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A GREATER WACO CHAMBER PUBLICATION 101 AT THE 101
ALL IN FOR GREATER WACO
INTERCITY VISIT
A TIMELINE OVERVIEW OF THE CHAMBER’S 101 YEARS OF SERVICE
LOOKING BACK AT THE 2017 TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN
A SUMMARY OF THE DELEGATION’S VISIT TO CINCINNATI, OHIO WACOCHAMBER.COM | 1
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Message from the President 2017 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN
VICE CHAIR
Extraco Banks
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
CHAIR-ELECT
PAST CHAIR
Englander DzignPak, LLC
Barsh Company
VICE CHAIR
PRESIDENT & CEO
Texas Document Solutions
Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce
Mark Reynolds
Hal Whitaker
Alfred Solano
CHAMBER STAFF
Loren Schwartz
Tate Christensen
Matthew T. Meadors
Rachel Alston Jessica Attas Samantha Baker Lexy Bishop Linda Beasley Jennifer Branch Jake Cockerill Kris Collins Monica Gonzales Amber Greenwood Christie Harper
Amanda Haygood Keith Kusler Rachel Martinez Debbie McCutchen Matt Meadors Seth Morris Autumn Outlaw Debbie Sherman Ariel Tesch Michelle Williams
EDITOR
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Autumn Outlaw
Samantha Baker
ART DIRECTOR Keith Kusler
Welcome to the first edition of Greater Waco Business! The transition from Waco Chamber & Business Quarterly magazine to Greater Waco Business magazine reflects the launch of your Chamber’s new integrated marketing strategy. Greater Waco Business features a new look and feel and incorporates special inserts that show the strength and capabilities of our business community, as well as the tremendous assets we have available to develop and grow our economy. The business community may now access the magazine to showcase capabilities and facilities, celebrate milestones and achievements, announce leadership changes and more. Highlighted in this first edition of Greater Waco Business is an insert exploring Integ Printing, which provides a great example of how the business community may now utilize the publication. The magazine also includes a presentation on some of our available industrial sites and parks. The presentation on our industrial sites and parks will be placed on our website and promoted across our social media platforms. Additional copies will be printed and added to our inventory of physical marketing materials. These are just a few examples of how we are integrating our marketing and communications work and messaging. As we move into 2018, this initiative will fully hit its stride. The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 101st anniversary in 2017. In recognition of this milestone, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at 101 initiatives, programs and projects that the organization has “touched” through the years — work that has helped shape our community and economy. Those stories are highlighted on the following pages. They are stories about vision. They are stories about leadership. They are stories about collaboration. They are stories about greater Waco.
For advertising, contact Autumn Outlaw (254) 757-5603 • aoutlaw@wacochamber.com
Best wishes for a safe and prosperous 2018.
ON THE COVER
As always, thank you for your continued support of your Chamber of Commerce.
Photo by Mark Randolph
The Greater Waco Chamber has supported the Waco business community since 1911. This issue presents 101 events over the last 101 years that have changed and developed Waco, providing a thriving economic spirit and extraordinary quality of life. Find more on page 26.
The Waco Chamber & Business Quarterly is published and distributed to Chamber members and economic development prospects. Digital copies are available online at WacoChamber.com. This publication is printed on FSC-certified paper. © 2017 Greater Waco Chamber 101 S. Third St. Waco TX 76701 • (254) 757-5600 The Greater Waco Chamber reserves the right to reject editorial or advertising content in the Greater Waco Business publication, and via the organization’s full range of communications | WINTER 2017 platforms, at its sole discretion. 4
With appreciation,
Matthew T. Meadors President & CEO
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CONTENTS
WINTER 2017 BUSINESS SUPPORTERS, TOM SALOME 26 STEADFAST AND BOB DAVIS ADVOCATED FOR THE NEW CHAMBER BUILDING COMPLETED IN 2008, LOCATED AT 101 S. THIRD STREET.
10TH ANNUAL INTERCITY LEADERSHIP 38 THE VISIT TO CINCINNATI USA BY LINDA BEASLEY , EXECUTIVE VP OF ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
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101 AT THE 101 - A TIMELINE OF THE CHAMBER’S HISTORY BY THE MARKETING TEAM & CONTRIBUTORS
ANNIVERSARIES 40 MILESTONE OF OUR MEMBERS CELEBRATING 50+ YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY BY THE MARKETING TEAM
PUBLIC POLICY
STATE OF SERIES WRAP-UP 46 ABYSUCCESSFUL SAMANTHA BAKER
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ABOUT RECENT ECONOMIC 48 LEARN DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY WITH ON THE MARKET MARKET REPORT TRAILBLAZING THE PATH TO ECONOMIC EXCELLENCE
MEMBERS NEWS IS EXCITED TO UPDATE YOU 62 CHAMBER ON LEAD AND LEADERSHIP WACO!
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2017 TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN WRAP-UP BY AMBER GREENWOOD
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NEWS GIVES AN UPDATE ON 64 MEMBER RECENT CHARITABLE WORK. MEMBERS ARE POPPING UP ALL OVER 66 NEW THE GREATER WACO AREA. MAKE SURE TO CHECK THEM OUT.
CUTTINGS PROVIDE A SNAPSHOT OF 68 RIBBON MEMBER BUSINESSES. CHAMBER CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS 70 THE EVENTS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.
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The following timeline demonstrates the impacts the Chamber has had, beginning with its predecessor organization, the Waco Business Men’s Club to the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce. Throughout our history, we have been dedicated to growing the local economy and showcasing Waco as the ideal location for all. 2017 marks 101 years of impacts as the Chamber. Today we continue to Develop, Grow & Thrive at 101 S. Third Street in Downtown Waco. 8 | WINTER 2017
1910: With the help of the Waco Chamber of
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Commerce, which was called the Waco Business Men’s Club at the time, the Texas Cotton Palace was rebuilt and established in 1910. The Cotton Palace was an exposition and entertainment center until the Great Depression. The memory of the Cotton Palace is now kept alive through the Cotton Palace Pageant, a 40-year tradition for the Waco community. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
April 10, 1911: Waco Prosperity Banquet Isidore Friedlander, president of the Waco Business Men’s Club, hosted the “Waco Prosperity Banquet.” The club was founded in 1909 and is regarded as the great-grandfather of today’s Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce. This gathering celebrated the growth of Waco from a small village to a city of some 20,000 people, the opening of the 22-story Amicable Life Insurance Company (ALICO) building, completion of the Santa Fe Train Connection and the boom of other industrial businesses. The event
spanned three city blocks with rows of wooden tables covered in linens, and folding chairs lining the street. The entire block of South Fifth Street and Austin Avenue was roped off for a dinner meal, with 2,000 guests in attendance and spectators pressed along both sides of the sidewalks. Bottles of Dr Pepper were served, as seen on the tables, accompanied with cigars. The event showcased the optimism and festive spirit Waco was experiencing in the early 1900s. WACOCHAMBER.COM
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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February 1920: The Waco Chamber began contemplating and planning for the “Greater Waco Movement.” This marketing campaign included an extensive and detailed industrial and civic survey, a production of various special information booklets for prospective industries, and a committee to assist the courting of prospects.
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July 27, 1916: The Texas Secretary of State approved a charter amendment changing the name of the Waco Business Men’s Club to the Waco Chamber of Commerce.
March 1920: As a result of the “Greater Waco Movement,” the Chamber board voted to appropriate $10,000 for land and construction of Waco’s first state institution, the State Home for Neglected and Dependent Children. In 1979, control of the Waco State Home transfered to the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (MHMR) and later reorganized into its present role, the Waco Center for Youth.
1917: The Chamber was instrumental in securing Camp MacArthur, a U.S. military training base, and Rich Field, a military air field in Waco.
7 1920s: The Publicity Department of the
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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Chamber advertised Waco to the furthest corners of the U.S. in newspapers including The New York Times, the Chicago Daily Tribune, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Detroit Free Press, Buffalo Courier, Indianapolis News, Pittsburgh Post and more.
Symphony. By 1945, the Symphony boasted an 80-member orchestra.
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1939: The Chamber helped organize the Waco
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January 1925: The Chamber helped return the Texas League, a group of minor league baseball teams, to Waco after its departure in 1918. The Waco Cubs played minor league ball at Katy Park from 1925-1930.
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The Great Depression: During the Great Depression, the Chamber was a liason between government and business encouraging New Deal projects across Central Texas.
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July 27, 1939: The Chamber’s publicity committee arranged a nod to Waco on the “Major Bowes Amateur Hour,” providing favorable national attention for Waco.
January 4, 1940: Owens-Illinois Glass
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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Company announced the establishment of a $1,000,000 factory, bringing nearly 700 jobs to Waco. Today, they manufacture over one billion beer bottles a year and continued to be a major local employer.
1938: M. Lipsitz & Co. became a member of the Chamber, making them one of the oldest concurrent members of the organization. Louis Lipsitz opened M. Lipsitz & Co, his small recycling operation in 1895 on Bridge Street, near the banks of the Brazos River in Waco. Similar to the company today, M. Lipsitz & Co. began buying and selling scrap copper, iron and brass. They joined the Waco Chamber of Commerce in 1938, making them one of the the oldest concurrent members of the organization. In 1933, Melvin Lipsitz Sr. joined his father, Louis Lipsitz, and together they relocated the business to the corner of Franklin Avenue and First Street in downtown Waco. Requiring more space, the operation eventually grew into its 20-acre headquarters at 100 Elm Street in Waco, Texas. The company has grown to 14 recycling operations and a waste hauling operation, with the primary office still located in Waco.
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August 1941: The Chamber secured
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
a $5,000,000 Army Air Corps Basic Flying School in Waco during World War II. This flight school trained cadets to fly twin-engine transports and bombers until 1945. In 1950 the airfield was given over to the city to operate as the Waco Municipal Airport, now Waco Regional Airport.
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During World War II the Chamber was instrumental in securing federal projects, including the largest National Youth Administration Project in Texas. Putting 1,000 boys to work. The Chamber also worked to secure a $6,000,000 Advanced Army Flying School, helping bring $20,000,000 in defense contracts to ten local plants including a $5,000,000 ordinance plant in McGregor.
1945: The Bluebonnet Ordnance Plant, a bombmaking factory during World War II, closed its doors. The Chamber helped transform the building into an agricultural research facility and manufacturing plant for household items, including furniture and stores for Texas A&M University.
