Volume 6 Number 12December 2014
CHAIRPERSON
Brian Gilbert, Members Trust of the SW Federal
Credit Union
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRPERSON
Trent Salch, Tell Your Tale Marketing & Design
VICE CHAIR
Craig Atkinson, Houston Highway Credit Union
TREASURER
Tony Allman – PrimeWay Federal Credit Union
SECRETARY
Cindy Reibenstein, Reibenstein & Associates.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bill Ballew, CPA
Jeff Bielik, St. Joseph Medical Center in the Heights
Hector Castellanos, Chase Bank
Tom Chigoy, Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel
Dee Farino, Third Coast Impressions
Joe Fuentes, Houston Area Community Services
Jerry Gann, CenterPoint Energy
Susan Jadlowski, Memorial Hermann NW Hospital
Neil McGlone, LegalShield
Alan Rosen, Harris County Constable, Precinct One
Nadia Troutenko, Troutenko Insurance Services
Linda Whittington, Pro Printing
Taylor Woodard, Raymond James & Associates
STAFF
Jacob Millwee, President
Trish Gardiner, Director of Events and Operations
Larry Plasek, Director of Communications
Glenda Clerc, Director of Member Services
FOUNDING DIRECTORS
Norman Adams
Jack Fields
ADVISORY DIRECTORS
Sheriff Adrian Garcia
Scott Lester
City Councilman Edward Gonzalez, District H
City Council Member, Ellen Cohen, District C
GREATER HEIGHTS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
545West 19th Street • Houston, Texas 77008
Phone: 713.861.6735 • Fax: 713.861.9310
www.HeightsChamber.com
A Publication of theGreater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce
2 LINKED December 2014
3 SPOTLIGHTING A NON-PROFIT MEMBER
4 MEMBER PROFILE
6 RIBBON CUTTINGS
9 EDUCATION CORNER
10 CHAMBER YEAR IN REVIEW
14 CRAWFISH FESTIVAL
15 GOLD PATRON PROFILE
LEADERSHIP LEVELSThe Leadership Levels, which includes, Gem, Platinum,Gold and Silver represent the most prestigious designationfor member firms.
Without their financial support we would not be able to offer thewide variety of benefits to all of our members and our community.
December 2014
GEM LEVEL PARTNERSHIPS
Houston Highway Credit UnionDiamond Partner
GOLD PATRONS
Adams Insurance Service, Inc.
Allison Jones and Associates
C & D Scrap Metal Recyclers,Co., Inc.
CenterPoint Energy
Cokinos, Bosien & Young
Comerica Bank - Heights
Computer Wiz
JPMorgan Chase Bank of Texas
Cyclone Anaya’s MexicanKitchen
Fiesta Mart
Heights Medical Tower, Ltd.
Houston Highway Credit Union
IntegraNet
Integrity Bank
Mach Industrial Group
Marek Family of Companies
Memorial HermannNorthwest Hospital
Merchandise Pickup Services, Inc.
PrimeWay Federal Credit Union
Shipley Do-Nuts
Spirit of Texas Bank
St. Joseph Medical Centerin the Heights
Teotihuacan Mexican Café
Tommie Vaughn Ford
Walmart
Westside Lexus
SILVER PATRONS
Allegiance Bank Texas
Grifols Biomet
Mutual of Omaha Bank
Quilts, Inc.
Reynolds & Associates, PLLC
December 2014 LINKED 3
President's LetterDear Fellow Members,
I love the holidays. We celebrate Christmas in my home, and I have the privilege of watching my twoyoung boys experience it each year. Magic is still very real to them, and my childhood memories of thatvery magic are so much crisper and clearer for watching them. Decorations, food, carols, and of courseSanta all permeate the very air in the Millwee house from Thanksgiving until New Years.
While it may be magic for the boys, there is nothing magical about the stress, the planning, and theexpense that goes on behind it. Schedules fill up, bank accounts run dry, shopping never seems to getdone, an on the whole nerves get a little frayed. None the less, my spirits stay up and I am happy toshare the holiday cheer.
We all have an opportunity this season to do that very thing. I hope you find time to reach out to the Chamber memberswhose services you have used or have become your clients and let them know that you appreciate them. It can be as simpleas a Facebook post on their page, or a quick email. For those of you with family and friends coming into town, you have anumber of excellent restaurants in your Chamber. Why not take your guests out for a bite? The Houston Choral Showcase,Opera in the Heights, Express Children’s Theater, HITS Theater, and 14 Pews provide wonderful entertainment opportunitiesfor those same guests. And who can resist popping into our local boutiques and shops?
Whatever holiday your family celebrates this time of year, or even if you don’t celebrate at all, I encourage you to make apoint of greeting and thanking your fellow Chamber members this month. Happiness and joy tend to yield greater returns themore you share them, and who knows? You might re-discover a little magic yourself. Wishing you joy and cheer.
