in Texas alone. In fact,
Magnuson is named the #1 Hotel Company of Inc. Magazine’s 5,000 fastest growing
private U.S. companies. Each hotel with Magnuson remains independently owned
and operated, so guests can feel confident in knowing that they will be treated
with personalized hospitality at each location. From Magnuson Grand Hotels
featuring upscale resorts to M Star Hotels offering economy hotels, guests can find
a Magnuson hotel to match any budget or trip. Hotel Azul’s owner, Mrs. Patel, is
very excited to introduce the new name for this former Holiday Inn Express.
Still located next to Walmart and across from the University, Magnuson Hotel
Commerce offers the same beautifully decorated one and two bedroom suites. For
those looking for a romantic getaway or some well deserved R&R, the Jacuzzi
Suites include a king bed, separate living room with kitchenette, and an in-room
jetted tub. Magnuson Hotel Commerce has an indoor heated pool and hot tub,
fitness center, business center, and free high speed Wi-Fi. The hotel also provides
guests with a complimentary hot breakfast every morning with a variety of items.
Magnuson Hotel Commerce has a meeting room available for parties, meetings,
and gatherings. Weekly rates and group discounts are available as well. For more
information or to make online reservations, please visit magnusonhotels.com.
“This is an historic moment for the Lion Athletic Department,” said Ivey. “The
northeast Texas region is full of quality softball talent and we look forward to
having the opportunity to provide for them a place to participate in intercollegiate
athletics. Adding a softball program will be a tremendous benefit to the institution
and Commerce community. What a great day to be a Lion.” Ivey announced the search for the program’s first-ever head coach will begin
immediately with the position to be filled by July. Softball student-athletes can
begin enrolling at A&M-Commerce in the fall of 2013 and will be given a redshirt
season as skill and conditioning exercises will commence during the 2013-14
season.
The Lion softball program will then begin competing in fall exhibitions in 2014,
leading up to the inaugural season in the spring of 2015. A&M-Commerce softball
will play its home games at the Cain Sports Complex, north of Lion Soccer Field
and adjacent to the throws areas for track and field.
Currently, A&M-Commerce offers six women’s sports in addition to five men’s
sports. With the addition of softball, the Lions will also become the final Lone Star
Conference school to sponsor the sport.
“Softball will bring a whole new dimension to our athletic program” stated Dr.
Dan Jones, President and CEO of A&M-Commerce. “Talented women athletes
will now have one more great reason to make A&M-Commerce their university
of choice.”
For more information on the newly formed Lion softball team and the 11 other
A&M-Commerce Athletic programs, stay tuned to LionAthletics.com, as well as
the A&M-Commerce official Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Hunt Regional Medical Center
Greenville
AZUL
2207 Culver St.
Commerce, TX 75428
Phone: 903-886-4777 • Fax: 903-886-8737
We’re Growing To Serve The
Commerce Community’s Health Care Needs
Hunt Regional Community Hospital
Commerce
2900 Sterling Hart Drive
903-886-3161
Hunt Regional Medical Center
Greenville
4215 Joe Ramsey Blvd.
903-408-5000
Hunt Regional Community Hospital
Commerce
June 2013
CHAMBER
Twitter contest to meet the Olympians, sending in over 250 tweets with the hashtag
#GoldInCommerce. Some questions were comical and some were more serious,
and ticket holders got an insight into the lives and minds of two of the world’s top
athletes.