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December 1945: The Chamber convinced the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Regional Office to stay in Waco.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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November 1944: General Tire and Rubber Co. Through the efforts of the Chamber, the General Tire and Rubber Co. opened its second U.S. location, a $5.5 million tire manufacturing plant, in Waco creating 1,500 jobs. It was hailed “one of the most important industrial developments in recent Texas history.� The Waco plant initially produced items like truck tires for the U.S. Army and Navy and other rubber-based equipment for wartime use in World War II. After the war ended, General Tire took nearly full control of the plant and began producing more consumer- and industrial-based products. After just 10 years of production, 12 | WINTER 2017
the Waco plant had doubled in size and was producing 6,000 passenger car, truck, tractor and farm-service tires. The Waco plant underwent a 40 percent expansion in production capacity in the 1950s and continued to experience massive growth and success over the next 30 years. In November of 1985, General Tire & Rubber Co. announced the closure of the Waco plant just one year after the 40th anniversary. The building that once housed General Tire & Rubber Co. main production is now the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC), developing and commercializing new industrial technologies.
1953: Heart O’ Texas Coliseum In the early 1950s, a group of business and agricultural leaders from McLennan County including Othel Neely, the Agricultural Program Leader at the Waco Chamber, sought permission from the city and the county to build a new agricultural and entertainment venue. City, county and Chamber officials were tasked with determining the size and scope of the project. Once the project was approved, the group began to set up the board, the bylaws and a charter. After voters in McLennan County approved a $1.2 million bond toward construction, the Heart O’ Texas Coliseum was developed. The fairgrounds were the largest of its kind, west of the Mississippi River, totaling 253 acres. The inaugural Heart of Texas (H.O.T.) Fair and Rodeo took place at the coliseum in 1953. The fair was an event to remember, with renowned rodeo producer Tommy Steiner overseeing popular rodeo events, a Texas wildlife display, fireworks, and a performance by Elvis Presley.
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1946: The Chamber sponsored a 10-day goodwill trip to Mexico City for the inaguration of new president Miguel Aleman. W.W. Collins, President of the Chamber of Commerce at that time, presented President Aleman with an invitation to attend the 100th anniversary of Waco’s founding. As a result of the trip, Mexican National Railways sent 36 locomotives to Waco for steam conversion and repair, spending $13,000 per engine.
20 August 1948: Chamber committees worked to reactivate the Waco Army Air Field, now known as the Connally Air Force Base, for primary and basic flight training.
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1949: The Chamber raises $100,000 from local businessmen to purchase the land for location of the Armstrong-Browning Library on the Baylor University campus. PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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1953 Tornado: During the aftermath of the devastating 1953 tornado, the Chamber served as the contact between the city, federal relief agencies and downtown property owners. The tornado changed the landscape of downtown.
February 1955: With the aid
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Foundation was born out of a meeting of the Waco Industrial Districts. The purpose of this chartered nonprofit, which was managed and promoted by the Chamber, was to provide industrial land at reasonable costs and secure financing for development within Waco’s industrial districts.
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of the Chamber, International Paper Company selected Waco as its new location for a manufacturing plant.
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February 26, 1958: The Waco Industrial
24 1955: Lake Waco Dam Chamber leaders Jack Kultgen and Harlon Fentress met with key military and congressional leaders a total of 35 times in Washington to push for an addition to the Lake Waco dam, originally built in 1929. With the help of Texas native and then Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, Kultgen and Fentress testified before a U.S. House Flood Control Committee on the need of better flood control for Lake Waco. The men warned that if the federal government did not act quickly, Waco would be forced to build a second lake upstream from Lake Waco for additional 2017 14 | WINTER 2016
water supply, which would cause problems with the corps’ flood control efforts. That same year, Congress authorized $100,000 for planning the dam. In July of 1958, Lyndon B. Johnson arrived in Waco to break ground on the Lake Waco project, which was completed in June of 1965.
Baylor Waco Foundation was established by the Chamber and other downtown professionals to connect the city of Waco with Baylor students. The goal was to raise funds to enhance the quality of life of Central Texas.
1959: A Chamber task
suggested the 28 force building of a convention
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
center. A Convention committee was created with the objective to bring conventions to Waco to expand and enhance hotel and motel facilities in the immediate area of the convention center.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MCLENNAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE.
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December 3, 1959: The
1962: The Chamber’s Education Committee obtained signatures to back the formation of a new junior college. Under the leadership of Chamber president and local editor Harry Provence, the Chamber gave a steering committee $1,000 to work toward drumming up public support for the junior college, now McLennan Community College, which was completed in 1965.
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February 21, 1963: Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson and General Bernard Schriever arrived in Waco for the 63rd Dinner of the Waco Chamber of Commerce to speak on the “New Horizons of the Space Age” Waco was recognized as a potential participant in space activities at the American Rocket Society.
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1961: Paul Marable, CEO of the Waco Chamber of Commerce and Joe Ward, former Waco Mayor and Chairman of the Chamber, created a biracial committee called the Progressive Community Council. The council submitted a list of things needed to advance civil rights in Waco. The first item on the list was integration of lunch counters in downtown Waco, which was accomplished within the first month. Integrating jobs was another key priority the committee accomplished. It was “friendly, respectful, and no outbursts — just intelligent people that met jointly to see integration in Waco.” according to Wilton Lanning. This was a major achievement and there were NO sit-ins in Waco!
1964: Fort Fisher
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Over 130 years after the building of Fort Fisher, the Chamber pushed for the site to be developed into a tourist destination along with the newly arrived Interstate 35 through Waco. The Chamber’s Publicity Committee considered various possibilities for a roadside attraction. In 1963, local businessman James R. LeBlond offered the idea of a fresh, revived Fort Fisher that would serve as a multipurpose facility with space for a tourist center, the headquarters of Texas Rangers Company F and a small museum to house Texas Ranger memorabilia. A Fort Fisher Committee was developed by the Chamber, and after several years of work, the Waco City Council approved the Fort Fisher project construction in 1967. The “new Fort Fisher,” known today as the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, was dedicated in October of 1968. WACOCHAMBER.COM
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March 10, 1966: The Industrial Department of the Chamber released the a series of advertisements in a national campaign to promote Waco as an ideal site for industry. The theme “Yes, We Like Waco!” was brought to life with quotes from the heads of local industries and the reasons they favored Waco as a site for their businesses.
1965: The Texas State Technical Institute (TSTI) opened its doors. Upon learning of the impending closure of the James Connally Air Force Base, the Chamber immediately began working on a plan for the site. Out of a special committee from the Chamber, with membership of Congressman Bob Poage, Murray Watson and John Connally, the idea of Texas State Technical Institute was born. Now, Texas State Technical College, the college is a key asset to Waco.
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January 1970: The Mid-Tex Farm and Ranch Show debuted as a place for farmers across Texas, and beyond, to congregate and share new techonology and techniques.
1971: The Chamber moved
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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1966: Building upon its focus in 1959 to attract more conventions and shoppers the downtown area, the Chamber developed the ALICO Center Inn. The ALICO Center Inn featured 115 rooms for overnight guests and a second-floor meeting room that seated 250 people banquet-style or 1,0001,200 people auditorium-style.
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retail council coordinated an intensive campaign to promote Waco as a shopping destination in Central Texas, more than $5,000 in advertising space and time contributed by newspapers, radio and television partners.
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into new quarters adjacent to the Waco Convention Center, where the Hilton Waco currently sits. This building was made possible by a large urban renewal project for the Waco area.
1972: Interstate 35
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In the 1930s, the primary route between Waco and Temple was U.S. Highway 81 and those driving from Waco to Dallas used U.S. 77. In 1957, the first part of the new Interstate 35 was a four-lane stretch from the Falls County line to Temple. In 1958, interstate construction began within Waco and the project was completed in October of 1972. In Waco, Interstate 35 and the access roads are named “Jack Kultgen Expressway” in honor of Wacoan J.H. “Jack” Kultgen. He was instrumental in many city affairs, from fighting for the building of the Lake Waco Dam to leading the Texas Good Roads Association. The Chamber of Commerce’s involvement in the completion of I-35 is, in large part, thanks to former board members John H. Kultgen, Harry Provence and Harlon Fentress. Their efforts helped plan, design and construct the network of highway facilities. The network of highway facilities ensuring Waco’s continued future as a hub of economic activity.
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The Waco Chamber receives accreditation by the Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America.
1972: Time Manufacturing, with the help of the Chamber of Commerce, relocated its business to Waco with just over a dozen employees. Today, Time Manufacturing employs over 400 employees and has 300,000 square feet at its Waco plant, as well as, international operations.
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November 9, 1973:
December 1975: At a Chamber board meeting, a motion passed changing the name to “Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce,” reflecting the wide area the Chamber served.
July 1974: The Chamber began publishing a tourist-oriented magazine called, “Waco Happenings.” The periodical was published six times a year with 20,000 copies printed each time. It was distributed to all local hotel rooms, the airport, Convention Center and Fort Fisher. WACOCHAMBER.COM
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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May 11, 1979: The Chamber unveiled a new city slogan, “Wake Up to Waco,” as a positive, forward-looking phrase to capture the excitement about the future of the area.
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1979: The Chamber’s transportation committee saw the completion of New Road and Loop 340. These discussions began in 1969 between the Transportation Division Chairman and the Beverly Hills City Council.
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1981: 400,000 brochures touting Waco as “A Texas Adventure” were distributed around the state and country as part of a Chamber marketing campaign.
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Groundbreaking for the Levi Strauss distribution center.
1975: Paul Marable lead the Chamber in the major announcement of the new M&M Mars Candy Manufacturer coming to Waco. With the arrival of Mars, many other companies followed, including Seville Flexpack (1986) and Fallas Automation (1979).
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49 February 1982: The National Supply Company announced the establishment of a mobile oil rig manufacturing business at a news conference held at the Chamber.
1982:
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The Chamber’s community development committee developed the “All About Waco” gameboard to promote the area and local businesses.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS COLLECTION AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
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May 1982: The Chamber’s crime and law committee introduced “Earn It,” a program that partners the business community and court system in a probation service.
April 25, 1985: Second Prosperity Banquet The Chamber hosted the second Prosperity Banquet with host Bob Hope, celebrating 100 years of Dr Pepper in Waco. The celebration was organized by the Waco Chamber of Commerce and Dr Pepper Corporation. The re-creation of the 1911 Prosperity Banquet was enjoyed by 2,050 attendees. Bob Hope produced a steady stream of one-liners throughout the evening and sang a few of his favorite songs. At the conclusion of the night, he was presented with a Dr Pepper hat by Alton Pearson, chairman of the Board for the Chamber of Commerce, and Foots Clement, Chairman of the board for Dr Pepper. Mr. Hope stayed the night in Waco and traveled to and from Waco on a private jet.