Jacob MillweeYour Chamber President
Jacob Millwee
Spotlighting a Non-Profit MemberThe Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA located at 1234 West 34th Street began serving the Houston Heights asearly as 1919 and was formally organized as the West End-Heights Extension in 1938, then renamed the NorthwestYMCA in 1944. Completed in 1956, it was expanded in 1962 as YMCA services continued to grow. Because of fastgrowth it was dismantled in 2001, and new facilities were dedicated January 25, 2002 on the same site.
Today the facility has over 7,000 members including youth, adults and seniors. The Y offers personal training, onsiteCross Fit (in partnership with Bayou City Cross gFit), GRIT™, Les Mills classes, and over 80 group exercise classes aweek. A state of the art Wellness Center features its cardio equipment with individual viewing screens. YMCAmembership includes free child care while you are on site as well as a 6 lane seasonal pool.
Everyone knows them as four letters: Y-M-C-A. But the Y brings communities so much more.•There’s exercise, but there’s also education through academic enrichment programs.•There’s cardio, but there’s also community volunteerism to improve neighborhoods.•They give swim lessons, scholarships, and financial assistance to those who need it most.
Donations to the Y stay in the community. Every dollar of a donation is used to support a child,family or individual enabling them to learn, grow and develop. The Y is a cause, and thecause is strengthening communities. This happens with programs like Teen Achieverstraining in order to teach youth about values, volunteerism and helping them prepare for thefuture. The Foster YMCA supports two outreach apartment complexes in the Greater Inwoodarea providing a safe place for youth after school, and in summer at no cost. The Y gave youthbicycles in partnership with BBVA Compass and sent five youth to a week of summer camp.
These youth were also recipients of the YMCA Operation Backpack program which collected more than 75,000 back-packs and school supplies city-wide and an Angel Tree program which provided outreach youth Christmas presents.For more information about partnering with the YMCA please contact Rosemary Lengefeld, Community ExecutiveDirector at [email protected].
Rosemary Lengefeld
Cover photos at Darlene’s Flower & Gift Shop
How will the Houston economy fare in 2015 and the next few years? Which considerations should your business make based onlocal, state, U.S. and global economics? Join the Heights Chamber of Commerce at our annual Economic Forecast Luncheon tohear Dr. Bill Gilmer, Director of the Institute for Regional Forecasting at the Bauer School of Business at the University of Houston,discuss the future of Houston business, employment, interest rates, energy and real estate on January 22 at the Sheraton HoustonBrookhollow Hotel.
Reserve your table today as space is limited. Event sponsorships are available as a way to increase your visibility among Chambermembers as well as numerous guests. Sponsorships are available.
Platinum Sponsors:Houston Highway Credit Union, Members Trust of the SW Federal Credit Union and Insurance & Benefits Advisors
Gold Sponsors: Allegiance Bank Texas • Cokinos, Bosien & Young • Computer WizMarek Family of Companies • Martha Turner Sotheby’s • PrimeWay Federal Credit Union
Silver Sponsors: Andrews Financial Services • Cremate Texas • Harriet & Joe Foster Family YMCA • Knapp ChevroletMembers Trust of the SW Fed. Credit Union • PrimeWay Federal Credit Union • Power Women Group
Prosperity Bank • Tell Your Tale Marketing & Design • The May Group LLC
Enjoy these benefits by being a sponsor:Platinum Sponsorships - $2,500Logo on Chamber website, company banner on stage, promotional product on each seat, first preference for table placement,recognition in press releases, recognition in LINKED, logo and recognition in event program and a table of 8.Gold Sponsorship - $1,000 - Preferred table placement, recognition in LINKED, recognition in event program and a table of 8Silver Sponsorship - $500 - Recognition in event program and a table of 8Single Seat: $65 - Exhibit Tables Available: Boost your visibility by hosting an exhibit table at the luncheon for just $200 whichincludes 1 luncheon seat. Luncheon attendees are encouraged to visit the exhibit area before and after the luncheon.
December 2014 LINKED 54 LINKED December 2014
Economic Forecast Luncheon
member prof i le PAUL OPPERMANN – STANDER & OPPERMANN PLLC
Beginning work, he joined Browning-FerrisIndustries as a staff accountant and moved upto be District Controller with stints in Dallasand Lubbock. In 1991 he came to Houston asController for one of the hauling companies.Gaining additional experience saw him hold-ing responsible positions with Robert Half In-ternational and Specialized Staffing.
Currently he is a Certified Public Accountantand works with clients on behalf of Stander & OppermannPLLC where he is a partner. His lengthy industry experi-ence finds him assisting individuals with tax filings, IRS is-sues and representation, analytical review of businessoperations and benchmarks, cash flow analysis and more.