Page 11
A Member
of the Texas A&M University System
www.tamuc.edu
Our Community
The Bradford Place Apartments
Judy Petty
Residential Services Coordinator
Commerce Housing Authority
500 Tarter
Commerce, Texas 75428
903-886-2946
www.commercehousing-tx.com
3301 FM 3218, Commerce, Texas 75428 (903) 886-­‐8855 * 24 Hour Fitness Center * Free Tanning * Playground * Full Sized Washer and Dryer in Every Unit* Dishwasher * * Free Cable with HBO * Basketball Court * *Covered Parking Available* Microwave* Clubhouse * *Swimming Pool * Walk-­‐in Closets * BBQ Pavilions * www.bradfordplaceapartments.com www.facebook.com/bradfordapartments CONWAY COMPANY CPAs, PC
ACCOUNTANTS AND ADVISORS
www .conwaycpas .com
Office 903-886-2123
Facsimile 903-886-6580
INWOOD
NATIONAL BANK
1312 Washington Street - Commerce, Texas 75428
903 / 886-2126 - Fax 903 / 886-4552
Metro 972 / 226-0969
www.inwoodbank.com
Member FDIC
1021 Park Street
Commerce, TX 75428
Want 1 million people a month-to see your business?
Outdoor advertising reaches people where they live. When you
strategically place a billboard along the I-30 corridor you are
reaching a local audience with your businesses message. We are a
longtime Commerce family interested in your business success.
Call
972.212.9315
Find out how
billboard advertising works.
Page 12
CHAMBER
June 2013
Our Community
Phi K appa Phi Honor Society Comes to
Texas A&M-Commerce
By Taelor Duckworth
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi has allowed the colonization of a chapter on
the Texas A&M University-Commerce campus for the upcoming year and held its
installation ceremony on May 21. The A&M-Commerce chapter received notice
of its approval after a spring board meeting in March of the Phi Kappa Phi Board
of Directors.
Phi Kappa Phi is the oldest national honor society for all academic disciplines,
founded in 1897 at the University of Maine. PKP is a selective organization for
individuals with exemplary academic accomplishments. Membership may be
obtained through an invitation-only process in which offers are only given to the
top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and just 7.5 percent of juniors.
Having achieved outstanding scholastic recognition, faculty, staff and alumni may
also qualify to join. There are over 300 chapters of PKP in North America and the
Philippines which initiate around 30,000 persons per year. Members are required
to pay annual dues and in turn are given a multitude of benefits, including the
opportunities of $1 million each biennium in scholarships and awards.
“The commitment to excellence at Texas A&M University–Commerce is
evidenced by the superior academic environment, highly motivated student
population, strong honors program, and exceptional faculty and staff,” said
Society President Dr. Diane G. Smathers. “We are confident A&M-Commerce’s
commitment to recognizing and honoring academic excellence will benefit both
the university and Phi Kappa Phi, and we look forward to developing a strong
working relationship with the chapter.”
The society’s motto reads “Let the love of learning rule humanity,” and that is
what the group hopes to bring to the A&M-Commerce campus. Their mission in
Commerce and nationally is “to recognize and promote academic excellence in
all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service
to others.” Author John Grisham, President Jimmy Carter, former U.S. Secretary
of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and the Co-founder of YouTube, Chad Hurley,
have all been inducted into Phi Kappa Phi. The non-profit group governs itself
nationally with a 15-person Board of Directors with input from Regional Vice
Presidents and a Council of Students. Individual chapters are presided over by
chapter officers at each campus.
DISCOUNT TOBACCO
We Cash All
Pre-Paid Visa
Kinds of Checks Western Union
Commerce, TX 75428 • 1601 Live Oak • 903-886-8080
Bill Payments
Money Orders
The Lion’s Den
Student and Corporate Lodging
No Credit Check All Bills Paid
3000 Hwy 24
Commerce, TX 75428
903.246.3174
For more information on Phi Kappa Phi, contact Dr. Raymond Green, chapter
president, at [email protected] or visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org.
June 2013
CHAMBER
Page 13
Our Community
It’s Not Too Early To Start Planning For The…
28th Annual
Bois d’Arc Bash
September 27th – 29th • Downtown Commerce
We Need Volunteers To Help In All Aspects Of The Event
C on ta c t t h e C h a m ber to Ge t In v olv ed
Member Spotlights
Contact These Members To Help You Get
Prepared For The Bois d’Arc Bash
Beverly Sloan, RN
Nocona Clark, RN
Banners • Flyers • Promotional Items • Brochures
Business Cards • T-Shirts • Posters
All Star Enterprises
COMMERCE
101 Kings Plaza, Suite H
Commerce, Texas 75428
(903) 886-2666 - Fax 886-3773
886-0300
Latson’s Print Services
886-2710
Personalized Printing
886-7173
Pride Shop
886-5818
1-800-216-0970
KEN PARKER SERVICE, INC.
SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION
HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL
kenparkerservice.com
GREENVILLECOMMERCE
903-883-2829
903-886-6990
800-945-1310
903-886-3567
TACL-A000548E
Kathy Johnson, RN
BRANCH DIRECTOR
OFFICE: 903.886.8877
FAX: 903.886.8996
TOLL FREE: 800.450.7683
1106 Main Street
Commerce, Texas 75428
Page 14
COMMERCE
June 2013
Business Directory
A C C O U N T I N G – C P A’ s
Conway Company CPAs, PC
886-2123
Kenneth Foust
886-3106
Naeem Ahmad, CPA.P.C. 214-808 0551
A D V E RT I S I N G | S P E C I A L I T I E S
Giggles & Grins 450-4746
Hoss Outdoor Adv. | Billboards I-30
972-212-9315
A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G | H E AT I N G
DMP Services 903-274-7637
Ken Parker Service, Inc
886-6990
Progressive Air and Heat
886-8322
A M U S E M E N T | E N T E RTA I N M E N T
Eagle Golf & Gift
886-4653
NE TX Children’s Museum 886-6055
Planetarium
468-8652
A N I M A L W E L FA R E
Commerce Humane Assn
903-496-2412
A PA RT M E N T S | P R O P E RT Y M G M T
American Eagle Properties
886-4430
Bradford Place Apts. 886-8855
Charlinda Villages
886-8807
Churchill at Commerce Apts. (Culver) 886-4444
Gant Apartments
886-6863
Landmark Properties
886-7038
Maple Place Apartments
886-4050
MyApartmentMap.com 603-319-1712
Oak Meadows Townhomes
886-1555
Oglesby & Associates
972-742-5099
Sparks Enterprises
817-460-3347
Valentine Properties
886-8881
A RT G A L L E RY / S T U D I O
Commerce Office of Cultural Affairs
217-8050
A Space
325-760-8869
ASSISTED LIVING/RETIREMENT
Colonial Lodge Retirement Inn
454-6636
Country Homes Estates
886-7754
AT T O R N E Y S
Curtis, Alexander/McCampbell & Morris 455-8113
Edgar J. Garrett
886-3146
The Law Offices of Jim D. McLeroy
885-6476
AUDIO PRODUCTION STUDIO
Brad Davis Audio Production
886-6027
AUTOMOBILE DEALERS
Commerce Auto Group
886-4014
Commerce Chevrolet/Buick
886-2188
North TX Hyundai 455-4949
A U T O M O B I L E S E RV I C E S / PA RT S
D & E Auto Supply
886-8040
Hoover’s Automotive
886-7781
J J’s Quick Lube
886-8775
O’Reilly Auto Parts
886-1755
BAKERIES
Braum’s
886-6242
Brookshire’s
886-3252
Sweeties Donut Shoppe
886-6111
BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS
Alliance Bank
886-3244
Cypress Bank
886-7425
Dixie Turman/State Farm Bank
886-7774
Guaranty Bond Bank
886-2274
Heritage Land Bank
455-2835
Inwood National Bank
886-2126
Lone Star Credit Union
800-588-6928
BOOKSTORES
East Texas Book Store
886-3248
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/TRAINING
Center for Applied Leadership
886-5086
Commerce EDC
886-1121
Northeast Texas Teambuilding
903-886-5164
CABINET MAKING
Keystone Mfg. Co.
886-1551
C A R P E T C L E A N I N G & R E S T O R AT I O N
Jeff’s Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
885-1320
C AT E R I N G / M E E T I N G F A C I L I T I E S
The Lodge/Catering Company
886-7586
New England Flare Catering 203-558-9395
Sodexo
468-7586
CELL PHONES AND SERVICE
ACN-Independent Rep.