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55 1985: In partnership with
54 52 1984: Leadership Waco was launched to identify, develop and encourage potential leaders from within the Waco community.
September 1985: Electrospace Systems, Inc. began operations in its Waco facility located at the TSTC Waco Industrial Airport. The Chamber saw Electrospace Systems through a name change to Chrystler Technologies Airborne Systems, Inc., a purchase by Raytheon, and finally a purchase to current day L-3 Technologies.
the City of Waco and Baylor University, the Chamber rolled out a $1.2 million fiveyear marketing commitment that invested in the future of Waco. This campaign was designed to help fill up the Texas Central Industrial District.
1988: The Chamber
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began hosting the Business Showcase to give local businesses an opportunity to exhibit goods and services in an atmosphere that encouraged interaction between local business representatives.
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58 1988: After negotiations with Chamber and city officials, Allergan selected Waco as the site of its new manufacturing plant. Allergan spoke highly of Waco’s quality workforce, central location and posititive business environment as key influences in the decision.
August 8, 1989: The first annual Football Kick-Off Luncheon was held at the Lion’s Den. Since its start, the Football Kick-Off Luncheon has been a community-wide effort to generate excitement for the upcoming sport seasons. Special guest speakers over the years have included Gary Baxter, Charles Davis, Bill Hancock, Bobby Bowden, Charlie Ward, Trey Wingo, Brad Sham, R.C. Slocum, Gene Stallings, Drew Pearson and Grant Teaff.
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1991: The Chamber staff helped recruit the Texas/New Mexico Junior College Basketball tournament to Waco. This event brought in many visitors from out of town, providing great recognition for Waco.
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April 16, 1993: The Texas Sports Hall of Fame opened its doors thanks to the Chamber and other prominent leaders in the area.
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60 May 11, 1991: Dr Pepper Museum
August 1990: The
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Sherwin Williams Distribution Center opened its doors in Waco through the efforts of community leaders, city management, Waco Industrial Foundation and the Economic Development Department of the Chamber.
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Dr Pepper Company donated the historic building to the nonprofit organization in 1988. Renovation began in the summer of 1990. The building formally opened to the public on May 11, 1991. At that time, only a small portion of the ground level was open to the public. During the next six years, the museum embarked on three additional construction phases until the entire building was restored and opened in May 1997. Located at the corner of Fifth Street and Mary Avenue in the turn of the century manufacturing district, the vacant bottling plant was in a sad state of repair in a neighborhood comprised mostly of abandoned warehouses that were officially declared as “blighted” by the city. The Waco Chamber of Commerce and the City of Waco hoped that the Museum would be a catalyst for renewed energy and growth in the area, with the potential for restaurants and shops in the old warehouses down the street similar to the “West End” district in Dallas. Wilton Lanning spearheaded a task force to create the museum. The museum is home to the W. W. Clements Free Enterprise Institute. The institute was created in 1997 for the purpose of educating school children as well as adults about the economic system that underlies American life. The program uses the soft drink industry as a model to teach students about developing, producing and marketing products. An exhibit about the life of W.W. Clements and his philosophy of life, free enterprise and business ethics opened in 2008 on the third floor of the Museum.
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1995: The Big 12 Task Force,
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an idea started at a Chamber board retreat, became a reality as Baylor joined the Big 12. This committee met in conjunction with the City of Waco and Baylor with the goal of gaining community support for the Big 12.
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1997: The Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation was established with help from city and county officials, the Waco Industrial Foundation and the Chamber for the recruitment of industrial business and jobs to the region.
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1998: The Chamber adopted a new mission statement: “To enhance Greater Waco as a center of economic excellence and the community of choice.”
January 1996: The Chamber hosted its first job fair, which drew a crowd of over 1,800 job seekers from across the state.
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1998: The Chamber and city and county officials secured a deal with Caterpillar to construct a new manufacturing plant in Waco.
January 1996: Teen Leadership Waco was launched as a collaborative effort between the Tejas Council of Camp Fire Boys and Girls, the Chamber’s Leadership Waco Alumni Association and McLennan Community College.
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1999: Following the purchase of Plantation Foods by Cargill, Inc., Pilgrim’s Pride landed in Waco. The company purchased a production plant from the Cargill complex. The Chamber has assisted both companies with expansions since that time.
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1996: The Chamber made its online debut at waco-chamber.com.
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1996: The Chamber’s sports committee launched the Tip Off Luncheon, an annual community celebration and preview of the upcoming basketball seasons across high school and college campuses. Previous speakers have included Fran Fraschilla, Carolyn Peck, Carroll Dawson, Shelby Metcalf, Bob Knight, Van Chancellor, Leon Barmore, Kim Mulkey and Marion Jones.
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1998: The inaugural Starburst Junior Golf Classic kicked off.
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2000: The First Pitch Luncheon launched to rally the community for baseball season. Prior speakers have included the “voice of the Houston Astros” Bill Brown, Kellie Fischer, Dr. Bobby Brown, Larry Dierker, Jeff Cogen, Jim Sundberg, Nolan Ryan and David Murphy.
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April 2001: The Chamber and the City of Waco announced the designation of Foreign Trade Zone No. 246, a 400-acre space providing existing and future businesses the advantages in international trade and distribution.
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2003: The SpaceX McGregor site began testing rocket engines for spacecraft with just three employees. Now, each engine that SpaceX produces passes through this 4,000-acre facility.
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2005: The Waco Young Professionals group was founded as part of the Chamber with the goal of making Waco a “magnet for talent.”
78 2005: The Chamber identified 10 breakthrough opportunities which comprised the 2005 Program of Action, a precursor to the Challenge Greater Waco Strategic Plan.
73 February 16-18, 2000: The Chamber hosted the Mega Business & Industry Technology Expo (BITE) Business Forum, which was designed to provide an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue and interactions reguarding technology. Waco was ranked 24th out of 50 U.S. cities showing the fastest growing technology economy for the years 1990-1998.
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The 2005-2006 school year saw the launch of the Chamber’s LEAD mentoring program. The initial class was small, with just one mentor in one school with five students. In the most recent school year, LEAD had 97 mentors at six schools with 197 students. More than 260 students have graduated through the program since its founding. LEAD has also awarded $221,500 in scholarships to 41 students since 2010.
2006: L-3 Communications announced the construction of a new hangar on its facility adding 400 jobs.
2005: The Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign launched and has raised over $13.4 million over the past 13 years. Annually, over 140 volunteers come together for three months to enlist new members and generate programs, publications and event sponsorships to raise awareness of the Chamber throughout the region. It contributes nearly a third of the Chamber’s annual operating budget.
84 January 2006: The Chamber and the Waco Industrial Foundation prepared a site for Sanderson Farms Inc., a project valued at $70 million and the creation of 1,290 new jobs.
2007: The Chamber and other Waco leaders participated in the first intercity visit to Chattanooga, Tennessee.
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the interests 83 represented of its members and citizens for clean air and future development by successfully opposing the construction of nine pulverized coal plants within 50 miles of Waco, including four in McLennan County.
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2007: The Chamber established an aggressive goal of directly contributing $1 billion in new project announcements over the next 10 years. By 2015, the Chamber had announced $1,059,945,062 in new projects. This figure grew to over $1.3 billion by 2017.
June 6, 2008:
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February 2007: The Chamber launched wacoprospector.com as a result of the Challenge Greater Waco Campaign. This tool combines McLennan County and City of Waco GIS systems, U.S. Census data and a Claritas business database to provide aerials, traffic counts and statistics on the area’s commercial properties.
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The Chamber opened its new building, the Salome Commerce Center, which is the first LEED-certified green chamber building in the nation. The building features an impressive collection of local and regional art, made possible through the generosity of past Chamber chairs and other arts advocates. The two-story, 13,916-square-foot building, made possible by the Challenge Greater Waco Campaign, is owned by the Waco Chamber of Commerce Community Development Foundation. The Chamber’s sustainable site was made possible by the city of Waco. The building is designed to accommodate the scores of committees and task forces that advance the organization comprehensive economic, community and organization development agenda. As the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified building in Central Texas, the Waco Chamber LEED certification emphasizes state-of-the-art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. The building is a significant gathering place for business and community leaders. The two largest of the building’s five conference rooms are accessible to Heritage Square. The interior is designed to be as impressive as the exterior of the building. The gallery is an open space where renderings and models of future development will showcase the changing look of the community. A sweeping staircase connects the first and second floors, and a skylight brings light into the interior of the building. PHOTOS BY JOE GRIFFIN / COURTESY OF CHAMBER COLLECTION
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July 27, 2009: 1000 Friends of Waco launched as an initiative to mobilize volunteers in the development of the Greater Waco Downtown Master Plan and Economic Development Strategy. The plan later became the Imagine Waco Strategy.
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91 2008: The Chamber
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collaborated with the Waco McLennan County Economic Development Corporation, the City of Waco, McLennan County and the Waco Industrial Foundation to support Waco Coca-Cola Bottling in securing a new location for its sales and distribution center after damages from a tornado in 2006 caused them to seek new facility options.
2009: In partnership with the City of Waco’s cable channel WCCC, the Chamber launched “Chamber Connection,” a television program to highlight economic development efforts and initiatives.
2010: The Chamber received Honorable Mention for Excellence in Economic Development for its Business Retention and Expansion Program from the International Economic Development Council. The honor recognized the efforts of the Chamber in creating positive change in the community.
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2013: The Baylor
92 January 20, 2009: The Chamber assisted the White House Travel Office in organizing the homecoming of President George W. Bush. Over 3,000 people gathered at the Texas State Technical College Airport to see the president on his last day in office.
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95 2009: The Chamber, with support from
former Waco mayor Virginia Dupuy, Sports and Special Events formalized the Education Alliance. The alliance’s mission was “to develop team kicked off the first annual TriWaco Triathlon. an understanding that the entire community shares responsibility for educating every citizen.”
2009: The Chamber’s
Research and Innovation collaborative was completed in 300,000 square feet of the old General Tire facility. The BRIC space is appointed for laboratories, prototyping and testing, offices and workspace, workforce training, business formation and development opportunities, and symposium halls. The Chamber was a funding stakeholder in BRIC.
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2013: The Chamber established thInc Space, an incubator for creative start-ups, that initiated the entrepreneurial focus in the Chamber.
2014: The Sports Luncheon Series Scholarships were created.
April 25, 2016: Through the efforts of the
Waco Chamber, the local Allergan facility, 100 Greater and public officials, Allergan announced ground on a $200 million expansion to its Waco facility, adding approximately 100 full-time jobs.