Paul joined the Chamber to become an active member ofthe organization and to get to know the businesses thatoperate in the greater Heights area. He values the net-
working opportunities and gladly gives refer-rals to other Chamber members.
Besides giving time to the Chamber and itsoperations, Paul is actively involved in manyother organizations. Just to name a few,there is the Texas Society of CPA’s – HoustonChapter, he is past Chairman of the CPAcontinuing professional education conference,a member of the Relations with Taxing Author-
ities committee, the Houston Heights Association and theKnights of Columbus.
The Oppermann family includes wife Nancy and son,Joseph. This multi-talented man enjoys cycling, runningand archery. But that’s not all; he is involved in Beekeep-ing and cattle at a location in Marquez, Texas. Congratu-lations Paul, the Chamber appreciates your support andyour clearly evident enthusiasm for being a member.
Our featured member for this month was born, grew up and attended local schools in Galveston. For hishigher education, Paul chose Stephen F. Austin State University where he earned a BBA degree inAccounting. Next it was on to the University of Houston at Clear Lake for his MBA.
December 2014 LINKED 7
Haute Dimensions Boutique welcomed Chamber members and guests totheir store located at 6521 North Main Street for a wonderful ribboncutting.Chaun and Tiffany Roberts told guests about the store’sbeginnings and displayed a wide variety of merchandise for sale.
Dennis Roberts took on the scissors to cut the ceremonial ribbon. Checkout this impressive Heights-area business at www.haute-dimensions.com.
Young Life Heights celebrated their membership in the Chamber witha ribbon cutting on October 22. Young Life thinks the world of kids.
The staff and leaders are positive role models for young people. They arededicated to building lasting friendships with teenagers and helping themprepare for the future.Will Otto did the honors with the big scissors.
Learn more at www.heights.younglife.org.
Ashley and John Barneby owners of Salata hosted a huge ribboncutting as they welcomed Chamber members to their restaurant located
at 185 Heights Boulevard. John used the scissors to celebrate theoccasion and briefed a big crowd on the merits of “the next generationsalad bar.” Members enjoyed a healthy and nutritious lunch with
excellent service.
Texas Loan Star, a service-oriented mortgage company, celebrated a ribboncutting at their new facility located at 2233 Yale Street. This attractivebuilding houses a staff that excels at providing loan programs that arecustom fit to anyone’s unique needs. President Laith Daik took the bigscissors and the group was treated to outstanding luncheon items,
beverages and a tour of the offices. See more at www.texasloanstar.com.
November 18 was the date for the ribbon cutting at Express Children’sTheatre. This impressive group holds forth at 446 Northwest Mall and isHouston’s oldest touring theatre bringing professional theatrical productionsto thousands of school children each year. Patricia Barry Rumble and
Tim Fried-Fiori did the honors to celebrate the event. See all theirperformance information at www.expresstheatre.com.
The staff at MDAnderson YMCA, located at 705 Calvacade Streethosted a ribbon cutting on November 5. Members benefit from activitiesincluding after school enrichment, youth sports, early childhood and teendevelopment. Currently they are conducting “Operation Give Thanks”which sends letters and Christmas cards to the members of the Armed
Forces overseas. Doing the honors with the scissors wereMaria Arcos and Halina Martinez.
ribbon cutt ings
2020 North LoopWest, Suite 260Houston,TX 77018
Phone 713-316-4560 • Fax 713-316-4561
Member AICPA,TSCPA
Reynolds & Assoc.,PLLCCERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
Gene B.Reynolds, CPA, [email protected]
6 LINKED December 2014
Painting with a Twist held a ribbon cutting on November 17 at their facilitylocated at 728West 19th street. For reservations and their calendar, go towww.paintingwithatwist.com/houston-heights. Cutting the ceremonialribbon was Dimitri Papakyriacou, assisted by Alberto Haddad.
December 2014 LINKED 9
Education CornerThe holidays are right around the corner and the Education Committee is ready too! The tags for thePOWER UP will be ready for delivery at the December meeting and that is a great gift; the businessespartnered with the schools and the students will benefit! Craig Atkinson with Houston HighwayCredit Union partnered with Washington and Scarborough, Tony Allman with PrimeWay FederalCredit Union partnered with Reagan, and Brian Gilbert with Members Trust of the SW Credit Unionpartnered with Waltrip; Davis High School’s partner ‘just wanted to help’ ‘Davis is a great school.’Thank you Dee Farino for organizing this need!
We had a Teacher Social in November at Cyclone Anaya’s, a Chamber Gold Patron, and Jaclyn Bell with Dearborn andCreggs sponsored this event and a good time was had by all. The Job Fair on February 25, 2015 from 1-5 at the YMCA on
34th needs businesses to sign up! Don’tyou need some weekend help, nighthelp, part-time, PRN and preparing forthe summer? Come and interview somereally good high school students from allour area high schools. See RosemaryLengefeld at the Harriet and Joe FosterYMCA.