903-335-6034
Wireless TNT (AT&T)
886-1062
CHECK CASHING/LOANS
Chaney’s Check Cashing Express
886-8080
Commerce Cash Express
886-6252
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
DNJ Learning Center
886-2414
Wee Care at Sha’s Sha’s World Care Center 886-4911
CHIROPRACTORS
Jensen Chiropractic
886-4333
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE PRACTITIONER
Judy Biggs 903-413-5086
CHURCHES
Bread of Life Church of Nazarene
886-1515
Commerce Church of Christ
903-886-6136
Commerce Community Church
513-2699
Cross Trails Cowboy Church
886-9114
Disciples of Faith Bible Fellowship
886-3644
First Baptist Church
886-3189
First Christian Church
886-2542
First Presbyterian Church
886-3783
First United Methodist Church
886-3220
Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship
886-8585
Healing Waters Assembly of God
886-7112
Ridgecrest Baptist Church
886-6034
St. Joseph Catholic Church
886-7135
Word of Life Family Church
886-0917
CLEANERS
Country Cleaners
886-1609
CLOTHING/GIFTS
The Bargain Box
886-8306
Dressing Divas
903-272-4198
My Sister’s Closet
886-1224
Sister Babyz
886-3020
COMMERCIAL CLEANING
Quality Home Service
903-243-1854
C O M P U T E R S E RV I C E S / F O R E N S I C S
Wolf Security Analysts
366-6721
COPIERS
Advantage Copy Systems
885-3375
CONCRETE
D. L. Lennon, Inc.
886-3174
CONVENIENCE STORES
Flying L Fast Mart
886-8091
New Way
886-7684
COSMETICS/SKIN CARE
Mary Kay Cosmetics - Betty Teel Malone 496-2292
Southern Spa Sisters/BeautiControl
886-6124
Violet Spell, Avon Cosmetics 903-453-5916
COUNSELING
Lakes Regional MHMR
903-455-5770
C O U N T RY C L U B S
Sand Hills Golf/Country Club
886-4455
DENTISTS
Cozart’s Dental Office
886-3081
Mary/Marc McDaniel, DDS
886-6945
D I R E C T S A L E S / P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S
AML - Direct Sales Marketing
903-513-3636
DISTRIBUTORS
Ben E. Keith Company
886-2158
Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
903-784-3336
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Commerce Economic Dev. Corporation
886-1121
E D I T O R I A L S E RV I C E S
Word Magic
886-6498
E D U C AT I O N
Texas A&M University.-Commerce
886-5081
Commerce ISD
886-3755
Paris Junior College
782-0330
ELECTRONIC SUPPLIES
Kartridge Korner
886-3312
Country Cleaners & Electronics
886-1609
E M B R O I D E RY / P R N T G / P R O M O P R O D U C T S
All Star Enterprises 903-390-7022
E M E R G E N C Y M E D I C A L E VA C U AT I O N S
Air-Evac Lifestream
886-1551
EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES
Kelly Services
454-4227
ENERGY PROVIDERS
ACN-Independent Rep
903-335-6034
Atmos Energy
800-460-3030
Eagle Energy
903-422-2960
FEC Electric
455-1715
Oncor Electric Delivery
888-313-6862
ENGINEERS
Hayter Engineering, Inc.
785-0303
FA R M S U P P L I E S / F E E D
Fix & Feed Commerce Hardware
886-7917
Twin Oaks Farm
903-886-5358
F I N A N C I A L S E RV I C E S
Active Wealth Management
455-6956
AIS Financial Services
886-8050
Continental Credit
886-8500
Edward Jones & Company
886-3333
Financial Network Investment Corp
886-2823
Dixie Turman/State Farm Bank
886-7774
F L E A M A R K E T / FA R M E R ’ S M A R K E T
Jackson Square 903-366-6092
FOOD STORES
Brookshires
886-3252
F R U I T & V E G E TA B L E M A R K E T S
Twin Oaks Farms
886-5358
FUNERAL HOMES
Commerce Funeral Home/Cremation Serv.