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2017: Cypress Creek, in
2013: The McLennan County Chamber Alliance was founded. Representatives of the Alliance meet on a regular basis to discuss issues of common interest and importance and move to address these issues and opportunities in a coordinated and collaborative manner.
2015: The Chamber’s Sports and Special Events team created The Texas Food Truck Showdown, the first event of its kind in Texas. This unique event far exceeded goals, with 35 food trucks traveling to Waco from all over the state to compete while serving upwards of 15,000 people.
partnership with McLennan County and the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, announced a $13 million solar farm project in McLennan County. The farm is projected to be up and running mid-year 2018. When it is completed it will generate enough power to support the energy needs of 1,000 homes annually.
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ABOUT THE COVER: This quarter’s cover image features Wacoans Bob Davis and Tom Salome, both of whom played integral roles in the building of the current Chamber facility. Photo by Mark Randolph
Bob Davis has been an active voice in the Waco
Tom Salome has been a steadfast supporter of
community and a staunch supporter of the Waco Chamber for many years. When the Chamber decided to build a new structure in downtown Waco, Davis stepped up and took on the role of chair of the building committee. He, along with Tom Salome and Jim Vaughan, secured donations from 100 local businesses and organizations equaling $7.5 million dollars for the Challenge Greater Waco Capital Campaign, part of which helped fund the new Chamber building. Davis has previously served as the president of the Waco Industrial Foundation and continues to support the economic growth of Waco.
greater Waco business interests for over 50 years. Salome served as chairman of the Challenge Greater Waco Capital Campaign, which raised $7.5 million, part of which helped fund the new Chamber structure. Salome was the lead donor for the campaign, and his generosity resulted in naming the new Chamber building the “Salome Commerce Center” in his honor. Salome has held leadership roles or raised funds for many other institutional boards, including the Waco Industrial Foundation, Baylor/Waco Foundation, Dr Pepper Museum, Salvation Army, Waco Business League, Texas First State Bank and more.
THANK YOU to all who contributed to the collection of information
in our timeline. Special thanks to Geoff Hunt and the Texas Collection at Baylor University, WacoHistory.org, the City of Waco, Lexy Bishop, Wilton Lanning, Larry Holze, Jim Vaughan, Virginia DuPuy, Stewart R. Kelly, Terry Stevens, and Mark Reynolds. We could not have put this timeline together without the knowledge, feedback and experience from each of you!
INTERESTED IN AN ADVERTISING SEE PAGES 33 - 36 INSERT?
Please contact Autumn Outlaw (254) 757-5603 • aoutlaw@wacochamber.com 26 | WINTER 2017
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The Chamber raises $1,368,639 in its thirteenth annual Total Resource Campaign Over 150 volunteers from numerous member companies raised the funds through a theme-inspired campaign promoting the Chamber’s products. These products included program, event and publication sponsorships, economic development, budgetreduction trade items, board of advisors, selected membership renewals and new members. The TRC campaign kicks off in April and goes through the end of August annually. The volunteers meet weekly to celebrate incremental success! 28 | WINTER 2017
CAMPAIGN TOTAL: $1,327,794 CAMPAIGN GOAL: $1,300,000
S U M M A RY R E S U LT S Board of Advisors New Memberships Member Renewals Direct Budget Reduction Trades Publication Sponsorships Program & Event Sponsorships
$10,938 $29,314 $222,588 $104,073 $196,253 $805,473
WOW!
g this year’s Total Resource That’s a short phase I’ve used many times durin outpouring of support for the Greater Campaign (TRC). Each year, I am amazed by the tion, and I am proud to say you all Waco Chamber of Commerce. This year is no excep a Greater Waco. have hit the jackpot again by going ALL IN for nt increase over 2016. g events, programs and publications… a 7.2 perce • WOW to 297 Chamber businesses sponsorin ber has to offer. ber and participating in the programs your Cham • WOW to 61 new members joining the Cham Chamber of Commerce bers who spent 15 weeks telling the story of your • WOW to the over 100 dedicated team mem across this great city. campaign. Your great volunteers to the Chamber for the annual • WOW to the business leaders who loaned these commitment is amazing. ,000. Standing ovation committee this year and raised an incredible $183 • WOW to the 33 rookies who joined the TRC for this group. and events for our ber staff who annually provide over 175 programs Cham ated dedic and king -wor hard a to WOW • . and involve all facets of our business community membership and our community that engage members, manages nine almost 70 different types of publications for its • WOW to the fact that your Chamber creates daily through social media. different websites and pushes out information public and private leads our thriving growth and partners with our • WOW to the Economic Development team that provides. leaders to enhance the opportunities Greater Waco $1,368,639 raised during this year’s TRC Campaign. • And last, but certainly not least, WOW to the WOW and DOUBLE WOW! d. She leads us with starts with our fearless leader, Amber Greenwoo A great team achieved this accomplishment. It undoubtedly the best. ful parenting when we need a little push. She is encouragement when we need it and a little force Sam Brown and Loren devote much time and coaching. Nancy Gupton, Our teams were led by fantastic Vice Chairs, who Schwartz, you guys rock. Your advice and leader for 2018. Thanks for what you did this year. And last, but not least, to Chuck Sivess, our bold rship in TRC 2018. leade your I will remember forever. We look forward to continued encouragement made this year one who we have had in times we are experiencing today, but for those We in Waco are so fortunate; not only for the great t our history who guided nate because we’ve had great leaders throughou the past and those that are to come. We are fortu developing a younger ing on the present. We are lucky because we are us with vision and eye for the future, not just focus r. I encourage you to take will challenge the vision and only make it bette and ved invol be to want who rs leade of p grou prepare and market ber and guide us to great things as we envision, your place at the table. Get involved in your Cham life. future and an outstanding quality of Greater Waco for the businesses and jobs of the it up in ort of the 2017 Total Resource Campaign. I sum Thanks again for the opportunity and your supp one word…….WOW!
Hal Whitaker 2017 Total Resource Campaign Chair WACOCHAMBER.COM
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CAMPAIGN PRODUCTION & STRUCTURE 2017 Campaign Chair – Hal Whitaker, Englander DzignPak, LLC, 2017 Chamber Chair-Elect – Chuck Sivess, American Guaranty Title 2017 Campaign Vice Chairs: Nancy Gupton – American Guaranty Title Loren Schwartz – Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Sam Brown – Extraco Banks
PAST CAMPAIGN RESULTS & LEADERSHIP
YEAR TRC A M O U N T C A M PA I G N G OA L RAISED CHAIR 2005 $250,000 $499,061 David Lacy, Community Bank and Trust 2006 $500,000 $640,499 David Lacy, Community Bank and Trust 2007 $650,000 $729,940 Terry Stevens, First American Title Co. of Waco 2008 $750,000 $849,168 Stewart Kelly, Kelly, Realtors 2009 $850,000 $943,623 Scott Felton, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 2010 $950,000 $1,081,132 Debbie Keel, AT&T 2011 $1,100,000 $1,137,411 Jim Haller, First National Bank of Central Texas 2012 $1,150,000 $1,182,546 Mark Reynolds, Extraco Banks 2013 $1,200,000 $1,238,643 Mike Reitmeier, Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd and Therrell, P.C. 2014 $1,250,000 $1,268,163 Glenn Robinson, Baylor Scott and White Medical Center – Hillcrest 2015 $1,275,000 $1,296,529 Ted Teague, Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram 2016 $1,300,000 $1,327,794 Ed Page, H-E-B
TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED IN 13 YEARS: $13,563,148 TOP INDIVIDUAL PRODUCERS
Jim Haller, First National Bank of Central Texas $110,044 Baylor Team Sales, $74,737 Peggy Jezek, Hilton Waco $73,749 Loren Schwartz, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management $55,885 American Guaranty Title Team Sales, $54,389
TOP TEAMS
1. First National Bank of Central Texas $203,608 2. Vogel Financial Group $201,473 3. H-E-B, $106,107 4. Extraco Banks, $98,157 5. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, $95,738 30 | WINTER 2017
24 TEAMS: American Bank American Guaranty Title ATMOS Energy Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest Baylor University Brazos Higher Education Service Corporation Community Bank & Trust Extraco Banks First National Bank of Central Texas First Title Company of Waco H-E-B Insurors of Texas Jaynes, Reitmeier, Boyd & Therrell, P.C. Kelly, Realtors Merrill Lynch Wealth Management National United Oak Farms Dairy Pattillo, Brown & Hill, L.L.P. Providence Healthcare Network Talexes Trane Vogel Financial Group Waco Tribune-Herald Wells Fargo Bank Texas, N.A.
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GOLD LEVEL SPONSORS CAMPAIGN GIFTS & DONORS 1519 Surveying • Engineering • GIS Allstate Insurance/David Wilson/Marshall Potts Andrews CPA, PLLC Balcones Distilling Baris Restaurant Barrett Thomas (Blanchard & Thomas, LLP) Baylor University Beard Kultgen Brophy Bostwick & Dickson, LLP Bloomingal’s Christian Brothers Automotive - Woodway Clay Pot Common Grounds Dogtopia edible arrangements Exodus HR, LLC Fazoli’s Freddie Kish’s Complete Car Care Center George’s Restaurant & Catering Gourmet Gallery, LLC Heart of Texas Goodwill Industries H-E-B Hilton Waco Home 2 Suites Waco by Hilton Live Oak Acupuncture and Wellness Center Locals Love Us Massage Envy of Waco Patrick Industries, Inc. Polyglass USA, Inc Poppa Rollo’s Pizza, Inc. Pura Vida Paddle, LLC Raising Cane’s-Downtown Location Red Lobster Reed’s Flowers Salon 2121 Salty Dog Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shop Sironia, Inc. Spice Village... A Collection of Shops! Springhill Suites By Marriott Swan Products LLC SweeTXpressions Teresa Schilling (Beard Kultgen Brophy Bostwick & Dickson, LLP) The Egg & I Vogel Texas Moxie 32 | WINTER 2017
CAMPAIGN T-SHIRT SPONSORS
CAMPAIGN EVENT SPONSORS
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2017 INTERCITY LEADERSHIP VISIT –
by Linda Beasley, Executive Vice President Organizational Development
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he Greater Waco Chamber hosted its 10th Annual InterCity Leadership Visit to Cincinnati USA in September. The purpose of these visits is to expose Greater Waco leaders to innovative communities and economic development ideas, programs, initiatives and best practices which may be adopted and implemented in the Greater Waco area, and to engage in high-level networking among community leaders. As with all of our InterCity Leadership Visits, the trip to this economic, progressive, re-invented city provided the 29 participants with an opportunity to learn from Cincinnati leaders. Attendees explored some of the city’s most innovative and unique assets. You may ask, “What’s new in Cincinnati?” These days, it’s more like what’s not new! Cincinnati USA is experiencing an exciting renaissance. There is a convergence of new developments, projects and convention wins taking shape that collectively make Cincinnati one of the most progressive, gamechanging cities in the region. Cincinnati experienced a similar boom in 2003, when the Reds and Bengals Stadiums, the National Underground Railroad, Duke Energy Center and the Freedom Square emerged on the banks of the Ohio River. However, this latest surge of activity is far more exciting. The Waco group was able to see and learn about these new innovative transformations that are changing the Cincinnati landscape. Cincinnati has received notable accolades 38 | WINTER 2017
in recent years, which include being named “One of the 100 Best Cities to Live,” by USA Today; “Best Cities for Young People,” in 2017 by Forbes; and “2016 HOTBED for Entrepreneurial Growth,” by Forbes. As new construction and project growth continues throughout Greater Waco, particularly in downtown and the Brazos Riverfront, the visit to Cincinnati built confidence with community leaders. It demonstrated that Greater Waco is focused on growing our economy, promoting quality of life and building the workforce.