The Education Committee is also goingto work with the Heights Library andhelp them with the sorting and makingready storage for some of the historic doc-uments of the Heights. Our elementary,middle and high schools will be donatingtheir time to help this valuable Heightsasset. We are also gathering our schoolsto display their entertainment and it willbe lots of fun! We had a great FinancialReality Fair at Davis High School in Octo-ber and appreciate all the business volun-teers: Beth Mangum with Woodmen ofThe World and Ivee Sauls with MemorialHermann NW Hospital; Brian Gilbertand Craig Atkinson even brought someof their employees. Beth Mangum alsodid a fantastic presentation at St. Rose ofLima—the students learned all about ourFlag and the care of it as well as someveterans came to give their story… thathistory lesson will not be forgotten!
Each month we have a good crowd at ourmeetings; schools continue to join; weneed businesses who wish to partner withus. Consider joining, come check usout. It is always the second Thursdayof the month at the Chamber office at10. Next time is December 11. Anyquestions just let me know.
– Cindy Reibenstein, Education Chair
calendar of events
8 LINKED December 2014
12.02RIBBON CUTTING
Yoga One Heights548 West 19th Street12:15 p.m.
12.03NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
Chamber Offices545 West 19th StreetLunch is provided11:45am - 1:00 p.m.
12.11BREAKFAST CONNECTION
Sheraton HoustonBrookhollow Hotel3000 North Loop WestSpeaker: Steve Lufburrow6:45 - 8:30 a.m.Sponsored by Heights ModernDentistry
12.11HYPOHarold’s350 West 19th Street5:00 – 8:00 p.m.Sponsored by Kathryn Hodge ofAffiliated Mortgage Co.
12.17BOARD MEETING
HACS2150 West 18th Street7:45 – 9:00 a.m.
12.24 -12-25CHAMBER CLOSED
JANUARY
1.01 CHAMBER CLOSED
1.08 BREAKFAST CONNECTION
1.13 RIBBON CUTTING
1.15 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
1.20 RIBBON CUTTING
1.21 BOARD MEETING
1.22 ECONOMIC FORECAST
LUNCHEON
NOTE: Changes may occur inthis calendar after publishing,www.heightschamber.comfor confirmations.
Heights Achievement CornerHouston Choral Showcase Christmas PerformanceHouston Choral Showcase will entertain you at their our annualHoliday Show on Sunday, December 14 at 3pm. Enjoy songs frompopular holiday movies, new arrangements of familiar tunes, andlots of fun music to put sparkle in your season! Buy tickets early toget advance purchase discounts, and bring a group of 8 or morefor the best prices. The performance takes place at 2700 WestSam Houston Pkwy N. at Houston Christian High School(Pampell Chapel).
Gold Patron Members Profiled in “Linked”January Memorial Hermann NW Hospital
February Comerica BankMarch Westside Lexus
April CenterPoint EnergyMay IntegraNet HealthJune Teotihuacan Mexican CafeJuly Cokinos, Bosien & Young
August Chase Bank -Reagan
September St. JosephMedical Centerin the Heights
October PrimeWayFederal CreditUnion
November Marek Family ofCompanies
December Tommie VaughnFord
Houston Highway Credit Union Upgraded toDiamond Level Membership
Houston Highway Credit UnionThis Credit Union became the firstmember to select Emerald status in the new Gem Level Partner-ships. Chartered in Texas in 1952, the organization began servingthe 2,000 employees that worked in district 12 of the Texas HighwayDepartment. With a facility located at 8120 Washington Avenue, theinstitution has grown to provide affordable checking, savings, loansand more to 6,500 member owners and is $59 million strong inassets. President Craig Atkinson leads the Credit Union, has morethan 25 years industry experience, and chaired the 2013 ChamberGala and co-chaired the 2013 Golf Tournament. There were severalimportant reasons why Houston Highway Credit Union chose to be-come an Emerald Partner member. Craig Atkinson said, “My Dadalways told me, just do the right thing, and this is the right thing todo!” In addition, the company believes being involved locally isessential. “After all, how can we have a successful business withouta successful community” And finally, one check is easy to writeand it covers all of their participation throughout the year forsponsorships so they don’t worry about missing deadlines.Congratulations Houston Highway Credit Union, we value yoursupport and great participation.