886-8600
FURNITURE
Affordable Furniture & Etc.
886-6096
The Funky Attic
886-0100
GOVERNMENT
City of Commerce
886-1100
State Representative Dan Flynn
455-0971
GRAPHICS
1st Choice Spirit, Grvl
454-8326
Pride Shop
886-5818
HAIR/BEAUTY/NAIL SALON
Tanasha’s House of Style
886-1607
H A R D WA R E
Fix & Feed Commerce Hardware
886-7917
June 2013
COMMERCE
Page 15
Business Directory
HOME BUILDERS
Legacy Housing
886-7394
Siena Home/Dale Stotts
214-957-8549
Under Construction
903-468-2683
H O M E H E A LT H
1st Choice
886-2666
Encompass Home Health
886-8877
Home Health Associates 886-0612
Visiting Angels 903-784-3902
HOME INSPECTION
JK’s Professional Inspections 903-886-3069
H O M E R E PA I R / M A I N T E N A N C E /
REMODELING
American Eagle Home Maint/Remodeling
886-4430
Under Construction
468-2683
HOSPICE
Odyssey Hospice
454-1107
HOSPITALS
Hunt Reg. Comm. Hospital-Commerce
886-3161
Hunt Regional Medical Center-Greenville
408-5000
H O T E L / M O T E L S / B & B ’s
Bois d’Arc Bed & Breakfast, 886-7705
Commerce Inn
886-8756
Holiday Inn Express, Sulphur Springs
903-885-6851
Horse Apple Hill Inn
903-413-8118
Magnuson Hotel Commerce
886-4777
HOUSING
Commerce Housing Authority
886-2946
INSURANCE
Diversified Insurance
886-6943
Duncan Insurance
886-2183
Dyer Insurance
886-2131
Farm Bureau Insurance
455-6782
State Farm Insurance
886-7774
I N T E R N E T / C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
ACN-Independent Rep
903-335-6034
CenturyLink
800-788-3500
LIBRARIES
Commerce Public Library
886-6858
M A N U FA C T U R E D H O U S I N G
Henly Land & Homes, Inc.
886-0112
MANUFAC T UR I NG
Covidien
886-3153
Hydro Aluminum Metal Products
468-5012
Legacy Housing
886-7394
Zurn/Pex Hydronics
886-2580
MASSAGE / NUT R I T IO N
Fire & Ice Massage by Velvete
886-0304
MEDIC AL SE RVI C ES
Hulsey Therapy Services
886-7669
Live Oak Professional Ctr.
886-8818
Lowery Medical Supplies
395-4508
Raffa Clinic
877-707-2332
Air-Evac Lifeteam
903-390-7022
MENTAL HE ALT H
Lakes Regional MHMR
903 455-5770
NEWSPAPE R S
The Commerce Journal
455-4220
The Commerce Connection
886-3950
NURS I NG HOME S/ L O N G T E R M C A R E
Briarcliff Health Center
903-455-8729
Oak Manor Nursing Home 886-2510
OFFICE E QUI PME N T
Advantage Copy Systems 903-885-3375
O FFIC E SU PPLIES/PR IN TIN G
Latson’s Office Solutions
885-1553
Personalized Printing
886-7173
Pride Shop
886-5818
O R G A N IZATIO N S
A&M-Commerce Alumni Chapter
886-6175
A&M-Commerce Athletics
468-3033
A&M-Commerce Interfraternity Council
468-3087
Aglaia Club
886-1968
American Legion Post No. 1
886-8479
Beginning Farmer & Rancher Dey
886-5353
Boys & Girls Club of NE Texas
903-455-9233
Celebrate The Children, Inc.
886-8365
Commerce Classroom Teachers Assn.