The primary focuses of the trip were Cincinnati’s vibrant riverfront developments, revitalized and re-invented downtown neighborhoods and economic and entrepreneurial development. The Waco delegation met with leaders from the Cincinnati Chamber, the mayor, the Regional Economic Development Corporation and members of the creative community. The group toured the new riverfront development “The Banks” and the re-invented “Over the Rhine” downtown neighborhood
development. They met with leaders about talent initiatives and the entrepreneurial ecosystem that flourishes in Cincinnati, with many co-working spaces, incubators and accelerators within StartupCincy. The Queen City was one of five metros that experienced the most significant positive shifts in rank from 2015 to 2016, according to the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurship, the first and largest index tracking entrepreneurship across the city, state and national levels. Just over five years ago, downtown neighborhood “Over the Rhine” had been the site of civil unrest and in 2001 was named one of the most dangerous areas in the United States. Its transformation seemingly happened overnight, turning a dangerous, rundown neighborhood into something that looks like Greenwich Village. Leaning on the power of local corporations, officials formed a nonprofit called 3CDC to engineer a renaissance in the heart of the city. The InterCity Leadership Visits are designed to expose Waco leaders to innovative ideas, programs and best practices across the country, and our visit to Cincinnati did just that in many ways. Greater Waco is on a hot streak and is building the confidence, resulting in new local investments. The energy is creating momentum as people from outside the marketplace recognize Waco as an excellent opportunity and a great city. n
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MILESTONES Waco is an up-and-coming city, with new businesses popping up every day. However, there are a few local businesses that have invested in and stayed rooted in Waco for decades, some for over a century. The loyalty of these businesses to the Waco community is reflected in the loyalty of the community
to the businesses — these milestone anniversaries could not have been achieved without continuous support from the community. The businesses included in this list also provide support to the Chamber of Commerce through their memberships and support.
Englander Container Co. C E L E B R AT I N G 5 0 Y E A R S , 19 67-2017 In 1967, Louie Englander saw a need in Central Texas for shipping boxes and founded Englander Container in Waco. Louie created a customer-centric company but later recognized the need for a strong workforce and thriving community to best achieve his goals. Putting customers first, taking care of his employees and giving back to the community are the foundation of Englander dZignPak. These principles fueled growth in Waco, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio and Bentonville, Arkansas over the past 50 years. EDZP is proud to support these communities along with the company’s 150 employees and families.
Meals on Wheels C E L E B R AT I N G 5 0 Y E A R S , 19 67-2017 Meals on Wheels Waco is the primary provider of nutrition services for the elderly in the City of Waco, and Falls, Hill and McLennan counties. They administer Meals on Wheels for the homebound elderly, provide lunches for Senior Centers and operate a transit program in McLennan County. Originally, the agency served 11 homebound clients and 12 volunteers cooked and delivered meals three days a week with a budget of $350. Today, meals are prepared in the Waco Senior Nutrition Kitchen, and Meals on Wheels has more than 1,000 volunteers, serves more than 1,600 clients, has a budget of $2,410,988 and serves more than 220,000 lunches a year.
Waco Memorial Park C E L E B R AT I N G 70 Y E A R S , 19 47-2017
Tejas Logistics System C E L E B R AT I N G 115 Y E A R S , 19 02 -2017 Tejas Logistics System has been part of the Waco Community since 1902. What began as a cotton-compress and warehouse moved into 3rd Party Logistics in 1972 and has since worked closely with both local and international businesses. In 1995, Tejas expanded into providing trucking services for the Central Texas area. After 115 years of serving the greater Heart of Texas region, Tejas is going strong and is looking forward to the years to come.
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Waco Memorial Park was founded in 1947 by men of outstanding vision whose purpose was to create a nonsectarian cemetery to be perpetuated as a memorial park. From the beginning, their ideas met the approval of families who saw Waco Memorial Park as a place where those who pass on may rest in an environment of dignity and peace. Waco Memorial Park is the only cemetery in the area that has perpetual care established under the State of Texas Department of Banking. Waco Memorial is soon to be the only funeral home and cemetery combination in the area with a new funeral home being constructed right on the cemetery property.
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Naman Howell Smith & Lee, PLLC C E L E B R AT I N G 10 0 Y E A R S , 1917-2017 Founded in 1917 in Waco, Texas, the law firm of Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, PLLC is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The firm has grown to the 44th largest law firm in Texas with offices in Waco, Austin, Fort Worth and San Antonio. Supported by pride in its storied heritage and its distinctive commitment to providing individualized legal assistance to its clients, the firm offers legal services in litigation, business, estate planning, telecommunications, tax, real estate, oil and gas, banking, tax exempt financing, intellectual property, state agency law, labor and employment, family law, agricultural law, and representation of governmental entities.
Pictured: ESC Region 12 Staff & 50th Luncheon Guests
Education Service Center Region 12 C E L E B R AT I N G 5 0 Y E A R S , 19 67-2017 Education Service Center (ESC) Region 12 is celebrating 50 years of supporting educators and school personnel to increase student achievement. The center provides professional development and services to help schools leverage resources and direct more money to the classroom. Whether it is on training, temporary staffing or resources, ESC staff is passionate about helping schools of all sizes ensure an equitable education for every student and maintain efficient and economical operations. The ESC is located at Bagby and Highway 6, and has 200 employees and serves 76 school districts and 12 charter schools in the 12-county area surrounding Waco. The center attracts 30,000 participants to Waco annually.
Extraco Banks C E L E B R AT I N G 115 Y E A R S , 19 02 -2017 Extraco Banks celebrated 115 years and three generations of family management on July 12, 2017. Founded as a cotton warehousing company, Extraco is the largest and most comprehensive independent financial institution headquartered in central Texas with $1.4 billion in assets, $150 million in capital and reserves, and over 145,000 customers. Extraco stands for Exporters, Traders, and Compress. Today, Extraco provides individuals and businesses with financial expertise in banking, investments and insurance to guide them through better money management while growing and protecting their assets. As a community bank, Extraco is dedicated to the community, helping individuals and businesses alike build their dreams. Extraco plays an active role in supporting nonprofit organizations through numerous community leadership hours, employee volunteer hours and charitable donations. Extraco’s 15 financial centers are located in Belton, Bryan/College Station, Copperas Cove, Gatesville, Georgetown, Hamilton, Harker Heights, Killeen, McGregor, Temple, and Waco. 42 | WINTER 2017
Caritas of Waco C E L E B R AT I N G 5 0 Y E A R S , 19 67-2017 Established in 1967 as a food pantry, Caritas of Waco has grown into a multi-faceted organization, providing emergency food relief as well as other urgent services. Caritas also has a very successful Case Management program designed to work with clients and provide them with resources to become self-sufficient. Caritas serves individuals from all walks of life – from those who have experienced multi-generational poverty to those who have been affected by catastrophic events such as job loss. Caritas offers these vital services to the Waco community while also providing trained employees to area businesses. Visit our website at www.caritas-waco.org to learn more about Caritas of Waco.
Darden Building Materials C E L E B R AT I N G 125 Y E A R S , 18 92 -2017 Founded in Waco, Texas in 1892, Darden Building Materials has served the city of Waco and Central Texas with a reputation of dedication and quality customer service for 125 years. Family owned and operated for three generations, Darden Building Materials has continued its commitment to excellence and is a proud member of the National Home Builders Association, the Heart of Texas Home Builders Association, the Association of General Contractors and the Baylor Bear Foundation. Waco has experienced great growth and development over the years and Darden Building Materials is pleased to have filled the role as a supplier of commercial and home building materials during this period of expansion.
Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse C E L E B R AT I N G 55 Y E A R S , 19 62 -2017 Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse is Waco’s oldest steakhouse. Originally opened in 1962 by Charlie and Irene Mueller, the restaurant was sold to Bobby and Rene Uptmor in the 1980s. The restaurant was recently passed on to current owners and native Wacoans Josh Hale and Scott Studer. Lone Star is a one-ofa-kind place, where guests can fill out their own menus and relax. Located next door to Lone Star is The Junktion, a vintage store for guests to shop while they wait for their table. After 55 years, Lone Star is still enjoying being a part of the Waco community.