Members Profiled in “Linked”Jan Stephenson– Jan StephensonGraphic Design, Marietta Hetmaniak – Marek Family ofCompanies, Fred Nevill – Opera in the Heights, LindseyPollock – Garden Oaks Montessori School, Debbie andDr. George Junkin – NW Chiropractic Center, HectorCastellanos – Chase Bank Reagan, Bobby Donaldson –Westside Lexus, Larry Bell – Insurance & Benefits Advi-sors, Crystal Ruiz – CARisma Wash, Erik Hendrickson –Pat H. Foley & Company, Tony May – May InsuranceGroup, LLP, Paul Oppermann – Stander & OppermannPLLC
2014
10 LINKED December 2014
14 PewsAffiliatedMortgage CompanyAflac: Sean A PradiaAmerican Cancer Society –Relay for Life of GreaterHeightsAvedon & PartnersBELFOR Property RestorationBranch Banking & Trust(BB&T)
Cathy Peveto of Edward JonesChic Lash BoutiqueClifton Elementary SchoolContinental Tool & Supply Co.Crescendo Family MusicDearborn & CreggsEklektik InteriorsHouston Health AdvocacyeLearning K12 HoustonEnvoyMortgage
Express Children’s TheatreForgotten SinnersGoldman Sach’s 10,000Small Businesses
Haute Dimensions BoutiqueHeights General StoreHeights Interfaith Ministries Food PantryHistoric HollywoodCemetery, Inc.
Houston AcupunctureandWellness
Incite Energy LLCIn-Line Chiropractic Care, P.A.Insurance & Benefits AdvisorsJade GardenLA FitnessLittle J’s BarLos Cucos Signature Mexican Café –Heights
Mama Fu’s Asian House
M.D. Anderson FamilyYMCA of Greater Houston
Mike Sullivan – Harris County TaxAssessor –Collector
Molly’s Mutt HouseMosaic Clinic Hair TransplantCenterOlga Guin of Edward JonesOmni GearPadilla & Rodriguez, LLPPaintingWith a TwistPiatto RistoranteRegus-BrookhollowCentral III
Rumor Has It Day SpaRusty Jones of SafeguardHome Security
Salata RestaurantSanta Ana Auto Body ShopSente Mortagage
Sports Clip HaircutsStander & Oppermann, CPA’sStorageWestSun RealtyTaylor Real Estate Group, Inc.Technical ToolboxTelpacific CommunicationsTeotihuacanMexican CaféThe Lash LoungeThe Vapor GypsyThree Brothers BakeryToucanMarketing SolutionsWalgreensWalter Law Firm PCWelcomeWagonWindow “Pains” &Solutions, Inc.
Woodmen of theWorldYogaOne HeightsYoung Life Heights
As we reminisce, weare reminded of all thesignificant memberbenefits in the form ofactivities and eventsthat took place in2014. More in depthdescriptions are on thefollowing pages, but
highlighting just a few seems appropriate here.Giving back to the community in the form of supporting
member and area businesses was the focal point of theChamber’s “Buy Local First” campaign. Supporting localbusinesses enriches the community and the Chamber wasproud to take the lead on this initiative. We welcomed thesupport of the Houston Heights Association and the 19thStreet Merchant Association in this endeavor.
Continuing an event that annually draws a crowd eagerto get planning and economic insights, the Chamber hostedthe annual Economic Forecast Luncheon where Dr. BillGilmer presented his views and predictions for the nationalas well as the Houston economy.
Our Education Committee made great strides this yearas Chair, Cindy Reibenstein mobilized our members,
businesses, school administrators and others into a series ofactions that contributed to schools and student progress.Members of the committee identified areas of need andaddressed those with action plans and commitments.The Education luncheon was revived and deservingstudents received scholarships.
The “Gateway to Local Government” luncheon drew alarge crowd and gave members and guests the opportunityto hear the Mayor speak and to talk in person with repre-sentatives of state, county and city officials.
Our “Insights” Breakfast Connection, staged for thefirst time, brought influentialbusiness leaders in to impartthe strategies and businessdecisions that made themsuccessful.
The highly successfulCrawfish Festival and Idol ofthe Heights events exposednew area residents and busi-nesses to the Chamber as a large group of the communityenjoyed a full day of fun for adults and kids.
Here is a look-back at all the activities that took placeduring 2014.
NewMembers Joining the Ranks
The Chamber Year in ReviewWow, another calendar year has come to an end, where did the time go? That’s aquestion many of us ask especially at this time of the year. Twelve months seems topass in a blur, or is that just the recollection of an aging editor?