886-3758
Commerce Humane Society
496-2412
Coterie Culture Club
886-6263
Commerce Office of Cultural Affairs
903-217-8050
Commerce Parks Foundation
886-7697
Keep Commerce Beautiful
453-7201
Kiwanis Club
886-4733
Lions Club
886-4034
Louise Drake Garden Club
886-6263
Masonic Lodge
886-3549
N. Hunt Co. Retired Teachers Assn.
886-7695
Pi Kappa Alpha
903-422-0316
Pi Sigma Alpha
886-5317
Psychology Club
886-6078
Republic of Texas Parrot Head Club
366-2737
Rotary Club
886-7047
Silver Leos Writing Club 468-7391
Thalian Culture Club
886-6209
Woman’s Culture Club
886-2624
PECANS
Campbell Pecans
903-366-1141
Southern Pride Pecans
903-513-9825
PET SUPPLIES/GROOMING/BOARDING
C&P Bark & Purr
886-2524
Pet Degrees
886-8469
PHARMACIES
Total Care Pharmacy
886-8888
PRINTERS, PUBLISHERS & GRAPHICS
All Star Enterprises
886-0300
Latson’s Print Services
886-2710
Personalized Printing
886-7173
Pride Shop
886-5818
PLUMBERS
Ashley Plumbing
886-2355
DMP Services 903-274-9987
Powers Plumbing
886-3300
R A D I O S T AT I O N S
E TX Broadcasting, Inc. (95.9)
885-1546
KETR 88.9
886-5848
RAILROADS
Blacklands Railroad
438-1324
RANCHES
Oats Ranch
886-7951
R E A L E S T AT E
Century 21 First Group
886-1200
Hunt County Real Estate
903-450-7273
Jack Chapin Real Estate
886-6373
Janet Williams Real Estate
903-450-5407
R E A L E S T AT E D E V E L O P E R S
Oglesby & Associates
972-742-5099
RESALE SHOP
Goodwill Industries of NE TX 886-3600
My Sister’s Closet (WIN)
886-1224
The Bargain Box
886-8306
This & That Resale Shop
214-226-2046
RESIDENTIALCLEANING
Quality Home Service
903-243-1854
R E S TA U R A N T S | C L U B S
Braum’s
886-6149
Domino’s Pizza
886-2116
Good Donuts
886-1011
Lone Star Eatery, Grill and Bar
886-2121
Los Mochis Mexican
886-8200
Luigi’s Italian Cafe
886-2000
Lulu’s Burgers
886-3888
McDonalds # 10645
886-7771
McKay’s Country Kitchen & BBQ
886-8160
Panda Chinese
886-4008
Plain & Fancy Sandwich Shoppe
903-246-3048
Pizza Hut
886-9600
Pride Coffee
903-449-2074
Sonic Drive-In
886-7166
The Drunken Mule
886-3289
R E M O D E L I N G R E PA I R
Under Construction
468-2683
R E TA I L
Wal-Mart 886-3108
SAND AND GRAVEL
Spei ght Sand & Gr avel
886- 6457
SELF- STORAGE FACI LI TI ES
All-American Self Storage
886-7575
The Guard House Self-Storage
886-6040
SEPTI C SYSTEM
Quality Concrete Products
886-3055
STORM SHELTER
Quality Concrete Products
886-3055
S T U D E N T & C O R P O R AT E L O D G I N G
Lion’s Den
903-246-3174
TA N N I N G S A L O N S
Healthy Glow Tanning Salon
886-0100
T A X P R E P A R AT I O N
H & R Block
886-7252
T I T L E C O M PA N Y
North Texas Title of Hunt County
454-3364
TOBACCO
Chaney’s Tobacco Station
886-8080
T R A N S P O R T AT I O N
Hill Grain Company
886-3133
TRASH HAULING-COMMERCIAL
City Sanitation
886-2314
TRUCKING
BL II Logistics L.L.C .
886-2900
VETERINARIANS
Commerce Vet Clinic
886-7941
Gregg Animal Clinic
886-3911
WEBSITE DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Luminous Productions 903-851-3183
WEDDING
The Lodge/Catering Company
886-7586
Sodexo
468-4890
W R E C K E R S E RV I C E S
Benson Bros.
886-2765
New from
www.abwholesaler.com