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SAVE THE DATE
“Forever grateful, never forgotten”
HONORING SOLDIERS BOTH PAST & PRESENT
Dinner & Dancing
6:30 to 11 p.m. March 24, 2018 Waco Convention Center Entertainment by
$100 per person $50 for veterans and active duty military Table of 8 • $750
Available online at FreedomBallWaco.com or (254) 757-5600 PRESENTING SPONSOR
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January 17, 2018 1:30 a.m to 1 p.m. Baylor University Ferrell Center
Come enjoy a preview of the upcoming local baseball and softball season for Baylor University and McLennan Community College
Guest Speaker
Geoff Blum
Houston Astros Baseball Analyst
GET TICKETS AT WACOCHAMBER.COM WACOCHAMBER.COM
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PUBLIC POLICY
STATE OF STATE OF THE STATE OF CITY & COUNTY THE STATE THE NATION
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his fall, the Greater Waco Chamber had the pleasure of coordinating and presenting the State Of Series to give the Waco community opportunities to engage with elected officials on local, state and federal levels. The series kicked off in October with the State of the City and County, where over 200 guests received city and county updates from Waco Mayor Kyle Deaver and County Judge Scott Felton. Deaver and Felton discussed a variety of topics, including implementation of body cams for Waco police officers, high hotel occupancy rates in Waco, the Highway 84 landfill debate and Cameron Park Zoo’s world-renowned orangutan research program. The second luncheon in the series, the State of the State, drew a crowd of over 250 and featured a lively roundtable discussion with Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Commissioner Jeff Austin, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Andres Alcantar and Texas Education Agency (TEA) Policy and Planning
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Director Mark Baxter, moderated by Chamber president Matt Meadors. Some questions were posed to all three officials, and some were agency-specific. Questions varied across different subjects, including each agency’s response to Hurricane Harvey, the growing skills gap in Texas and addressing school turnarounds. The final luncheon in the series, the State of the Nation, was attended by nearly 150 guests who were joined by Congressman Bill Flores, U.S. House of Representatives. Flores and Chamber president Matt Meadors discussed issues in Washington that impact the community, including the newly introduced tax bill, public-private partnerships, net neutrality and free enterprise and innovation. Recaps of the discussions at the State of the State and State of the Nation luncheons can be read on the Chamber’s Twitter account, @WacoChamber, or by searching the hashtag #Stateof Waco. n
State of the City & County
State of the State
State of the Nation WACOCHAMBER.COM
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ON THE MARKET
4293 S. Robinson Drive Clear Span Industrial Facility on Highway 77
Specifications: • 29,600 Total Square Feet on 5 +/- Acres (Expansion Available) • Comprised of Three Connected Buildings: Building 1: 14,400 Sq Ft (1,200 of office), 14’ Sidewall, 22’ Peak Building 2: 12,000 Sq Ft w/ 5 Ton Crane, 30’ Sidewall, 40’ Peak Building 3: 3,200 Sq Ft of Attached Covered Storage • Clear Span Metal Construction • 5 Overhead Doors (14’x16’) and 1 Dock High Door • Industrial Grade Power (440/480 3-phase) • Less than 10 minute drive from Interstate 35 • Asking Price of $975,000
4293 S. Robinson Drive Value Population (10 Minute Drive Total; 2016)
105,582
# of Households
39,786
Median Age
32.9 years
Average Household Income
$61,037
Labor Force (10 Mi Radius)
50,570
Employed
49,129
Unemployment Rate
2.78%
Wages by Industry (10 Mi Radius)
Median
Average
Production Occuptions
$14.81
$17.10
Installation/Maintenance Occupations
$18.12
$19.75
Construction/Extraction Occupations
$16.41
$17.90
Administrative Support Occupations
$14.72
$16.22
Transport/Material Moving Occupations
$13.96
$15.15
Management Occupations
$39.59
$48.42
Count (%)
Employees
Retail: Home/Food/Automotive
13.18%
5,979
Other Services: Repair, Personal Care
13.08%
3,209
Health Care and Social Services
10.22%
14,646
Top 5 Industries (4 Mile Radius)
Accomodation and Food Services
7.63%
6,339
Construction
7.08%
3,636
Source: Info USA, May 2017
For more information on available properties, including demographic reports and surrounding businesses in Greater Waco, visit WacoProspector.com or call (254) 757-5627
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MARKET REPORT
New Downtown Businesses Opened
With more than $600 million invested in Greater Downtown Waco in recent years, it’s easy to see why businesses choose to open their doors here. Through strategic goals, Waco is advancing a vision that is attracting great companies, talented people and new destinations to our distinctive community.
Restaurants/Eateries
Downtown Living/Shopping
Mi Jalisco Grill #2 800 S. Seventh St. MiJalisco2.com
Cultivate 7twelve Art Gallery 712 Austin Ave. Waco7twelve.com
Home to authentic Mexican cuisine, Mi Jalisco recently opened its second location to bring tasty Mexican dishes and delicacies to the downtown area.
Waco’s new cultural market and gathering place. Cultivate 7twelve’s space is dedicated to housing and promoting local Waco art and culture, and is available to rent as an event venue.
Elm Ave. Food Market 704 Elm Ave.
Waco Running Co. 700 Franklin Ave. WacoRunningCompany.com
Nancy Grayson, founder of Rapoport Academy and Lula Jane’s, recently purchased a building on Elm Avenue to house a new market for East Waco. No chips, soda or candy will be sold at this market - only local fruits, veggies and produce. Clay Pot Restaurant 416 Franklin Ave. ClayPotWaco.com This local favorite recently relocated to the heart of downtown and brought with it its Vietnamese-inspired dishes. Guests can enjoy their pho inside or outside on the back patio.
Downtown Connect The Downtown Connect is a 15-minute express shuttle connecting downtown Waco and the Baylor University Campus. Downtown Connect runs Monday through Friday. The shuttle can be tracked in real time via the Ride Systems app, which is free and available for Android and Apple.
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This is a new location for this specialty running store in downtown. They carry running shoes and active wear, and are serviced by a trained staff for all running needs. Gather 719 Washington Ave. GatherWaco.com Gather is a collaborative in the art of hospitality. Partnering with local artists, Gather provides products and workshops for the modern host. WaCowork 600 Columbus Ave. A new coworking space has been announced for the Waco downtown area and is expected to open in early 2018. Marshall Stewman, who developed the Mary Avenue Market, is the developer behind this collaborative work environment. Nexus Gaming 600 Columbus Ave. A new gaming center in downtown, expected to open in January. Nexus Gaming is community based around competitive gaming, with tournaments that include cash and other prizes, streaming and more.
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ECONOMY IN FOCUS
SEPT.
2016 Retail Spending YTD
SEPT.
2017 0.8% change
$38,537,803
Single Family Residence Permits YTD
316
373
Existing Home Sales
242
252
11.3% change
Source: Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER)
WINTER 2017 2017 52 | SUMMER
SEPT.
2017
Payroll Employment 118,145 119,135 Unemployment Rate 4.2 3.8
18% change
4.1% change
Economic Outlook U.S. Average Composite: 100 WACO COST OF LIVING Third Quarter 2017
2016
$2,566,684,790 $2,587,629,805 $34,630,452
Hotel Motel Spending YTD
SEPT.
Waco Composite: 92.7
PURCHASING POWER
COMPARISON CITIES
Housing:
82.2
Chattanooga, TN:
97.9
Groceries:
84.5
Albuquerque, NM:
94.1
Utilities:
102.7
Greenville, SC:
92.0
Transportation:
95.5
Richmond, VA
96.0
Health Care:
94.2
Colorado Springs, CO:
95.4
Misc. Goods & Services:
100.2
Tulsa, OK :
91.0
When we say
Heart of Texas, we mean it.
BIG BIG
DREAMS
PASSION
POSSIBILITIES
All located right here in a community with A
BIG DALLAS
WACO
35
AUSTIN
60 YEARS
A DRIVING FORCE
For more than 60 years, WIF has been a driving force, working behind the scenes to help spur development and growth in Greater Waco.
ESTABLISHED in
1952
when the post-World War II era was driving industry to the south, Greater Waco needed a vehicle for having sites available and financing ready for companies wanting to build.
24 40
MEMBER VOLUNTEER BOARD
local BUSINESSES
Market value of more than
Community leaders, with support from the Chamber, formed the foundation and began its task of acquiring land now known as Texas Central Park. The foundation is directed by a 24-member volunteer board, representing more than 40 local businesses, and is managed by the Greater Waco Chamber. WIF’s assets include more than 1,800 acres with a portfolio market value of more than $45 million. Available properties are located in the Texas Central Park, Robinson Business Park and the Waco International Aviation Park.
$45 MILLION
WIF has continued to serve its goal of
promoting economic growth by developing shovel-ready, first class industrial parks. The Foundation is part of a public-private partnership to provide land as an incentive to attract companies to the area.
Additional Information
About the Waco Industrial Foundation: Continues to maintain an inventory of fully-developed sites for greenfield development. Sites offer proximity to Interstate 35, Union Pacific and BNSF mainline rail systems, Texas State Technical College Industrial Airport and commercial air service via Waco Regional Airport. Offers creative financial packages for sites within its industrial parks, including utilities assistance. Works closely with the Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation (WMCEDC), as part of a public-private partnership for industrial growth. Works with WMCEDC to tailor incentive packages for companies in the district.
CLIMATE
Average Annual Temperature: 66.7 degrees F Minimum: 34.2 degrees F (Jan) Maximum: 96.8 (July) Average Annual Rainfall: 32 inches Elevation: 427 feet above sea level
Texas Central Park is located between Interstate 35 and Highway 84. This Class A business park is fully-utility served, including rail access along the Union Pacific Class A mainline. Greenfield sites are available to support a variety of business needs, from light industrial to professional office developments. Additionally, more than 90 businesses are located in the park, including Allergan, Coca-Cola, Mars, Time Manufacturing, Arconic, Tractor Supply Company, and two Caterpillar facilities.
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Located adjacent to TSTC, WIAP offers shovel-ready sites for light industrial businesses and a direct access to a highly trained talent pool from the college. 246 contiguous acres are fully-utility served and industrial grade roadways are designed to support heavy traffic.
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Major tenants at the airport and business park include Sanderson Farms, Dr Pepper Bottling and L-3 Technologies. Additionally, Triple Freeport Exemption is available on the property.
600 ACRES OF LAND Robinson Business Park provides more
than 600 acres of land at the crucial intersection of Interstate 35 and Highway 6/Loop 340. The Robinson Business Park is comprised of approximately 175 acres of commercial-zoned land and more than 460 acres of light industrial property. The park is served with transmission-grade utilities that can serve virtually any demand requirements, and is one of the few industrial parks accessing the reclaimed/water system. The site provides direct interstate access and high visibility.
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Plans call for a new roadway granting multiple access points Interstate 35 and Loop 340/Hwy 6. The property is covenant-controlled, providing a high standard of construction, development continuity and seamless blending of the commercial and industrial segments.