December 2014 LINKED 11
Anytime FitnessBB&TBelfor Property RestorationBrookdale – Hampton at PinegateBrookdale Place – The HeightsCathy Peveto – Edward JonesCentre Fitness FusionChase Bank – ReaganChic Lash BoutiqueClifton Middle SchoolComputer-WizCrescendo Family MusicDearborn & CreggsDistribution by AirelearningK12Express Children’s TheatreFountain ForwardHaute Dimensions BoutiqueHeights Dermatology &
Aesthetics Center
Heights Interfaith Ministries FoodPantry
Houston Area Community ServicesHouston DynamoHouston Health AdvocacyIn-Line ChiropracticJ.G. Hollins BuilderLiberty GarageMD Anderson YMCAMemorial Assistance MinistriesMemorial Hermann Emergency CenterMemorial Hermann Medical GroupMosaic Clinic Hair Transplant CenterNew School in the HeightsPainting With a TwistPapa Murphy’s PizzaPiatto RistoranteQBQ BookkeepingRegus-Brookhollow Central IIIReveal Home Staging
Rusty Jones of Safeguard Home SecuritySalataSente MortgageSpringhill Suites – BrookhollowStewart TitleStewart Title CompanySun RealtyTexas Loan StarThe Beaded PigThe CenterThe Grove at White OakThe Lash LoungeThe Vapor GypsyTommie Vaughn FordWalgreensWaltrip Alumni AssociationWaste Connections of TexasWindow “Pains” & SolutionsWoodrow’s HeightsYoung Life Heights
Ribbon Cuttings Held During the Year
Chamber Leadership andBoard of Directors UpdateTerry Burge, Chamber President, was avery effective leader in his short-time withthe Chamber. Under his guidance theChamber made significant strides in a num-ber of areas. August brought an opportunityfor Terry to join another organization and heresigned as President. Jacob Millwee, asix-year veteran of the Chamber, and mostrecently the Director of Operations, wasunanimously voted by the Board ofDirectors to be President. Trish Gardiner,formerly Office Manager was promoted toDirector of Events and Operations. GlendaClerc joined the Chamber in October asDirector of Member Services. Larry Plasekcontinues as Director of Communications.
As the new 2014-2015 year began, thesewere the officers:Brian Gilbert of Members Trust of the SWFederal Credit Union – ChairmanCraig Atkinson of Houston Highway CreditUnion - Vice-ChairTony Allman of PrimeWay Federal CreditUnion - TreasurerCindy Reibenstein of Reibenstein &Associates – SecretaryTrent Salch of Tell Your Tale Marketing &Design - Immediate past Chairman.
Newly elected to three year terms were:Bill Ballew, Certified Public AccountantHector Castellanos of Chase BankDee Farino with Third Coast ImpressionsSusan Jadlowski with Memorial HermannNW HospitalNeil McGlone of LegalShield
Directors continuing in their Boardpositions include:Jeff Bielik of St. Joseph Medical Center inthe Heights,Tom Chigoy Sheraton Houston Brookhol-low Hotel,Joe Fuentes of Houston Area CommunityServices,Jerry Gann of CenterPoint Energy,Alan Rosen Constable for Harris CountyPrecinct 1, Nadia Troutenko of TroutenkoInsurance Services, Linda Whittington ofPro Printing and Taylor Woodard ofRaymond James & Associates.
•“Gateway to Local Government” LuncheonAugust 7 was the date for the first “Gateway to Local Govern-ment” luncheon which featured Mayor Anise Parker as thekeynote speaker. In addition, representative of state, countyand city officials manned display tables to talk with attendees.
•Idol of the HeightsFollowing up on last year’s fun-filled “Idol of the Heights”competition, this year’s talented contestants were outstand-ing. The singing competition got underway on February 7with the first preliminary round. Additional preliminariestook place with the semi-finals on February 28. The finalistscompeted at the March 8 Crawfish Festival.
•School Supply Drive Scores A+Under the leadership of Arlene SoRelle, Chair of theCommunity Involvement Committee, the students at EugeneField Elementary again benefited from the generosity ofmembers who donated and contributed to the annual drive.
•Chairman’s GalaOn September 26, the Chamber’s annual Gala was held atthe Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel. This year’s Galafeatured the theme “Black Tie & Boots.”
•Annual Golf TournamentJonathan McElvy of The Leader Newspaper chaired thisyear’s annual golf tournament and it took place October 6 atCypress Lakes Golf Course. Lunch and dinner were providedto players.
•January Breakfast Connection AddressedCity RegulationsKathryn van der Pol of Adolf Hoepfl Garage moderated a3-person panel of Houston businessmen at the January 9Breakfast Connection.
•First Financial Night – January 28Members Trust of the SW Federal Credit Union staged theFinancial Reality Fair at Waltrip High School on the night ofJanuary 28. Students were exposed to career opportunities,budgeting, and other key financial decisions they will makelater in life.
•Economic Forecast Luncheon Fills BallroomDr. Bill Gilmer returned to the Chamber on January 23 topresent his annual economic forecast projections for theU.S. and Houston economies.
•Crawfish FestivalOn Saturday, March 8, the annual Chamber Crawfish Festi-val was held at 411 West 20th Street. A record-settinggroup of attendees enjoyed the crawfish, vendor tables,cold beverages, raffles and musical entertainment. Offeringplenty of activities, members and Heights-area residentscame to partake of the food, children’s fun area and doorprizes given out during the day. Thanks to all the membersponsors, volunteers and for the vendor organizations thathelped to make the festival successful.
•First “Insights” Breakfast Connection – Aug 14The inaugural “Insights” Breakfast Connection was staged togive attendees the opportunity to gain wisdom from localbusiness leaders. Stan Marek of the Marek Family of Compa-nies and George Martinez, founder of Sterling and Alle-giance Banks, spoke about their principles, strategies anddecisions that contributed to their success. Channel 13’s TedOberg moderated the session and subsequent “Insights”meetings are planned.
•Annual Education LuncheonMay 27 was the date for the Education Luncheon whichfeatured U.S. Congressman Gene Green as the keynotespeaker. Outstanding students from local area high schoolswere the recipients of scholarships. A total of six $1,000scholarships were awarded, five students received $500,outstanding teachers received $100, and the Educator ofthe Year received $250. The Chamber Intern of the Yearreceived $150.
12 LINKED December 2014
Jacob MillweeChamber President
Trish GardinerDirector of Eventsand Operations
Glenda ClercDirector of
Member Services
Larry PlasekDirector of
Communications
December 2014 LINKED 13
December 2014 LINKED 15
BASIC UNLIMITED
$14.99 MONTH
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$19.99 MONTH
ULTIMATE UNLIMITED
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CARisma WASH UNLIMITED WASHES
505 N. LOOP W. BETWEEN SHEPHERD AND YALE
RIGHT NEXT TO STARBUCKS
gold patron prof i le
This family owned and operated business was startedin 1956 by Tommie Vaughn, a native of Brownwood,Texas. He was a graduate of Texas A&M Universityand a member of the 1939 Aggie football team thatwon the national championship.
For the last twenty years, Jim Janke has beenresponsible for daily operations. Under Jim's guid-ance and leadership, Tommie Vaughn's grandsonsKyle and Kirby Janke carry on the family commit-ment to honesty, integrity and fair dealing in theirroles as the Service Manager and Sales Manger.Jim Janke, said, "The Heights meant a great deal toMr. Vaughn and he cherished the community andthe strong foundation it gave the dealership. It isour pleasure to maintain this tradition of loyalty andhonest customer service to our neighbors and friendsthrough continuation of his dedicated support to theHeights Chamber."
In 2014, Tommie Vaughn Ford opened itsdoors to a brand new, state of the art dealership at1201 N. Shepard. Now, the new car showroom,service center, and parts departments are under oneroof, with pre-owned sales, the body shop and fleetsales nearby as well. The new dealership has a KingRanch store right in the lobby, is dog friendly, hastwo electric vehicle charging stations and all LEDlighting. During construction, it was the largestcurrent project underway in the Ford system.
On Wednesday, December 17 you are invited tovisit the new showroom at the open house. Enjoy thefestivities with light snacks and drinks as they ring inthe season and draw the name of one lucky child totake home the handmade wooden Model T createdby local Heights artist, Paul Carr. In addition, themen of the Houston Firefighters calendar will bethere to sign calendars and pose for pictures tobenefit the Burned Children’s Fund. And, of course,Santa will be stopping by.
The Chamber recognizes the many contributionsand benefits that the Vaughn organization hasfreely given over the many years of their membershipand proudly salutes them as a featured GoldPatron Member.
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Crawfish Festival in the Heights – March 7Talk about being bigger and better, that’s the mantra for thisyear’s annual Heights Crawfish Festival. The Festival will takeplace at 411 West 20th and it begins at 11:00 a.m. and doesn’tend till sundown! This is an open to the public free admissionfestival including live music, the finale of the “Idol of theHeights” singing contest, performances by local schools,exhibitor booths, a kids fun area and shopping opportunities.
How about the singing competition? The “Idol of the Heights”singing contest will take the stage for the finals. There will belots of good talent and competition for cash prizes being of-fered here as the top candidates advance from the semi-finals.The festival is fun for the kids. There will be plenty of Kid’sZone activities for them to enjoy including the train ride, facepainting and much more.
Companies looking for exposure at the Festival can contract foran exhibit booth. Cost for members is $100, $125 for non-mem-bers and $25 for a table set with two chairs. For exhibitor infor-mation, contact Natalie Coyle at 713-253-6507. Full details areavailable on the Chamber website or from the Chamber office.
Multiple sponsorships are available that range from $5,000down to $250. For sponsorship information contact Dee Farinoat 281-924-2699 or Trish Gardiner at 713-861-6735.
We’re proud to recognize our initial member sponsor:
$5,000 Level – Houston Highway Credit Union
TOMMIE VAUGHNFORD
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newmembersAflac: Sean A. Pradia, An Independent AgentRepresenting AflacSean Pradia805 W 19th St., Houston, TX [email protected] Independent Agent representing Aflac,” and HRBenefits Consultant. They offer voluntary health care,accident, disability, critical care, cancer, and life insurancepolicies to individuals and small businesses. Pay cash benefitsto their policy holders.