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GREATER WACO
LABOR FORCE AND TALENT PIPELINE Colleges and Universities:
JOB SEEKERS:
Local
12,000+ active Job Seekers within the 7-county region
• Baylor University • McLennan Community College • University Center at MCC • Texas State Technical College
16,959 8,799 1,000 4,052
Regional (Less than 60 min. drive) • Central Texas College • Navarro College • Temple College • Hill College • University of Mary-Hardin Baylor • Central Texas A&M University • Southwestern Assemblies of God U. • Texas A&M College of Medicine
18,117 9,230 4,946 4,095 3,906 2,619 2,080 801
LABOR FORCE
400,000+ WITHIN 60 MILES
* Fall 2016 Enrollment
HIGH SCHOOL:
FORT HOOD:
• 53,737 students enrolled in Greater Waco high schools • 2,812 graduates 2015-2016 • 207 enrolled in the Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy • 170 enrolled in the Greater Waco Advanced Healthcare Academy
• 9,000-9,600 exiting military/year • 17,000 veterans in McLennan County
For more information about the industrial parks, please call
(254) 757-5635 101 S. Third St., Waco, TX 76701 • WacoChamber.com • WacoProspector.com
WACOCHAMBER.COM
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CHAMBER NEWS
CORPORATE APPRECIATION DINNER Over the last 10 years, Greater Waco has seen more than $1.3 billion in new industrial capital investment and the creation of more than 7,500 new jobs in the area. Much of this is due to the commitment and contributions from the corporate citizens of Greater Waco. On November 20, 2017, we took the opportunity to thank these business representatives at a Corporate Appreciation Dinner at The Baylor Club. We were honored to have the former President and CEO of Wal-Mart US, Mr. William “Bill” Simon in attendance and presenting as the keynote speaker. His experiences and understanding of a strong, diversified economy to a community were welcomed and well-received by the attendees. Glenn Robinson was the Master of Ceremonies and delighted the crowd of 100 guests with his wit and humor. Also in attendance was Congressman Bill Flores and many other elected officials. The Greater Waco
62 | WINTER 2017
QUOTES FROM THE EVENING “Big things are happening in Waco and the nation is taking notice. If we only had 10 more communities like Waco!” “Waco is getting national attention for what’s going on. I travel all over the country and people are starting to ask me, What’s going on down there, I’ve heard about it.”
Chambers Economic Development team planned the evening with help from several sponsors: Texas First State Bank was the Presenting Sponsor and Hilton/Courtyard Marriott and Jack of All Trades were the Silver Sponsors. n
“This is what happens when a community comes together, puts aside their differences and moves as a community forward.” — William Simon
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
Samantha Baker joined the Chamber staff in October as a Marketing and Communications Specialist. She previously worked on the communications team at Education Service Center Region 12 in Waco, and specializes in social media management, email marketing and BAKER layout design. Samantha is a native Wacoan and a graduate of Midway High School. Samantha graduated from Baylor University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations in December 2014. Since graduating, she has become more involved around town and looks forward to further contributing to her community through her work at the Chamber. n
WACOCHAMBER.COM
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MEMBER NEWS
CLAYTON HOME BUILDING GROUP PRESENTS CHECK FOR $50,300 TO THE SALVATION ARMY On October 17, 2017, Clayton Home Building Group presented a check for $50,300 to The Salvation Army’s hurricane relief efforts on behalf of the Clayton home building facilities in Southeast Texas. Clayton Homes Building Group is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. Clayton team members are given the option to donate a portion of their paycheck to an ongoing fund for local charities. After the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in late August, they voted to support the Salvation Army’s hurricane relief efforts. Clayton is proud of its history of providing affordable, quality homes. The company is committed to opening doors to a better life and helping to build happiness through homeownership. “I’m very proud of our team members and how they are so caring and generous to others in need” said Waco 1 General Manager Ray Heck. “Their generosity is inspiring and an excellent representation of our values as a company.”
“It’s amazing to walk into a room and see the passion of these teams – they’re like a family,” said Major Anita Caldwell of the Salvation Army. “We really appreciate the gift and the heart of the gift. They saw the needs of South Texas and were so giving.” n
KELLEY PERKINS WINS MARKETING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PRO OF THE YEAR AWARD
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR CHRIS DAHMAN HONORED AS PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Kelley Perkins, Director of Marketing at GENCO Federal Credit Union in Waco, was honored as this year’s Professional of the Year by Cornerstone Credit Union League on October 27, 2017. The Pinnacle Awards ceremony, held annually during the Marketing and Business Development Conference, honors marketers who exceed expectations and stand high above the crowd. The purpose of the award is to recognize an individual for outstanding work in credit union marketing, communications and business development. Upon being accepted as a nominee, Perkins wrote, “I am deeply honored by this nomination. Being selected as a nominee for Marketing and Business Professional of the Year is a great privilege. It has always been my goal to perform at the highest level in my field.” Since January 2012, Perkins has demonstrated a true affinity and passion for her marketing and business development role, not only at her credit union, but also through leadership involvement with the Cornerstone Credit Union League and in her local community. n
Chris Dahman was recently named the Property Manager of the Year by the Heart of Texas Apartment Association. Chris is property manager at Avila Apartments, located at 5000 Sanger Ave. He also serves as a Chamber Ambassador, and helps represent the Chamber at ribbon cuttings and events. According to their website, the Heart of Texas Apartment Association’s Property Manager of the Year award recognizes someone who has expertise in completing budgets and owner’s reports, maintains market knowledge, provides continuous staff training, has excellent written and verbal communication skills and consistently completes their responsibilities in an exemplary manner. n
64 | WINTER 2017
Schwartz serves as the Vice Chair of the Greater Waco Chamber Executive Committee. Over the past 10 years, she has helped raise more than $13 million for the Greater Waco Chamber through the Total Resource Campaign (TRC) launched in 2004. The TRC raises approximately one-third of the Chamber’s annual operating budget and is critical as the Chamber works to achieve greater economic development and community building throughout Waco. n
DONNA MCKETHAN NAMED 2018 NATIONAL ACTE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) recently announced Donna McKethan, Director of Career and Technical Education of Waco Independent School District in Waco, Texas, as the 2018 National ACTE Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative CTE professionals at the school, district, county, state, or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs. McKethan and her staff wrote and were awarded a $6.5 million grant from the U.S.
Department of Education to provide state-of-theart equipment and training at the advanced academies. Through her strong relationships with the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce and the Waco Business League, McKethan was able to secure an additional $2 million in industry donations. Under McKethan’s leadership, the number of Waco students earning industry certifications has increased by 120% over the last six years. n
SUSAN AND TODD BEHRINGER: PHILANTHROPISTS OF THE YEAR Susan and Todd Behringer were awarded Philanthropists of the Year at the 31st annual National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon on Nov. 14, 2017. Longtime champions of the city of Waco and Central Texas, Susan and Todd Behringer have given generously to several entities and organizations, including the YMCA of Central Texas, Cameron Park hike and bike trails, Waco Montessori School, Waco Boys & Girls Club, Humane Society of Central Texas, Baylor University and Creative Waco Arts. On the board of the Greater Waco Sports Commission, Todd works to identify and attract new sporting events to Waco while enhancing and retaining existing events that generate economic growth. In fact, it was the Behringers’ startup financial support that helped launch the commission in 2015. Since then, the organization has recruited five new events to Waco, generating millions of dollars in economic impact through increased tourism and visitor spending in the city. It is because of these and many other selfless gifts of their time, talent and financial support that the Behringers were honored as the 2017 Philanthropists of the Year. n
WACOCHAMBER.COM
Photo by Charla Holmes
The 31st annual National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon honors a few standout citizens, organizations and businesses whose gifts underscore their commitment to seeing Central Texans thrive. In her 25 years of volunteer fundraising, Loren Schwartz has managed an overwhelming number of “yes” responses from leaders in the Waco community who are able and willing to make financial contributions where needed. Her work has resulted in a tangible impact for worthy entities and organizations including Cameron Park and the Cameron Park Zoological Society, Vanguard College Preparatory School and, most notably, the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce and the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign.
Photo by Jerry Lawson / Waco Trib
LOREN SCHWARTZ: OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISER
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NEW MEMBERS
PRESENTED BY
Baker and Carey Insurance 3529 Bosque Blvd. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 752-2277 • BakerAndCareyInsurance.com
H&R Block 408B N. Valley Mills Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 399-8900 • HRBlock.com
Bare Arms Brewing 2515 La Salle Ave., Ste. A • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 759-8480 • BareArmsBrewing.com
Small Business - Silver Hensel Electric Company 501 Towne Oaks Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 776-3411 • HenselElectric.com
Blake Harrell State Farm Insurance 720 Lake Air Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 772-0171 • BlakeHarrell.com Blue Bell Creameries, L.P. 306 N. Robinson Dr. • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 662-6222 • BlueBell.com Brazos Tours Waco TX 76701 (254) 870-1412 • BrazosTours.com Brooks Wealth Advisors 510 N. Valley Mills Dr., Ste.100 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 235-1600 RaymondJames.com/stacybrooks CarLyn Group Energy Services 511 N. Hewitt Dr., Ste. 4 Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 214-0852 • carlyn.ereverseauction.com Cendera Funding 2501 Austin Ave., Ste. 206 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 242-0590 • CenderaFunding.com/snystrom Small Business - Silver Chaparral Insulation 209 S. 28th St. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 756-5034 • ChaparralInsulation.com Small Business - Gold Clear Springs Healthcare LLC 3662 Patton Lake Rd. • Aquilla, TX 76622 (469) 209-6200 • ClearSpringsRanch.com Creative Man Studio 635 N. Robinson Dr., Ste. B • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 756-1573 • CreativeManStudio.com Crystal Clear Eyecare Center 190 N. New Road • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 399-9979 • WacoEyeDoctor.com Cultivate 7twelve 712 Austin Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 401-1443 • Cultivate712.com Dapper Bear Clothiers 5812 Mt. Terminal Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 307-8836 • DapperBearClothiers.com Diamante’ Development 5400 Bosque Blvd., Ste. 675 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 405-2191 • DiamanteDev.com Discovery Map of Waco Waco, TX 76702 (254) 420-7999 • DiscoveryMap.com Emerald Cottages of Waco 2412 Marketplace Dr. • Waco, TX 76711 (254) 230-1116 • EmeraldCottages.com Fox Creek Associates, LLC 200 W. Hwy. 6, Ste. 222 • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 716-9114 • FoxCreekAssociates.com Gold Financial Services 408 Sapphire Blvd. • Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 733-1852 • GoldFinancial.com
66 | WINTER 2017
Heritage Creamery 1125 S. Eighth St. • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 537-1352 • HeritageCreamery.com Small Business - Gold Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waco South 5701 Legend Lake Pkwy. • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 732-1028 • HIExpress.com/wacosouth Honky Tonk Kid BBQ 301 S. Second St. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 749-2368 • Sites.google.com/site/htkbbq Hooked on Selfie West, TX 76691 (254) 644-9052 / (254) 640-7797 HookedOnSelfies.net Icon at Hewitt 201 Ritchie Rd. • Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 633-2888 • IconAtHewittApartments.com Independent Electrical Contractors Centex Chapter 8868 Research Blvd., Ste. 502 • Austin, TX 78758 (512) 832-1333 • CentexIEC.com Jeep N Truck Gear 600B S. Valley Mills Dr. • Waco, TX 76711 (254) 754-1161 • Jntgear.com Lone Star Tavern And Steak House 4713 Bellmead Dr. • Waco, TX 76705 (254) 799-0027 LonestarSteakHouseWaco.com Moncrief Cancer Institute 400 W. Magnolia Ave. • Ft Worth, TX 76104 (817) 288-9800 • Moncrief.com Mosaic 3319 N. 15A St. • Waco, TX 76708 (254) 757-3434 • MosaicInfo.org Mosquito Joe Waco, TX 76701 (214) 396-1545 • MosquitoJoe.com Small Business - Silver P & E Mechanical Contractors, LLC 115 Topeka Dr. • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 218-2665 • PandEMechanical.com Peavy Homes, LLC 8283 Bosque Blvd. • Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 230-9662 • Peavyhomes.com Pioneer Bank, SSB 1300 N. Valley Mills Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 751-0490 • Pioneer.bank Quality Care of Waco 2501 Maple Ave. • Waco, TX 76707 (254) 752-0311 • QCWaco.com Robinson Greenhouse 628 N. Robinson Dr. • Robinson, TX 76706 (254) 662-0311 Facebook.com/robinsongreenhouse
Security Bank of Crawford 668 N. Lone Star Pkwy. • Crawford, TX 76638 (254) 486-0003 • SecBank.net Senior Care of Hewitt 8836 Mars Dr. • Hewitt, TX 76643 (254) 420-5500 • SeniorCareCentersLTC.com Sente Mortgage 1105 Wooded Acres Dr., Ste. 220 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 233-9669 • HomeLoansJohn.com Sleep Shop 4312A W. Waco Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 732-0507 • TheSleepShopInc.com Soldier Business Park by Sky Interests 5900 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 300-7962 • Skyrei.com St. Louis Catholic School 2208 N. 23rd St. • Waco, TX 76708 (254) 754-2041 • StLouisWaco.org T Squared Manufacturing 7400 Imperial Dr. • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 732-9039 Texas Exes Waco Chapter P.O. Box 370 • Marlin, TX 76661 (949) 307-8173 • TexasExes.org/chapter/waco The Outpost Apartments, LLC 2415 S. University Parks Dr. • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 756-7678 • Theoutpostwaco.com Small Business - Gold TownePlace Suites Waco South 5621 Legend Lake Pkwy. • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 420-3000 Marriott.com/hotels/travel/wcots-towneplacesuites-waco-woodway Traplena, Sullivan & Reinke PC 4216 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 751-1133 • TSR-cpa.com ViewPoint Solution Partners 5400 Bosque Blvd., Ste. 680 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 405-1028 • ViewPointEquity.com Village Oaks 2010 Campus Dr. • Waco, TX 76705 (254) 799-5885 • VillageOaksTSTC.com Waco Cowork 600 Columbus Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (817) 395-2532 Waco Flower Tent 7524 Bosque Blvd. • Waco, TX 76712 (254) 307-1936 • FlowerTent.com Wildflower Country Club 4902 Wildflower Ln. • Temple, TX 76502 (254) 771-1477 • WildflowerClub.com Woodspring Suites 705 N. IH-35 • Waco, TX 76705 (254) 799-4900 • Woodspring.com
WACOCHAMBER.COM
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
AZUR APARTMENTS
Member since May 8, 2017. Ribbon Cutting November 16, 2017.