Continental Tool & Supply Co.Ron Jones6021 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033281-804-3904 cell, [email protected]./www.ctschouston.comContinental Tool & Supply Co. is a one stop shop for allIndustrial Supplies.
Little J’s BarJosh Flowers1719 Longhorn Dr., Houston, TX 77007832-831-5015 work, 512-557-0681 [email protected]/www.littlejsbar.comLittle J's Bar is an active neighborhood bar that just happensto be located on an entertainment district street.
Los Cucos Signature Mexican Cafe-HeightsSergio Pineda1111 Studewood, Houston, TX 77008832-962-4472 [email protected]/www.loscucos.comOur mission is to serve the freshest authentic Mexican food,at the best possible value, in a fun and festive atmosphere,where service is second to none.
Mama Fu’s Asian HouseJack Warren III1574 W Gray St., Houston, TX 77019832-581-4676 work, 281-763-9128 [email protected]/ www.mamafus.comMama Fu’s brings the legendary flavors and varied tastes ofAsia home. Fresh ingredients and rich combinations of flavorsand spices provide unique dishes that are a world away fromevery day. Every dish at Mama Fu’s Asian House is preparedmade-to-order with the highest quality ingredients andseasonings.
Telepacific CommunicationsJennifer Chavarria2000 West Loop South, Suite 1150, Houston, TX 77027832- 573-5154 cell, [email protected]/www.telepacific.comWhen it comes to competitive telecom carriers, one namestands above the rest, TelePacific. This company is nowone of the top communications provider options nationwidewith a private fiber network serving any business in thecountry. This gives competitive advantages to their morethan 40,000 business customers who have over a millionlines in service all across the U.S.
Welcome WagonTracey Willis5830 Coral Ridge Dr., Coral Springs, FL832-962-4472 [email protected]/www.welcomewagon.comWelcoming new homeowners for over 85 years.
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height l ights
Belinda Rossiter and Charles Thornburgof the Houston Choral Showcase
Richard Alvarado and John Frels ofSente Mortgage enjoyed the breakfast fare
Willie Diefenbach-Jones and Michele Schroederof Send Out Cards manned an impressive tabledisplay showcasing their business solutions
Judy Bankhead and Susan Tate, owners ofDarlene’s Flowers & Gifts hosted a wonderfulBusiness After Hours where everyone enjoyed
their great hospitality.
Crystal Ruiz of CARismaWash,Doug Burns ofCulturally Creative Travel, Patrick Page of
World Pay US,Christina Martinez of the LeaderNewspaper and Brian Gilbert of Members Trust of
the SW Federal Credit Union
Kathy Saccone of Saccone Bean andJorge Vernaza of BB&T
Mickey Peters of Massage Heights atWashington Heights and Jan Stephenson
of Jan Stephenson Graphic Design
Congratulations to Sybren and Kathryn van der Polwho celebrated their 10 year anniversary of owning
Adolf Hoepfl & Son Garage
Ken Jones, Associate Director of Entrepreneurshipat the University of Houston delivered an inspiringtalk about entrepreneurial insights, actions, and
demonstrated real life examples
Bonnie Sheeren of Houston Health Advocacy andDouglas Baumann of the University of Houston
Small Business Development Center
Wayne Sandlin of Photography by Design andMike Nelson of Westside Lexus
Jan Featherston of Sign-Ups and Banners Corp.,Judy Bankhead of Darlene’s Flowers & Gifts
and Vicki Martin of T-Shirt Works
December 2014 LINKED 1918 LINKED December 2014
happy anniversaryMORE THAN 10 YEARS
JVP Jewelry & JewelersNLine AutomotiveU.S.Auto Connection
MORE THAN 5 YEARS
Delicious ConceptsIntegrity Bank*TDECU Your Credit UnionYellow Cab Houston
MORE THAN 1 YEAR
Cremate TexasCrime Stoppers of HoustonDavidWeekley HomesHouston DanceWorksKraftsmen Baking & CafeMemorial Park VisionNick's Plumbing & Sewer ServiceThe Heights at 2121The Summerhouse
1 YEAR
Chic Lash BoutiqueKeystone Resources
* Gold Patron
BullsEye is Houston owned and operated and theirclimate-controlled buildings are built expressly forstorage sites. Now is a great time for you to sort
and store business records or personal belongings.
You’ll have FREE use of the BullsEye truck tomove your belongings into storage.
They are conveniently located inside the loopat 1715 Airline, just north of Cavalcade.
Call 713-864-1715…tell them you’re aGreater Heights Chamber member…
and receive a special offer!
PRSRTSTANDARD
US POSTAGEPAID
HOUSTON TX.PERMIT 542
545 W. 19th Street Houston, Texas 77008