CLAY POT
Member since Sept. 13, 2012. Ribbon Cutting November 6, 2017.
415 Owens Ln. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 776-7922 • liveatazur.com
416 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 756-2721 • claypotwaco.com
Betsy Outlaw, Property Manager
Thanh & Phong Le, Owners
Welcome to Azur, a residential community featuring one and two bedroom apartments in Waco, Texas. Spacious layouts and amenities welcome you home, along with exceptional service and an ideal location within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment options. The living spaces at Azur are thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience in mind, and are stylishly appointed with premium materials and finishes you won’t find in any other apartments for rent in Waco.
CULTIVATE 7TWELVE
Member since Oct.31, 2017. Ribbon Cutting December 1, 2017.
Newly relocated in the heart of downtown, Clay Pot is the same locally-owned, family-operated restaurant that has been serving up traditional Vietnamese cuisine to Waco for the last 20 years. The new location provides outdoor seating on the back patio. Owners Thanh and Phong Le make sure every dish is filled with authentic Vietnamese flavor. Clay Pot is the “go-to” restaurant for Baylor students and Central Texans. Clay Pot is vegan-friendly and home of the #1 Bubble Tea drink in central Texas!
H&R BLOCK
Member since Sept. 15, 2017. Ribbon Cutting November 14, 2017.
712 Austin Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 401-1443 • cultivate712.com
408B N. Valley Mills Dr. • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 399-8900 • hrblock.com
Rebekah Hagman, Owner
Stephanie Thiel, Area Manager
Cultivate 7Twelve features fine art exhibits by local artists. It is downtown Waco’s newest art gallery, studio, artisan goods purveyor and community hub located at 712 Austin Ave. “Building community is my art,” said Cultivate 7Twelve owner Rebekah Hagman. She and her husband created the business to elevate and spotlight Waco’s creative arts culture.
68 | WINTER 2017
Your Waco H&R Block enjoys offering exceptional services in a comfortable environment. Our staff prides themselves in their knowledge of and experience with the incredibly complex Income Tax Code. It is our pleasure to demonstrate our expertise and assist you during what can be a stressful time. Our goal is to deliver the best tax preparation experience possible, striving to ensure our clients always leave H&R Block feeling better than when they arrived.
SPONSORED BY
LONE STAR TAVERN & STEAKHOUSE
Member since August 3, 2017. Ribbon Cutting October 4, 2017.
SMILE DOCTORS BRACES
Member since January 20, 2017. Ribbon Cutting Sept. 27, 2017.
4713 Bellmead Dr. • Waco TX 76705 (254) 799-0027 • lonestarsteakhousewaco.com
5156 W. Waco Dr. • Waco TX 76710 (254) 399-9800 • smiledoctors.com/wacotx
Josh Hale & Scott Studer, Co-Owners
Kimberly Leger, Practice Director
Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse Catering has been serving the Waco area since 1962. It has been owned the past five years by Josh Hale and Scott Studer, who have expanded the menu. Recently the guys have opened The Junktion, a vintage store next door to the Steakhouse that is open Friday and Saturdays. Lone Star Staff encourage guests to shop while they wait on their table or meal.
WACO CHAPTER OF THE TEXAS EXES
Member since August 11, 2017. Ribbon Cutting August 29, 2017.
Smile Doctors Braces offers Orthodontics for all ages including children, teens and adults. We are not your typical ortho office white walls and white coats just aren’t our thing. You’ll love our fun atmosphere and cheerful team! With video games, music, massage chairs and snacks, your experience will be fun, relaxing and tailored specifically to you. We provide quality treatment and affordable braces, including Free Consultation Exams and X-rays, all-inclusive treatment plans and flexible monthly installment plans with interestfree in-house financing. At Smile Doctors, it’s all about you. You are more than just a patient, you are family!
TFNB YOUR BANK FOR LIFE
Member since Sept.26, 2001. Ribbon Cutting November 9, 2017.
130 County Rd. 151 • Riesel, TX 76682 (210)846-9742 • TexasExes.org
510 N. Valley Mills Dr., Ste. 100 • Waco, TX 76710 (254) 840-2836 • tfnbtx.com
Laura Mendel, President
David Littlewood, President
The Ex-Student’s Association, or commonly known as Texas Exes, is an independent, non-profit, membership-supported organization that exists to connect its members to each other and to the past, present, and future of The University of Texas at Austin through local affiliate Chapters around the world. The Waco Chapter holds annual activities for its members which include football game watching, fall and spring networking events, quarterly speaker series, a community service project and a Senior Send-Off BBQ for incoming freshman.
TFNB Triangle Tower is now open in the heart of Waco at the intersections of N. Valley Mills, New Road and Waco Drive. More than 350 people celebrated the opening to see first-hand the creative redesign and stunning decor of the bank’s first-floor space. To coincide with the opening, TFNB launched Life’s Edge, rewardsbased checking and savings accounts and its proprietary blend of coffee, Edge Morning Grind. This is TFNB’s third, full-service location.
WACOCHAMBER.COM
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CHAMBER CALENDAR Want to know what’s coming up at the Chamber? Then visit web.WacoChamber.com/events to view and register for upcoming events. Here are just a few signature events you don’t want to miss: Mid-Tex Farm, Ranch & Garden Show WEDNESDAY, JANAUARY 10 - 11 | 8 A.M. – 5 P.M.
The Greater Waco Chamber will host the 47th Annual Equipment Depot Mid-Tex Farm, Ranch & Garden show at the Extraco Events Center. The Mid-Tex Show offers exhibitors a first-rate forum to present their products and services to an expected attendance of more than 3,000 Central Texas farmers and ranchers. Visitors to the Mid-Tex Farm, Ranch & Garden show will have the opportunity to view top exhibits of the newest farm and ranch equipment, seed, chemicals and agrelated services and technologies.
First Pitch WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 | 11:30 A.M. – 1 P.M.
This annual event provides a preview of the upcoming local baseball and softball season for Baylor University and McLennan Community College. The luncheon will also present the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce Sports Luncheon Scholarship, presented by The Allergan Foundation which will award scholarships to two outstanding students in McLennan County. Additionally, the luncheon will present the Annual Texas Sports Hall of Fame Award.
Business After Hours at Yoga Pod Waco TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 | 5– 7 P.M.
Business After Hours event at Yoga Pod Waco. This is a free, come-and-go networking event, so make sure to bring plenty of business cards!
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Annual Member Celebration TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 | 6 – 8 P.M.
The Greater Waco Chamber’s Grand Celebration Reception is an opportunity to show appreciation for our members, volunteers and community partners for support throughout the year. This year’s reception will feature buffet stations, an open bar, entertainment by the Baylor VirtuOSO ensemble, good company and fun for all!
The Texas Food Truck Showdown SATURDAY, MARCH 17 | 10 A.M. – 8 P.M.
The Texas Food Truck Showdown will hold its fourth annual competition at Downtown Heritage Square and this event brings 40 food trucks and thousands of foodies together in downtown Waco. Each year, this event features a beer and wine garden, pet-friendly atmosphere, live entertainment and much more.
10th Annual Freedom Ball SATURDAY, MARCH 24 | 6 – 11 P.M.
The Greater Waco Chamber and Greater Waco Aviation Alliance are excited to present the 10th Annual Freedom Ball! This event provides Central Texas with the opportunity to honor military personnel, both past and present. Proceeds from Freedom Ball are used to market the aviation assets of Greater Waco and provide scholarships to high school and college students pursuing careers in aviation.
WACOCHAMBER.COM
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